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

Marmon

Whiting, IN- Rail Switching Technician

Whiting, IN · On-site

$28 - $30/hr

Inspect locomotives prior to operation (fuel, sand, water, and supplies) * Operate locomotive ... Monitor track conditions and identify hazards * Assist in training new employees * Perform routine ...

Cranemasters

Driver/Operator - 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 ...

Cranemasters

Driver/Operator - 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 ...

Cranemasters

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 ...

Cranemasters

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 ...

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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 Sep 5, 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 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 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 88% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,595 per year, or $27.2 per hour.

Gary Railway Company | Car Repairer (GRW-0070)

transtar

Gary, IN • On-site

$22 - $26.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 22 days ago

Job description

Since the late 1800's, the Transtar companies consist of a group of rail carriers have been an important component in this country's industrial development. Moving billions of tons of raw materials to manufacturing sites. Transporting finished products to market. Storing and handling bulk commodities. Providing rail transport services to hundreds of satisfied customers throughout the nation's industrial heartland.

The Car Repairer is a position of Transtar’s Gary Railway Company located in Gary, Indiana. The Car Repairer is responsible for the building, rebuilding, repairing, and rerailing of railroad cars. This position works outdoors in industrial settings, in all weather conditions. 

Job Responsibilities: 

  • Inspect, repair and maintain all types of railroad cars.
  • Replace wheels, draft gears and safety appliances.
  • Test airbrake system.
  • Rerail cars and locomotive.
  • Adjust and bind loads.
  • Clean, prepare and paint cars.
  • Use various hand, electric and pneumatic power tools.
  • Use burning torch and equipment.

Requirements:

  • High School Diploma or equivalent (GED) is required.
  • Trade school training is preferred.
  • Mechanical aptitude is required.
  • Two years of welding, burning and fabricating experience, preferably in an industrial environment is preferred.
  • Minimum of one year industrial or outdoor work experience is required.
  • Rail car repair experience is preferred.
  • Valid driver's license is required.
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
  • Ability to work various shifts, overtime, weekends, and holidays is required.
  • Must be able to work outdoors in inclement weather conditions.

Transtar LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, protected veteran status or disability status.

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