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Railroad Contractor Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Maintenance Manager

Oelwein, IA · On-site

$85K - $105K/yr

... rail, heavy industrial, or manufacturing environments * Exposure to continuous improvement methodologies Supervisory Responsibility: * Directly manages maintenance technicians and contractors

Maintenance Manager

Oelwein, IA · On-site

$85K - $105K/yr

... rail, heavy industrial, or manufacturing environments * Exposure to continuous improvement methodologies Supervisory Responsibility: * Directly manages maintenance technicians and contractors

Track Laborer - Regional - Onawa, IA

Onawa, IA · On-site

$14.50 - $18.25/hr

... contractors, and customers. You will also need to effectively handle high-pressure situations. * Ensuring strict compliance with all railroad rules and regulations regarding safety, operations, and ...

Showing results 21-40

Railroad Contractor information

See Iowa salary details

$11

$22

$30

How much do railroad contractor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for railroad contractor in Iowa is $22.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.34 and $26.63 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the typical challenges faced by railroad contractors on job sites?

Railroad Contractors commonly encounter challenges such as maintaining project timelines while adhering to strict safety regulations and managing the logistics of heavy equipment in variable weather conditions. Coordinating with multiple teams—including engineers, laborers, and regulatory inspectors—can also require flexibility and strong communication skills. Adapting to the unique requirements of each rail project, such as track layouts or environmental limitations, is another part of the job. However, these challenges contribute to a dynamic and rewarding work environment where every project presents new opportunities for problem-solving and professional growth.

What does a railroad contractor do?

A Railroad Contractor is responsible for the construction, maintenance, and repair of railroad tracks, bridges, and related infrastructure. They work with rail companies and government agencies to ensure tracks are safe, operational, and meet regulations. This job often involves heavy machinery, surveying, welding, and track assembly. Railroad contractors may also handle rail-related earthwork, drainage, and signal systems. Their work is critical to ensuring efficient and reliable rail transportation.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a railroad contractor?

To thrive as a Railroad Contractor, you need strong expertise in railroad construction, civil engineering, project management, and familiarity with rail industry standards. Proficiency with construction management software, track-laying machinery, safety protocols, and often certifications such as OSHA or FRA compliance are essential. Excellent problem-solving, leadership, and communication skills are highly valued for coordinating diverse crews and working with stakeholders. These abilities ensure projects are completed safely, on schedule, and to the precise technical standards required in the rail industry.

What are popular job titles related to Railroad Contractor jobs in Iowa? For Railroad Contractor jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Railroad Contractor jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Railroad Contractor jobs in Iowa are:
Infographic showing various Railroad Contractor job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 21% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,604 per year, or $22.9 per hour.

$25 - $37/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

National Railroad Safety Services, Inc. is seeking dedicated, safety-driven individuals for the Contractor in Charge position in Waterloo, IA. This essential role is responsible for ensuring all work within railroad rights-of-way is performed safely and in compliance with regulations.

Job Description: National Railroad Safety Services, Inc. (NRSS) is seeking a Contractor in Charge (CIC) responsible for overseeing construction, maintenance, and safety compliance for freight railroads, transit systems, state DOTs, and rail industry partners.

Job Requirements:

  • Strong computer, communication, and organizational skills
  • Communicates effectively in both verbal and written formats
  • Ability for long-term travel assignments, including multi-month deployments.
  • Valid Driver's License
  • High School Diploma or Equivalent
  • Minimum of 2 years' experience in a railroad company preferably in the maintenance of way or TY&E departments
  • Successfully completes all required federal, client, and company-specific training.

Job Duties:

  • A safety-focused railroad- approved contractor responsible for overseeing worksite safety and providing flagging services as needed in place of railroad personnel
  • The CIC is responsible for conducting job briefings and ensuring full compliance with Federal Railroad (FRA) regulations (49 CFR 214) during work performed within arm's length of the track.
  • Responsible for monitoring track conditions, approaching trains, and work activities to ensure personnel remain safely clear of active tracks and equipment.
  • Communicate with train dispatchers, engineers, and supervisors via radio, phone, or electronic systems to coordinate train movements and grant permissions within established working limits.
  • Responsible for documenting all activities, including job briefings, incident reports, daily work logs, and electronic forms for submission to management and regulatory agencies.
  • Enforce all Railroad, State, and Federal Policies.

Work Environment:

  • This job operates in a field environment.
  • Travel is expected from 50% to 85% of the time.
  • Ability to work in all weather conditions

Benefits:

  • Compensation is $25 to $37 per hour based on experience
  • Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance
  • Short-Term, Long-Term Disability Insurance
  • Paid Vacation and Holidays
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan

National Railroad Safety Services, Inc., is rapidly expanding and seeking motivated individuals to join our team. If you're looking for a rewarding career with a trusted name in the railroad industry, apply today.

Company Profile: National Railroad Safety Services, Inc. (NRSS) is a certified DBE/WBE firm primarily focused on providing safety services to the railroad industry. NRSS is the most trusted name in the railroad industry for providing qualified field safety staff and safety training. To best serve the railroad industry, NRSS provides all these services in the continental United States, Canada, and Mexico. NRSS has the proven ability and the proven safety record to handle any project.

Closing Statement: National Railroad Safety Services, Inc. (NRSS) is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. Any candidate selected for this position must be able to successfully pass pre-employment/recurrent background checks, drug/alcohol testing, and classroom training.