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Rail Worker Jobs (NOW HIRING)

empirical foods, inc.

Rail Operator

Garden City, KS · On-site

The Rail Operator is responsible for ensuring the rail line is maintained in accordance to ... Ability to maintain a safe working environment. * Excellent teamwork skills * Basic computer ...

Quantix SCS LLC

Rail Operator

Morris, IL · On-site

$25 - $28/hr

Basic knowledge and good safety record in working in an industrial setting. * Good understanding of Rail Track switching &Track Systems. * Good understanding of Train air &Brake systems as well as ...

Marmon

Rail Switching Technician

Richmond, VA · On-site

$18.50 - $20.50/hr

This position is ideal for individuals who enjoy working outdoors, operating equipment, and being ... Our teams deliver on-site rail switching, material handling and transloading, track construction ...

Louis Dreyfus Company

Rail Operator

Upper Sandusky, OH · On-site

Operate and maintain the rail engines in good working order and notifies superiors of rail engine or rail yard issues * Inspects and cleans railcars to make sure final products are not contaminated ...

Marmon

Rail Switching Technician

Louisville, KY

$18 - $20/hr

This position is ideal for individuals who enjoy working outdoors, operating equipment, and being ... Rail Switching Technicians are responsible for safely operating locomotives and rail equipment ...

King County

Rail Electrical Worker Crew Chief

Seattle, WA · On-site

$76.50/hr

The Rail Electrical Worker Crew Chief will be charged with supervising staff to troubleshoot, maintain, repair, upgrade, and perform comprehensive preventive maintenance on assigned Rail electrical ...

Wallenius Wilhelmsen

Rail Loader

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$31.75/hr

Rail Loader Preparing railcars for shipment. driving, loading, and securing vehicles for shipment ... WORKING CONDITIONS Environmental conditions vary by location, including indoor and outdoor settings.

Wallenius Wilhelmsen

Rail Loader

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$31.75/hr

Rail Loader Preparing railcars for shipment. driving, loading, and securing vehicles for shipment ... WORKING CONDITIONS Environmental conditions vary by location, including indoor and outdoor settings.

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Rail Worker information

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$11

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How much do rail worker jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for rail worker in the United States is $21.17, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $25.00 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

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 qualifications do you need to be a rail worker?

To become a rail worker, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with relevant training or experience in railway operations or safety procedures. Certifications such as OSHA safety training or specialized technical licenses may be required, and physical fitness is often necessary due to the demanding nature of the work environment.

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.

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.
More about Rail Worker jobs
What cities are hiring for Rail Worker jobs? Cities with the most Rail Worker job openings:
What states have the most Rail Worker jobs? States with the most job openings for Rail Worker jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Rail Worker jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Rail Worker jobs are:
Rail Worker jobs near you
Infographic showing various Rail Worker job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,035 per year, or $21.2 per hour.

Rail Track Maintainer

Canadian National Railway

Baudette, MN • On-site

$34.84/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 11 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

136th of 359 rated logistics

Job description

Qualified Rate : $34.84 Per hour
Please note that new hires in this role may be paid a lower hourly rate during their qualifying period. In addition, CN employees are also eligible to an employee share investment plan (ESIP), Pension, Benefits, Railroad Retirement Benefits (RRB) and other perks.
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)

About CN
CN is a premium railroad that sustainably generates value for our customers, shareholders, employees, and stakeholders with an unwavering commitment to safety and service. Essential to the economy, to the customers, and to the communities it serves, CN safely transports more than 300 million tons of natural resources, manufactured products, and finished goods throughout North America every year. CN's network connects Canada's Eastern and Western coasts with the U.S. South through a 20,000-mile rail network. CN and its affiliates have been contributing to community prosperity and sustainable trade since 1919. CN powers the North American economy and is committed to programs supporting social responsibility and environmental stewardship.
At CN, we are dedicated to building North America's safest, most inclusive and sustainable railroad, which includes reflecting the communities in which we operate. Research shows that candidates often don't apply unless they feel they fit the job posting at 100%. To all potential applicants, even if you don't meet every job requirement listed in a posting, we still encourage you to apply. If you require an accommodation for the recruitment process (including alternate formats of materials, accessible meeting rooms or other accommodations), please get in touch with our team at cnrecruitment@cn.ca.
As an equal opportunity employer, qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, and other protected status as required by applicable law.
Please monitor your email on a regular basis as communication to applicants is done via email.

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