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Rail Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Office Engineer - Rail

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$84K - $110K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Michael Baker is adding an Office Engineer to our Rail & Transit team in Alexandria, VA! In this role, you will support the planning, design, and delivery of rail infrastructure projects by applying ...

In the role of Rail Bridge Engineer , we'll count on you to: * Serve in a technical role, under the direction of a Project Manager * Oversee the work of EITs and Junior Project Engineers * Prepare ...

Ruby on Rails Dev

Vienna, VA

$102K - $141K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

... Rails Developer to work on mobile and web application development ... The ideal candidate has a strong engineering background and desire to learn. Education * 4 year ...

In the role of Rail Bridge Engineer , we'll count on you to: * Serve in a technical role, under the direction of a Project Manager * Oversee the work of EITs and Junior Project Engineers * Prepare ...

Senior Rail Construction Engineer

Gainesville, VA · On-site

$97K - $127K/yr

Dewberry is currently seeking a Senior Rail Construction Engineer to work on project assignments in the Washington Metropolitan area of VA\MD\DC. The position will be headquartered in the Gainesville ...

Dewberry is currently seeking a Senior Rail Construction Engineer to work on project assignments in the Washington Metropolitan area of VA\MD\DC. The position will be headquartered in the Gainesville ...

Rail Systems Project Manager 2

Williamsburg, VA

$105K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

Rail Systems Project Manager 2

Williamsburg, VA · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

Rail Systems Project Manager 2

Williamsburg, VA

$105K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

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Showing results 1-20

Rail Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$24.8K

$83.1K

$137.1K

How much do rail engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for rail engineer in Virginia is $83,124.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $58,351.00 and $106,978.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Are railroad engineers in demand?

Railroad engineers are in steady demand due to ongoing infrastructure maintenance and expansion of rail networks. The job requires technical skills, certifications, and knowledge of safety protocols, and employment prospects are generally stable in regions with active rail transportation systems.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a rail engineer?

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.

How much do rail engineers get paid?

Rail engineers typically earn between $50,000 and $90,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and specialization. Senior or specialized rail engineers can earn higher salaries, especially with certifications and advanced skills in railway systems and safety protocols.

What does a rail engineer do?

A rail engineer designs, maintains, and oversees the construction and operation of railway systems, including tracks, signals, and rolling stock. They ensure safety, efficiency, and compliance with industry standards, often working with specialized tools and requiring technical certifications. Their work environment typically involves field inspections, technical planning, and collaboration with other transportation professionals.

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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Rail Engineer jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Rail Engineer jobs in Virginia are:

What are popular job titles related to Rail Engineer jobs in Virginia?

For Rail Engineer jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Rail Engineer jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Rail Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Rail Engineer job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $83,124 per year, or $40 per hour.

$84K - $110K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


Michael Baker International rating

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 18 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

55th of 449 rated engineering


Job description


Rail and Transit Practice
Whether moving people or freight, future rail and transit solutions will be shaped by energy costs, urban growth, and environmental priorities. Michael Baker helps freight railroads, transit authorities, and state DOTs address these challenges through services focused on state of good repair, capacity, safety, asset management, and sustainable infrastructure solutions. By partnering closely with our clients, we deliver innovative, practical, and cost-effective solutions that support the successful delivery of complex rail and transit projects.
What We're Looking For:
Michael Baker is adding an Office Engineer to our Rail & Transit team in Alexandria, VA! In this role, you will support the planning, design, and delivery of rail infrastructure projects by applying your professional engineering judgment to develop technically sound solutions and support construction activities, and you will work collaboratively with multidisciplinary Rail design teams, construction staff, public agencies, and railroad stakeholders to help deliver safe, efficient, and high-quality rail projects across all phases of project delivery.
What You'll Do:
  • Perform civil engineering design and technical analysis for rail infrastructure projects, including track, grading, drainage, site civil elements, and structural interfaces
  • Prepare and review engineering plans, specifications, technical reports, and cost estimates
  • Coordinate with project managers, designers, construction managers, and inspectors throughout design and construction phases
  • Support permitting and regulatory compliance efforts in accordance with federal, state, and local requirements
  • Apply railroad and transit standards, including AREMA, FRA, and client-specific guidelines, during project execution
  • Participate in design reviews, constructability reviews, and value engineering efforts
  • Respond to RFIs and provide engineering support during construction
  • Coordinate with railroad operators, transit agencies, utilities, and third-party stakeholders
  • Help ensure that designs and construction support activities meet safety, quality, schedule, and budget objectives
  • Maintain organized and accurate project documentation throughout the project lifecycle

What You Need to Succeed:
  • A Bachelor's Degree in Civil Engineering or equivalent combination of relevant education and/or experience.
  • A minimum of 6 years professional civil engineering experience supporting rail infrastructure initiatives and projects (preferably for freight rail, commuter rail, light rail, or transit systems)
  • Experience preparing engineering plans, specifications, and technical documentation
  • A strong understanding of civil design principles and construction methods
  • Excellent communication, coordination, problem-solving and client-facing skills
  • Ability to manage multiple tasks and work collaboratively in a team environment

Compensation:
The approximate compensation range for this position is $84,000-$110,000 per year. This compensation range is a good-faith estimate for the position at the time of posting. Actual compensation is dependent upon factors such as education, qualifications, experience, skillset, and physical work location.
Why Choose Us:
  • Medical, dental, vision insurance
  • 401k Retirement Plan
  • Health Savings Account (HSA)
  • Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
  • Life, AD&D, short-term, and long-term disability
  • Professional and personal development
  • Generous paid time off
  • Commuter and wellness benefits

About Us
Michael Baker International, a leading provider of engineering and consulting services, including design, planning, architectural, environmental, construction and program management, has been solving some of the world's most complex infrastructure challenges for more than 85 years with a legacy of expertise, experience, innovation and integrity.
Based in Pittsburgh and with over 100 offices nationwide, we partner with clients on everything from roads, bridges, tunnels, mass transit, and airports, to water treatment plants, arctic oil pipelines, environmental restoration and specialized overseas construction. We serve as a trusted adviser to the communities we serve, making them safer, more accessible, more sustainable and more prosperous.
We provide visionary leadership in facilitating transformational change for our clients. Our work delivers differentiating innovations and dedicated experts who challenge the status quo and share a world of diverse experience and an impassioned entrepreneurial spirit. We deliver quality of life.
We Make a Difference.
Michael Baker International is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. Michael Baker International provides equal employment opportunity for all persons, in all facets of employment. Michael Baker International maintains a drug-free workplace and performs pre-employment substance abuse testing and background checks. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply for any open position for which they feel they are qualified and all will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, creed, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship status, marital status, familial status, pregnancy or childbirth, genetic information, disability, protected veteran status, status with regard to public assistance, or membership or activity in a local human rights commission, or any other legally protected status.
EEO is the Law. Applicants to and employees of Michael Baker International are protected under Federal law from discrimination.
*It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.
*There is no current application deadline. Michael Baker will continue to accept applications on an ongoing basis until the position is filled or no longer needed.

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