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Rail Track Inspector Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Are you ready to build a rewarding career in the railroad industry? Join the Genesee & Wyoming Inc ... As a Track Inspector, you'll play a key role in ensuring rail safety-responsible for inspecting and ...

Rail Track & Row Maintainer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$38.82 - $55.46/hr

Inspect, diagnose, repair, maintain, and/or replace running rails, restraining rails, fasteners, switch components, crossings, and all other components associated with track maintenance and ...

... rail and track. Reporting to the Resident Engineer, you will conduct daily inspections of all civil construction activities, materials, and components. Your keen eye for detail and expertise in ...

Are you ready to build a rewarding career in the railroad industry? Join the Genesee & Wyoming Inc ... As a Track Inspector, you'll play a key role in ensuring rail safety-responsible for inspecting and ...

... Rail Right of Way. * Performs inspections of tracks and related drainage structures, paving ... Communicates effectively with the Manager, Maintenance of Way the results of track inspection ...

Track Maintainer

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$26.40/hr

... Rail Right of Way. * Performs inspections of tracks and related drainage structures, paving ... Communicates effectively with the Manager, Maintenance of Way the results of track inspection ...

AECOM is actively seeking a talented Rail/Track Engineer - Civil for employment within the New ... Perform field track inspections and develop criteria and testing requirements * Coordinates and ...

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Rail Track Inspector information

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$24.5K

$54.9K

$99K

How much do rail track inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for rail track inspector in the United States is $54,939.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,500.00 and $63,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.
More about Rail Track Inspector jobs
What cities are hiring for Rail Track Inspector jobs? Cities with the most Rail Track Inspector job openings:
What states have the most Rail Track Inspector jobs? States with the most job openings for Rail Track Inspector jobs include:
Track Inspector

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago


Genesee & Wyoming rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 31 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

260th of 352 rated logistics


Job description

Company / Benefits Overview:

Are you ready to build a rewarding career in the railroad industry? Join the Genesee & Wyoming Inc. (G&W) team — part of a legacy that is over 125 years old. With a network of 100+ individual freight railroads and 4,000 employees across North America, we provide transportation and logistics services to more than 2,000 customers.

At G&W, we live by our Core Values: Safety, Service, Integrity, Respect, Transparency, Accountability, Innovation and Excellence. We offer competitive pay, a comprehensive benefits package, and paid training to help you succeed. Check out some of our great benefits below: 

  • Medical, Dental, Vision & Telehealth
  • Life Insurance
  • Optional benefit coverages for Accident, Critical Illness, Hospital, ID Theft & Life Insurance
  • Flexible Spending & Health Savings account plans
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan
  • On the Job Training
  • Paid Time Off
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • And more!

* Benefits are subject to change and may vary by labor agreement

Explore your future with G&W today and learn more about the opportunities to grow across our organization!

Job Summary:

As a Track Inspector, you’ll play a key role in ensuring rail safety-responsible for inspecting and monitoring track structures to ensure compliance with federal, state, and company regulations. Your work helps protect train crews, cargo, and the communities we serve.  This role is perfect for someone detail-oriented, safety-focused, and ready to make a direct impact on rail operations.

Please watch our career video for more information https://www.gwrr.com/careers/.

Responsibilities:

  • Inspect railroad track structure for compliance with railroad policy and federal/state regulations
  • Detect and document deviations from federal/state regulations
  • Implement remedial action on defects that are pending repair
  • Complete repairs or direct crews on correcting track-structure defects
  • Oversee production gang work and verify completed projects meet regulatory requirements
  • Prepare inspection reports for management and government compliance
  • Learn, know and apply applicable rules, regulations, and policies
  • Perform special inspections during severe weather or events that may impact track integrity
  • Perform other tasks necessary to the efficient operation of the railroad
  • Perform other duties as assigned

 Working Conditions / Physical Requirements:

  • Full-time (40 plus hours weekly)
  • Varying schedule in a 24/7 work environment that includes nights, holidays, weekends, and on-call as needed
  • Outdoor work in all weather conditions
  • Walking on uneven surfaces and climbing ladders and equipment always ensuring three points of contact
  • Able to squat, bend and lift overhead with extended periods of kneeling or crouching (bending at the knees)
  • Frequent lifting of equipment and tools up to 76 pounds

Skills and Experience:

  • Knowledge of FRA Track Safety Standards 
  • Knowledge of Roadway Worker Protection rules
  • Ability to plan and maintain your own schedule to accomplish inspection and territory requirements
  • Ability to work independently and alone for extended periods of time while being safe, productive and compliant
  • Able to complete written forms and reports as required
  • Basic computer skills (Microsoft Office, applications, reporting, etc.)
  • Able to read and interpret documents including safety rules, manuals, and regulations
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • Possess situational awareness and decision-making abilities to respond effectively in a safety sensitive environment 

  Required Education and Credentials:

  • High school diploma or GED
  • At least 1 year of related work experience
  • Valid driver’s license required
  • Commercial Driver's License (CDL) preferred or able to obtain one if required
  • 213.7 qualified

Employment Requirements:

  • Pre-employment physical, hearing, and vision medical review
  • Subject to federally mandated drug and alcohol testing including pre-employment drug screening
  • Background screening including criminal and motor vehicle driving history

Relocation:

Must live within 50 miles of assigned location or be willing to relocate.

This position is employed by the specific entity set forth in the job posting.


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