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Rail Welding Jobs (NOW HIRING)

VIVA Railings, LLC

Associate- Welding

Lewisville, TX · On-site

The Welding Associate at Viva Railings is the artisan behind the assembly of our state-of-the-art railing products. Responsible for welding and fabricating our premium parts, you will use advanced ...

Road & Rail Services

Railroad Carman

Paris, KY · On-site

$24 - $26/hr

Based on Experience Put Your Welding and Mechanical Skills to Work Road & Rail Services is seeking a skilled Railroad Carman for our Paris operation. This position is responsible for examining ...

Road & Rail Services

Railroad Carman

Paris, KY · On-site

Based on Experience Put Your Welding and Mechanical Skills to Work Road & Rail Services is seeking a skilled Railroad Carman for our Paris operation. This position is responsible for examining ...

Keystone Rail Recovery

Rail Cutter

Rail Cutter Keystone Rail Recovery is a family owned and operated business and we consider everyone ... Works with hydraulic tools, welding, cutting with torches, electrical tools and common hand tools ...

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Rail Welding information

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$14

$29

$45

How much do rail welding jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for rail welding in the United States is $29.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.32 and $34.13 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.

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Cities with the most Rail Welding job openings:

What states have the most Rail Welding jobs?

States with the most job openings for Rail Welding jobs include:

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

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Rail Welding jobs near you
Infographic showing various Rail Welding job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 91% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 4% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,961 per year, or $29.8 per hour.

Welder Helper - Thermite Welding/ Flash Butt Welding

RailWorks Corporation

Aberdeen, WA • On-site

$21/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 29 days ago

RailWorks rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Job ID: 19546
Benefits Offering
RailWorks is committed to helping our employees live better lives. We offer comprehensive benefits packages to eligible employees, including competitive pay, medical, dental and vision coverage, 401(k) with company match, and additional performance incentives.
Compensation
Pay rate: from $21+/hour, depending on experience
Position Summary
The Thermite Welder Helper is responsible for helping and assisting the Thermite Welder to repair railroad tracks in heavy construction environments.
Primary/Essential Responsibilities and Duties
  • Experienced in Railtech Boutet, Inc., Orgo-Thermit, Inc. Thermite Welding Processes
  • Experienced in the use of Oxygen/Propane cutting and preheating processes
  • Experienced with Flash-butt welding
  • Experienced in general railroad track work; such as; rail cutting, rail measuring, rail removal, rail replacement, switch configuration, track construction and restoration.
  • Basic track work duties; spiking, anchoring and surfacing
  • Detects faulty operation of equipment or defective materials and notifies supervisors.
  • Operates equipment per safety policies, rules and regulations.

Required Skills and Qualifications
  • A minimum of 2 years of Thermite Welding or Flash-butt Welding experience in a heavy railroad industrial environment.
  • Thorough knowledge of the Thermite Welding process and procedures.
  • Certified by Contractor Orientation, ERail Safe and Railway Maintenance Machine Operation
  • Experienced in reporting daily activities to Thermite Welder.
  • Experienced in communicating with Thermite Welder regarding job completion of task at hand.
  • Ability to assist Thermite Welder in a problem and help with the best and most cost-effective means for repair.
  • Ability to understand and follow safety policies, rules and regulations.

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions
  • Works outdoors at railroad construction sites.
  • Frequently works in flat, vertical, or overhead positions.
  • Frequently stands, walks, climbs, balances, stoops, and crouches.
  • Uses hands to operate equipment and tools.
  • Performs heavy physical labor; may lift/carry and push/pull objects weighing up to 75 pounds.
  • Exposed to harsh weather conditions including extremely hot and extremely cold weather.
  • Exposed to loud noise, dust and fumes.
  • Must wear personal protective equipment such as safety glasses, safety boots, hard hats, and hearing protection as required by the company.

Footer - EEO
This job description is not intended to represent a complete, comprehensive list of all duties and responsibilities that may be required in this position. There may be unplanned activities and other duties as assigned.
RailWorks is North America's leading rail maintenance and infrastructure solutions provider. With over 100 years of experience, our geographic footprint enables us to quickly serve our customers and provides ample opportunities for our employees to grow their careers within the company. We take on challenging projects every day and our success relies on a collaborative, safe, and open-minded work environment that encourages teamwork, positivity, and ingenuity. We are committed to creating a culture of trust, respect, and acceptance.
RailWorks is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment with RailWorks without regard to an individual's sex, race, religion, creed, color, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, age, disability, veteran status or other legally protected characteristics.

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