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Rail Maintenance Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Targa

Rail Analyst

Houston, TX · On-site

... maintain metrics to identify trends, inefficiencies, or risks related to rail volumes, rail freight rates, and performance Prepare analytical data for management of detention, demurrage and fleet ...

Targa Resources

Rail Analyst

Houston, TX · On-site

... activity and maintain metrics to identify trends, inefficiencies, or risks related to rail volumes, rail freight rates, and performance • Prepare analytical data for management of detention ...

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All JobsRail Maintenance JobsRail Maintenance Jobs in Texas

Rail Maintenance information

See Texas salary details

$11

$29

$52

How much do rail maintenance jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for rail maintenance in Texas is $29.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.49 and $35.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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.

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 popular job titles related to Rail Maintenance jobs in Texas?

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

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

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

Rail Maintenance jobs near you
Infographic showing various Rail Maintenance job openings in Texas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,174 per year, or $29.4 per hour.

Rail Maintenance Communications Specialist

METRO

Houston, TX

$79K - $104K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description

Basic Function

Performs analysis, fault diagnosis, inspections, tests, repairs, upgrades, modifications, software development and adjustments on rail communications systems and components. Performs duties in a safe, efficient manner and in compliance with applicable rules and safety procedures.

Responsibilities and Specific Duties
  • Performs advanced analysis and diagnostics on rail communications hardware and software used in servers and PCs to support rail system operations, network switches, routers, wireless access points, PA/VMS systems, CCTV system, SCADA and Remote Terminal Units systems, multiplexers, programmable logic controllers, and other complex and specialized rail systems equipment.
  • Performs preventative maintenance inspections, modifications, repairs and upgrades on rail communications databases, hardware and software used in servers and PCs to support rail system operations, network switches, routers, wireless access points, PA/VMS systems, CCTV system, SCADA and Remote Terminal Unit systems, multiplexers.
  • Responsible for updating and maintaining Rail Maintenance's document control website.
  • Provides specialized data reports to Operations department management.
  • Responsible for daily monitoring of all rail computer/networking systems.
  • Works closely with METRO IT to provide security and appropriate interconnection with METRO network. Assists in the development and modification of software and configurations to support servers and PCs used to support rail system operations, network switches, routers, wireless access points, PA/VMS systems, CCTV system, SCADA and Remote Terminal Units systems, multiplexers, programmable logic controllers, and other complex and specialized rail systems equipment.
  • Remain current on new industry trends, methods and technologies.
  • Records and documents maintenance and diagnostic data.
  • Prioritizes emergency tasks in the absence of on-site supervision.
  • Assists in the development and refinement of inspection and preventive maintenance programs, Safety Operating Procedures, safety procedures, and configuration control for Signals and Communications systems and work rules.
  • Successfully complete vendor training on Signals & Communications equipment and maintenance procedures as well as METRO training associated with safety and technical subjects.
  • Assists other Rail Operations departments as necessary to ensure safe and reliable service.
  • Provides excellent customer service to METRO internal and external customers.
  • Applies SMS (Safety Management System) methods and principles in daily routine and supports all aspects of the agency's Public Transportation Agency Safety Plan (PTASP).
  • Promotes safety awareness and follows safety procedures to reduce or eliminate accidents.
  • Performs other job-related duties as assigned.

Pay Range:  $79,200 - $104,000

Education Requirement

High school diploma or GED is required.  Bachelor's degree in computer science, Information Technology or related field is preferred.

Years & Experience Required

Minimum five (5) years of increasingly responsible experience with communications equipment in an Information Technology or rail transit environment.  Experience in software testing, evaluation, and the ability to troubleshoot problems.

Knowledge & Skills Required

Cisco CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Associate) certification is preferred.  Proficiency using computer workstations/servers, associated computer peripherals, software and knowledge of software languages and operating systems.  Excellent (oral and written) communications skills are essential to communicate with management, consultants and engineers to resolve technical issues.  Analytical ability to independently diagnose and recommend problem resolutions.   Valid Texas driver's license is required.

Additional Information

The Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County, Texas has a zero-tolerance drug and alcohol policy for all employees. All internal and external applicants will be required to undergo drug testing before employment and will be subject to further drug and/or alcohol testing throughout their employment.

Further, employees who perform safety-sensitive functions will submit to drug and/or alcohol testing in accordance to the Department of Transportation (DOT) and the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) regulatory requirements.

We provide equal opportunity to all qualified individuals regardless of race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, veteran status, genetic information or disability.

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