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Rail Track Inspector Jobs (NOW HIRING)

WI

$89.51K/yr

... track components, rail integrity, bridge and structures, and railroad workplace safety ... To be qualified for a Railroad Safety Inspector (Track), the Qualifications Standard states you ...

WI

$89.51K/yr

... track components, rail integrity, bridge and structures, and railroad workplace safety ... To be qualified for a Railroad Safety Inspector (Track), the Qualifications Standard states you ...

WI

$89.51K/yr

... track components, rail integrity, bridge and structures, and railroad workplace safety ... To be qualified for a Railroad Safety Inspector (Track), the Qualifications Standard states you ...

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

See salary details

$24.5K

$54.9K

$99K

How much do rail track inspector jobs pay per year?

As of May 29, 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 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 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.

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:
What job categories do people searching Rail Track Inspector jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Rail Track Inspector jobs are:
Infographic showing various Rail Track Inspector job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 24% Full Time, and 74% Part Time. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,939 per year, or $26.4 per hour.

$22.60 - $27.40/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago


Job description

Salary Range: $22.60 - $27.40

Benefit Package: PLTO offers an excellent compensation and benefits package (Medical, Dental, 401(k) retirement, vacation, holiday and sick pay, etc.)

Job Title: Track Maintainer

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Supervisor: Senior Track Inspector

Positions Supervised: None

General Description:

Under the supervision of the Senior Track Inspector the Track Maintainer performs routine preventive and corrective maintenance on rail tracks, related structures, and components to ensure safe and efficient light rail operations. Maintains right-of-way areas, assists with inspections, and supports general upkeep of track infrastructure.

Responsibilities/Essential Functions:

  1. Perform manual lubrication and maintenance on yard switches and rail parts including shafts, pulleys, gears, and bearings.
  2. Conduct maintenance on track elements such as ballast, sub-ballast, rails, ties, switches, crossover areas, and drainage systems.
  3. Inspect and maintain rail fasteners (e.g., Pandrol clips), bolts, embedded and direct fixation components.
  4. Remove vegetation, debris, grease, and waste from track structures, right-of-way areas, and yard zones.
  5. Support walking inspections, switch inspections, and track equipment maintenance.
  6. Assist with installation, maintenance, and inspection of insulated joints (IJs) and replacement of rail sections.
  7. Perform maintenance of emergency walkways and safety areas.
  8. Maintain crew quarters and station-area housekeeping standards.
  9. Operate tools and equipment safely and efficiently to load/unload materials.
  10. Use the asset management system to complete work orders, track time/materials, and upload reports.
  11. Cooperatively and efficiently performs related tasks and duties as required.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

  • Excellent interpersonal and technical support skills.
  • Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with others.
  • Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing.
  • Proven analytical and problem-solving abilities.
  • Perform manual lubrication and maintenance on yard switches and rail parts including shafts, pulleys, gears, and bearings.
  • Conduct maintenance on track elements such as ballast, sub-ballast, rails, ties, switches, crossover areas, and drainage systems.
  • Inspect and maintain rail fasteners (e.g., Pandrol clips), bolts, embedded and direct fixation components.
  • Remove vegetation, debris, grease, and waste from track structures, right-of-way areas, and yard zones.
  • Support walking inspections, switch inspections, and track equipment maintenance.
  • Assist with installation, maintenance, and inspection of insulated joints (IJs) and replacement of rail sections.
  • Perform maintenance of emergency walkways and safety areas.
  • Maintain crew quarters and station-area housekeeping standards.
  • Operate tools and equipment safely and efficiently to load/unload materials.
  • Use the asset management system to complete work orders, track time/materials, and upload reports.

Emotional, Psychological and Physical Requirements:

Ability to:

  • Handle emergency situations, calmly and effectively
  • Concentrate on priority tasks with frequent interruptions
  • Maintain high alert of dangers and obstacles outside of train.
  • Comply with all safety rules and instructions including the use of proper personal protective equipment
  • Work independently or as part of a team in a safety-sensitive environment.
  • Communicate clearly with team members and supervisors.
  • Maintain attention to detail and follow procedures during repetitive tasks.

Physically:

  • Bend, twist, and turn frequently and consistently during shift
  • Work in adverse weather conditions
  • Bending or stooping while inspecting train tracks
  • Stand, walk, kneel, stoop, crawl, and climb frequently.
  • Lift up to 50 lbs. frequently and up to 100 lbs. occasionally with assistance.
  • Work from elevated surfaces using proper safety equipment

Additional/Miscellaneous/Special Requirements:

  • Acceptable drug/alcohol screen and pre-employment physical (including vision and hearing requirements) results upon hire and as regularly required by PLTOโ€™s policy for position.
  • Must obtain roadway worker certification upon hire.
  • Acceptable driving record must be maintained throughout entirety of employment.
  • Must possess a valid state driverโ€™s license

Education and Experience:

  • High school diploma or equivalent required.
  • Minimum of two (2) years of relevant track maintenance or related labor experience.