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Rail Maintenance Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

OxyChem

Supply Chain Specialist

Ludington, MI · On-site

Coordinates and oversees on-site rail maintenance provider services to ensure safe, timely, effective and efficient repair of railcars. * Leads and coordinates the dispensation of railcars that ...

Oxy

Supply Chain Specialist

Ludington, MI

Coordinates and oversees on-site rail maintenance provider services to ensure safe, timely, effective and efficient repair of railcars. * Leads and coordinates the dispensation of railcars that ...

CN

Rail Track Maintainer

Schoolcraft, MI · On-site

$35.80/hr

Rail Track Maintainer At CN, we are committed to our pursuit of excellence. We take pride in delivering work of the highest standard, continually innovating to shape the railroad of the future. As ...

Marmon

Midland- Rail Switching Technician

Midland, MI · On-site

$20 - $23/hr

Our teams deliver on-site rail switching, material handling and transloading, track construction and maintenance, and locomotive service and repair for customers who depend on safe, reliable rail ...

Marmon

Midland- Track Laborer (Rail)

Midland, MI · On-site

$18 - $23/hr

This is a full-time, hands-on role critical to maintaining safe and reliable rail operations for our customers. This position is ideal for individuals who enjoy physical work, working outdoors ...

CDL Electric

Railroad Signal Maintainer

Alma, MI

Safety * Maintenance & Improvements * Testing & Inspections * Trouble Calls & Troubleshooting ... Knowledge of rail operations generally and railroad signaling principals specifically. The focus of ...

CDL Electric

Railroad Signal Maintainer

Lansing, MI

Safety * Maintenance & Improvements * Testing & Inspections * Trouble Calls & Troubleshooting ... Knowledge of rail operations generally and railroad signaling principals specifically. The focus of ...

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All JobsRail Maintenance JobsRail Maintenance Jobs in Michigan

Rail Maintenance information

See Michigan salary details

$10

$27

$49

How much do rail maintenance jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for rail maintenance in Michigan is $27.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.10 and $33.32 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to get into rail maintenance?

To enter rail maintenance, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with technical training or apprenticeships in railway systems, electrical work, or mechanical repair. Relevant skills include knowledge of safety protocols, ability to operate specialized tools, and sometimes certifications such as OSHA or equipment-specific licenses. Prior experience in construction, manufacturing, or transportation can also be beneficial.

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

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 are popular job titles related to Rail Maintenance jobs in Michigan?

For Rail Maintenance jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Rail Maintenance jobs in Michigan look for?

The top searched job categories for Rail Maintenance jobs in Michigan are:

Rail Maintenance jobs near you
Infographic showing various Rail Maintenance job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, and 12% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $57,231 per year, or $27.5 per hour.

Rail Track Maintainer

Canadian National Railway

Schoolcraft, MI • On-site

$35.80/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 4 days ago

Canadian National Railway rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 49 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

136th of 364 rated logistics

Job description

Qualified Rate : $35.8 Per hour
Please note that new hires in this role may be paid a lower hourly rate during their qualifying period. In addition, CN employees are also eligible to an employee share investment plan (ESIP), Pension, Benefits, Railroad Retirement Benefits (RRB) and other perks.
Rail Track Maintainer
At CN, we are committed to our pursuit of excellence. We take pride in delivering work of the highest standard, continually innovating to shape the railroad of the future. As responsible railroaders, we make the right decisions every time, putting safety first, acting with unwavering integrity, and holding ourselves accountable for our actions. We believe in succeeding together-by fostering inclusivity and collaboration, we sustainably deliver exceptional results for our customers.
If you are a skilled trades person or interested in skilled trades and continuous learning in a safety-focused environment, working at CN could be a great fit for you. You'll be working on all types of equipment and structures designed to support the distribution of freight across North America. Enjoy paid training and evolve your skills. The careers we offer are meaningful because the work we do matters. Join us and get your career moving!
Job Summary
The Rail Track Maintainer is responsible for inspecting, repairing and replacing rails, ties, switches and ballasts. The role is performed outdoors in various types of weather and environmental conditions and ensures a safe working environment.
Working Conditions

  • Shift work, with overtime when required.
  • Long periods of travel required, including overnight.
  • Primarily work outdoors in all weather conditions.
  • Repetitive physical activity.
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds frequently, and up to 70 pounds occasionally.
Major Responsibilities
  • Maintain CN's train rails, ties, switches and ballasts through inspection, repair, and replacement.
  • Maintain various hand tools for assigned work.
  • Remove and replace defective ties, rails spikes, and anchors.
  • Repair deviations in track surface, alignment, and gauge.
  • Install and repair street and railroad crossings and assist in the replacement or repair of items such as power-operated switches and insulated joints.
  • Unload ballasts and distribute track material.
  • Sort used track material for loading.
  • Ensure railroad right-of-way is clear of brush, vegetation, snow and litter.
  • Ensure a safe working environment, by following CN's safety policies and procedures.
Requirements
  • Relevant work experience in similar working conditions or regulatory and safety environment.
  • Experience operating heavy equipment and machinery.
  • High School Diploma, General Education Diploma (GED), or equivalent.
  • Valid driver's license.
  • Must be at least 18 years of age.
  • Must meet all medical fitness for duty requirements for the position, including requirements for Safety.
  • Ability to work autonomously, adapt to different situations and handle stress.
  • Demonstrate good teamwork and maintain positive interactions with others.
  • Dedicated to getting the job done while meeting established standards of quality, safety, productivity and client satisfaction.
  • Displays common sense and good judgment.
  • Hand-eye coordination.
  • Grasping skills
Assets
  • Welding skills
  • Knowledge of signals or Railroad Operating Rules
What We Offer
  • Competitive Wages, Benefits, and Pension Plan
  • Paid Training and Career Development
  • Medical, vision, and dental insurance
  • 24/7 Telemedicine Service
  • Employee Share Investment Plan
  • Educational Financial Assistance Program
  • Employee Resource Groups (ERGs)
  • Extensive Employee Discount Program
  • Employee & Family Assistance Program (EFAP)
Paid Training
Successful candidates will take part in a paid 5-week training program at a CN Campus (Homewood, IL) with additional on-the-job training to help ensure that they have received the adequate knowledge to operate in accordance with regulatory requirements and CN's safety standards. The training is primarily on health and safety rules as successful completion of the classroom and on-the-job training is required to continue employment as a Track Maintainer at CN.
Successful Candidate Process:
  • Medical assessment (including drug, hearing, and vision).
  • Criminal background check.
  • Offer Letter
Paid Training Structure:
  • 5 weeks at CN Campus (Homewood, IL)

About CN
CN is a premium railroad that sustainably generates value for our customers, shareholders, employees, and stakeholders with an unwavering commitment to safety and service. Essential to the economy, to the customers, and to the communities it serves, CN safely transports more than 300 million tons of natural resources, manufactured products, and finished goods throughout North America every year. CN's network connects Canada's Eastern and Western coasts with the U.S. South through a 20,000-mile rail network. CN and its affiliates have been contributing to community prosperity and sustainable trade since 1919. CN powers the North American economy and is committed to programs supporting social responsibility and environmental stewardship.
At CN, we are dedicated to building North America's safest, most inclusive and sustainable railroad, which includes reflecting the communities in which we operate. Research shows that candidates often don't apply unless they feel they fit the job posting at 100%. To all potential applicants, even if you don't meet every job requirement listed in a posting, we still encourage you to apply. If you require an accommodation for the recruitment process (including alternate formats of materials, accessible meeting rooms or other accommodations), please get in touch with our team at cnrecruitment@cn.ca.
As an equal opportunity employer, qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, and other protected status as required by applicable law.
Please monitor your email on a regular basis as communication to applicants is done via email.

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