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Rail Welder Jobs (NOW HIRING)

OL&B Railway is looking for a high performing, results-oriented Individuals to join our team. The ideal candidate will be self-motivated, hard worker, and reliable. OL&B Railway has endless ...

Welder Helper

Attalla, AL ยท On-site

$18.50 - $25/hr

Thermite Welding Processes * Experienced in the use of Oxygen/Propane cutting and preheating ... Experienced in general railroad track work; such as; rail cutting, rail measuring, rail removal ...

OL&B Railway is looking for a high performing, results-oriented Individuals to join our team. The ideal candidate will be self-motivated, hard worker, and reliable. OL&B Railway has endless ...

Welder Helper

Lynchburg, VA ยท On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Thermite Welding Processes * Experienced in the use of Oxygen/Propane cutting and preheating ... Experienced in general railroad track work; such as; rail cutting, rail measuring, rail removal ...

Welder Helper

Attalla, AL ยท On-site

$18/hr

Thermite Welding Processes * Experienced in the use of Oxygen/Propane cutting and preheating ... Experienced in general railroad track work; such as; rail cutting, rail measuring, rail removal ...

Welder Helper

Knoxville, TN ยท On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Thermite Welding Processes * Experienced in the use of Oxygen/Propane cutting and preheating ... Experienced in general railroad track work; such as; rail cutting, rail measuring, rail removal ...

Welder Helper

Richmond, VA ยท On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Thermite Welding Processes * Experienced in the use of Oxygen/Propane cutting and preheating ... Experienced in general railroad track work; such as; rail cutting, rail measuring, rail removal ...

Welder Helper

Knoxville, TN ยท On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Thermite Welding Processes * Experienced in the use of Oxygen/Propane cutting and preheating ... Experienced in general railroad track work; such as; rail cutting, rail measuring, rail removal ...

Welder Helper

Roanoke, VA ยท On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Thermite Welding Processes * Experienced in the use of Oxygen/Propane cutting and preheating ... Experienced in general railroad track work; such as; rail cutting, rail measuring, rail removal ...

Welder Helper

Attalla, AL ยท On-site

$18/hr

Thermite Welding Processes * Experienced in the use of Oxygen/Propane cutting and preheating ... Experienced in general railroad track work; such as; rail cutting, rail measuring, rail removal ...

Welder Helper

Lynchburg, VA ยท On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Thermite Welding Processes * Experienced in the use of Oxygen/Propane cutting and preheating ... Experienced in general railroad track work; such as; rail cutting, rail measuring, rail removal ...

Track Welder

Oceanside, CA ยท On-site

$89K - $91K/yr

Rail Operations Division Division: MAINTENANCE OF WAY Opening Date: 07/01/2026 Closing Date: 9/11 ... Clean welding work pieces to remove impurities, such as slag, rust, and grease. * Monitor and ...

Welder

Long Island City, NY ยท On-site

$23 - $29/hr

KAWASAKI RAIL CAR, INC. Job Title: Welder Location: Long Island City, NY Salary Range $23 to $29 per hour Job Category: Direct Job Type: Full-Time, On-Site Reports To: Production Supervisor Dept: ...

Facilitate/Assist with the overall installation and repairs of railroad track and embankments including special track work, road crossings, signage, and rail lubricators * Oversee all track welding ...

Facilitate/Assist with the overall installation and repairs of railroad track and embankments including special track work, road crossings, signage, and rail lubricators * Oversee all track welding ...

Welder - Rails

Elkhart, IN ยท On-site

$18.50 - $24.50/hr

Rail Fabrication & Assembly Lead Summary: The Welder is responsible for the safe and precise fabrication, assembly, and repair of metal components and structures using MIG and TIG welding techniques.

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Rail Welder information

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$22

$31

How much do rail welder jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for rail welder in the United States is $22.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.75 and $24.76 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a rail welder?

Rail welders are skilled tradespeople who specialize in joining sections of railroad track using various welding techniques, such as thermite or electric arc welding. Their work is crucial for maintaining the safety, durability, and alignment of railway tracks. Rail welders inspect, repair, and install rails, often working outdoors in a range of weather conditions. They must follow strict safety protocols and ensure that welded joints meet industry standards to support heavy train loads.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a rail welder?

To thrive as a Rail Welder, you need strong technical welding skills, a high school diploma or equivalent, and specialized training or certification in rail welding processes. Familiarity with welding equipment, track maintenance machinery, and adherence to safety standards such as those outlined by the American Welding Society (AWS) is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and teamwork are crucial soft skills for ensuring quality and safety on the job. These skills and qualifications are essential for maintaining reliable rail infrastructure and preventing safety hazards.

What challenges do rail welders face and how are they addressed?

Rail welders often work in outdoor environments and must adapt to varying weather conditions, which can affect both safety and welding quality. They also face the challenge of maintaining precise alignment and strength standards to ensure rail safety and minimize rail defects. To address these challenges, rail welders use specialized equipment, adhere to strict safety protocols, and undergo regular training to stay updated on best practices and new technologies. Strong teamwork and communication with other crew members, such as track inspectors and engineers, are also essential to ensure efficient workflow and safety.

What is the difference between Rail Welder vs Track Inspector?

AspectRail WelderTrack Inspector
CertificationsWelding certifications, safety trainingInspection certifications, safety training
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, rail yards, welding stationsRail lines, maintenance sites, inspection locations
Job FocusWelding and repairing railsInspecting and ensuring track safety
Industry UsageRailroad construction and maintenanceRailroad safety and compliance

Rail Welders and Track Inspectors both work in the railroad industry but have different roles. Rail Welders focus on welding and repairing rails, requiring welding certifications and working in construction or maintenance sites. Track Inspectors evaluate track safety, requiring inspection certifications and working primarily on rail lines. Both roles are essential for rail safety and maintenance but serve distinct functions within the industry.

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

Infographic showing various Rail Welder job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 66% Full Time, 17% Contract, and 17% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $46,302 per year, or $22.3 per hour.

Welder / Railcar Repair

Lincoln, NE โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago


Job description

Company Background

OL&B Railway, a NEBCO Company, is a short line railway, specializing in transloading, railcar repair, railcar storage, and track repair. It is also known as the "Big Red Line".ย  OL&B Railway is a Class III switching railroad that interchanges cars from the Union Pacific and BNSF. For more information, visit www.olbrailway.com. OL&B Railway is looking for a high performing, results-oriented Individuals to join our team. The ideal candidate will be self-motivated, hard worker, and reliable. OL&B Railway has endless opportunities for advancement and growth.ย 

NEBCO, Inc.
NEBCO's story has been one of longevity, diversity and continued growth. NEBCO is a fourth-generation, family-owned and operated business, with more than 1,100 employees spanning 50 locations across Nebraska.ย  Since 1908 NEBCO has grown to become one of Nebraska's most diversified and successful privately-owned businesses.ย  For more information about NEBCO, visit www.nebcoinc.com.

Job Summary
This position supports all activity involved in inspecting, and repairing freight railcars, transloading, track maintenance and switching. Average working time spent will be 25% welding, 25% equipment, 40% mechanical, 10% other duties as assigned. Must abide by all Company Safety Program and Policies and abide by all FRA, AAR, OSHA, and other applicable regulations while performing duties safely. Normal hours are Monday thru Friday, 6:45 am to 2:45 pm. This position may require extended work hours to meet production needs which may include nights and weekends and the occasional 2 hour on-call. Overnight travel may be required on occasion.ย  This position is eligible for the Railroad Retirement Program benefit. Consistent and reliable attendance is required.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following:

  • Provide railcar repair and other railroad support services as needed
  • Perform railcar inspections and repairs to regulatory guidelines and customer requirements that includes but not limited to: Railcar body defects, safety appliances including hand holds, sill steps, grab iron, brake platforms, running boards, air brake system, outlet gates, hatch covers, trucks, and wheels.
  • Read and follow repair sheets and work scopes.
  • Operate acetylene torches for cutting and welders for welding on mild steel, cast iron, and stainless steel.
  • Accurately complete all necessary repair documentation and inventory documentation.

Other duties will include:

  • Assisting in unloading and loading railcars and trucks using forklifts, conveyors, and all other equipment and completing all necessary documentation.
  • Performing track maintenance following Track Worker Safety Program while working around and using maintenance of way tools and equipment.
  • Maintaining rail yard including, vegetation, roadway maintenance, drainage, snow removal, and other duties, to ensure a safe working environment.
  • Assist in maintenance of facilities and all associated equipment, including, but not limited to, the overhead crane, forklift, skid loader, excavator, air compressor, company pickups and trucks. Equipment must be inspected and kept in sound and safe operating condition.
  • Follow safety policies and procedures and wear the required personal protective equipment required for the job in a safe manner.
  • Provide switching & other railroad support services as needed.

Qualifications: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Education and/or Experience:ย ย ย 

  • High School diploma or GED.
  • Technical degree / vocational training in welding, metalworking or related area is helpful but not required.
  • Previous railcar repair experience is very helpful but not required.
  • Must have a demonstrated skill and aptitude for mechanical repair.
  • Must have previous demonstrated experience of working in a general labor environment.
  • Must be capable of learning AAR car repair regulations and compliance of car shop tools, gauges and equipment.

Certificates, Licenses, Registrations:

  • Valid NE driver's license.
  • Previous welding certification is helpful but not required.
  • Ability to become certified in welding steel.
  • Certification in Mig and Arc welding, lifts, overhead crane, CPR, first aid, and forklift operations or the ability to obtain certification within 90 to 180 days of employment.

Candidate will be required to go through a welding proficiency test as part of the interview process.

Other Skills and Abilities:

  • Proficient in the use of hand tools, power tools and other equipment.
  • Ability to maintain focus and productively organize work tasks.
  • Demonstrated ability to work independently and take initiative.
  • Must have a good attendance record and an ability to be at work on time and meet the on-call requirements.

Benefits Include:

  • Retirement Plans
  • PAID Holidays
  • Insurance Benefits
  • Wellness Program - with the opportunity to earn five additional days off
  • PAID Time Off
  • On the Job Training

Condition of Employment
Candidate is required to meet the above qualifications. Approval of pre-employment reference, background checks and post offer substance testing are required as conditions of employment.