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Rail Worker Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

CN

Rail Track Maintainer

Baudette, MN · On-site

$34.84/hr

Rail Track Maintainer At CN, we are committed to our pursuit of excellence. We take pride in ... You'll be working on all types of equipment and structures designed to support the distribution of ...

CN

Rail Track Maintainer

Virginia, MN · On-site

$34.84/hr

Rail Track Maintainer At CN, we are committed to our pursuit of excellence. We take pride in ... You'll be working on all types of equipment and structures designed to support the distribution of ...

CN

Rail Track Maintainer

Iron, MN · On-site

$34.84/hr

Rail Track Maintainer At CN, we are committed to our pursuit of excellence. We take pride in ... You'll be working on all types of equipment and structures designed to support the distribution of ...

Cargill

Rail Execution Specialist

Wayzata, MN

$64K - $80K/yr

Experience working directly with rail carriers and transportation service providers. * Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills. * Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast ...

Cargill

Rail Execution Specialist

Wayzata, MN · On-site

$64K - $80K/yr

Experience working directly with rail carriers and transportation service providers. * Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills. * Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast ...

Metropolitan Council

Track Maintainer

Saint Paul, MN · On-site

$82K - $91K/yr

... railroad maintenance-of-way worker including experience operating hi-rail equipment. Licensure Requirement: * Valid driver's license with acceptable driving record. * Must Obtain Commercial Driver ...

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Rail Worker information

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How much do rail worker jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for rail worker in Minnesota is $20.74, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.97 and $24.47 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a rail worker?

Rail workers are professionals who build, maintain, and repair railway tracks, trains, and related infrastructure. Their duties include inspecting tracks, operating track-laying machinery, fixing signals, and ensuring the safe and efficient movement of trains. Rail workers may specialize in different areas such as track maintenance, train operation, or signal and communication systems. Their work is essential for the safety and reliability of rail transportation systems. Rail workers often work outdoors and may be required to work nights, weekends, and in all weather conditions.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a rail worker?

To thrive as a Rail Worker, you need a solid understanding of railway operations, mechanical aptitude, and physical fitness, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with tools such as rail track inspection equipment, signaling systems, and safety procedures is essential, and some roles may require specialized certifications like OSHA training. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication are standout soft skills in this position. These competencies ensure safe, efficient rail operations and help prevent accidents or service disruptions.

What common challenges do rail workers face on the job, and how are they addressed?

Rail workers often encounter challenges such as working outdoors in various weather conditions, handling physically demanding tasks, and maintaining strict safety protocols. To address these, employers provide comprehensive safety training, personal protective equipment, and regular breaks. Additionally, teamwork and clear communication are emphasized to ensure tasks are completed efficiently and safely, reducing the risk of accidents and injuries.

What is the difference between Rail Worker vs Train Conductor?

AspectRail WorkerTrain Conductor
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; safety trainingHigh school diploma; safety and operational training
Work EnvironmentRail yards, tracks, maintenance sitesOnboard trains, stations, terminals
Employer & Industry UsageRailroads, freight and passenger companiesPassenger rail services, commuter trains
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Rail workers perform maintenance, track inspection, and safety tasks in rail yards and along tracks, ensuring the infrastructure is operational. Train conductors primarily operate onboard trains, managing passenger safety, ticketing, and communication with the crew. While both roles are essential in the rail industry, rail workers focus on infrastructure and safety, whereas train conductors handle train operations and passenger service.

How do you become a rail worker?

To become a rail worker, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, relevant experience or training, and sometimes a commercial driver's license or safety certifications. Many positions require passing background checks and drug tests, and on-the-job training is common to learn safety procedures and equipment operation.

What are popular job titles related to Rail Worker jobs in Minnesota?

For Rail Worker jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Rail Worker jobs in Minnesota look for?

The top searched job categories for Rail Worker jobs in Minnesota are:

What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Rail Worker jobs?

Cities in Minnesota with the most Rail Worker job openings:

Rail Worker jobs near you
Infographic showing various Rail Worker job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,129 per year, or $20.7 per hour.

Rail Track Maintainer

Canadian National Railway Company

Baudette, MN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 25 days ago

Canadian National Railway rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 49 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

135th of 365 rated logistics

Job description

Rail Track Maintainer

At CN, we are committed to our pursuit of excellence. We take pride in delivering work of the highest standard, continually innovating to shape the railroad of the future. As responsible railroaders, we make the right decisions every time, putting safety first, acting with unwavering integrity, and holding ourselves accountable for our actions. We believe in succeeding together-by fostering inclusivity and collaboration, we sustainably deliver exceptional results for our customers.

If you are a skilled trades person or interested in skilled trades and continuous learning in a safety-focused environment, working at CN could be a great fit for you. You'll be working on all types of equipment and structures designed to support the distribution of freight across North America. Enjoy paid training and evolve your skills. The careers we offer are meaningful because the work we do matters. Join us and get your career moving!  

Job Summary

The Rail Track Maintainer is responsible for inspecting, repairing and replacing rails, ties, switches and ballasts. The role is performed outdoors in various types of weather and environmental conditions and ensures a safe working environment.

Working Conditions
  • Shift work, with overtime when required.
  • Long periods of travel required, including overnight.
  • Primarily work outdoors in all weather conditions.
  • Repetitive physical activity.
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds frequently, and up to 70 pounds occasionally.
Major Responsibilities
  • Maintain CN's train rails, ties, switches and ballasts through inspection, repair, and replacement.
  • Maintain various hand tools for assigned work.
  • Remove and replace defective ties, rails spikes, and anchors.
  • Repair deviations in track surface, alignment, and gauge.
  • Install and repair street and railroad crossings and assist in the replacement or repair of items such as power-operated switches and insulated joints.
  • Unload ballasts and distribute track material.
  • Sort used track material for loading.
  • Ensure railroad right-of-way is clear of brush, vegetation, snow and litter.
  • Ensure a safe working environment, by following CN's safety policies and procedures.
Requirements
  • Relevant work experience in similar working conditions or regulatory and safety environment.
  • Experience operating heavy equipment and machinery.
  • High School Diploma, General Education Diploma (GED), or equivalent.
  • Valid driver's license.
  • Must be at least 18 years of age.
  • Must meet all medical fitness for duty requirements for the position, including requirements for Safety.
  • Ability to work autonomously, adapt to different situations and handle stress.
  • Demonstrate good teamwork and maintain positive interactions with others.
  • Dedicated to getting the job done while meeting established standards of quality, safety, productivity and client satisfaction.
  • Displays common sense and good judgment.
  • Hand-eye coordination.
  • Grasping skills
Assets
  • Welding skills
  • Knowledge of signals or Railroad Operating Rules
What We Offer
  • Competitive Wages, Benefits, and Pension Plan
  • Paid Training and Career Development
  • Medical, vision, and dental insurance
  • 24/7 Telemedicine Service
  • Employee Share Investment Plan
  • Educational Financial Assistance Program
  • Employee Resource Groups (ERGs)
  • Extensive Employee Discount Program
  • Employee & Family Assistance Program (EFAP)
Paid Training

Successful candidates will take part in a paid 5-week training program at a CN Campus (Homewood, IL) with additional on-the-job training to help ensure that they have received the adequate knowledge to operate in accordance with regulatory requirements and CN's safety standards. The training is primarily on health and safety rules as successful completion of the classroom and on-the-job training is required to continue employment as a Track Maintainer at CN.

Successful Candidate Process:

  • Medical assessment (including drug, hearing, and vision).
  • Criminal background check.
  • Offer Letter

Paid Training Structure:

  • 5 weeks at CN Campus (Homewood, IL) 

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