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Rail Track Inspector Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Lochner

Senior Track Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$107.70K - $147.90K/yr

Rail, ties, ballast, and subgrade systems * Yard and siding layouts * At-grade crossings * Prepare ... Site inspections * Field engineering support * Ensure compliance with: * FRA regulations * AREMA ...

MASTER HW LOCHNER INC

Senior Track Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$167K - $200K/yr

Rail, ties, ballast, and subgrade systems * Yard and siding layouts * At-grade crossings * Prepare ... Site inspections * Field engineering support * Ensure compliance with: * FRA regulations * AREMA ...

Cranemasters

Track Laborer - CDL A

Merrillville, IN · On-site

... railroad cars, load adjust/transfer activities and track maintenance/repair/new builds. Ensures ... Performs pre-trip and post-trip inspection of trucks, trailers, and equipment in accordance with ...

STV

Bridge Engineer, Inspector

Chicago, IL · On-site

$104.40K - $119.32K/yr

Proven track record designing new bridges according to AASHTO and AREMA standards. * High ... Ensure all designs comply with AASHTO LRFD and AREMA Manual for Railway Engineering. * Inspection ...

STV Incorporated

Bridge Engineer, Inspector

Chicago, IL · On-site

$104.40K - $119.32K/yr

Proven track record designing new bridges according to AASHTO and AREMA standards. * High ... Ensure all designs comply with AASHTO LRFD and AREMA Manual for Railway Engineering. * Inspection ...

HDR

Rail Construction Manager

Rosemont, IL · On-site

The primary duties of the Rail Construction Manager will be to oversee construction management and inspection services for track and civil, structural, and other construction types for a variety of ...

HDR

Rail Construction Manager

Rosemont, IL · On-site

The primary duties of the Rail Construction Manager will be to oversee construction management and inspection services for track and civil, structural, and other construction types for a variety of ...

GFT

Civil Engineer - Freight Rail Design

Chicago, IL · On-site

$80K - $115K/yr

Lead track and rail infrastructure design for freight railroads, intermodal facilities, and ... inspectors, designers, and more. Our clients choose us for our expertise and prefer us for our ...

GFT.

Civil Engineer - Freight Rail Design

Chicago, IL · On-site

$80K - $115K/yr

Lead track and rail infrastructure design for freight railroads, intermodal facilities, and ... inspectors, designers, and more. Our clients choose us for our expertise and prefer us for our ...

HDR

Rail Bridge Project Manager

Rosemont, IL · On-site

Track financial aspects of projects, and coordinate and adjust work effort with team to ensure that ... Construction inspection or construction management experience is a plus * Railroad bridge ...

Cranemasters

Track Laborer - CDL A

Merrillville, IN · On-site

$17 - $22.75/hr

... railroad cars, load adjust/transfer activities and track maintenance/repair/new builds. Ensures ... Performs pre-trip and post-trip inspection of trucks, trailers, and equipment in accordance with ...

HDR

Rail Bridge Project Manager

Rosemont, IL · On-site

Track financial aspects of projects, and coordinate and adjust work effort with team to ensure that ... Construction inspection or construction management experience is a plus * Railroad bridge ...

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All JobsRail Track Inspector JobsRail Track Inspector Jobs in Chicago, IL

Rail Track Inspector information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$25.2K

$56.6K

$102K

How much do rail track inspector jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for rail track inspector in Chicago, IL is $56,595.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,700.00 and $65,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 popular job titles related to Rail Track Inspector jobs in Chicago, IL? For Rail Track Inspector jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Rail Track Inspector jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Rail Track Inspector jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Rail Track Inspector jobs near you
Infographic showing various Rail Track Inspector job openings in Chicago, IL as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 30% Full Time, 66% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,595 per year, or $27.2 per hour.
Railroad Flagger

Railroad Flagger

National Railroad Safety Services, Inc. (NRSS)

Aurora, IL

$25 - $37/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 hours ago

Job description

Railroad Flagging Location: Aurora, ILJob Type: Full-Time Reports To: District Manager Travel: Yes, travel is expected for this position (50% - 85% on average). Compensation: $25 - $37 based on experience

Job Description:

National Railroad Safety Services, Inc. (NRSS) is hiring a Railroad Flagger. This role keeps workers safe on train tracks by controlling train movements and following federal safety rules. The job supports major railroads, smaller rail lines, transit systems, state transportation projects, and contractors.

Required Experience: Minimum 2 years of experience with a Class 1 Railroad, Regional Short Line, Transit System, State DOT Rail Division, Railroad Supplier, Railroad Contractor, and/or Railroad Consultant; preferably within the Maintenance Of Way (MOW) Department.

Job Requirements:

  • Skilled with basic computer tools, including Citrix, email, phone, and texting apps
  • Comfortable using Android tablets and smartphones
  • Highly organized with strong attention to detail
  • Good verbal and written communication skills
  • Knowledge of railroad engineering, design, construction, and safety
  • Able to build and maintain strong client relationships
  • Willing to travel for long periods (even months at a time)
  • Able to complete required federal, client, and company training

Job Duties:

  • Coordinate activities at the job site
  • Communicate clearly with dispatchers, train crews, railroad staff, and contractors
  • Lead safety briefings before work begins
  • Follow and enforce all railroad, state, and federal rules
  • Ensure contractors meet training requirements
  • Spot and address any rule violations
  • Complete daily reports on work activities
  • Maintain on-track safety following federal regulations

Work Environment: This job operates in a field environment.

  • Must communicate clearly in English (speaking, reading, and writing)
  • Must be willing to travel or drive long distances
  • Must be able to stand for long periods and walk on uneven ground
  • Must have good vision (near, far, color, and peripheral)
  • Must handle extreme weather (hot and cold)
  • Must work in dusty and noisy environments
  • Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds

Benefits:

  • Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance
  • Short-Term, Long-Term Disability Insurance
  • Paid Vacation and Holidays
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan

Required Education: High School Diploma or Equivalent.

Keywords: Assistant Roadmaster, Bridge Inspector, Bridge Manager, Bridge Maintainer, Bridge Supervisor, Division Engineer (DE), Employee In Charge (EIC), Flagger, Flagging, Flagman, Foreman, Foremen, Maintenance Of Way (MOW), Manager Track Maintenance (MTM), Manager Track Projects (MTP), Rail, Railroad, Railroad Project Manager, Railway, Railway Project Manager, Roadmaster, Roadway Worker, Roadway Worker In Charge (RWIC), Roadway Worker Protection (RWP), Safety, Signal Inspector, Signal Maintainer, Signal Manager, Signal Supervisor, Track Inspector, Track Maintainer, Track Manager, Track Supervisor.

Company Profile: National Railroad Safety Services, Inc. (NRSS) is a certified DBE/WBE firm primarily focused on providing safety services to the railroad industry. NRSS is the most trusted name in the railroad industry for providing qualified field safety staff and safety training. To best serve the railroad industry, NRSS provides all these services in the continental United States, Canada, and Mexico. NRSS has the proven ability and the proven safety record to handle any project.

Safety Commitment: All employees at NRSS must always prioritize safety. No job is so urgent that it can't be done safely. Safety is a core value, ensuring the protection of workers, customers, and communities while maintaining leadership in railroad safety.

Closing Statement: National Railroad Safety Services, Inc. (NRSS) is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. Any candidate selected for this position must be able to successfully pass pre-employment/recurrent background checks, drug/alcohol testing, and classroom training.

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