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Rail Design Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Zephyr Rail

Civil Inspector - Track/Rail

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$104K - $187K/yr

About Zephyr Rail Zephyr Rail is an engineering design and construction management firm based in Orange, CA. We specialize in providing comprehensive solutions in railroad design, construction ...

Zephyr Rail

Resident Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$165K - $239K/yr

About Zephyr Rail Zephyr Rail is an engineering design and construction management firm based in Orange, CA. We specialize in providing comprehensive solutions in railroad design, construction ...

Cisco

Hardware Design Engineer

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$135K - $193K/yr

... power rail instabilities, and component-level degradation. * Develop and execute test plans for ... the engineering team. * Perform and lead design reviews of schematics, BOMs, layout, and routing ...

GFT.

Sr. Rail Bridge Engineer

Santa Ana, CA

$147K - $180K/yr

GFT is seeking a Sr. Rail Bridge Engineer to join our Transportation Team in any of the following ... Bridge design has been a core strength of ours for over a century, ranging from concrete or steel ...

GFT.

Sr. Rail Bridge Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$147K - $180K/yr

GFT is seeking a Sr. Rail Bridge Engineer to join our Transportation Team in any of the following ... Bridge design has been a core strength of ours for over a century, ranging from concrete or steel ...

GFT.

Sr. Rail Bridge Engineer

Irvine, CA

$147K - $180K/yr

GFT is seeking a Sr. Rail Bridge Engineer to join our Transportation Team in any of the following ... Bridge design has been a core strength of ours for over a century, ranging from concrete or steel ...

GFT.

Sr. Rail Bridge Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$147K - $180K/yr

GFT is seeking a Sr. Rail Bridge Engineer to join our Transportation Team in any of the following ... Bridge design has been a core strength of ours for over a century, ranging from concrete or steel ...

GFT.

Sr. Rail Bridge Engineer

San Diego, CA

$147K - $180K/yr

GFT is seeking a Sr. Rail Bridge Engineer to join our Transportation Team in any of the following ... Bridge design has been a core strength of ours for over a century, ranging from concrete or steel ...

GFT.

Sr. Rail Bridge Engineer

Los Angeles, CA

$147K - $180K/yr

GFT is seeking a Sr. Rail Bridge Engineer to join our Transportation Team in any of the following ... Bridge design has been a core strength of ours for over a century, ranging from concrete or steel ...

Zephyr Rail

Office Engineer - Los Angeles

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$87K - $135K/yr

About Zephyr Rail Zephyr Rail is an engineering design and construction management firm based in Orange, CA. We specialize in providing comprehensive solutions in railroad design, construction ...

GFT.

Rail Bridge Engineer

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$108K - $150K/yr

GFT is seeking a Rail Bridge Engineer to join our Transportation Team in one of the following SoCAL ... Bridge design has been a core strength of ours for over a century, ranging from concrete or steel ...

GFT.

Rail Bridge Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$108K - $150K/yr

GFT is seeking a Rail Bridge Engineer to join our Transportation Team in one of the following SoCAL ... Bridge design has been a core strength of ours for over a century, ranging from concrete or steel ...

GFT.

Rail Bridge Engineer

Santa Ana, CA

$108K - $150K/yr

GFT is seeking a Rail Bridge Engineer to join our Transportation Team in one of the following SoCAL ... Bridge design has been a core strength of ours for over a century, ranging from concrete or steel ...

GFT.

Rail Bridge Engineer

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$108K - $150K/yr

GFT is seeking a Rail Bridge Engineer to join our Transportation Team in one of the following SoCAL ... Bridge design has been a core strength of ours for over a century, ranging from concrete or steel ...

GFT.

Rail Bridge Engineer

Irvine, CA

$108K - $150K/yr

GFT is seeking a Rail Bridge Engineer to join our Transportation Team in one of the following SoCAL ... Bridge design has been a core strength of ours for over a century, ranging from concrete or steel ...

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Rail Design Engineer information

See California salary details

$17

$50

$72

How much do rail design engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for rail design engineer in California is $50.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38.65 and $60.96 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the typical responsibilities of a Rail Design Engineer on a project team?

As a Rail Design Engineer, your primary responsibilities include developing detailed rail track layouts, preparing technical drawings and specifications, and conducting feasibility and safety analyses to support rail infrastructure projects. You’ll work closely with civil engineers, drafters, construction managers, and sometimes government agencies or railway operators to integrate various technical requirements and ensure compliance with safety standards. Daily tasks often involve reviewing site data, attending project meetings, contributing to design reviews, and resolving engineering challenges as they arise. This collaborative environment allows you to directly impact major transit projects and provides valuable experience for career advancement in transportation engineering.

What is a Rail Design Engineer job?

A Rail Design Engineer is responsible for designing and developing railway infrastructure, including tracks, stations, and signaling systems. They use engineering principles and specialized software to create safe, efficient, and sustainable rail transport solutions. Their work involves collaborating with civil, electrical, and mechanical engineers, as well as government agencies and contractors. Rail Design Engineers ensure compliance with industry standards, safety regulations, and project specifications.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

Senior rail design engineers with extensive experience, specialized skills in CAD software, and advanced certifications can earn $200,000 or more annually. High-level engineers in the transportation infrastructure sector often reach this salary level, especially in senior or managerial roles overseeing large projects.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

While most rail design engineers earn between $70,000 and $120,000 annually, highly experienced professionals in specialized roles or leadership positions can earn over $200,000. Salaries reaching $500,000 are rare and typically involve executive-level roles, consulting, or senior management in large infrastructure projects.

What does a rail design engineer do?

A rail design engineer develops and plans railway infrastructure, including tracks, bridges, and stations, ensuring safety, efficiency, and compliance with standards. They use engineering software, analyze terrain, and collaborate with project teams throughout the design process.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum engineering, aerospace engineering, and certain software engineering roles can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership responsibilities. High-level positions often require advanced degrees, certifications, and expertise in high-demand areas or management roles.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Rail Design Engineer position, and why are they important?

A Rail Design Engineer should possess a solid background in civil or mechanical engineering, transportation systems, and structural analysis, usually with a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with industry-standard design software (such as AutoCAD, MicroStation, or Bentley Rail Track), and knowledge of applicable regulatory standards are essential. Strong problem-solving, communication, and project management skills enable successful collaboration with multidisciplinary teams and stakeholders. These abilities are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and innovative rail infrastructure solutions from concept to completion.

What are the most commonly searched types of Rail Design Engineer jobs in California? The most popular types of Rail Design Engineer jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Rail Design Engineer jobs in California? For Rail Design Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Rail Design Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Rail Design Engineer jobs in California are:
Rail Design Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Rail Design Engineer job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, and 20% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $104,055 per year, or $50 per hour.
Civil Inspector - Track/Rail

Civil Inspector - Track/Rail

Zephyr Rail

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$104K - $187K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

About Zephyr Rail
Zephyr Rail is an engineering design and construction management firm based in Orange, CA. We specialize in providing comprehensive solutions in railroad design, construction management, and UAV solutions. We are proud to have earned Zweig Group's recognition as a "Best Firms to Work For" for three consecutive years, demonstrating our commitment to our team and our industry.
Job Summary
As a Civil Inspector - Rail, you will be Zephyr Rail's eyes and ears on-site, ensuring the highest standards of quality and compliance on our heavy construction projects with a focus on rail and track. Reporting to the Resident Engineer, you will conduct daily inspections of all civil construction activities, materials, and components. Your keen eye for detail and expertise in industry certifications will be vital as you document non-conforming conditions and verify corrective actions, ensuring all work meets rigorous contract specifications for successful project delivery.
Responsibilities
  • Perform daily quality control inspections and documentation in accordance with approved procedures.
  • Monitor and document materials, testing, and workmanship in accordance with contract requirements.
  • Verify that contract work is in conformance with the contract documents, QA/QC standards, and approved inspection/ test plans.
  • Document non-conforming conditions and verify the contractor's corrective actions.
  • Observe and inspect field sampling and testing of materials.
  • Support the Resident Engineer and CM team in maintaining accurate daily inspection records and reports.
  • Participate in coordination meetings and safety briefings as required.
  • Ensure all inspection activities adhere to agency safety and environmental regulations.

Qualifications
  • High School Diploma or equivalent (associate or bachelor's degree in civil engineering preferred).
  • 10+ years of experience in heavy construction with a focus on rail/track.
  • ICC and ACI certifications preferred (Mandatory for some clients).
  • Demonstrated knowledge of track construction, concrete, earthwork, and drainage systems.
  • Strong understanding of QA/QC procedures and material testing standards.
  • Ability to read and interpret drawings, specifications, and submittals.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills for daily reporting.
  • Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment with multiple contractors and stakeholders.
  • Authorized to work in the U.S.

Salary Range: $104,000 - $187,200 / annually
Benefits
Paid Medical, Dental, and Vision, 401(k) Plan (with company match), Paid Time Off (PTO), Paid Holidays, Disability Insurance, Educational Assistance and Licensure Support, Performance-based Bonuses, Service Awards, Flexible/Hybrid Work Arrangements (role-dependent).
How to Apply
We're excited to hear from you! Feel free to apply directly on our careers page or learn more about the opportunities at www.zuirail.com/current-openings/ . If you don't find exactly what you're looking for, don't hesitate to send your resume to [email protected]. We would be pleased to consider you as a potential new member of our passionate team!
At Zephyr Rail, we're an equal opportunity employer dedicated to fostering diversity and inclusion.
Note to Recruiters and Job Placement Agencies
We do not accept unsolicited resumes or candidate profiles from recruiters or agencies. We will consider any unsolicited resumes we receive as our property and will process them accordingly. We will only consider direct applicants.
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