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Rail Maintenance Jobs (NOW HIRING)

A minimum of 5 years of Rail maintenance experience required * Knowledge of various rail modes such as Commuter Rail, Light Rail, and / or Streetcar preferred * Knowledge of Maintenance of Equipment ...

The Rail Maintenance Supervisor independently supervises Maintenance Department personnel (Maintenance Technicians) and their associated duties and responsibilities. Includes supervising the overall ...

The Rail Maintenance Supervisor independently supervises Maintenance Department personnel (Maintenance Technicians) and their associated duties and responsibilities. Includes supervising the overall ...

The Rail Maintenance Supervisor independently supervises Maintenance Department personnel (Maintenance Technicians) and their associated duties and responsibilities. Includes supervising the overall ...

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Rail Maintenance information

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$12

$31

$56

How much do rail maintenance jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for rail maintenance in the United States is $31.57, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.08 and $38.22 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

In rail maintenance, high-paying roles such as senior project managers, specialized engineers, or consultants can earn around $2,000 per day, especially with extensive experience, certifications, and working on large-scale projects. These positions often require advanced skills, safety training, and the ability to manage complex operations in demanding environments.

What's the highest paid maintenance job?

In rail maintenance, senior roles such as Rail Maintenance Managers or Supervisors tend to have the highest salaries, often exceeding $80,000 annually. These positions typically require extensive experience, technical skills, and certifications, and may involve overseeing large teams and complex repair operations.

What's the highest paying railroad job?

The highest paying railroad jobs are typically senior management roles such as railroad executives, or specialized technical positions like locomotive engineers with extensive experience. These roles often require advanced certifications, years of experience, and sometimes union negotiations, and they can offer six-figure salaries. Skilled positions such as signal engineers and project managers also tend to have higher compensation within the industry.

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

To thrive as a Rail Maintenance Worker, you need strong mechanical aptitude, knowledge of rail infrastructure, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent, sometimes supplemented by vocational training. Familiarity with specialized tools, safety systems, and certifications such as OSHA or track safety credentials is often required. Attention to detail, reliability, and teamwork are essential soft skills for performing inspections and repairs efficiently. These skills ensure the safe and continuous operation of rail systems, minimizing risks and service disruptions.

What is the difference between Rail Maintenance vs Track Inspector?

AspectRail MaintenanceTrack Inspector
CertificationsRailway safety certifications, equipment operation licensesTrack inspection certifications, safety training
Work EnvironmentMaintenance yards, trackside, on-site repairsTrackside, inspection vehicles, remote locations
Employer & Industry UsageRail companies, transit authoritiesRail companies, regulatory agencies

Rail Maintenance involves repairing and maintaining railway infrastructure and equipment, ensuring safety and operational efficiency. Track Inspectors focus on examining tracks for defects, safety hazards, and compliance. While both roles require safety certifications and work in similar environments, Rail Maintenance is more hands-on with repairs, whereas Track Inspectors primarily assess track conditions to prevent accidents.

What are some of the most common challenges faced by rail maintenance technicians, and how can they be addressed?

Rail maintenance technicians often encounter challenges such as working in harsh weather conditions, adhering to tight maintenance schedules, and ensuring safety standards are met on active railways. Addressing these challenges requires effective teamwork, ongoing safety training, and adaptability to rapidly changing situations. Many employers support technicians by providing comprehensive safety gear, regular skills development workshops, and clear communication channels to coordinate with train operators and other maintenance teams.

What is rail maintenance?

Rail maintenance refers to the ongoing inspection, repair, and upkeep of railway tracks, signals, and associated infrastructure to ensure safe and efficient train operations. This work includes tasks such as replacing worn rails, fixing track alignment, maintaining signaling systems, and clearing debris from tracks. Rail maintenance crews use specialized equipment and often work during off-peak hours to minimize disruptions to train schedules. Regular maintenance is crucial for preventing accidents, reducing delays, and extending the lifespan of railway assets.

What does a railway maintenance do?

A railway maintenance worker inspects, repairs, and maintains tracks, signals, and other railway infrastructure to ensure safety and operational efficiency. They use tools and follow safety protocols, often working in various weather conditions and requiring certifications such as safety training or equipment operation licenses.
More about Rail Maintenance jobs
What cities are hiring for Rail Maintenance jobs? Cities with the most Rail Maintenance job openings:
What states have the most Rail Maintenance jobs? States with the most job openings for Rail Maintenance jobs include:
Supervisor, Rail Maintenance

Supervisor, Rail Maintenance

Metropolitan Council

Saint Paul, MN • On-site

$89K - $144K/yr

Full-time

Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 12 days ago


Metropolitan Council rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

430th of 649 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Salary : $89,232.00 - $144,830.40 Annually
Location : Rail Operations & Maintenance Facility, Minneapolis, MN
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 2026-00231
Division: Metro Transit
Department: Revenue Vehicle Maint Mpls
Opening Date: 06/04/2026
Closing Date: 6/18/2026 11:59 PM Central
WHO WE ARE
We are the Metropolitan Council, the regional government for the seven-county Twin Cities metropolitan area. We plan 30 years ahead for the future of the metropolitan area and provide regional transportation, wastewater, and housing services.
We are committed to supporting a diverse workforce that reflects the communities we serve.
Metro Transit is one of the country's largest transit systems, employs more than 3,000 people, and provides ridership through an integrated network of buses, light rail and commuter trains, as well as resources for those who carpool, vanpool, walk or bike in the Twin Cities.
How your work would contribute to our organization and the Twin Cities region:
The Supervisor, Rail Maintenance will provide leadership, direction and coordination in the Maintenance department. This position will also provide support for the Transportation department by maintaining the LRV fleet to Metro Transit Standards.
NOTE: This position will create an eight-month eligible list for current and future positions. The candidate's permanent residence must be in Minnesota or Wisconsin.
What you would do in this job
  • Coordinate mechanical workforce for shift assignments to ensure availability of equipment for service.
  • Maintain records of attendance.
  • Act as the first level of response for performance and discipline issues.
  • Provide leadership and direction to the department through planning, implementation, and evaluation of work priorities.
  • Evaluate work performed by staff.
  • Inspect work of Foreperson to ensure problems that were mechanical, electrical/electronic, pneumatic, and/or hydraulic were accurately resolved to prevent damage to vehicle and/or passengers.
  • Maintain close working relationships with other rail departments.
  • Participate in the development and administration of the annual budget.
  • Assist in writing and enforcing standard operating procedures.
  • Identify problem areas, make timely corrections where possible, or recommendations to upper management for solutions.
  • Ensure compliance with Met Council policies.
  • Prepare electronic reports for management.
  • Perform other duties directly related to this position as assigned.
  • Responsible for the work of others; Foreperson Electro-Mechanic Technicians, Electro-Mechanic Technicians and LRT Helpers.

What education and experience are required for this job (minimum qualifications)
Any of the following combinations of experience in mechanical operation, mechanical maintenance or other heavy-duty transportation maintenance and completed education mechanical operation, mechanical maintenance, transportation, engineering, administration, management or a related field:
  • A high school diploma/GED with eight (8) years of experience, including one (1) year of supervisory, project management, or lead experience.
  • An associate degree with six (6) years of experience, including one (1) year of supervisory, project management, or lead experience.
  • A bachelor's degree or higher with four (4) years of experience, including one (1) year of supervisory, project management, or lead experience.
Licensure Requirement:
  • Valid driver's license with acceptable driving record.
  • Ability to obtain a Class B CDL Driver's License during the probationary period.
  • Ability to pass physical examinations, Rail Operations Rule Book and physical agility examinations.
  • Ability to successfully complete Rail Operator Training Program for Maintenance Personnel.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain Train Operator Certification for Maintenance Personnel.
*Metropolitan Council Employees Only: Successful completion of any one of the following four Metropolitan Council Leadership/Supervisory training programs will substitute for lead/supervisory experience. You must attach your certificate(s) as proof of completion of the program to your application. Only completion of one of the four programs listed below will substitute credit (6 months or 1 year) for lead/supervisory experience.
Metro Transit Leadership Academy = 1 year
Project Management Development Program (12-month session) = 1 year
Four Learning Institute Certificates - You must obtain all four certificates listed below to receive credit for 6 months supervisory experience.
  • Leading Self-Personal Effectiveness Certificate
  • Leading Self-Communication Certificate
  • Leading Self-Business Skills Certificate
  • Leading Others-Preparing for Supervisor Certificate
What additional skills and experience would be helpful in this job (desired qualifications):
  • Light rail maintenance experience, including knowledge of original equipment manufacturer warranties, contracts, technical specifications and administrative procedures.
  • Supervisory/lead work experience in a union environment.
  • Experience working with Enterprise Asset Management Systems (EAMS), such as TXBase.
  • Proficient in payroll processes, including timecard corrections and verification of completed work.
  • Skilled in parts research, including collaborating with manufacturing facilities to reverse engineer components.
  • Experience promoting an equitable, positive, respectful work environment that values diversity among all employees.
What knowledge, skills and abilities you should have within the first six months on the job:
  • Skilled in problem analysis and resolution skills.
  • Skilled in oral and written communication.
  • Skilled in using personal computers and working with databases.
  • Ability to structure and deliver training in-shop and classroom settings.
  • Ability to manage multiple responsibilities/priorities simultaneously.
  • Ability to understand and interpret union contracts at Metro Transit.
  • Ability to work effectively in a team environment.
  • Ability to manage various projects including scope of work, budget, procurement, and execution.
What you can expect from us:
  • We offer the opportunity to make a difference and positively influence the Twin Cities metropolitan area.
  • We encourage our employees to develop their skills through on-site training and tuition reimbursement.
  • We provide a competitive salary, excellent benefits and a good work/life balance.
More about why you should join us!
Additional information
Union/Grade: Transit Managers and Supervisors Association (TMSA) /Grade H
FLSA Status: Exempt
Safety Sensitive: Yes, subject to random non-DOT drug tests
What your work environment would be:
Work is regularly performed in a normal office environment but may require occasional outdoor work with exposure to outdoor weather conditions. Work requires occasional local in-state travel by car to visit different facilities. May occasionally travel by air out of state for training and conferences. Work is occasionally performed near moving parts or equipment, in high, precarious places and wet, humid conditions. Position is frequently exposed to fumes or airborne particles and occasionally toxic or caustic chemicals. There is occasional exposure to vibrations and the risk of electrical shock. Position is regularly exposed to moderate noise.
What steps the recruitment process involves:1. We review your minimum qualifications.
2. We rate your education and experience.
3. We conduct a structured panel interview.
4. We conduct a selection interview.
Once you have successfully completed the steps above, then:
If you are new to the Metropolitan Council, you must pass a drug test (safety sensitive positions only), and a background check which verifies education, employment, and criminal history. A driving record check and/or physical may be conducted if applicable to the job. If you have a criminal conviction, you do not automatically fail. The Metropolitan Council considers felony, gross misdemeanor and misdemeanor convictions on a case-by-case basis, based on whether they are related to the job and whether the candidate has demonstrated adequate rehabilitation.
If you are already an employee of the Metropolitan Council, you must pass a drug test (if moving from a non-safety sensitive position to a safety sensitive position) and criminal background check if the job you're applying for is safety sensitive, is a supervisory or management job, is in the Finance, Information Services, Audit, or Human Resources departments, or has access to financial records, files/databases, cash, vouchers or transit fare cards. A driving record check and/or physical may be conducted if applicable to the position.
IMPORTANT: If you make a false statement or withhold information, you may be barred from job consideration.
The Metropolitan Council is an Equal Opportunity, Affirmative Action, and veteran-friendly employer. The Council is committed to a workforce that reflects the diversity of the region and strongly encourages persons of color, members of the LGBTQ community, individuals with disabilities, women, and veterans to apply.
If you have a disability that requires accommodation during the selection process, please email HR-OCCHealth@metc.state.mn.us.
We believe our employees are a key to our agency's success! In order to attract and retain high quality employees, the Council provides a highly competitive benefits package both in choice and coverage levels. Some highlights about our benefits are listed below:
  • Guaranteed monthly retirement income through Minnesota State Retirement System pension fund
  • Opportunity to save additional funds for retirement on a tax-deferred basis through a voluntary deferred compensation (457) plan
  • Two or more medical plans from which to choose, with employer contribution towards premiums over 80%
  • Dental insurance, life insurance and vision insurance
The following benefits are provided to all employees as part of working for the Council. You will have access to free:
  • Well@Work clinic
  • bus/rail pass valued at over $1200 per year
  • parking at many job locations
  • fitness centers at many job locations
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • extensive health and wellness programs and resources

01
Applicant Instructions: It is important that your application shows all relevant education and experience you possess. The supplemental questions listed below are to further evaluate your education and experience and to determine your eligibility for this position. Answer each question completely, and please do not type "see resume." Otherwise, your application will be considered incomplete, and you will not receive further consideration for this position. The experience you indicate in your responses should also be consistent with the Work History section of this application. If you attach a resume and/or cover letter to your application, it will be reviewed at the education and experience review step.I have read and understand the above instructions regarding my application and supplemental questions.
  • Yes
  • No

02
How did you first hear about this job opening?
  • CareerForce Center
  • Community Event/Organization
  • Employee Referral
  • Facebook
  • Glassdoor
  • Indeed
  • Job Fair
  • LinkedIn
  • Metro Transit Bus Advertisement
  • Twitter
  • Website: governmentjobs.com
  • Website: metrocouncil.org
  • Website: metrotransit.org
  • Website: minnesotajobnetwork.com
  • Other

03
If you selected 'Other', please describe where you first heard about this job. if you selected 'Employee Referral' please enter the employee's first and last name, ID number (if known), and job title.Type N/A if not applicable.
04
Please select the option below that reflects your education and experience level.
  • High School Diploma or GED and eight (8) years of work experience in mechanical operation, mechanical maintenance or other heavy-duty transportation maintenance.
  • Associate's degree in mechanical operation, mechanical maintenance, transportation, engineering, administration, management or related field and six (6) years of work experience in mechanical operation, mechanical maintenance or other heavy-duty transportation maintenance.
  • Bachelor's degree or higher in mechanical operation, mechanical maintenance, transportation, engineering, administration, management or a related field and four (4) years of work experience in mechanical operation, mechanical maintenance or other heavy-duty transportation maintenance.
  • None of the above.

05
How many years of supervisory, project management, or lead experience do you have?
  • One (1) year or more.
  • Less than one (1) year.
  • I have completed one of the Metro Transit Leadership/Development programs and have attached my certificate(s).
  • None of the above.

06
Please describe your supervisory, project management, or lead experience. If this doesn't apply to you, please type N/A.
07
Please describe your experience in mechanical operation, mechanical maintenance, or other heavy-duty transportation maintenance. If this doesn't apply to you, please type N/A.
08
Please describe your experience supervising, leading a small group or team, and/or participating in project work. Include your project role(s) and a brief description of the type of project. Include any specialized project training you m...