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Railcar Inspector Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Road & Rail Services

Railcar Mechanic

Kalamazoo, MI · On-site

$18.50 - $20/hr

What You'll Do As a Railcar Mechanic, you will inspect, maintain, and repair railcars to help ensure they are safe and ready for service. You will use hand tools, welding equipment, cutting torches ...

Independent Rail Solutions LLC

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Railcar Inspection / Repair

Muscatine, IA · On-site

$17 - $19/hr

Key job functions include the inspection and repair of railcars in accordance with regulatory requirements. Repairs include the removal, fabrication, and replacement of railcar parts and components.

Independent Rail Solutions LLC

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Railcar Inspection / Repair

Muscatine, IA · On-site

$17 - $19/hr

Key job functions include the inspection and repair of railcars in accordance with regulatory requirements. Repairs include the removal, fabrication, and replacement of railcar parts and components.

Road & Rail Services

Railcar Mechanic

Kalamazoo, MI · On-site

$18.50 - $20/hr

What You'll Do As a Railcar Mechanic, you will inspect, maintain, and repair railcars to help ensure they are safe and ready for service. You will use hand tools, welding equipment, cutting torches ...

CalmHR Inc

Railcar Mechanic - Newark

Boyertown, PA · On-site

$21.25 - $23/hr

Inspect freight railcars for mechanical defects, damage, or safety issues * Perform repairs and maintenance on railcar components including brakes, couplers, draft systems, and structural components

Road & Rail Services

Railcar Prep/Inspector

Montgomery, AL · On-site

$18 - $21/hr

Railcar Prep & Inspection Technician - Montgomery, AL Location: Montgomery, Alabama Employment Type: Full-Time Pay: Based on Experience Build Your Career in the Rail Industry Road & Rail Services is ...

CalmHR Inc

Railcar Mechanic - Newark

Boyertown, PA · On-site

$21.25 - $23/hr

Inspect freight railcars for mechanical defects, damage, or safety issues * Perform repairs and maintenance on railcar components including brakes, couplers, draft systems, and structural components

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Railcar Inspector information

See salary details

$24.5K

$54.9K

$99K

How much do railcar inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for railcar inspector in the United States is $54,939.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,500.00 and $63,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by railcar inspectors during routine inspections?

Railcar Inspectors often encounter challenges such as working in varying weather conditions, accessing hard-to-reach components under railcars, and accurately identifying subtle signs of wear or damage. They must maintain strict attention to detail and adhere to safety protocols while working around heavy machinery and moving trains. Additionally, inspectors frequently collaborate with repair teams and must communicate findings clearly to ensure timely and effective maintenance.

What does a railcar inspector do?

A Railcar Inspector is responsible for examining and evaluating railcars to ensure they meet safety and regulatory standards. Their duties include checking for mechanical defects, structural damage, and proper functioning of components like brakes, wheels, and couplers. They also document their findings, recommend repairs, and may conduct follow-up inspections after maintenance is performed. This role is vital to maintaining the safety and reliability of rail transportation.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a railcar inspector, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Railcar Inspector, you need a solid understanding of mechanical systems, safety regulations, and inspection protocols, usually supported by a high school diploma or technical training in railroad operations. Familiarity with inspection checklists, diagnostic tools, and regulatory compliance systems like FRA guidelines is essential. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and clear communication are standout soft skills for this role. These skills ensure railcars meet safety standards, prevent accidents, and maintain efficient railway operations.

What is the difference between Railcar Inspector vs Tanker Inspector?

AspectRailcar InspectorTanker Inspector
CertificationsRailroad safety certifications, inspection licensesTank vehicle safety certifications, inspection licenses
Work EnvironmentRail yards, train cars, industrial sitesTankers, chemical plants, transportation hubs
Industry UsageRailroad companies, freight carriersOil & gas, chemical transportation
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

Both Railcar Inspectors and Tanker Inspectors perform safety inspections and require similar certifications. Railcar Inspectors focus on freight railcars in rail yards, while Tanker Inspectors specialize in inspecting tank vehicles used for transporting liquids. Although their work environments differ, their roles are closely related within the transportation safety industry.

More about Railcar Inspector jobs
What cities are hiring for Railcar Inspector jobs? Cities with the most Railcar Inspector job openings:
What states have the most Railcar Inspector jobs? States with the most job openings for Railcar Inspector jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Railcar Inspector jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Railcar Inspector jobs are:
Railcar Inspector jobs near you
Infographic showing various Railcar Inspector job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 14% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,939 per year, or $26.4 per hour.

In-Plant Railcar Lead Technician

Compass Rail Services LLC

Eddyville, IA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago

Job description

Job description

Find your Path and Navigate your future at Compass Rail!

At Compass Rail, we are dedicated to providing top-tier solutions for railcar repair and transloading. With an experienced team and a commitment to excellence, we offer a comprehensive range of services tailored to meet the diverse needs of our clients in the rail transportation industry.

Position Summary

The In-Plant Lead Technician directs daily operations of assigned technicians while ensuring railcar inspections and repairs are completed safely, efficiently, and in accordance with AAR, FRA, customer, and company standards.

Leadership & Supervision
  • Provide daily direction and assign work to technicians.
  • Train, coach, and mentor technicians.
  • Monitor productivity, quality, and attendance.
  • Report performance concerns to the In-Plant Manager.
Operations
  • Perform and verify railcar inspections and repairs.
  • Review repair documentation for accuracy.
  • Coordinate manpower, materials, and tooling.
  • Ensure work complies with AAR, FRA, M-1003, customer, and company requirements.
Administrative & Computer Responsibilities
  • Complete and review reports, work orders, labor entries, inspections, and customer documentation.
  • Utilize Microsoft Office applications, including Outlook, Excel, and Word, along with company software systems to manage reporting, communication, scheduling, and operational records.
  • Maintain accurate electronic records and communicate professionally through email and other business applications.
Customer & Safety Responsibilities
  • Serve as the primary day-to-day customer contact.
  • Lead safety meetings and enforce safe work practices.
  • Ensure technicians comply with company and customer safety requirements.
Required Qualifications
  • Minimum three years of railcar or related mechanical experience.
  • Leadership experience preferred.
  • Valid driver's license with acceptable driving record.
  • Pass pre-employment drug screening and required company drug and alcohol testing.
  • Pass required background screenings.

Why Join Us?

  • Health, Dental, Life, and Vision Benefits
  • Paid Time Off (PTO) and Holiday Pay
  • 401K on Day 1 with Company Match!
  • Bonus Program based on Efficiencies, Quality, Safety, and Customer Satisfaction
  • Travel reimbursements and more!

Apply