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Rail Welding Jobs in Nebraska (NOW HIRING)

Remove and replace rails, rail anchors, spikes, ballast, ties and other parts as needed * Work with ... Proficiency in welding or possession of a welding certificate (e.g., acquired through professional ...

Heavy equipment or railroad equipment * Welding and fabrication * Reading hydraulic or electrical schematics .  Why You'll Love Working Here At Vancer, you'll work on custom-built equipment, not ...

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Rail Welding information

See Nebraska salary details

$14

$28

$43

How much do rail welding jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for rail welding in Nebraska is $28.40, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.21 and $32.55 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 Nebraska?

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

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

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

What cities in Nebraska are hiring for Rail Welding jobs?

Cities in Nebraska with the most Rail Welding job openings:

Infographic showing various Rail Welding job openings in Nebraska as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 8% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 15% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $59,076 per year, or $28.4 per hour.

Track Laborer Driver Eligible - Hastings, NE

Union Pacific Railroad

Hastings, NE • On-site

$32.21/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 24 days ago


Union Pacific rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 95 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

30th of 64 rated delivery companies


Job description

Reference Number: 4893
Department: Engineering
Closing Date: Apply early as this job may be filled at any time.
Rate of Pay: $32.21
Most communications will be done electronically. Please check email, including spam folders, daily.
If you wish to solicit an employee referral for this position, please ensure the employee submits the referral prior to submitting your application.
Description
Join our dynamic team of experienced track laborers who have been dedicated to building and maintaining tracks for Union Pacific for over 150 years! As a Track Laborer - Driver Eligible, you will play a crucial role in ensuring the safe and efficient movement of trains, serving customers across North America.
Required Certifications:
As part of your probationary period, you will be required to obtain certification as a Union Pacific driver. To be eligible for this certification, you must meet the following Motor Vehicle and Medical Requirements:
  1. Minimum age requirement of 21 years.
  2. Possession of a valid driver's license.
  3. Maintaining an acceptable driving record as per your Motor Vehicle Record (MVR).
  4. Obtaining a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) if you will be operating a vehicle(s) with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of 26,000 lbs or greater. If this applies to your role, you will need to acquire your CDL during the probationary period.

Medical Requirements:
Must meet the medical requirements (also called physical qualifications) for commercial motor vehicle drivers are specified by the US Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). The FMCSA physical qualifications for drivers can be found on the FMCSA homepage. Health and Medical Services at Union Pacific Railroad will make the final determination on whether or not an individual meets the FMCSA medical qualifications, and may add additional medical requirements to assure the person can safely perform job tasks, with or without accommodation.
Accountabilities
  • Handle, help unload and move track materials and equipment from rail cars, carts or trucks
  • Remove and replace rails, rail anchors, spikes, ballast, ties and other parts as needed
  • Work with equipment; dig holes and trenches, etc.
  • Observe the condition of the tracks (including beds and right-of-way) for problems or defects
  • Understand and follow company and industry safety rules, practices and procedures
  • Ensure compliance with all railroad rules and regulations for safety, operations and Federal Railroad Administration (FRA)
  • Develop and maintain positive working relationships with coworkers, supervisors, contractors and/or customers and effectively resolve situations that arise
  • Drive company vehicles as the need arises
  • Maintain track beds by cutting vegetation and brush when needed, and sweeping, picking and digging dust or snow from movable track parts
  • Perform other duties as assigned

Qualifications - Required
  • Applicants must have reached the age of 21 or above.
  • Conduct regular inspections of tracks, track beds, and right-of-way to identify any issues or defects.
  • Replace and repair rails, rail anchors, spikes, ballast, ties, and other track components as necessary.
  • Assist in the unloading, movement, and handling of track materials and equipment, including digging holes and trenches.
  • Maintain track beds by clearing vegetation and brush, as well as removing dust or snow from movable track parts.
  • Adhere to company and industry safety rules, practices, and procedures.
  • Operate company vehicles as required.
  • Perform track maintenance, repairs, and installations.
  • Ensure compliance with all railroad regulations, including safety standards and Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) guidelines.
  • Foster positive working relationships with coworkers, supervisors, contractors, and customers, and effectively resolve any arising issues.
  • Carry out additional assigned duties as needed.
  • In order to be considered for this position, candidates are required to successfully complete an assessment in English before proceeding to the interview stage. For more information go to the FAQs on UP.jobs.

Qualifications - Preferred
  • Valid Commercial Driver's License (CDL) - Class A or Class B
  • Demonstrated experience working outdoors in diverse weather conditions (e.g., professional, personal, or volunteer experience)
  • Proficiency in welding or possession of a welding certificate (e.g., acquired through professional, personal, or volunteer experience)
  • Competence in operating heavy equipment, including construction and farm machinery (e.g., acquired through professional, personal, or volunteer experience)
  • Familiarity with working in construction-like environments (e.g., gained through professional, personal, or volunteer experience)
  • Minimum of one year experience in Railroad Maintenance of Way work
  • Flexibility to work on-call, overtime, and various shifts, including weekends, holidays, and 7 days a week

Physical and Mental Job Requirements
  • Candidates are required to successfully pass a Physical Ability Test (PAT) before being considered for employment. This is separate from the medical exam. For more information go to the FAQs on UP.jobs.
  • Physically Demanding Tasks: Must have the capacity to engage in physically demanding tasks, including occasional bending, stooping, and kneeling.
  • Lifting and Carrying: Must be able to occasionally lift and carry items weighing up to 65 lbs, as well as push and pull objects up to 119 lbs.
  • Standing: Must be capable of standing for extended periods during the workday, with the flexibility to change positions periodically for comfort.
  • Walking: Safely walk and maintain balance on uneven surfaces.
  • Climbing: Must be able to climb ladders to access truck storage as necessary.

Work Conditions
  • Must be legally authorized to work in the United States without requiring company sponsorship.
  • Personal Protective Equipment: Candidates must agree to wear prescribed personal protective equipment (PPE) including safety glasses, safety boots, hard hats, and hearing protection as mandated by the company.
  • Location Flexibility: This position is applicable only to individuals who are willing to live and work in the specified locations.
  • Working around Large Equipment: Applicants must be willing and physically capable of working in close proximity to heavy machinery such as railcars, locomotives, and cranes.
  • Emphasis on Safety: Candidates must demonstrate a commitment to practicing safe work habits and following established safety protocols.
  • Travel Requirements: The role entails frequent travel, and applicants must be available to undertake such travel.
  • Transportation: Candidates must have their own reliable transportation.
  • Work Environment: Work will predominantly occur in rural and remote geographic areas.

Union Pacific strives to attract all available talent. We are committed to creating an environment where all people can be their best, personally and professionally, as we remain a merit and performance-based company.
What we offer:
  • A strengths-based, engagement-focused, and performance-oriented culture
  • Ongoing learning, development, and Educational Assistance (including little to no out-of-pocket cost for online and in-person courses at the University of Nebraska at Omaha and Metropolitan Community College)
  • 401(k) retirement plan
  • Employee Stock Purchase Plan with 20% match up to 5%
  • Medical, dental and vision insurance, which are collectively bargained for through union membership
    Wellness and Employee Assistance Programs

Background Check Investigation
* State & Federal criminal history
* Last 7 years of employment history to include military service
* Education
* Prior drug history
* Professional license or certification, if applicable to role
* Driving history, if applicable to role
Please click here to review Union Pacific's policy regarding background investigations.
Medical Review
* Medical Evaluation
* Drug Screen
* Fitness-for-duty assessment to ensure that candidates can safely perform essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation
* Color vision exam, if applicable to role
Equal Employment Opportunity and Reasonable Accommodation
Union Pacific is an equal opportunity employer here . All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status. Union Pacific is committed to providing access and reasonable accommodation in its employment of individuals with disabilities. To request a disability accommodation in the application process, please use this link here to submit a request.
Culture
Union Pacific strives to attract all available talent. We are committed to creating an environment where all people can be their best, personally and professionally, as we remain a merit and performance-based company.

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