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Rail Electrician Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Ensure compliance with all railroad rules and regulations for safety, operations, and the Federal Railroad Administration * Wire, maintain, repair, rebuild, inspect, and install electrical equipment ...

Electrician

Bay City, MI · On-site

$29.80/hr

Ensure compliance with all railroad rules and regulations for safety, operations, and the Federal Railroad Administration * Wire, maintain, repair, rebuild, inspect, and install electrical equipment ...

Electrician

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$35.19 - $37.15/hr

Assists in the maintenance and repair of other electrical systems of the MetroLink light rail ... Considerable experience as a fully qualified electrician with railroad or transit traction power ...

Electricians * Associates Degree in Industrial Electricity or related subject -or- 5 years ... Amsted Rail offers a comprehensive and highly competitive benefits package designed to support ...

Electrician B

Granite City, IL · On-site

$32.81/hr

Electricians * Associates Degree in Industrial Electricity or related subject -or- 5 years ... Amsted Rail offers a comprehensive and highly competitive benefits package designed to support ...

Electrician B

Granite City, IL · On-site

$32.81/hr

Electricians * Associates Degree in Industrial Electricity or related subject -or- 5 years ... Amsted Rail offers a comprehensive and highly competitive benefits package designed to support ...

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Rail Electrician information

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$15

$29

$47

How much do rail electrician jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for rail electrician in the United States is $29.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.04 and $32.93 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a rail electrician?

A Rail Electrician is responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing electrical systems on trains, rail infrastructure, and related equipment. They work on signal systems, power supplies, lighting, and control circuits to ensure safe and efficient rail operations. This role requires knowledge of electrical wiring, troubleshooting, and safety regulations. Rail Electricians may work in depots, at rail yards, or along tracks, often in challenging outdoor conditions. Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail are essential for this position.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a rail electrician?

To thrive as a Rail Electrician, you need solid expertise in electrical systems, wiring, diagnostics, and often a relevant apprenticeship or vocational qualification. Familiarity with industry-standard tools, rail-specific safety protocols, and certifications such as the National Rail Safety Card (or equivalent) are typically expected. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and clear communication help you stand out in dynamic, safety-critical environments. These skills ensure reliable and safe electrical maintenance on rail networks, minimizing downtime and promoting effective team collaboration.

What challenges might a rail electrician encounter on the job?

Rail Electricians often face challenges such as working in adverse weather conditions, meeting tight maintenance schedules, and troubleshooting complex electrical faults in field environments. The role may also require overnight or weekend shifts to align with scheduled track closures, and adhering to strict safety protocols is a constant priority. Additionally, Rail Electricians must coordinate closely with other maintenance teams and respond quickly to unexpected issues that can impact train services. Overcoming these challenges not only hones your technical skills but also helps you contribute to the smooth, safe operation of the rail system.

How to become a rail electrician?

To become a rail electrician, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by completing an apprenticeship or technical training program in electrical systems and railway infrastructure. Certification or licensing may be required depending on the region, and skills in electrical wiring, troubleshooting, and safety procedures are essential for working in railway environments.
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What states have the most Rail Electrician jobs?

States with the most job openings for Rail Electrician jobs include:

Infographic showing various Rail Electrician job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 4% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,391 per year, or $29.5 per hour.

Genesee & Wyoming Inc
Rail Transportation • 5 - 10K employees

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 31 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

268th of 366 rated logistics

People enjoy working here

Paid breaks

Respectful managers


$29.80/hr

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

SUMMARY:

The person in this position performs basic troubleshooting and electrical repairs on all diesel-electric locomotive equipment.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Ensure compliance with all railroad rules and regulations for safety, operations, and the Federal Railroad Administration 
  • Wire, maintain, repair, rebuild, inspect, and install electrical equipment, including but not limited to rheostats, control systems, transformers, motors, generators, electric lighting fixtures, cab heaters, batteries and their charging systems, speed recorders, air compressor controls, temperature switches, starters, axle generators, coils, contactors, relays, and governors
  • Be responsible for preventative maintenance on all electrical components 
  • Troubleshoot and test single- and three-phase electrical systems on diesel-electric locomotives, including grounded components and wiring, high and low voltage, wheel slip, transition, and electrical load or no-load conditions 
  • Assist with other projects and perform other duties as assigned

REQUIRED SKILLS AND/OR EXPERIENCE:

  • Two years of relevant work experience 
  • Ability to read and comprehend written and oral instructions, including electrical schematics

REQUIRED EDUCATION AND/OR CREDENTIALS: 

  • Associate degree in related subject matter
  • Diesel electrician training preferred
  • Four-year journeyman railroad electrician preferred
  • Valid driver’s license

Providence and Worcester Railroad Company is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer

This position is employed by the specific entity set forth in the job posting.

Genesee & Wyoming Inc. and its subsidiary companies do not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service, or any other protected status under federal, state or local laws.



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