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Rail Grinder Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Metra

Roadmaster

Chicago, IL · On-site

$111K/yr

Perform track and railroad right-of-way inspections using the Sperry car, geometry car, and rail grinder to assess rail defects. Prioritize track repair needs, prepare maintenance and construction ...

Metropolitan Council

Track Maintainer

Saint Paul, MN

$82K - $91K/yr

Operates hi-rail vehicles, and other vehicles used with track maintenance, inspection and recording, wheel/skid steer loaders, vacuum trucks, rail grinders, track tamper and ballast regulators.

Amsted Rail

CUP CONE INSPECTOR

Petersburg, VA

$19/hr

Amsted Rail Petersburg is a global leader in tapered roller bearings and precision sealing ... The Grinding Inspector may be assigned to assist in other manner in support of our Grinding ...

Rail Management Services

Rail Car Mechanic

Louisville, KY · On-site

$32.31/hr

The Rail Car Mechanic is responsible for inspecting and repairing below-deck railcar components and ... Experience with grinders, impact wrenches, drills, and other power tools. * Ability to safely use ...

Amsted Rail Company

CUP CONE INSPECTOR

Petersburg, VA · On-site

$18.75 - $21.75/hr

Amsted Rail Petersburg is a global leader in tapered roller bearings and precision sealing ... The Grinding Inspector may be assigned to assist in other manner in support of our Grinding ...

American Track

Welder (Railroad)

Mulberry, FL · On-site

Perform grinding tasks using power and hand tools. * Assist crews on job sites in other rail related repairs such as changing out rails, changing crossties, etc. including labor or machine operating.

American Track

Welder (Railroad)

Mulberry, FL

$22 - $25/hr

Perform grinding tasks using power and hand tools. * Assist crews on job sites in other rail related repairs such as changing out rails, changing crossties, etc. including labor or machine operating.

Amsted Rail Company

CUP CONE INSPECTOR

Petersburg, VA

$18.75 - $21.75/hr

Amsted Rail Petersburg is a global leader in tapered roller bearings and precision sealing ... The Grinding Inspector may be assigned to assist in other manner in support of our Grinding ...

Road & Rail Services

Railcar Repairman

Ypsilanti, MI · On-site

$25.46/hr

... and grind weld slag or spatter) Company Profile : Established in 1987, Road & Rail Services has grown and diversified to become a leading provider of rail related services in North America. Our ...

Road & Rail Services

Railcar Repairman

Ypsilanti, MI

$25.46/hr

... and grind weld slag or spatter) Company Profile : Established in 1987, Road & Rail Services has grown and diversified to become a leading provider of rail related services in North America. Our ...

Tekni-Plex

Grinder II

Clinton, IL

$16.75 - $20.75/hr

Understand the process of unloading rail cars while following all following safety rules ... Change over grinder and cleaning out blower. * Knowledge of correct screen for different materials ...

Amsted Rail Company Inc

CUP CONE INSPECTOR

Petersburg, VA · On-site

$18.75 - $21.75/hr

Amsted Rail Petersburg is a global leader in tapered roller bearings and precision sealing ... The Grinding Inspector may be assigned to assist in other manner in support of our Grinding ...

Road & Rail Services

Railcar Repairman

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$23.32/hr

Ability to use hand tools (such as pipe wrenches, pry bars, wrenches, ratchets, and other equipment to chip and grind weld slag or spatter) Company Overview: Established in 1987, Road & Rail Services ...

Amsted Rail Company Inc

CUP CONE INSPECTOR

Petersburg, VA

$18.75 - $21.75/hr

Amsted Rail Petersburg is a global leader in tapered roller bearings and precision sealing ... The Grinding Inspector may be assigned to assist in other manner in support of our Grinding ...

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Rail Grinder information

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$12

$18

$27

How much do rail grinder jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for rail grinder in the United States is $19.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $20.43 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Rail grinder operators can earn around $4,000 per week, especially with overtime and experience, as they work in the railway maintenance industry. These roles typically require specialized training, safety certifications, and physical stamina, but they do not usually require a college degree. High-paying skilled trades like this often depend on experience, certifications, and the ability to work in challenging environments.

What does a typical workday look like for a Rail Grinder?

A typical day for a Rail Grinder involves operating heavy rail grinding equipment to maintain and restore railway tracks, conducting routine inspections, and performing preventive maintenance. You’ll often work as part of a crew, handling physical tasks outdoors in all weather conditions, sometimes during overnight or weekend shifts to avoid disrupting train schedules. Collaboration with engineers, supervisors, and other maintenance personnel is common to ensure all safety protocols are followed and project timelines are met. The role can be physically demanding but is rewarding for those who enjoy hands-on work and contributing to the safety of rail transportation. Over time, experienced Rail Grinders may advance to supervisory or specialized technical positions within railway maintenance teams.

What is a Rail Grinder job?

A Rail Grinder is responsible for operating specialized machinery to maintain and repair railroad tracks by grinding and smoothing the rails. This process helps extend the lifespan of the tracks, improve train safety, and reduce wear on train wheels. Rail Grinders often work in teams, following scheduled maintenance plans and ensuring tracks remain in optimal condition. The job requires mechanical skills, attention to detail, and adherence to safety regulations. It can involve working long hours in varying weather conditions and traveling to different locations.

What is the highest paid railroad job?

The highest paid railroad jobs typically include senior management roles such as railroad executives, as well as specialized positions like locomotive engineers and signal maintainers with extensive experience. These roles often require advanced certifications, technical skills, and can offer salaries exceeding six figures depending on experience and location.

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

To excel as a Rail Grinder, you need a solid understanding of mechanical operations, rail maintenance, and safety regulations, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with specialized rail grinding machines, safety gear, and possibly certifications such as OSHA or track safety standards is crucial. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication are valuable soft skills in this role. These abilities are essential to ensuring the quality, safety, and efficiency of rail grinding operations.

What do rail grinders do?

Rail grinders are workers who operate specialized equipment to smooth and restore the surface of railroad tracks. They use grinding machines to remove irregularities, reduce rail wear, and improve track alignment, ensuring safer and more efficient train operations. The job often requires knowledge of track geometry and safety procedures.

What jobs pay $500,000 a year in the US?

High-paying jobs that can reach $500,000 annually include executive roles such as CEOs, CFOs, and other C-suite positions, as well as specialized professions like top surgeons, investment bankers, and successful entrepreneurs. These roles typically require extensive experience, advanced skills, and often involve leadership, high responsibility, or performance-based bonuses.
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Rail Grinder jobs near you
Infographic showing various Rail Grinder job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $39,515 per year, or $19 per hour.
CUP CONE GRINDING OPERATOR - Day & Night

CUP CONE GRINDING OPERATOR - Day & Night

Amsted Rail Company Inc

Petersburg, VA

$17.25 - $21.25/hr

Other

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

POSITION SUMMARY

The Cup Cone Operator operates and maintains a line to perform multiple grinding functions on metal work pieces. Producing precision parts by applying knowledge of procedures to meet the customer's expectations and Amsted Rail's procedures and standards.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

To accomplish this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function satisfactorily with or without accommodation.

  • Adhere to plant-wide safety, ergonomics and environmental requirements defined by Amsted Rail; outlined by the Amsted Rail Health & Safety program
  • Measure dimensions of processed work pieces to ensure conformance to specifications, using gauges, in accordance with the departmental quality plan
  • Check condition of work for defects
  • Assist Setup personnel with changing over of work, attachments for various work lines/cells
  • Select and safely use hand and power tools
  • Lift machine components and position manually or with hoists or cranes
  • Monitor transfer conveyors for proper operation
  • Listen to machines during operation to detect sounds such excessive vibration and adjust machines to compensate for problems
  • Adjust machine parameters using manual or automatic settings, change or adjust machine controls when machines malfunction or parts fall out of conformance
  • Record production run information in the company computer system
  • Understand operational sequences and dimensions of finished work pieces

Department Specific Functions:

  • Select program into machine control units to start operation
  • Perform preventative maintenance tasks on equipment
  • Troubleshoot part compliance and equipment problems
  • Remove and replace worn grinding wheels
  • Operate forklift to state part bins for processing
  • Monitor gantry devices and load/unload robots

To be considered a candidate must be able to meet the following qualifications:

  • Successfully pass a pre-employment drug & background screening
  • Lift, push & pull 10 to 50 lbs.
  • Wear department required, employer provided, personal protection equipment (PPE)
  • Be able to regularly stand and move throughout the department and shift
  • Mechanical aptitude and prior industrial experience a plus

Why Choose Amsted Rail Petersburg?

  • Employee Ownership: Annual stock awards (10% of compensation)
  • 401(k) Match: Up to 4% dollar-for-dollar
  • Comprehensive Benefits: Medical, dental, vision, HSA with company contributions, life insurance, disability coverage, and pet insurance available after 30 days
  • Competitive Pay: Competitive hourly rate, considering prior experience for additional pay, plus annual bonus eligibility potential
  • Career Growth: On the job training, pay for skill and advancement opportunities
  • Work-Life Balance: Paid Time Off (PTO) starting at 3 weeks of PTO, 11 paid holidays, Day Shift schedule (7:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m.), Night Shift schedule (7:00 p.m. - 7:00 a.m.)
  • Additional Offerings: Tuition Reimbursement, Referral Bonuses, Employee Discount Programs

Amsted Rail’s commitment to Affirmative Action:

Amsted Rail is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.

To review our EEO Policies or to request assistance please go to www.amstedrail.com/careers/ and select EEO Compliance/Statements. To learn more about us, please visit us online at www.amstedrail.com.

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About Amsted Rail

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Amsted Rail is a global leader in providing innovative solutions and components for the rail industry. With a strong commitment to advancing rail technology and improving safety, Amsted Rail offers a wide range of products and services that enhance the performance and reliability of rail systems worldwide. As a trusted partner to railroads, transit systems, and freight operators, Amsted Rail specializes in the design, manufacturing, and distribution of high-quality freight car components, including bogies, couplers, wheelsets, and braking systems. Amsted cutting-edge solutions are engineered to withstand the demands of heavy-duty rail operations, improving efficiency, reducing maintenance costs, and enhancing overall railcar performance.

Industry

Transportation equipment manufacturing

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Chicago, IL, US

Year founded

1977

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