1

Rail Track Inspector Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

Rail Laborer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$28.39 - $43.59/hr

Perform snow and ice removal. Assist in the performance of a wide range of maintenance activities including Track inspections, Welding and grinding repairs, tie tamping, Rail replacements/relays ...

A minimum of 4 years related job experience in the railway industry. * Track Inspection Guidelines certification is an asset * Ability to read and understand specific documents including schedules ...

Building & Grounds (Track)

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$51.90 - $57.67/hr

... Port's railroad system which includes day-to-day maintenance and repairs, inspections ... Inspection of the track, trackbed, and track right-of-way. Report on safety concerns, defects, or ...

... Port's railroad system which includes day-to-day maintenance and repairs, inspections ... Inspection of the track, trackbed, and track right-of-way. Report on safety concerns, defects, or ...

... covering rail and bus construction scopes. The Inspector is responsible for the day-to-day field ... Coordinates with transit operations, maintenance, signals, track, and systems disciplines to ensure ...

Track Engineering Design Lead

Seattle, WA · On-site

$116K - $153K/yr

... inspection. It also plays a critical role in business development, client engagement, and the long-term growth of the transit and rail engineering practice. Your Impact Track Design Leadership ...

Track Engineering Design Lead

Seattle, WA · On-site

$116K - $153K/yr

... inspection. It also plays a critical role in business development, client engagement, and the longterm growth of the transit and rail engineering practice. Your Impact Track Design Leadership ...

Resident Engineer (Transit)

Seattle, WA · On-site

$165K - $190K/yr

... covering rail and bus construction scopes. The Resident Engineer is directly responsible for ... This will include progressive monitoring of materials and methods used as well as inspection of the ...

Assistant Resident Engineer (Transit)

Seattle, WA · On-site

$112K - $144K/yr

... covering rail and bus construction scopes. The Assistant Resident Engineer supports the Resident ... This will include progressive monitoring of materials and methods used as well as inspection of the ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Rail Track Inspector information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$27.9K

$62.5K

$112.7K

How much do rail track inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for rail track inspector in Seattle, WA is $62,522.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,800.00 and $72,300.00 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 Seattle, WA?

For Rail Track Inspector jobs in Seattle, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Rail Track Inspector jobs in Seattle, WA look for?

The top searched job categories for Rail Track Inspector jobs in Seattle, WA are:

Infographic showing various Rail Track Inspector job openings in Seattle, WA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,522 per year, or $30.1 per hour.

Streetcar Rail Track and ROW Maintainer

King County

Seattle, WA • On-site

$38.82 - $59.62/hr

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago


King County (Washington) rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 38 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

197th of 846 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Summary Learn how Metro connects you with what matters Metro Transit's Streetcar Section has an exciting Career Service (CS) opportunity for one (1) Streetcar Rail Track and Right of Way (ROW) Maintainer. Streetcar is looking for a dependable, detail-oriented Track and ROW Maintainer to perform journey-level trades work to troubleshoot, diagnose, maintain, repair, weld, upgrade and conduct comprehensive preventive maintenance on track, special track work, track switches, and associated equipment and components. Metro Transit's Streetcar Section is responsible for operating and maintaining Seattle Streetcar service on both the 1.3 mile South Lake Union Line and the 2.5 mile First Hill Line, proudly serving the diverse and vibrant residential communities and business districts around Seattle's downtown core

Follow the link to learn more. Welcome to Seattle Streetcar - YouTube Who May Apply We are hiring for one (1) Career Service vacancy. This recruitment is open to the general public and King County employees and may be used to establish an eligibility list to fill future Career Service and/or temporary vacancies which may occur over the next twelve (12) months, at the discretion of the hiring authority.

This position is considered safety sensitive. Applicants for these positions are required to undergo drug testing prior to employment and subsequent to commencement of employment, will be subject to random, post-accident, reasonable suspicion, return to duty, and follow-up drug and alcohol testing in compliance with Federal DOT alcohol and controlled substance testing program protocols. Work Schedule This position is non-exempt from the provisions of the Fair Labor Standards Act and is overtime eligible.

Employees must be willing to work any one of three shifts (day, swing or graveyard). Current available shift is graveyard/3rd Shift on a 4/10 schedule. The work schedule may include non-standard work hours including evenings, weekends and holidays as needed.

Schedules are based on a seniority "pick" system. Per the union contract shift differentials are paid to those working swing shift and graveyard. Swing shift differential is + 5%, Graveyard differential is + 7.5% on top of the hourly pay

Current hourly rates: Dayshift: $38.82 - $55.46 | Swing shift: $40.76 - $58.23 | Graveyard shift: $41.73 - $59.62 Work Location Employees may report to any of the following locations: First Hill (848 7th Ave. S, Seattle), or South Lake Union (318 Fairview Ave. N, Seattle), or any additional locations based on business needs

For questions regarding this recruitment, please contact: Jacky Lu, Talent Advisor at jacky.lu@kingcounty.gov Job Duties Applying equity and social justice principles is a daily responsibility and a foundational expectation for all King County employees. In this role you will apply equity and social justice principles that exemplify shared values, behaviors, and practices to all aspects of the work. You will: Inspect, diagnose, repair, maintain, and/or replace running rails, restraining rails, fasteners, switch components, crossings, and all other components associated with embedded track maintenance and construction

Operate service vehicles, small cranes and other vehicles used in track maintenance and inspection. Use rail saws, rail drills, portable ballast tampers, and other specialized tools and equipment to perform inspection, maintenance and repair tasks. Set up work-zone traffic control areas; flag track way to provide safe rail work zones.

Manually operate switch machines under revenue and non-revenue conditions. Prioritize emergency maintenance tasks in the absence of on-site supervision. Record and document maintenance and diagnostic data.

Assist other trades as necessary; respond to emergency calls as necessary. Perform snow and ice removal. Perform other duties as assigned.

Experience, Qualifications, Knowledge, Skills Minimum Qualifications Two years of experience maintaining or constructing railroad tracks and associated structures OR Twelve months experience working in King County's Rail Division's Track & ROW Workgroup OR Any equivalent combination of experience and education which provides the applicant with the needed skills, knowledge and ability required to perform the work. Additional qualifications include: Demonstrated experience operating rail and crane equipment. Knowledge of and skill in track and structures maintenance work for rail systems.

Knowledge of FRA Track Safety Standards, APTA Standards, FTA Standards and AREMA standards for Rail Transit Track Inspection and Maintenance. Knowledge of associated hardware, manuals, procedures, parts catalogs and other pertinent documentation. Knowledge of industrial safety standards and procedures including working with small cranes and lifting equipment such as track jacks, tie tongs, and rail tongs.

Skill in oral and written communication including reading, writing and following instructions. Skill in basic computer skills Skill in problem solving and analyzing data to solve common and complex problems. Skill in mechanical tools associated with maintaining fixed track and associated structures.

Demonstrated mechanical skills including ability to properly use hand and power tools. Knowledge of and skill in the application of codes and compliance requirements for track and associated structures. Knowledge of and skill in concrete work including finishing.

Knowledge of traffic safety techniques and procedures for establishing safe work zones both on Track and within a public motor vehicle roadway. Ability to establish and maintain good working relationships and to work efficiently and effectively in a team environment, including skill and demonstrated values of respect and fairness in working effectively with a diverse population in varying occupations or situations. Ability to deal proactively and sensitively with customers.

Ability to work safely and efficiently in all types of weather and environmental conditions, including on elevated structures as well as underground structures. Desirable Qualifications (not required) Railroad welding experience with stick (SMAW), wire feed (GMAW) welding process, exothermic welding including experience with Manganese steel and the ability to obtain and maintain certification, if not currently certified. Knowledge of Maintenance Management Information Systems (MMIS), Enterprise Asset Management Systems (EAMS) or equivalent maintenance work order tracking system.

Ability to operate radio and telephone communication systems in compliance with FTA regulations and procedures. Necessary Special Requirements A valid Driver's License and an acceptable driving record. If you possess an out-of-state driver's license, you must obtain a WA state license within 30 days of hire.

Ability to obtain Forklift, Aerial Lift, First-Aid/CPR and other certifications within three months of hire date (training will be provided by Rail) Applicants must be able to meet on-going educational and training requirements and maintain required certifications. Physical Requirements This position requires the ability to be mobile, perform heavy manual labor, exert physical effort while standing, walking for long distances, or lifting materials, tools and objects weighting up to 100 pounds. Supplemental Information Application & Selection Process An online employment application and answers to the supplemental questions detailing your relevant qualifications to the position are required.

Applications will be screened for clarity, completeness, and qualifications. The most competitive candidates may be invited to participate in an interview. Employment offers will be finalized after candidates have successfully completed reference checks and a complete driving record review will also be conducted prior to any final offer of employment.

Union Membership This position is represented by Amalgamated Transit Union, Local 587 Classification/Pay Grade 816104 (Rail Track & ROW Mnt -3rdShf), Grade 187 To Apply If you are interested in pursuing this position, please follow the application instructions carefully. If you need this announcement in an alternate language or format, would like to request accommodation or assistance in the application or assessment process or if you have questions please contact: Jacky Lu, Talent Advisor, jacky.lu@kingcounty.gov. Forbes recently named King County as one of Washington State's best employers

Together, with leadership and our employees, we're changing the way government delivers service and winning national recognition as a model of excellence. Are you ready to make a difference. Come join the team dedicated to serving one of the nation's best places to live, work and play.

Guided by our "True North", we are making King County a welcoming community where every person can thrive. We value diversity, inclusion and belonging in our workplace and workforce. To reach this goal we are committed to workforce equity.

Equitable recruiting, support, and retention is how we will obtain the highest quality workforce in our region; a workforce that shares and will help advance our guiding principles--we are one team; we solve problems; we focus on the customer; we drive for results; we are racially just; we respect all people; we lead the way; and we are responsible stewards. We encourage people of all backgrounds and identities to apply, including Native American and people of color, immigrants, refugees, women, LGBTQ+, people living with disabilities, and veterans. King County is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Employer No person is unlawfully excluded from employment opportunities based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex (including gender identity, sexual orientation and pregnancy), age, genetic information, disability, veteran status, or other protected class.

Our EEO policy applies to all employment actions, including but not limited to recruitment, hiring, selection for training, promotion, transfer, demotion, layoff, termination, rates of pay or other forms of compensation. #RailJobs #TradesJobs


What King County (Washington) employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


King County logo

About King County

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Forbes recently named King County as one of Washington State's best employers. Together, with leadership and our employees, we're changing the way government delivers service and winning national recognition as a model of excellence. Are you ready to make a difference? Come join the team dedicated to serving one of the nation's best places to live, work and play. Guided by our "True North", we are making King County a welcoming community where every person can thrive. We value diversity, inclusion and belonging in our workplace and workforce.

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Seattle, WA, US

Year founded

1852

Social media