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Rail Works Jobs in Chehalis, WA (NOW HIRING)

Using specific railway operating rules, instructions and techniques, this position ensures that ... Works outdoors at construction sites and may be exposed to harsh weather conditions including very ...

Complies with all company and railroad safety rules, practices, and regulations. Required Skills ... Works outdoors at construction sites * Performs physical activities that require considerable use ...

LABORER

Chehalis, WA · On-site

$22 - $28/hr

Complies with all company and railroad safety rules, practices, and regulations. Required Skills ... Works outdoors at construction sites * Performs physical activities that require considerable use ...

EQUIPMENT OPERATOR

Chehalis, WA · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Operates equipment to move, load, or unload material or perform other rail related maintenance ... Works at construction sites * Uses hands to handle and control materials, tools and vehicle ...

Operates equipment to move, load, or unload material or perform other rail related maintenance ... Works at construction sites * Uses hands to handle and control materials, tools and vehicle ...

Rail Works information

See Chehalis, WA salary details

$21

$26

$31

How much do rail works jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for rail works in Chehalis, WA is $26.27, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.62 and $28.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is rail works?

Rail works refer to the construction, maintenance, and repair of railway infrastructure, including tracks, stations, signaling systems, and related structures. This work ensures that rail networks are safe, efficient, and reliable for transporting passengers and goods. Rail works can involve tasks such as laying new tracks, upgrading old rails, inspecting and replacing components, and managing large-scale rail projects. Professionals involved in rail works may include engineers, laborers, project managers, and safety inspectors. The job often requires specialized skills, adherence to safety standards, and the ability to work in varying weather and time conditions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a rail works professional?

To thrive as a Rail Works professional, you need a solid understanding of rail infrastructure, safety protocols, and construction or maintenance techniques, often supported by relevant vocational training or certifications. Familiarity with specialized rail tools, heavy machinery, and safety systems such as Personal Track Safety (PTS) certification is typically required. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and problem-solving abilities are essential soft skills in this role. These skills ensure safe, efficient, and high-quality rail operations and maintenance in a safety-critical environment.

What are some common challenges faced in rail works roles and how can new employees prepare for them?

Rail Works roles often involve working in varying weather conditions, adhering to strict safety protocols, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. New employees may find the early morning or overnight shifts challenging, as well as the physical demands of the job. To prepare, it's helpful to familiarize yourself with safety regulations, develop good communication skills for team coordination, and maintain physical fitness. Embracing a proactive attitude toward learning and safety can help ease the transition and contribute positively to both personal and team success.

What cities near Chehalis, WA are hiring for Rail Works jobs?

Cities near Chehalis, WA with the most Rail Works job openings:

Infographic showing various Rail Works job openings in Chehalis, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $54,632 per year, or $26.3 per hour.

Welder Helper - Thermite Welding/ Flash Butt Welding

RailWorks

Chehalis, WA

$21/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 20 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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