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Rail Track Maintainer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Track Maintainer

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$26.40 - $29.10/hr

Identify and correct imminent safety hazards for Hampton Roads Transit total rail system ... Operate On Track Equipment and other maintenance equipment as required for training and maintenance ...

Operate hand brakes, switches, and track controls to position railcars within the plant yard ... Maintain clear communication via radio and hand signals to ensure safe switching operations.

Operate hand brakes, switches, and track controls to position railcars within the plant yard ... Maintain clear communication via radio and hand signals to ensure safe switching operations.

Our network of skilled associates provides plant and terminal operating expertise as well as field maintenance of rail assets for railroads, rail shippers, and owners of rail related equipment and ...

Railroad Carmen

Fort Collins, CO · On-site

$23 - $27/hr

Our network of skilled associates provides plant and terminal operating expertise as well as field maintenance of rail assets for railroads, rail shippers, and owners of rail related equipment and ...

Our network of skilled associates provides plant and terminal operating expertise as well as field maintenance of rail assets for railroads, rail shippers, and owners of rail related equipment and ...

TRACK INSPECTOR

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$44.67 - $55.68/hr

Performs necessary day-to-day track repair, rail replacement, and maintenance; uses various drills, spiking, and tamping equipment to maintain track right-of way * Recommends preventive and ...

Switchman II

Williams, AZ · On-site

$20.25/hr

Performs maintenance and repairs on railroad equipment to maintain safety and proper operating ... Operates various designs of manual track switches and derails to change the route of railroad ...

Switchman II

Williams, AZ · On-site

$20.25/hr

Performs maintenance and repairs on railroad equipment to maintain safety and proper operating ... Observes/monitors track conditions such as broken rails, defective switches or signals, track ...

Switchman II

Williams, AZ · On-site

$20.25/hr

Performs maintenance and repairs on railroad equipment to maintain safety and proper operating ... Observes/monitors track conditions such as broken rails, defective switches or signals, track ...

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Rail Track Maintainer information

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How much do rail track maintainer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 16, 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 is the highest paid maintenance job?

In maintenance roles, specialized positions such as industrial machinery maintenance managers or senior electrical and mechanical maintenance engineers tend to have the highest salaries. These roles often require advanced technical skills, certifications, and experience, and they may involve overseeing large teams or complex systems. Salary levels vary by industry and location but generally represent the top earning potential within maintenance careers.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a Rail Track Maintainer?

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.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

Rail Track Maintainers typically do not earn $2000 a day; such high daily rates are usually associated with specialized roles like project managers, consultants, or contractors in construction, engineering, or oil and gas industries. These positions often require advanced skills, certifications, and experience, and may involve working long hours or in remote locations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Rail Track Maintainer, and why are they important?

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.

What qualifications do track maintainers need?

Rail track maintainers typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and may require specialized training or certifications in track safety, operation of maintenance equipment, and safety procedures. Physical fitness and the ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions are also important, along with good communication skills and attention to detail.

What does a rail track maintainer do?

A rail track maintainer is responsible for inspecting, repairing, and maintaining railway tracks to ensure safety and proper operation. This includes tasks such as replacing ties, fixing rails, and using tools like track gauges and ballast regulators, often working outdoors on a regular schedule. The role requires physical stamina and knowledge of safety procedures and track standards.
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What cities are hiring for Rail Track Maintainer jobs? Cities with the most Rail Track Maintainer job openings:
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:
Infographic showing various Rail Track Maintainer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 8% Full Time, and 88% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $66,161 per year, or $31.8 per hour.
Railroad Worker (Rail Movement Technician) (No Per Diem)

Railroad Worker (Rail Movement Technician) (No Per Diem)

Brown and Root

Mcintosh, AL • On-site

Full-time

Posted 26 days ago


Brown & Root rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 43 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

312th of 352 rated engineering


Job description

Long Term Maintenance - No Per Diem

Work Hours 4 Ten hour days

Must pass pre-employment physical and background

Knowledge of rail operations: Understanding of rail operations, inspections, and maintenance is preferred. Strong teamwork and communication skills: Ability to work effectively within a team and communicate clearly with others.

Attention to detail: Ability to work safely and follow all site-specific safety protocols.

A Railroad Worker is responsible for performing manual labor and operating machinery to support the construction, maintenance, and repair of railroad tracks, railcars, and equipment. This position involves working in various environments, including rail yards, along tracks, or on trains. Railroad Workers play a critical role in ensuring that rail operations run smoothly, safely, and efficiently by performing physical tasks, inspecting equipment, and maintaining track conditions.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Track Maintenance & Repair:
    • Inspect and repair railroad tracks, including rails, ties, ballast, and switches, ensuring they meet safety and operational standards.
    • Remove and replace damaged or worn-out rails, spikes, and ties.
    • Operate track maintenance machinery such as tampers, grinders, and ballast regulators.
    • Clear and maintain rights-of-way, removing obstacles like vegetation or debris that could interfere with safe rail operations.
  • Railcar and Equipment Maintenance:
    • Inspect and perform routine maintenance on railcars, locomotives, and other railway equipment.
    • Repair and adjust railcar components such as brakes, couplers, and wheels to ensure proper operation.
    • Use tools and equipment, including wrenches, jacks, and cutting torches, to repair or replace railcar parts.
  • Switching & Yard Work:
    • Assist in the switching of railcars within the yard, attaching and detaching cars from trains as needed.
    • Signal engineers using hand signals or radios to ensure proper train movement within the yard or along tracks.
    • Couple and uncouple railcars, connecting air brake hoses, and ensuring secure connections.
  • Safety & Compliance:
    • Follow all safety protocols, including wearing required personal protective equipment (PPE) and adhering to OSHA and FRA guidelines.
    • Participate in safety briefings and report any safety hazards or equipment malfunctions to supervisors.
    • Ensure compliance with all regulatory and company standards while working on tracks, trains, or in the yard.
  • Operational Support:
    • Assist with loading and unloading cargo from railcars, securing freight, and ensuring proper distribution of weight.
    • Work alongside engineers, conductors, and other railroad personnel to coordinate rail movements and operations.
    • Assist with the assembly and disassembly of trains, preparing them for transit.

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About Brown & Root

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Brown & Root is a prominent player in the industrial service industry, with their headquarters nestled in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, US. With a substantial history dating back to 1919, the company has built a reputation for delivering comprehensive solutions to their customers, primarily in engineering, construction, maintenance, operations, and other related industrial services. Brown & Root’s core mission is echoed in their commitment to safety, customer satisfaction, integrity, and delivering high-quality services. They also take pride in their culture of continuous improvement which has yielded significant achievements such as earning a spot in the Engineering News-Record's top 400 contractors list.

Industry

Engineering professional services

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Baton Rouge, LA, US

Year founded

1919