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Rail Project Manager Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

Freight Railroad Coordinator/ EIT

Lexington, KY · On-site

$18.25 - $24/hr

Support Rail Project Managers and Engineers to develop track and civil design plans, specifications, and cost estimates * Take responsibility for civil and track engineering assignments, including ...

Freight Railroad Coordinator/ EIT

Lexington, KY · On-site

$18.25 - $24/hr

Support Rail Project Managers and Engineers to develop track and civil design plans, specifications, and cost estimates * Take responsibility for civil and track engineering assignments, including ...

Serve in a technical role, under the direction of a Project Manager * Oversee the work of EITs and Junior Project Engineers * Prepare detailed engineering designs for rail projects * Take ...

Serve in a technical role, under the direction of a Project Manager * Oversee the work of EITs and Junior Project Engineers * Prepare detailed engineering designs for rail projects * Take ...

... rail, aviation, federal transportation ports and marine infrastructure, your work will directly ... In the role of Project Controls Manager, we'll count on you to: * Partner with designers ...

... rail, aviation, federal transportation ports and marine infrastructure, your work will directly ... In the role of Project Controls Manager, we'll count on you to: * Partner with designers ...

The Program Director - Transit and Rail, Cooperative Research Program (CRP) provides senior-level ... Manage selected complex or high-profile research projects personally, including contractor ...

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Showing results 1-20

Rail Project Manager information

See Kentucky salary details

$82.1K

$91.2K

$98.6K

How much do rail project manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for rail project manager in Kentucky is $91,195.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $86,900.00 and $95,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a rail project manager do?

A Rail Project Manager oversees the planning, execution, and completion of rail infrastructure projects, such as the construction or upgrading of railway lines and stations. They coordinate between engineers, contractors, government agencies, and stakeholders to ensure that projects are delivered on time, within budget, and according to safety and quality standards. Their responsibilities include managing project schedules, budgets, risk assessments, and compliance with regulatory requirements. Additionally, they often handle communication among different teams to keep all parties informed and resolve any issues that arise during the project lifecycle.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a rail project manager?

To thrive as a Rail Project Manager, you need expertise in project management, rail engineering principles, and a relevant degree such as civil engineering or construction management. Familiarity with project management software (e.g., MS Project, Primavera P6), rail safety standards, and certifications like PMP or PRINCE2 are typically required. Strong leadership, effective communication, and stakeholder management skills help navigate complex projects and multidisciplinary teams. These abilities ensure projects are delivered on time, within budget, and in compliance with regulatory and safety standards.

What are some common challenges faced by rail project managers during large infrastructure projects?

Rail Project Managers often encounter challenges such as coordinating multiple stakeholders, managing complex schedules, and ensuring compliance with strict safety and regulatory standards. Delays due to unforeseen site conditions, supply chain disruptions, or changes in project scope are also common. Successful Rail Project Managers proactively communicate with engineering teams, contractors, and government agencies to address issues and keep projects on track, while balancing quality, budget, and timeline requirements.

What is the difference between Rail Project Manager vs Civil Engineer?

AspectRail Project ManagerCivil Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering, PMP or equivalent certification often preferredBachelor's in Civil Engineering, PE license often required
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, project offices, rail infrastructure projectsConstruction sites, design offices, infrastructure projects
Employer & Industry UsageRail companies, transportation agencies, infrastructure firmsEngineering firms, construction companies, government agencies

While both roles involve infrastructure projects, a Rail Project Manager oversees the planning, execution, and completion of rail-specific projects, focusing on project management and coordination. A Civil Engineer designs and analyzes infrastructure components, often working on the technical aspects. The Rail Project Manager typically has project management certifications, whereas Civil Engineers focus on engineering licensure. Both roles are essential in rail infrastructure development but differ in scope and responsibilities.

How do you become a rail project manager?

To become a rail project manager, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in engineering, construction management, or a related field, along with several years of experience in project management or railway construction. Certifications such as PMP (Project Management Professional) can enhance prospects, and strong skills in planning, budgeting, and team coordination are essential. Familiarity with railway systems and safety regulations is also important.

What is the salary of a rail project manager?

The salary of a rail project manager typically ranges from $80,000 to $130,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of projects managed. Senior roles or those in high-cost areas may offer higher compensation, and certifications like PMP can influence earning potential.

What are popular job titles related to Rail Project Manager jobs in Kentucky?

For Rail Project Manager jobs in Kentucky, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Kentucky are hiring for Rail Project Manager jobs?

Cities in Kentucky with the most Rail Project Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Rail Project Manager job openings in Kentucky as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $91,195 per year, or $43.8 per hour.

Freight Railroad Coordinator/ EIT

HDR

Lexington, KY • On-site

$18.25 - $24/hr

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago


HDR rating

9.3

Company rating: 9.3 out of 10

Based on 60 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

26th of 450 rated engineering


Job description

At HDR, our employee-owners are fully engaged in creating a welcoming environment where each of us is valued and respected, a place where everyone is empowered to bring their authentic selves and novel ideas to work every day. As we foster a culture of inclusion throughout our company and within our communities, we constantly ask ourselves: What is our impact on the world?
Watch Our Story:' https://www.hdrinc.com/our-story' 
Each and every role throughout our organization makes a difference in our ability to change the world for the better. Read further to learn how you could help make great things possible not only in your community, but around the world. 
 

In the role of Freight Rail Coordinator/EIT, we'll count on you to: 
 
  • Support Rail Project Managers and Engineers to develop track and civil design plans, specifications, and cost estimates
  • Take responsibility for civil and track engineering assignments, including drainage, structural and utilities tasks
  • Develop design criteria, project guides, project meeting notes, and project controls while supporting Project Manager
  • Work independently on small projects or assist more senior engineers on larger projects
  • Give direction to clerical and technical personnel as needed
  • Perform other duties as needed
Preferred Qualifications 
 
  • Engineer in Training (EIT) certificate
  • Candidates without their EIT will be placed into a Design Coordinator job code and will be expected to obtain their EIT for career progression
  • Basic knowledge of MicroStation and/or AutoCAD
  • MS Office Applications experience
  • Strong interest in railroad design
  • An attitude and commitment to being an active participant of our employee-owned culture is a must
  • Preference given to local candidates 

#LI-HO1

Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree
  • Hands-on experience with MicroStation, InRoads and GEOPAK-route design
  • MS Office Applications experience
  • Strong interest in railroad design
  • An attitude and commitment to being an active participant of our employee-owned culture is a must

What We Believe
HDR is our company. Together, we build on each other's life experiences and perspectives to make great things possible every day. This shapes our collaborative culture, encourages organizational trust and connects us closer to the clients and communities we serve.
Our Commitment
As employee owners, we all have a role in creating an inclusive environment where each of us is welcomed, valued, respected and empowered to bring our authentic selves to work every day.
Our eight Employee Network Groups (Asian Pacific, Black, Hispanic/Latino(a), LGBTQ+, People with Disabilities, Veterans, Women, Young Professionals) help create a sense of belonging and foster a supportive environment where everyone is empowered to engage and contribute. Each group has an executive sponsor and is open to all employees.


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About HDR

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At HDR, we specialize in engineering, architecture, environmental and construction services. While we are most well-known for adding beauty and structure to communities through high-performance buildings and smart infrastructure, we provide much more than that. We create an unshakable foundation for progress because our multidisciplinary teams also include scientists, economists, builders, analysts and artists.

Industry

Specialized design services

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Omaha, NE, US

Year founded

1917