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Rail Welding Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

RailWorks

Welder Helper

Lynchburg, VA

$18 - $20/hr

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

RailWorks Corporation

Welder Helper

Lynchburg, VA · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

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

RailWorks

Welder Helper

Richmond, VA

$18 - $20/hr

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

RailWorks

Welder Helper

Roanoke, VA

$18 - $20/hr

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

CalmHR Inc

Skippers Shop Welder I

Emporia, VA

... welding experience to join our team in Bishopville, South Carolina. This employee will be performing repairs to large metal containers. Safety is the number 1 priority with First Response Rail ...

CalmHR Inc

Skippers Shop Welder I

Emporia, VA · On-site

... welding experience to join our team in Bishopville, South Carolina. This employee will be performing repairs to large metal containers. Safety is the number 1 priority with First Response Rail ...

General Labor Services

Be Seen First

Welder-Fabricator

Fredericksburg, VA · On-site

$28/hr

Build rails and fabricate components to specifications. * Tack forms and perform form maintenance and repairs. * Read and interpret blueprints, shop drawings, and fabrication plans. * Operate welding ...

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All JobsRail Welding JobsRail Welding Jobs in Virginia

Rail Welding information

See Virginia salary details

$14

$29

$45

How much do rail welding jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for rail welding in Virginia is $29.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.12 and $33.85 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 popular job titles related to Rail Welding jobs in Virginia? For Rail Welding jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Rail Welding jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Rail Welding jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Rail Welding jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Rail Welding job openings:
Rail Welding jobs near you
Infographic showing various Rail Welding job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $61,429 per year, or $29.5 per hour.

Skippers Shop Welder I

1st Response Rail Service, Inc

Emporia, VA

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Description

First Response Rail Service, Inc.

RAIL, WASTE & LOGISTICS

Professional solutions. Expert service.


Since 2004, First Response Rail Service, Inc. has been a privately owned company delivering top-notch rail asset management, transloading logistics, operational support, rail fleet inspections and minor repairs, and intermodal container repair services.

Want to know more? Explore our world by visiting our website at firstresponserail.com and see how we keep things on track!

At First Response Rail, we pride ourselves on being a progressive and innovative company dedicated to supporting the rail industry. We are committed to fostering an environment where our employees can grow, develop their skills, and tackle some of the most exciting projects in the industry.


First Response Rail Service is currently looking to fill an open position for dedicated and skilled Welder/Fitter with welding experience to join our team in Bishopville, South Carolina. This employee will be performing repairs to large metal containers. 

Safety is the number 1 priority with First Response Rail Service, so it is vital that all company guidelines and safety rules are followed while on the job. 


Job Overview:

Fit metal sheets onto large metal containers.

Perform MIG welding on large metal containers.

Set up and maintain welding equipment, including selecting the appropriate settings.

The ideal candidate will possess a strong mechanical and welding background.

Inspect welds for accuracy and quality, making necessary adjustments to maintain precision.

Operate hand and power tools to prepare materials for welding.

Maintain a clean and organized work area.

Adhere to safety protocols and regulations to ensure a safe working environment

Requirements

Welding experience is required, at least 2 years, a welding test will be administered. 

Strong Mechanical background

Ability to use basic hand tools

Ability to constantly use bending, squatting, twisting, and walking motions throughout the entire work shift

Must be able to work independently

Ability to occasionally climb, using various types of ladders.

Ability to constantly work in an outdoor environment, exposed to all weather elements, including extreme hot and cold temperatures, dust and noisy conditions

Minimum of 2 years of MIG welding experience.

Valid Driver's License and reliable transportation

Ability to pass a drug screen and background check.

Certification in welding is a plus.

Strong attention to detail and a commitment to producing high-quality work.

Good problem-solving and troubleshooting skills.

Excellent communication and teamwork abilities.

Strong commitment to workplace safety.

Apply