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Rail Track Inspector Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Track Supervisor

Saint Paul, MN · On-site

$45 - $50/hr

Manage, direct, and support the inspection, maintenance, repair, and construction of railroad track infrastructure to ensure safe and efficient operations. * Perform regular track inspections, audit ...

... 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 ...

Track Inspector - Middleport, OH Job Location: KNWA Nitro-Middleport-OH-45760 Office Location ... the railroad track infrastructure to ensure safe and efficient service to our customers. This ...

Track Inspector - Prattville, AL Job Location: Prattville, AL Depot-Prattville-36067 Office ... the railroad track infrastructure to ensure safe and efficient service to our customers. This ...

Track Maintainer

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$27.41/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 ...

Track Maintainer

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$27.41/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 ...

Showing results 21-40

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 Sep 4, 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 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.

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:

Infographic showing various Rail Track Inspector job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,939 per year, or $26.4 per hour.

Track Supervisor

Minnesota Commercial Railway

Saint Paul, MN • On-site

$45 - $50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago

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Job description

Position Summary 

The Track Field Supervisor supports the Chief Maintenance of Way Officer in leading Maintenance of Way (MOW) operations and ensuring the safe, reliable, and efficient maintenance of railroad infrastructure. This position assists with the supervision of track inspection, construction, maintenance, and repair activities across the territory while promoting a strong safety culture and operational excellence. The Track Field Supervisor works closely with field personnel, contractors, and other departments to maintain regulatory compliance, support capital improvement projects, and ensure the railroad operates safely and efficiently. This role combines hands-on field involvement with leadership responsibilities, requiring strong communication, sound decision-making, and a commitment to employee development and team success.  

Essential Duties and Responsibilities 

  • Partner with the Chief of Maintenance of Way to oversee daily Maintenance of Way activities, ensuring compliance with company policies and all applicable federal, state, and railroad regulations. 
  • Manage, direct, and support the inspection, maintenance, repair, and construction of railroad track infrastructure to ensure safe and efficient operations. 
  • Perform regular track inspections, audit inspections, and joint inspections with Track Inspectors and other departments. 
  • Assist in developing and maintaining inspection schedules and maintenance plans for assigned territory. 
  • Perform track inspections and maintenance activities alongside crews when necessary. 
  • Monitor track conditions and infrastructure performance, identifying and addressing safety concerns and maintenance needs. 
  • Support the planning, execution, and completion of capital improvement and maintenance projects. 
  • Ensure accountability for asset utilization and assist in evaluating infrastructure requirements to maximize efficiency and service reliability. 
  • Coordinate with operations, engineering, signals, contractors, customers, vendors, and government agencies to support railroad initiatives and resolve operational concerns. 
  • Oversee third-party contractors and production work to ensure compliance with company standards and safety requirements. 
  • Conduct efficiency tests, operating tests, and field observations to promote safe work practices. 
  • Respond to accidents, derailments, incidents, injuries, and emergency situations; conduct investigations and prepare required reports. 
  • Monitor departmental expenses and assist in controlling maintenance and project-related costs. 
  • Ensure employees have the proper tools, equipment, materials, and resources necessary to safely perform their jobs. 
  • Participate in interviewing, hiring, onboarding, training, and coaching employees. 
  • Assist with performance evaluations, employee development plans, certification tracking, and disciplinary actions when necessary. 
  • Provide training and guidance to team members regarding FRA regulations, company policies, and safe work practices. 
  • Ensure required training and certifications remain current for all department employees. 
  • Serve as a backup for the Roadmaster, Track Inspector, or Track Foreman as needed. 
  • Perform other duties and special projects as assigned. 

Qualifications 

  • Railroad inspection experience required. 
  • Track Inspector certification required. 
  • Demonstrated ability to motivate employees, prioritize work, manage resources, and promote safe work habits. 
  • Strong leadership, communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills. 
  • Ability to read and interpret safety rules, federal regulations, technical manuals, blueprints, and operating instructions. 
  • Ability to complete reports, forms, incident investigations, and regulatory documentation accurately. 
  • Working knowledge of FRA regulations, including CFR Title 49 Parts 213 and 214. 
  • Basic computer proficiency, including Microsoft Office and reporting systems. 
  • Strong situational awareness and decision-making abilities in a safety-sensitive environment. 
  • Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions and respond to emergency situations as required.  

Education and Experience 

  • High School Diploma or GED required. 
  • Minimum of 3 years of railroad track maintenance experience with progressive leadership responsibilities preferred. 
  • Previous experience as a Track Inspector preferred. 
  • Supervisory experience in railroad maintenance operations preferred. 
  • Must be at least 18 years of age.  

Licenses and Certifications 

  • Valid driver's license required. 
  • Commercial Driver's License (CDL/Class A CDL) preferred or ability to obtain if required. 
  • Must meet all company and regulatory requirements for qualification and certification.  

Physical and Regulatory Requirements 

  • Successful completion of pre-employment physical, hearing, and vision examinations. 
  • Subject to federally mandated drug and alcohol testing programs, including pre-employment screening. 
  • Subject to background screening, including criminal history and motor vehicle record review. 
  • Must reside within assigned territory requirements or be willing to relocate if necessary.