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Rail Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Veredus - DC

Ruby on Rails Dev

Vienna, VA

$102K - $141K/yr

... 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 ...

HDR

Rail Bridge Engineer

Vienna, VA

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 ...

HDR

Rail Bridge Engineer

Vienna, VA · On-site

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 ...

Dewberry

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

Senior Rail Construction Engineer

Gainesville, VA · On-site

$111K - $130K/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 ...

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All JobsRail Engineer JobsRail Engineer Jobs in Virginia

Rail Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$24.8K

$83.1K

$137.1K

How much do rail engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 25, 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 opportunities are expected to grow as transportation infrastructure investments increase.

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.

How much do rail engineers get paid?

Rail engineers typically earn between $50,000 and $80,000 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 engineer makes $500,000 a year?

In the engineering field, senior-level roles such as petroleum engineers, aerospace engineers, or specialized software engineers can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. These positions typically require extensive experience, advanced skills, and sometimes work in high-paying industries or companies. Such compensation is uncommon for entry-level or mid-career engineers.
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 job categories do people searching Rail Engineer jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Rail Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Rail Engineer jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Rail Engineer job openings:
Rail Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Rail Engineer job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $83,124 per year, or $40 per hour.

Project Superintendent - Rail Grinding & Milling

Succession Planning for Railroads Investing in the Next Generation LLC

Chesapeake, VA • On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

Oversee and manage numerous rail grinding and rail milling teams, which includes

          • Approving expenses
          • Approving payroll
          • Scheduling rotations
          • Participating in hiring of new team members

                                                Basic understanding of rail treatment

          • Identify rail surface defects (spalling, corrugation, engine burns)
          • Understanding of how track geometry and track substructure plays a role in development of rail surface conditions
          • Assess and/or survey rail condition and develop long term rail treatment plan
          • Provide input to the development of the annual budget and oversees cost control for the rail grinding and milling programs
          • Knowledge and can explain difference between rail grinding and rail milling
          • Knowledge and can explain when to perform rail grinding and when to perform rail milling
          • Basic knowledge of rail grinding and rail milling operations
            • Operational set-up (grinders, watch trucks, final patrol)
            • Complete on-site inspections and audits of equipment
            • Must know already or will learn how to operate, maintain, and troubleshoot rail grinding and milling equipment
Requirements
  • Individual with at least 5-7 years railways experience in the railway Engineering Department
  • Familiarity with grinding and milling practices and procedures common to the industry
  • Coordinating/influencing skills
  • Strong communicator across multiple functions
  • Required to be on call on a regular basis outside of normal business hours and workdays
  • Proficient with a computer, (Microsoft Office)
  • Already has or is able to obtain a Passport
$80,000 - $120,000 a year

Travel Schedule:           (Subject to change)  3 weeks in field / 1 week home

Territory Covered:        North America

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
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