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Rail Track Inspector Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

RINA

Staff Engineer - Rail & Transit

Washington, DC · On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

Prepare railroad track inspection reports. * Observe safety and security procedures; report potentially unsafe conditions and use equipment and materials properly. * Complete project responsibilities ...

Hatch

Project Manager - Rail Vehicle

Washington, DC

Additional qualifications desired include experience in conducting fleet inspections, knowledge of ... Experience in rail operations, train planning, rail equipment maintenance facility design and track ...

Hatch

Project Manager - Rail Vehicle

Washington, DC

Additional qualifications desired include experience in conducting fleet inspections, knowledge of ... Experience in rail operations, train planning, rail equipment maintenance facility design and track ...

Hatch

Project Manager - Rail Vehicle

Washington, DC · On-site

Additional qualifications desired include experience in conducting fleet inspections, knowledge of ... Experience in rail operations, train planning, rail equipment maintenance facility design and track ...

WSP

Senior Construction Inspector

Herndon, VA · On-site

$60 - $68/hr

... a rail Major Crossing from Alexandria, VA to Washington, D.C. Your Impact Duties and ... Proven track record of upholding workplace safety and ability to abide by WSP's health, safety and ...

WSP

Senior Construction Inspector

Herndon, VA · On-site

$60 - $68/hr

... a rail Major Crossing from Alexandria, VA to Washington, D.C. Your Impact Duties and ... Proven track record of upholding workplace safety and ability to abide by WSP's health, safety and ...

Herzog

Equipment Operators

Springfield, VA · On-site

$35 - $43/hr

Performs safety inspections of equipment. * May work as a member of a crew or independently. * May work under the direction of a Railroad Track Superintendent or Railroad Track Foreman. * Regular and ...

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All JobsRail Track Inspector JobsRail Track Inspector Jobs in Washington

Rail Track Inspector information

See Washington salary details

$27.7K

$62.2K

$112.1K

How much do rail track inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for rail track inspector in Washington is $62,224.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,600.00 and $71,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Rail Track Inspectors?

Rail Track Inspectors are professionals responsible for examining and maintaining railroad tracks to ensure they are safe and in good working condition. Their duties include inspecting tracks, switches, and related structures for defects or wear, documenting findings, and recommending or performing necessary repairs. They play a vital role in preventing accidents and ensuring the smooth, safe operation of trains. Rail Track Inspectors often work outdoors and may need to respond to emergencies or perform inspections at night or in adverse weather conditions.

What is the difference between Rail Track Inspector vs Signal Maintainer?

AspectRail Track InspectorSignal Maintainer
CredentialsHigh school diploma, safety certifications, technical trainingHigh school diploma, technical training, safety certifications
Work EnvironmentRail yards, tracks, outdoor settingsSignal systems, control rooms, outdoor and indoor locations
Industry UsageRailroad companies, transit agenciesRailroad companies, transit agencies
Job FocusInspecting and maintaining track integrityMaintaining and repairing signal systems

Rail Track Inspectors and Signal Maintainers both work within the railroad industry, often for the same employers. While Rail Track Inspectors focus on inspecting and ensuring the safety of tracks, Signal Maintainers specialize in maintaining and repairing signaling systems. Both roles require technical certifications and safety training, but their daily tasks and work environments differ slightly, with Inspectors primarily on the tracks and Maintainers working on signaling equipment.

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

To thrive as a Rail Track Inspector, you need a solid understanding of railroad safety, track structure, and maintenance standards, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent and on-the-job training. Familiarity with specialized inspection tools, measurement devices, and reporting systems such as FRA (Federal Railroad Administration) compliance software is essential. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and strong communication skills help inspectors identify issues, document findings, and coordinate repairs. These skills and qualities are vital to ensuring rail safety, preventing accidents, and maintaining efficient rail operations.

What are the typical challenges Rail Track Inspectors face in the field, and how are they addressed?

Rail Track Inspectors often encounter challenges such as working in adverse weather conditions, navigating uneven terrain, and responding to urgent track issues that can disrupt rail service. These professionals must maintain high attention to detail while adhering to strict safety protocols to ensure the integrity of the rail infrastructure. Most employers support inspectors with specialized training, safety equipment, and technologies like track geometry cars or ultrasonic testing devices, which help identify issues efficiently. Collaboration with maintenance crews and clear communication with operations teams are also crucial in addressing and resolving track defects promptly.
What are popular job titles related to Rail Track Inspector jobs in Washington? For Rail Track Inspector jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Rail Track Inspector jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Rail Track Inspector jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Rail Track Inspector jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Rail Track Inspector job openings:
Rail Track Inspector jobs near you
Infographic showing various Rail Track Inspector job openings in Washington as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $62,224 per year, or $29.9 per hour.

Track Inspector

Purple Line Transit Operators LLC

Hyattsville, MD

$28.37 - $33.17/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

Salary Range: $28.37 - $33.17

Benefit Package: PLTO offers an excellent compensation and benefits package (Medical, Dental, 401(k) retirement, vacation, holiday and sick pay, etc.)

General Description:

Under the supervision of the Senior Track Inspector the Track Inspector performs the inspection, maintenance, and repair of track infrastructure to ensure compliance with safety regulations and operating standards. Assigns field crews, investigates irregularities, and supports planning and safety initiatives.

Responsibilities/Essential Functions:

  1. Perform regular visual and manual inspections of rail tracks, switches, and related structures.
  2. Identify safety defects and initiate remedial actions to protect train movement and crew safety.
  3. Plan and schedule maintenance tasks and estimate labor requirements.
  4. Respond to incidents, weather-related alerts, and maintenance emergencies.
  5. Supervise and direct assigned track maintenance crews and activities.
  6. Review work to ensure compliance with Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) and internal standards.
  7. Requisition materials and maintain accurate maintenance records.
  8. Use an asset management system to document inspections, labor, and material usage.
  9. Conduct safety audits and crew safety meetings.
  10. Recommend improvements to track inspection or maintenance processes.
  11. Use the asset management system to complete work orders, track time/materials, and upload reports.
  12. Cooperatively and efficiently performs related tasks and duties as required.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

  • Excellent interpersonal and technical support skills.
  • Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with others.
  • Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing.
  • Strong knowledge of track inspection standards, maintenance techniques, and FRA Part 213 regulations.
  • Skilled in identifying defects and applying corrective maintenance strategies.
  • Competence with basic computer systems and reporting software.

Emotional, Psychological and Physical Requirements:

Ability to:

  • Handle emergency situations, calmly and effectively
  • Concentrate on priority tasks with frequent interruptions
  • Maintain high alert of dangers and obstacles outside of train.
  • Comply with all safety rules and instructions including the use of proper personal protective equipment
  • Work independently or as part of a team in a safety-sensitive environment.
  • Communicate clearly with team members and supervisors.
  • Maintain attention to detail and follow procedures during repetitive tasks.

Physically:

  • Bending or stooping while inspecting train tracks
  • Stand, walk, kneel, stoop, crawl, and climb frequently.
  • Lift up to 50 lbs. frequently and up to 100 lbs. occasionally with assistance.
  • Work from elevated surfaces using proper safety equipment.
  • Work from heights using fall protection equipment.
  • Perform duties in extreme weather and noisy environments.

Additional/Miscellaneous/Special Requirements:

  • Acceptable drug/alcohol screen and pre-employment physical (including vision and hearing requirements) results upon hire and as regularly required by PLTO’s policy for position.
  • Must obtain roadway worker certification upon hire.
  • Acceptable driving record must be maintained throughout entirety of employment.
  • Must possess a valid state driver’s license
  • Must be available for on-call work, weekends, and holidays as required.
  • Must obtain or hold certification to inspect track in accordance with FRA 213.7.

Education and Experience:

  • High school diploma or GED required.
  • Minimum of five (5) years of experience in track maintenance.
  • Equivalent combinations of education and experience may be considered.
  • Experience in a FRA-regulated railroad environment preferred.

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