1

Rail Welding Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Mechanic Welder

Marshalltown, IA · On-site

$24 - $25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Work involves safe use of various hand and power tools common to the welding trade along with various welding methods such as MIG or Stick Company Description Progress Rail stands at the intersection ...

Welder Technician, Assoc

Red Oak, IA · On-site

$16.75 - $21.75/hr

... railroad tracks. Employees are required to use personal protective equipment such as steel toe boots, hard hat, hearing protection, safety glasses, welding and grinding shields, etc. or as ...

Welder Technician, Assoc

Red Oak, IA · On-site

$16.75 - $21.75/hr

... railroad tracks. Employees are required to use personal protective equipment such as steel toe boots, hard hat, hearing protection, safety glasses, welding and grinding shields, etc. or as ...

Welder Technician, Assoc

Red Oak, IA · On-site

$16.75 - $21.75/hr

... railroad tracks. Employees are required to use personal protective equipment such as steel toe boots, hard hat, hearing protection, safety glasses, welding and grinding shields, etc. or as ...

Career Welder

Shell Rock, IA · On-site

$18.25 - $24/hr

Trinity Rail Maintenance Services, Inc. is searching for a talented team player to fill the open positions of 1st shift Welder in our Shell Rock, IA location. We provide a complete array of railcar ...

Career Welder

Shell Rock, IA · On-site

$18.25 - $24/hr

Trinity Rail Maintenance Services, Inc. is searching for a talented team player to fill the open positions of 1 st shift Welder in our Shell Rock, IA location. We provide a complete array of railcar ...

Career Welder

Shell Rock, IA · On-site

$18.25 - $24/hr

Trinity Rail Maintenance Services, Inc. is searching for a talented team player to fill the open positions of 1st shift Welder in our Shell Rock, IA location. We provide a complete array of railcar ...

Career Welder, 2nd shift

Shell Rock, IA · On-site

$18.25 - $24/hr

Trinity Rail Maintenance Services, Inc. is searching for a talented team player to fill the open positions of 2nd shift Welder in our Shell Rock, IA location. We provide a complete array of railcar ...

Career Welder, 2nd shift

Shell Rock, IA · On-site

$18.25 - $24/hr

Trinity Rail Maintenance Services, Inc. is searching for a talented team player to fill the open positions of 2nd shift Welder in our Shell Rock, IA location. We provide a complete array of railcar ...

Welder Helper - Des Moines, IA

Des Moines, IA

$15.50 - $19.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

... of rails, frogs, switches, and other essential welding tasks. Your efforts in repairing or replacing tracks will play a vital role in ensuring the safe and efficient movement of trains, enabling ...

Welder Helper - Mason City, IA

Mason City, IA · On-site

$15.50 - $19.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

... of rails, frogs, switches, and other essential welding tasks. Your efforts in repairing or replacing tracks will play a vital role in ensuring the safe and efficient movement of trains, enabling ...

Experienced Welder

Garner, IA

$17.50 - $23.25/hr

... railroad, and utility industries. IMT products can be found practically everywhere, from Romanian ... Enjoy welding, want to learn more while on the job? Join our weld department team members! This ...

Experienced Welder

Garner, IA · On-site

$17.50 - $23.25/hr

... railroad, and utility industries. IMT products can be found practically everywhere, from Romanian ... Enjoy welding, want to learn more while on the job? Join our weld department team members! This ...

Experienced Welder

Garner, IA

$17.50 - $23.25/hr

... railroad, and utility industries. IMT products can be found practically everywhere, from Romanian ... Enjoy welding, want to learn more while on the job? Join our weld department team members! This ...

Experienced Welder

Garner, IA · On-site

$17.50 - $23.25/hr

... railroad, and utility industries. IMT products can be found practically everywhere, from Romanian ... Enjoy welding, want to learn more while on the job? Join our weld department team members! This ...

Welder - Manufacturing

Garner, IA · On-site

$17.50 - $23.25/hr

... railroad, and utility industries. IMT products can be found practically everywhere, from Romanian ... Enjoy welding, want to learn more while on the job? Join our weld department team members! This ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Rail Welding information

See Iowa salary details

$13

$27

$42

How much do rail welding jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for rail welding in Iowa is $27.98, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.92 and $32.07 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is rail welding?

Rail welding involves joining sections of railroad track together to create a continuous rail that is stronger and smoother for trains to travel on. Rail welders use specialized techniques and equipment, such as thermite welding or flash-butt welding, to fuse rails and ensure structural integrity. Their work is crucial for maintaining safe and efficient railway systems, minimizing track maintenance, and reducing noise and vibration. Rail welders also inspect and repair existing welds to ensure the ongoing safety of train operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a rail welder?

To thrive as a Rail Welder, you need proficiency in welding techniques, knowledge of track construction, and often a high school diploma or technical certification in welding. Familiarity with specialized rail welding equipment, track inspection tools, and adherence to industry safety standards is essential. Attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication are soft skills that set top performers apart. These skills ensure the structural integrity of railways, safety of operations, and efficient project completion in demanding environments.

What are some common challenges faced by rail welding professionals on the job?

Rail welding professionals often work outdoors in various weather conditions, which can impact both safety and weld quality. The role requires strict adherence to safety protocols and precision to ensure that welds meet rigorous industry standards. Additionally, welders must frequently collaborate with track maintenance teams and sometimes work irregular hours to accommodate railway schedules and minimize service disruptions. Effective communication and adaptability are essential for success in this dynamic environment.

What is the difference between Rail Welding vs Track Maintenance Worker?

AspectRail WeldingTrack Maintenance Worker
CertificationsWelding certifications (e.g., AWS)Track inspection and safety certifications
Work EnvironmentRail yards, construction sites, on-site weldingRail lines, maintenance yards, outdoor environments
Job FocusJoining and repairing rails through weldingInspecting, repairing, and maintaining tracks
Industry UsageRailroad construction and repairRailroad upkeep and safety

Rail Welding specialists focus on joining and repairing rails using welding techniques, requiring welding certifications and working directly on rail lines or construction sites. Track Maintenance Workers perform inspections and repairs to ensure track safety, often working alongside rail welders but with a broader focus on overall track condition. Both roles are essential in maintaining safe and efficient rail operations but differ in specific skills and daily tasks.

What are popular job titles related to Rail Welding jobs in Iowa?

For Rail Welding jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Rail Welding jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Rail Welding jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Rail Welding jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Rail Welding job openings:

Infographic showing various Rail Welding job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, and 7% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $58,198 per year, or $28 per hour.

$24 - $25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago


Progress Rail rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 70 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

380th of 490 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

Job Purpose
This position is responsible for operating various hand-welding and flame-cutting equipment to weld, fabricate or join work pieces together. Work involves safe use of various hand and power tools common to the welding trade along with various welding methods such as MIG or Stick
Company Description
Progress Rail stands at the intersection of legacy and innovation-driving the future of rail with a pioneering spirit. Since its founding in 1983, the company has grown to become one of the world's largest and most trusted providers of railroad products, services, and technologies. Today, Progress Rail delivers a comprehensive portfolio of cost-effective solutions to railway customers around the globe. From the rails themselves to the EMD® locomotives that ride them, the company's products are in operation across more than 100 countries-powering progress and connecting communities. In 2006, Progress Rail joined Caterpillar Inc., further strengthening its ability to lead the rail industry with cutting-edge technology, unmatched expertise, and a commitment to excellence. At Progress Rail, the team is not just building the future of rail-they are making history every day.
Education / Training
• 3-6 years welding experience;
• High School Diploma or GED;
• Vocational / technical training and certification;
Key Job Elements
• Starting wage $24-25/hour dependent on skills and experience;
• Position will work M-Th, 10 hour day shifts. Mandatory overtime as needed;
• Pass internal welding certification in conjunction with requirements under ISO, AAR, and other regulatory agencies;
• Retrieve materials assembled and weld into a finished product;
• Set up components for welding according to specifications (e.g. cut material with powered saws to match measurements);
• Operate angle grinders to prepare the parts that must be welded;
• Interpret welding blueprints, assembly instructions, drawings, JSA's, and bills of material;
• Maintaining welding proficiency as required by Progress Rail QSP 4.9 as well as any applicable local and international standards;
• Candidate must be able to accurately use measuring devices such as tape measures, scales, and calipers;
• Must be able to measure and record the required inspection information;
• Candidate must be able to use various hand tools as well as pneumatic and electric powered grinders and impact wrenches, as well as overhead cranes to transport components into and out of the work area;
Advanced duties and responsibilities
• Mastery of various welds such as pipe weld, GMAW, SMAW, etc. in all positions;
• Certification to a recognized welding standard such as AWS D1.1;
• Perform single and multi-pass welds in all positions;
• Ability to perform preventative and basic maintenance of weld machines and equipment; change out wire and gas bottles as needed;
• Weld components using manual or semi-automatic welding equipment in various positions (vertical, horizontal or overhead);
• Ability to train others;
• Forklift certified;
• Any other duties assigned
Qualifications and Experience
• Prior welding or grinder experience preferred;
• Ability to multitask and work with minimal supervision;
• Must be able to read and write legibly;
• Strong attention to detail with ability to inspect work using measuring devices;
• Must be quality oriented and a team player;
• Must have complete understanding of safe work practices;
• Specific site qualifications and progression may apply, consult with local team;
• Skill Level I - < 1-year experience, or no previous experience as a welder;
• Skill Level II - 1-2 year of experience as a welder;
• Skill Level III - 2-3 years of experience as a welder, certification in GMAW and FCAW preferred. Technical certifications can substitute for experience;
• Skill Level IV - 4-5 years of experience as a certified welder. Additional SMAW welding certifications preferred;
• Skill Level V - 5+ years of experience as a certified welder with all previous certifications
Essential and Physical Activities Functions
• Strength - Position requires lifting up to 50 lbs. Requires stamina and strength to work in tight and
confined spaces;
• Motion - Position requires the ability to perform physical activities that require considerable use of arms
and legs and moving the whole body, such as climbing, reaching, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and
kneeling. Position requires remaining in a stationary position for prolonged periods. Position requires
working from heights exceeding 6 ft. off the ground with proper PPE and fall protection;
• Vision/Hearing Requirements - Position is exposed to UV and reflected radiation from a welding arc or
torch. Position is exposed to high levels of noise and vibration from using tools. The use of proper PPE is
required. The position requires the ability to read written instruction and understand both verbal and
written instructions;
• Work Environment - Position can be located inside or outside dependent on situation. When inside the
employees are subject to temperature extremes in non-temperature-controlled environments. When
outside employees are subject to all weather elements;
• Emotional Demands - Employee is expected to work and cooperate as part of a team in order to meet
production requirements;
• Safety - Position is safety sensitive as it requires working in and around live tracks and operation and
repair of heavy equipment. Position requires strict adherence to safety policies (i.e. blue flag) and use of
all required PPE.
Benefits
Compensation and benefits offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, job level, market location, job-related knowledge, skills, individual performance, and experience. Please note that salary is only one component of total compensation at Progress Rail.**
  • Competitive Salary
  • 401(k) plan with up to 6% company match (no waiting period with immediate vesting)
  • Medical/Dental/Vision/Life/Disability Insurance
  • Supplemental Accident, Critical Care, and Hospital Insurance available along with an HDHP and HSA with seed money
  • Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Paid Vacation
  • Paid Holidays
  • Paid Time-Off (PTO)
  • Employee Assistance Plan
  • Education Assistance Program
  • Employee Recognition Programs
  • Site specific Production and Incentive Plans
  • Site specific Step and Skill Level Wage Adjustment Plans
  • Site Specific Relocation and Sign-on Bonus Programs

*Benefits eligibility varies by job position, full-time/part-time and regular/temporary status. The provisions of the plan documents control such benefits.
**Subject to position, eligibility, and plan guidelines.

What Progress Rail employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Progress Rail logo

About Progress Rail

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Our team works hard to create lifelong customer relationships, supplying comprehensive rolling stock and infrastructure solutions for the global rail industry and setting the standard for excellence. We care about fostering the sustainable movement of goods and people for generations to come, and we know our customers care, too. Our strategic footprint ensures responsive, quality customer support all day, every day. We are one of the largest integrated diversified providers of rolling stock and infrastructure solutions and technologies for the global rail industry. The company provides advanced EMD® locomotives, engines, and technologies, railcars, trackwork, fasteners, signaling, rail welding and Kershaw® Maintenance-of-Way equipment, along with dedicated locomotive and freight car repair services, aftermarket parts support and recycling operations. Progress Rail’s deep industry expertise ensures a commitment to quality through innovative solutions.

Industry

Consumer goods and commercial equipment rental services

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Albertville, AL, US

Year founded

1983