ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Rail Track Maintainer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

CN

Rail Track Maintainer

South Bend, IN · On-site

$35.80/hr

Rail Track Maintainer At CN, we are committed to our pursuit of excellence. We take pride in delivering work of the highest standard, continually innovating to shape the railroad of the future. As ...

New

CN

Rail Track Maintainer

Baudette, MN · On-site

$34.84/hr

Rail Track Maintainer At CN, we are committed to our pursuit of excellence. We take pride in delivering work of the highest standard, continually innovating to shape the railroad of the future. As ...

CN

Rail Track Maintainer

Schoolcraft, MI · On-site

$35.80/hr

Rail Track Maintainer At CN, we are committed to our pursuit of excellence. We take pride in delivering work of the highest standard, continually innovating to shape the railroad of the future. As ...

New

CN

Rail Track Maintainer

Iron, MN · On-site

$34.84/hr

Rail Track Maintainer At CN, we are committed to our pursuit of excellence. We take pride in delivering work of the highest standard, continually innovating to shape the railroad of the future. As ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsRail Track Maintainer Jobs

Rail Track Maintainer information

See salary details

$18

$31

$54

How much do rail track maintainer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for rail track maintainer in the United States is $31.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.48 and $36.54 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a rail track maintainer do?

A Rail Track Maintainer is responsible for inspecting, repairing, and maintaining railway tracks to ensure safe train operations. Daily tasks often include visual inspections, replacing worn rails or ties, tightening bolts, clearing debris, and operating specialized maintenance equipment. Maintainers may work in small teams, often outdoors and in varying weather conditions, and must coordinate with signaling and train operations staff to avoid disruptions and ensure safety. The job can involve shift work and emergency call-outs to address urgent track issues.

How do you become a rail track maintainer?

To become a rail track maintainer, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and must undergo specialized training in track inspection, repair, and safety procedures. Relevant skills include knowledge of track components, operating maintenance tools, and adherence to safety standards; some positions may require certifications such as OSHA safety training or equipment operation licenses.

How to get into rail track maintenance?

To become a rail track maintainer, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and should have physical fitness for outdoor work. Relevant skills include knowledge of track inspection, safety procedures, and operating maintenance tools; some positions may require certifications such as track safety or equipment operation. Gaining experience through apprenticeships or entry-level positions can also improve job prospects.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a rail track maintainer?

To thrive as a Rail Track Maintainer, you need a solid understanding of track infrastructure, mechanical aptitude, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent with on-the-job training or relevant certifications. Familiarity with specialized track maintenance tools, heavy machinery, and safety systems such as track geometry cars and signaling equipment is essential. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and the ability to work safely in challenging outdoor environments are crucial soft skills. These skills ensure the safety, reliability, and efficiency of railway operations by maintaining track integrity and minimizing service disruptions.

What is the difference between Rail Track Maintainer vs Signal Maintainer?

AspectRail Track MaintainerSignal Maintainer
CredentialsTypically requires a high school diploma or equivalent; certifications in track safety and maintenanceHigh school diploma; certifications in electrical systems and signal technology
Work EnvironmentRail yards, tracks, outdoor and sometimes remote locationsSignal boxes, control rooms, outdoor and trackside locations
Industry UsageRailway companies, transit agenciesRailway companies, transit agencies
Job FocusMaintaining and repairing tracks, switches, and tiesInstalling, inspecting, and repairing signaling systems

While both Rail Track Maintainers and Signal Maintainers work in the railway industry, their roles focus on different systems. Rail Track Maintainers ensure the safety and integrity of the tracks, whereas Signal Maintainers focus on the signaling systems that control train movements. Both roles require safety certifications and outdoor work, but their technical skills and daily tasks differ significantly.

More about Rail Track Maintainer jobs

What cities are hiring for Rail Track Maintainer jobs?

Cities with the most Rail Track Maintainer job openings:

Who are the top companies hiring for Rail Track Maintainer jobs?

The top employers for Rail Track Maintainer jobs are:

What states have the most Rail Track Maintainer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Rail Track Maintainer jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Rail Track Maintainer jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Rail Track Maintainer jobs are:

What are popular job titles related to Rail Track Maintainer jobs?

For Rail Track Maintainer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Rail Track Maintainer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Rail Track Maintainer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $66,161 per year, or $31.8 per hour.

Rail Track Maintainer

Canadian National Railway Company

Baudette, MN

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 22 days ago

Canadian National Railway rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 49 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

136th of 362 rated logistics

Job description

Rail Track Maintainer

At CN, we are committed to our pursuit of excellence. We take pride in delivering work of the highest standard, continually innovating to shape the railroad of the future. As responsible railroaders, we make the right decisions every time, putting safety first, acting with unwavering integrity, and holding ourselves accountable for our actions. We believe in succeeding together-by fostering inclusivity and collaboration, we sustainably deliver exceptional results for our customers.

If you are a skilled trades person or interested in skilled trades and continuous learning in a safety-focused environment, working at CN could be a great fit for you. You'll be working on all types of equipment and structures designed to support the distribution of freight across North America. Enjoy paid training and evolve your skills. The careers we offer are meaningful because the work we do matters. Join us and get your career moving!  

Job Summary

The Rail Track Maintainer is responsible for inspecting, repairing and replacing rails, ties, switches and ballasts. The role is performed outdoors in various types of weather and environmental conditions and ensures a safe working environment.

Working Conditions
  • Shift work, with overtime when required.
  • Long periods of travel required, including overnight.
  • Primarily work outdoors in all weather conditions.
  • Repetitive physical activity.
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds frequently, and up to 70 pounds occasionally.
Major Responsibilities
  • Maintain CN's train rails, ties, switches and ballasts through inspection, repair, and replacement.
  • Maintain various hand tools for assigned work.
  • Remove and replace defective ties, rails spikes, and anchors.
  • Repair deviations in track surface, alignment, and gauge.
  • Install and repair street and railroad crossings and assist in the replacement or repair of items such as power-operated switches and insulated joints.
  • Unload ballasts and distribute track material.
  • Sort used track material for loading.
  • Ensure railroad right-of-way is clear of brush, vegetation, snow and litter.
  • Ensure a safe working environment, by following CN's safety policies and procedures.
Requirements
  • Relevant work experience in similar working conditions or regulatory and safety environment.
  • Experience operating heavy equipment and machinery.
  • High School Diploma, General Education Diploma (GED), or equivalent.
  • Valid driver's license.
  • Must be at least 18 years of age.
  • Must meet all medical fitness for duty requirements for the position, including requirements for Safety.
  • Ability to work autonomously, adapt to different situations and handle stress.
  • Demonstrate good teamwork and maintain positive interactions with others.
  • Dedicated to getting the job done while meeting established standards of quality, safety, productivity and client satisfaction.
  • Displays common sense and good judgment.
  • Hand-eye coordination.
  • Grasping skills
Assets
  • Welding skills
  • Knowledge of signals or Railroad Operating Rules
What We Offer
  • Competitive Wages, Benefits, and Pension Plan
  • Paid Training and Career Development
  • Medical, vision, and dental insurance
  • 24/7 Telemedicine Service
  • Employee Share Investment Plan
  • Educational Financial Assistance Program
  • Employee Resource Groups (ERGs)
  • Extensive Employee Discount Program
  • Employee & Family Assistance Program (EFAP)
Paid Training

Successful candidates will take part in a paid 5-week training program at a CN Campus (Homewood, IL) with additional on-the-job training to help ensure that they have received the adequate knowledge to operate in accordance with regulatory requirements and CN's safety standards. The training is primarily on health and safety rules as successful completion of the classroom and on-the-job training is required to continue employment as a Track Maintainer at CN.

Successful Candidate Process:

  • Medical assessment (including drug, hearing, and vision).
  • Criminal background check.
  • Offer Letter

Paid Training Structure:

  • 5 weeks at CN Campus (Homewood, IL) 

What Canadian National Railway employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply