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Rail Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Senior Rail Engineer

Charlotte, NC · On-site

$102K - $140K/yr

HDR is looking for a Senior Rail Engineer to join our Transportation Business Group in either our Charlotte or Raleigh office. In the role of Senior Rail Engineer, we'll count on you to: • Take ...

Regional Lead - Rail Engineer

Charlotte, NC · On-site +1

$140K - $200K/yr

Regional Lead - Rail Engineer Department: Transportation Employment Type: Full Time Location: Charlotte, NC Compensation: $140,000 - $200,000 / year Description At Horrocks, we believe the best work ...

Senior Rail Engineer

Charlotte, NC · On-site

$102K - $140K/yr

HDR is looking for a Senior Rail Engineer to join our Transportation Business Group in either our Charlotte or Raleigh office. In the role of Senior Rail Engineer, we'll count on you to: * Take ...

Senior Rail Engineer

Charlotte, NC · On-site

$102K - $140K/yr

HDR is looking for a Senior Rail Engineer to join our Transportation Business Group in either our Charlotte or Raleigh office. In the role of Senior Rail Engineer, we'll count on you to: Take ...

$100K - $137K/yr

RailPros is the premier provider of engineering and diversified safety services to America's rail and transit industry. Driven by a passion for our people, clients, and communities, we are committed ...

$100K - $137K/yr

RailPros is the premier provider of engineering and diversified safety services to America's rail and transit industry. Driven by a passion for our people, clients, and communities, we are committed ...

Regional Lead - Rail Engineer

Atlanta, GA · On-site +1

$140K - $200K/yr

Regional Lead - Rail Engineer Department: Transportation Employment Type: Full Time Location: Atlanta, GA Compensation: $140,000 - $200,000 / year Description At Horrocks, we believe the best work ...

Senior Rail Engineer

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$100K - $138K/yr

HDR Senior Rail Engineers thrive in entrepreneurial environments where team members are encouraged to shape their work roles to their strengths and interests. Our proven workshare approach provides ...

Senior Rail Engineer

Jacksonville, FL · On-site

$96K - $133K/yr

HDR Senior Rail Engineers thrive in entrepreneurial environments where team members are encouraged to shape their work roles to their strengths and interests. Our proven workshare approach provides ...

Regional Lead - Rail Engineer

Tampa, FL · On-site +1

$140K - $200K/yr

Regional Lead - Rail Engineer Department: Transportation Employment Type: Full Time Location: Tampa, FL Compensation: $140,000 - $200,000 / year Description At Horrocks, we believe the best work ...

Regional Lead - Rail Engineer

Spokane, WA · On-site +1

$140K - $200K/yr

Regional Lead - Rail Engineer Department: Transportation Employment Type: Full Time Location: Spokane, WA Compensation: $140,000 - $200,000 / year Description At Horrocks, we believe the best work ...

Regional Lead - Rail Engineer

Detroit, MI · On-site +1

$140K - $200K/yr

Regional Lead - Rail Engineer Department: Transportation Employment Type: Full Time Location: Detroit, MI Compensation: $140,000 - $200,000 / year Description At Horrocks, we believe the best work ...

Senior Rail Engineer

Jacksonville, FL · On-site

$96K - $133K/yr

HDR Senior Rail Engineers thrive in entrepreneurial environments where team members are encouraged to shape their work roles to their strengths and interests. Our proven workshare approach provides ...

Regional Lead - Rail Engineer Department: Transportation Employment Type: Full Time Location: Remote- USA Compensation: $140,000 - $200,000 / year Description At Horrocks, we believe the best work ...

Regional Lead - Rail Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$140K - $200K/yr

Regional Lead - Rail Engineer Department: Transportation Employment Type: Full Time Location: Chicago, IL Compensation: $140,000 - $200,000 / year Description At Horrocks, we believe the best work ...

Regional Lead - Rail Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site +1

$140K - $200K/yr

Regional Lead - Rail Engineer Department: Transportation Employment Type: Full Time Location: Seattle, WA Compensation: $140,000 - $200,000 / year Description At Horrocks, we believe the best work ...

We are seeking an experienced and strategic Regional Lead - Rail Engineer to help lead and grow our rail practice across multiple regions throughout the United States. This role is responsible for ...

Senior Rail Engineer

Jacksonville, FL · On-site

$96K - $133K/yr

HDR Senior Rail Engineers thrive in entrepreneurial environments where team members are encouraged to shape their work roles to their strengths and interests. Our proven workshare approach provides ...

Senior Rail Engineer

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$100K - $138K/yr

HDR Senior Rail Engineers thrive in entrepreneurial environments where team members are encouraged to shape their work roles to their strengths and interests. Our proven workshare approach provides ...

Senior Rail Engineer

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$100K - $138K/yr

HDR Senior Rail Engineers thrive in entrepreneurial environments where team members are encouraged to shape their work roles to their strengths and interests. Our proven workshare approach provides ...

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Showing results 1-20

Rail Engineer information

See salary details

$25.5K

$85.5K

$141K

How much do rail engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for rail engineer in the United States is $85,472.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $60,000.00 and $110,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Rail Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Rail Engineer, you need a strong background in civil, mechanical, or electrical engineering, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree and professional accreditation. Familiarity with industry-standard design software (such as AutoCAD, MicroStation, and rail-specific analysis tools) and knowledge of railway safety regulations are essential. Excellent problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help in coordinating with multidisciplinary teams and managing complex projects. These competencies are crucial for ensuring the safety, efficiency, and reliability of rail infrastructure projects.

What are some common challenges Rail Engineers face when working on large infrastructure projects?

Rail Engineers often encounter challenges such as coordinating with multiple stakeholders, managing project timelines, and adapting to unexpected site conditions. Ensuring safety standards are met while minimizing disruptions to existing rail operations is also a key concern. Effective communication and problem-solving skills are essential, as Rail Engineers frequently collaborate with project managers, contractors, and government officials to deliver projects on time and within budget.

What does a Rail Engineer do?

A Rail Engineer is responsible for designing, constructing, and maintaining railway systems and infrastructure. Their work includes planning railway tracks, bridges, tunnels, and stations, as well as ensuring the safety and efficiency of train operations. Rail Engineers may also be involved in upgrading existing rail networks, integrating new technologies, and adhering to safety and environmental regulations. They collaborate with other engineers, project managers, and governmental bodies to complete rail projects. This role is crucial for the safe and effective movement of people and goods via rail transport.

What is the difference between Rail Engineer vs Track Engineer?

AspectRail EngineerTrack Engineer
CredentialsEngineering degree, certifications in railway systemsEngineering degree, certifications in civil or railway engineering
Work EnvironmentDesign, oversee railway projects, coordinate with construction teamsInspect, maintain, and repair railway tracks and infrastructure
Industry UsageDesigning and planning railway systemsEnsuring track safety and functionality

Rail Engineers focus on designing and planning railway systems, while Track Engineers specialize in maintaining and repairing railway tracks. Both roles require engineering credentials and work within the railway industry, but their daily tasks and responsibilities differ significantly.

More about Rail Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Rail Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Rail Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Rail Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Rail Engineer jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Rail Engineer jobs? The top employers for Rail Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Rail Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Rail Engineer jobs include:
Senior Rail Engineer

Senior Rail Engineer

HDR

Charlotte, NC • On-site

$102K - $140K/yr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago


HDR rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 55 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

20th of 351 rated engineering


Job description

At HDR, our employee-owners are fully engaged in creating a welcoming environment where each of us is valued and respected, a place where everyone is empowered to bring their authentic selves and novel ideas to work every day. As we foster a culture of inclusion throughout our company and within our communities, we constantly ask ourselves: What is our impact on the world?
Watch Our Story:' https://www.hdrinc.com/our-story'
Each and every role throughout our organization makes a difference in our ability to change the world for the better. Read further to learn how you could help make great things possible not only in your community, but around the world.
We believe transportation is more than movement, it's the foundation of connected, thriving communities. As part of HDR's Transportation Business Group, you'll help shape the systems that move people and goods safely, efficiently, and sustainably. From designing resilient highways and iconic bridges to advancing transit, passenger and freight rail, aviation, federal transportation ports and marine infrastructure, your work will directly support economic vitality, public safety, sustainable and resilient communities and quality of life. We bring together planners, engineers, architects, construction management staff, environmental, strategic communications, economists, management consultants and specialists across disciplines to solve complex mobility challenges with innovation, technical excellence, and a deep understanding of community needs. Whether you're modernizing aging infrastructure or pioneering next-generation transportation solutions, your contributions will help define the future of mobility. This isn't just a job, it's a chance to lead progress, drive meaningful impact, and leave a legacy of smarter, more connected transportation networks. We are all employee-owners at HDR, which is the foundation of our collaborative culture that connects employees around the world.
HDR is looking for a Senior Rail Engineer to join our Transportation Business Group in either our Charlotte or Raleigh office. In the role of Senior Rail Engineer, we'll count on you to:
• Take responsibility for all aspects of client and design-team management of commuter, shortline, freight, transit and class-one rail projects.
• Serve as Discipline or Task Lead for railroad or civil engineering design projects, and support other office, the Freight Rail Market Sector, and other market sectors as needed.
• Manage scope, budget, and schedule.
• Coordinate planning and environmental processes, manage the assembly of plans, specifications, construction estimate packages.
• Serve as a technical expert with recognized authority in an area of specialization that resolves problems of greater scope and complexity while planning and developing projects or designing activities that have significant impact on major company programs.
• Work across industries with rail, industrial, terminal, utility, agency, DOT, port, transit, and other industry clients.
• Provide leadership across technical disciplines.
• Lead and/or perform detailed QC reviews of projects.
• Be able to plan, organize and supervise work of medium to large staff of professionals and technicians.
• Mentor younger staff and support technical development.
• Supervise junior staff performance of engineering tasks.
• Serve as Project Manager on larger projects as needed; project management is not sole focus of position
• Support Project Managers by leading or participating in marketing and contracting activities.
• Support Project Managers by leading or participating in client and stakeholder visits, site visits, field assessments, and construction inspections as needed.
• Attend industry events and represent HDR as needed.
• Serve as a high-level point of contact between the client and HDR.
• Perform other duties as needed.
Preferred Qualifications
• Ability to become licensed as a P.E. in additional jurisdictions through the NCEES or similar
• Experience working with AREMA's Manual for Railway Engineering (MRE) and other railroad design guidelines, specifications, and design criteria
• Proven, hands-on experience in all aspects of rail and/or civil design project
• Demonstrated ability to lead projects through design and production through coordination with other disciplines and production staff
• Project Management experience managing projects for rail, industrial or transit client
• Demonstrated client development or client management experience, local candidates are preferred
• Construction inspection or construction management experience is a plu
• Experience in technical writing, communicating, and presenting to clients and the public is desirable
*LI-SM1
Qualifications
Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree
  • 10 years experience in railway engineering and managing complex multidisciplinary railway projects
  • Requires professional engineering license recognized by the licensing board for the location of the position offered. Example: Professional Engineer (PE or P.Eng) license.
  • Proficient with MicroStation, OpenRail Designer/OpenRoads Designer, and/or AutoCAD and Civil3D
  • Skilled in technical writing, communicating and presenting to clients and the public
  • Demonstrated ability to lead a team on railway projects
  • Computer literate with MS Office (Word, Excel, Project)
  • An attitude and commitment to being an active participant of our employee-owned culture is a must

What We Believe
HDR is our company. Together, we build on each other's life experiences and perspectives to make great things possible every day. This shapes our collaborative culture, encourages organizational trust and connects us closer to the clients and communities we serve.
Our Commitment
As employee owners, we all have a role in creating an inclusive environment where each of us is welcomed, valued, respected and empowered to bring our authentic selves to work every day.
Our eight Employee Network Groups (Asian Pacific, Black, Hispanic/Latino(a), LGBTQ+, People with Disabilities, Veterans, Women, Young Professionals) help create a sense of belonging and foster a supportive environment where everyone is empowered to engage and contribute. Each group has an executive sponsor and is open to all employees.

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About HDR

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At HDR, we specialize in engineering, architecture, environmental and construction services. While we are most well-known for adding beauty and structure to communities through high-performance buildings and smart infrastructure, we provide much more than that. We create an unshakable foundation for progress because our multidisciplinary teams also include scientists, economists, builders, analysts and artists.

Industry

Specialized design services

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Omaha, NE, US

Year founded

1917