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

Sperry Rail, Inc.

CDL Driver (CPKC)

Chicago, IL · On-site

$21.60/hr

The CDL Driver operates specialized rail inspection vehicles, supports testing operations, and ... Report safety concerns, equipment issues, and track conditions promptly * Maintain professional ...

HDR

Rail Bridge Project Manager

Rosemont, IL

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 ...

Transtar

Gary Railway Company | Car Repairer

Gary, IN · On-site

$22 - $26.75/hr

Providing rail transport services to hundreds of satisfied customers throughout the nation ... Inspect, repair and maintain all types of railroad cars. * Replace wheels, draft gears and safety ...

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 ...

Mobile Rail Solutions

Be Seen First

Operations Supervisor

Melrose Park, IL · On-site

Oversee fleet performance, including inspections, maintenance scheduling, and DOT compliance ... Track and complete all operational reporting (safety, fleet, inventory) * Serve as a key point of ...

Patriot Rail

Conductor/Engineer LTRR

East Chicago, IN · On-site

Inspect all equipment on cars prior to departures; Accurately receive and transmit information by ... rail saws, spike pullers, track wrench machines, power drills; Prefer experience reading and ...

Patriot Rail

Conductor/Engineer LTRR

East Chicago, IN · On-site

... • Inspect all equipment on cars prior to departures; • Accurately receive and transmit ... rail saws, spike pullers, track wrench machines, power drills; • Prefer experience reading and ...

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Showing results 21-40

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 Aug 14, 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 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 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 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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $56,595 per year, or $27.2 per hour.

CDL Driver (CPKC)

Sperry Rail, Inc.

Chicago, IL • On-site

$21.60/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago

Sperry Rail Service rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

369th of 447 rated engineering

Job description

About Sperry:
Sperry Rail is on a mission-critical journey to revolutionize the Rail Flaw Detection industry. Through the continuous development of cutting-edge diagnostic technologies and AI-assisted analysis, we are transforming railway safety worldwide. Our global engineering teams work collaboratively to develop step-change technologies that define Sperry as the unparalleled market leader.
For nearly a century, we have repeatedly modernized and improved rail diagnostics through our relentless pursuit of improvement. Determined is an understatement. We are obsessed with advancing science and raising the bar on what's possible with our ever-improving suite of products and service offerings.
Emboldened through the shared values of honesty, accountability, passion, integrity, and teamwork, we are driven by the challenge and bridging concepts with fruition. Each technologist entering Sperry imprints themselves into our brand and further galvanizes a culture of innovation and advancement. Allow us to be clear, Thought Leaders are welcome!
We are agile and hungry and invite those with similar passions to join us in challenging the status quo and bringing new ideas to the market. Fast-paced, high-touch with a distinct sense of purpose. We offer more than a job; we offer an opportunity to be part of something different.
Overview
Sperry Rail Service is a leading global provider of Rail Flaw Detection (RFD) services and technologies for railway networks worldwide. With over 95 years of industry leadership, Sperry continues to advance rail safety through innovation, cutting-edge technology, and a strong commitment to operational excellence.
Position Summary
This is a high-travel, field-based CDL driving position requiring travel throughout either Eastern or Western US for extended periods (3-4 months at a time). The CDL Driver operates specialized rail inspection vehicles, supports testing operations, and ensures compliance with all DOT and safety regulations.
The location shown in this posting is used for recruiting purposes. This role is field-based and requires extensive travel to multiple job sites, which will be the primary work locations.
Key Responsibilities
Travel & Work Environment
  • Travel extensively (3-4 months at a time) within assigned regions
  • Perform all work in the field in varied and sometimes extreme weather conditions

CDL Driving & Vehicle Operations
  • Operate commercial vehicles (hi-rail trucks and rail-bound detector cars) on roadways and railroad tracks
  • Perform pre-trip and post-trip inspections
  • Maintain DOT compliance, including driver logs, inspections, and regulatory requirements

Inspection & Operations Support
  • Assist with rail flaw detection testing and data collection
  • Monitor and interpret data on onboard computer systems
  • Perform ground-level rail inspections using handheld equipment

Maintenance & Equipment Care
  • Perform routine vehicle maintenance (oil, fluids, filters, etc.)
  • Assist with the repair and maintenance of the detector carriage and equipment
  • Maintain the cleanliness and organization of the vehicle and equipment

Safety & Compliance
  • Follow all company safety policies and DOT/FRA regulations
  • Wear required PPE at all times
  • Complete required training, including annual Road Worker Safety

Communication & Teamwork
  • Communicate clearly with crew members via radio, intercom, and in-person
  • Report safety concerns, equipment issues, and track conditions promptly
  • Maintain professional relationships with railroad personnel

Physical Requirements
This is a physically demanding role. Candidates must be able to:
  • Climb steps/ladders frequently (up to 300 steps per day)
  • Walk on uneven railroad surfaces
  • Bend, kneel, squat, and crawl for extended periods
  • Work in confined spaces (including under vehicles with ~18-inch clearance)
  • Sit or drive for extended periods
  • Lift up to 85 lbs., occasionally assist with over 100 lbs.

Sensory Requirements
  • Vision: Ability to distinguish colors (red/green/yellow), read monitors, and meet DOT/FRA vision standards
  • Hearing: Ability to hear verbal communication, alarms, and radio transmissions in a safety-sensitive environment

Basic Qualifications
  • Valid CDL Class A or B with air brake endorsement
  • Ability to pass a DOT physical, drug screen, and background check (where permitted by law)
  • Strong communication skills (verbal and written)
  • Basic mechanical aptitude (e.g., changing tires, replacing batteries)
  • Ability to meet the physical demands of the role

Preferred Qualifications
  • 2+ years of commercial driving experience
  • High School Diploma or GED

Compensation & Benefits
  • $1,000 sign-on bonus (after 60 days of employment)
  • Extensive travel opportunities
  • Hands-on technical experience
  • Career growth within a global organization
  • Pay: $21.60 per hour
  • Overtime opportunities
  • Per diem for meals
  • Travel and lodging expenses paid for by Sperry

The pay range for this role is:
21.60 - 21.60 USD per hour (Chicago, IL)
21.60 - 21.60 USD per hour (Madison, WI)
21.60 - 21.60 USD per hour (La Crosse, WI)

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