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Rail Technician Jobs (NOW HIRING)

William and Mary

Lead Black Rail Technician

$18/hr

Lead Black Rail Technician Department: CC00050 WM001 | PROV | Center for Conservation Biology Job Family: Staff - Lab & Research Support Worker Sub Type: Wage-Temporary (requires end date - non ...

Williammary

$18/hr

Lead Black Rail Technician Department: CC00050 WM001 | PROV | Center for Conservation Biology Job Family: Staff - Lab & Research Support Worker Sub Type: Wage-Temporary (requires end date - non ...

Marmon

Rail Switching Technician

Louisville, KY

$18 - $20/hr

Railserve is hiring dependable and safety-focused Rail Switching Technicians in Louisville, KY to support daily rail switching operations within an industrial rail environment. This is a full-time, ...

Marmon Holdings, Inc.

Rail Switching Technician

Richmond, VA · On-site

$18.50 - $20.50/hr

Railserve is hiring dependable and safety-focused Rail Switching Technicians in Richmond to support daily rail switching operations within an industrial rail environment. This is a full-time, hands ...

Marmon

Rail Switching Technician

Richmond, VA

$18.50 - $20.50/hr

Railserve is hiring dependable and safety-focused Rail Switching Technicians in Richmond to support daily rail switching operations within an industrial rail environment. This is a full-time, hands ...

Marmon

Rail Switching Technician- Blair, NE

Blair, NE · On-site

$23 - $26/hr

Railserve is hiring dependable and safety-focused Rail Switching Technicians in Blair, NE to support daily rail switching operations within an industrial rail environment. This is a full-time, hands ...

Marmon

Rail Switching Technician-Magna, UT

Magna, UT

$24 - $26/hr

Railserve is hiring dependable and safety-focused Rail Switching Technicians in Magna to support daily rail switching operations within an industrial rail environment. This is a full-time, hands-on ...

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Rail Technician information

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How much do rail technician jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for rail technician in the United States is $25.64, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.04 and $27.40 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Are railway technicians in high demand?

Railway technicians are in high demand due to ongoing infrastructure upgrades and maintenance needs in the rail industry. The job often requires technical skills, certifications, and familiarity with railway systems, and employment prospects are generally strong in regions with active rail networks.

What are rail technicians?

Rail technicians are skilled professionals responsible for maintaining, repairing, and inspecting railway systems, including tracks, signals, and rolling stock. They ensure trains operate safely and efficiently by performing regular maintenance, troubleshooting issues, and conducting safety checks. Rail technicians work with a variety of tools and technologies and often collaborate with engineers and other railway staff. Their role is essential for the smooth operation of passenger and freight train services.

What are some common challenges Rail Technicians face during routine maintenance and how can these be addressed?

Rail Technicians often encounter challenges such as working in adverse weather conditions, dealing with unexpected equipment malfunctions, and adhering to strict safety protocols. These challenges require strong problem-solving skills, adaptability, and attention to detail. Collaborating closely with engineers and other maintenance staff, Rail Technicians can address these issues by following established safety procedures, participating in ongoing training, and maintaining clear communication within their teams. Proactive planning and regular equipment inspections also help minimize unplanned disruptions.

What is the difference between Rail Technician vs Signal Technician?

AspectRail TechnicianSignal Technician
CertificationsRailroad certifications, safety trainingSignal system certifications, safety training
Work EnvironmentRail yards, tracks, maintenance facilitiesSignal boxes, trackside, control centers
Industry UsageRailroad companies, transit agenciesRailroad companies, transit agencies
Job FocusTrack maintenance, rail systemsSignal systems, communication equipment

Rail Technicians and Signal Technicians both work in the railroad industry, often within the same environments and with similar certifications. However, Rail Technicians focus on track and rail system maintenance, while Signal Technicians specialize in signaling and communication systems. Both roles are essential for safe and efficient rail operations.

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

To thrive as a Rail Technician, you need a solid understanding of mechanical and electrical systems, relevant vocational qualifications, and knowledge of railway safety standards. Familiarity with diagnostic tools, maintenance management systems, and certifications such as NVQ in Rail Engineering are typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and effective teamwork are important soft skills in this role. These skills and qualifications are essential to ensure the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of rail infrastructure and rolling stock.

What does a railroad technician do?

A railroad technician inspects, maintains, and repairs railway equipment, tracks, and signaling systems to ensure safe and efficient train operations. They often use specialized tools and may need certifications in safety and technical skills, working in various weather conditions and schedules. Their responsibilities help prevent accidents and ensure reliable train service.

What is the highest paying railroad job?

The highest paying railroad jobs are typically senior management roles such as railroad executives or operations managers, which can earn six-figure salaries. Skilled technical positions like locomotive engineers and signal maintainers also offer high compensation, especially with experience and certifications. These roles often require specialized training, certifications, and experience in the industry.

How to become a railroad technician?

To become a railroad technician, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by specialized training or an apprenticeship in railroad systems, safety procedures, and equipment maintenance. Relevant skills include mechanical aptitude, knowledge of electrical systems, and the ability to work in a safety-sensitive environment; certifications such as OSHA safety training or technical certifications can enhance job prospects.
More about Rail Technician jobs
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What states have the most Rail Technician jobs? States with the most job openings for Rail Technician jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Rail Technician jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Rail Technician jobs are:
What are popular job titles related to Rail Technician jobs? For Rail Technician jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Rail Technician jobs near you
Infographic showing various Rail Technician job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,325 per year, or $25.6 per hour.

Lead Black Rail Technician

William and Mary

Remote

$18/hr

Part-time

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

Job Requisition:
JR101224 Lead Black Rail Technician (Open)
Job Posting Title:
Lead Black Rail Technician
Department:
CC00050 WM001 | PROV | Center for Conservation Biology
Job Family:
Staff - Lab & Research Support
Worker Sub Type:
Wage-Temporary (requires end date - non-benefited) (Fixed Term) (Fixed Term)
Job Requisition Primary Location:
Remote Work - Florida
Primary Job Posting Location:
William & Mary
Job Description Summary:
The Center for Conservation Biology (CCB) seeks a lead field technician to conduct crepuscular call back surveys for Black Rails and other secretive marsh birds in high marsh habitats within Everglades National Park and Big Cypress National Preserve, FL from 15 Feb-15 July. This project aims to describe the eastern black rail breeding season in South Florida and address key data gaps to improve management of this species. The lead technician will help supervise 2 technicians on the project. Pay rate is up to $18.00/hr commensurate with experience.
Job Description:
The Center for Conservation Biology (CCB) seeks a lead field technician to conduct crepuscular call back surveys for Black Rails and other secretive marsh birds in high marsh habitats within Everglades National Park and Big Cypress National Preserve, FL from 15 Feb-15 July. This project aims to describe the eastern black rail breeding season in South Florida and address key data gaps to improve management of this species. The lead technician will help supervise 2 technicians on the project. Pay rate is up to $18.00/hr commensurate with experience. Both properties boasts endless recreational opportunities including fishing, kayaking, beach combing, birding, stargazing, among many others, making them an outdoor paradise.
Call back surveys will primarily be crepuscular: 30 minutes before sunrise to 3 hours after sunrise; 3 hours before sunset to 30 minutes after sunset. Both survey periods (early and late) will occasionally be surveyed during the same day. Technician will also deploy trail cameras and analyze photos to identify nesting and completion of chick rearing. Surveys will be a mix of roadside, ATV-accessible, and hiking. Lead technician should be capable of operating an ATV. Technicians must possess the ability to navigate using GPS and through marsh/scrub habitats to point count locations. Applicant will need to be physically capable of accomplishing the work and willing to work early mornings and late evenings. Candidate should be familiar with bird survey techniques and able to identify birds found in Florida wetlands by sight and sound, or be experienced birders that can learn new songs/calls quickly. Applicant must be able to traverse marsh type habitat to deploy cameras and conduct vegetation/habitat surveys. Candidate will be responsible for entering and proofing all data collected. Applicant must have a valid driver's license and will be required to pass a standard background check. Field vehicles and equipment will be provided.
Additional duties for lead field technician include coordination with CCB and property personnel, maintaining a field schedule to accomplish the project's goals within a specific timeline. Adjusting schedule to accomplish goals as required due to weather, tides, etc. Ensuring data is collected, entered, proofed, and stored correctly. Applicants for the lead technician position should be highly organized and possess strong communication and interpersonal skills.
Additional Job Description:
Required Qualifications
  • Familiar with point count surveys.
  • Ability to identify eastern marsh birds by sight and sound or ability to learn calls quickly.
  • Experience operating an ATV
  • Experience with data entry and management.
  • Willingness and ability to walk distances in marsh.
  • Ability to complete tasks and maintain a good attitude in less than ideal conditions.
  • Familiar with use and operation of handheld GPS

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience leading a field team
  • Experience in hiking in coastal marshes
  • Experience conducting call back surveys
  • Experience with trail camera operation

Supplemental Questions
  • Are you comfortable with identifying eastern marsh bird species by sight and sound?
  • Have you worked independently in the field?
  • Have you lived in shared housing with your coworkers?
  • Do you have experience with trail cameras?
  • Have you conducted any types of scientific bird surveys?

Job Profile:
JP0084 - Laboratory & Research Specialist I - Nonexempt - Hourly - H05
Qualifications:
Pay Rate Type:
Hourly
Compensation Grade:
H05
Recruiting Start Date:
2025-12-17
Review Date:
2025-12-31
Position Restrictions:
EEO is the Law. Applicants can learn more about William & Mary's status as an equal opportunity employer by viewing the "Know Your Rights" poster published by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. https://www.eeoc.gov/know-your-rights-workplace-discrimination-illegal
Background Check: William & Mary is committed to providing a safe campus community. W&M conducts background investigations for applicants being considered for employment. Background investigations include reference checks, a criminal history record check, and when appropriate, a financial (credit) report or driving history check.
Remote Work Disclaimer: Remote work eligibility is not guaranteed and is subject to approval. Employee eligibility depends on the likelihood of the employee succeeding in a remote work arrangement and the supervisor's ability to manage remote workers. Departments and/or Human Resources may amend, alter, change, delete, or modify eligibility.

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