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Rail Track Inspector Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Field Engineer

Arlington, VA ยท On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

This project will expand a current two-track rail corridor to four-tracks significantly reducing ... Initiates and manages appropriate certificates, inspections and other documentation regarding ...

Field Engineer

Arlington, VA ยท On-site

$100K/yr

This project will expand a current two-track rail corridor to four-tracks significantly reducing ... Initiates and manages appropriate certificates, inspections and other documentation regarding ...

RK&K is seeking a Program Lead - CM/CI to drive the execution of large-scale rail and transit ... inspection (CI) experts at a programmatic level. As the CM/CI Program Lead, you will oversee ...

Showing results 41-60

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 Sep 7, 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 is a rail track inspector?

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 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 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 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:

Infographic showing various Rail Track Inspector job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 80% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 18% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,224 per year, or $29.9 per hour.

$80K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

Overview
Are you ready to lead with precision and tackle complex challenges? As an experienced Field Engineer, you will leverage your technical knowledge to oversee critical aspects of our projects, ensuring construction work complies with all engineering standards, codes and contract specifications.
This position will support our Long Bridge North project. This project will expand a current two-track rail corridor to four-tracks significantly reducing rail congestion in southwest Washington DC. Construction will include 1.8 miles of improvements, 7 new bridges and 20,000 feet of tracks. After completion, Long Bridge with increase rail traffic capacity for CSX, Virginial Railway Express, and Amtrak trains.
Bring your diverse ideas to build stronger, more resilient communities.
Apply now and transform your career with us.
What you will be doing
  • Meets daily with project crews to review production schedule and confirm all materials, equipment and resources are readily available for production to continue on schedule and within budget.
  • Collects, coordinates and analysis shop drawings, design specifications, material requirements and project data through the duration of the project to ensure quality and contract specification compliance.
  • Provides technical input for project work plan and scheduling. Identifying risk elements of production, materials, equipment or process that could negatively impact the budget or schedule.
  • Evaluates daily production, schedule and budget projections to accurately track project performance. Documents daily activities in Company approved methods and technologies.
  • Remits accurate project quantity input and controls using assigned project cost coding to ensure project financials are accurately reported. Manages cost coding with Company finance and accounting teams regarding employee time, materials, equipment and subcontractor needs.
  • Reviews and approves daily timecards for all Company construction crews. Works with Office Manager, payroll and job construction supervisors to resolve timecard inquiries, as needed.
  • Reviews project specifications for quality assurance at the beginning of work, during the project work and after work completes. Initiates and manages appropriate certificates, inspections and other documentation regarding construction production on the project site.
  • Works with construction crews and engineering leaders to plan field layout on the project site, ensuring appropriate utility and commercial lines are marked before production begins. Initiates and manages any permits needed before work can begin.
  • Assists the development of design drawings and provides technical input, as needed.
  • Coordinates subcontractor work methods, schedule and crews as needed.

What we are looking for
  • Bachelor's Degree in a related field required.
  • 1+ years of construction engineering experience required.
  • Beginner knowledge of construction equipment & techniques, drawing & specifications, building materials and required standards applicable to the project.
  • Ability to assume responsibility, interface and communicate effectively with others.
  • Ability to manage multiple tasks efficiently and effectively in a fast-paced environment.
  • Knowledge of construction scheduling and production time management preferred.

Why work for us
Some of the benefits you may be eligible for as an employee are:
  • Comprehensive compensation package and paid time off program
  • Industry leading 401(k)/RRSP
  • Medical/Extended Health Care, Dental, Vision and/or Provincial Medical
  • Wellness benefits & Employee Assistance Program
  • Tuition Reimbursement Program

We are an EEO/ADA/Veterans employer.
Salary Min
USD $80,000.00/Yr.
Salary Max
USD $100,000.00/Yr.