ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Railroad Engineering Jobs (NOW HIRING)

next page

Showing results 1-20

People also search for

All JobsRailroad Engineering Jobs

Railroad Engineering information

See salary details

$11K

$56K

$133K

How much do railroad engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for railroad engineering in the United States is $55,971.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $34,000.00 and $59,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges railroad engineers face when working on infrastructure projects?

Railroad engineers often encounter challenges such as coordinating with multiple stakeholders, adhering to strict safety regulations, and managing construction schedules that minimize disruption to rail services. Projects can involve working in remote or harsh environments, requiring adaptability and strong problem-solving skills. Additionally, engineers must stay up-to-date with evolving technologies and standards to ensure rail systems remain efficient and safe.

What is railroad engineering?

Railroad engineering is a specialized branch of civil engineering that focuses on the design, construction, and maintenance of railway systems. This includes the development of tracks, bridges, tunnels, signaling systems, and related infrastructure to ensure safe and efficient train operations. Railroad engineers work on both freight and passenger rail networks, addressing challenges such as track alignment, load distribution, and environmental impact. Their expertise is essential for the expansion and modernization of rail transportation, which plays a crucial role in moving people and goods.

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

To thrive as a Railroad Engineer, you need a strong background in civil or mechanical engineering, knowledge of rail systems, and often a relevant engineering degree or professional licensure (PE). Familiarity with CAD software, rail design tools, and safety regulations (such as FRA standards) is typically required. Excellent problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure the safe, efficient, and innovative design, construction, and maintenance of rail infrastructure.

What is the difference between Railroad Engineering vs Civil Engineering?

AspectRailroad EngineeringCivil Engineering
CredentialsBachelor's in Railroad Engineering or Civil Engineering, Professional Engineer (PE) license often preferredBachelor's in Civil Engineering, PE license common
Work EnvironmentRailroad construction sites, track maintenance, infrastructure projects specific to railroadsVaried environments including roads, bridges, buildings, and infrastructure projects
Industry UsagePrimarily in railroad companies, transit agencies, infrastructure firmsBroad industry including transportation, construction, urban planning

Railroad Engineering focuses specifically on designing, constructing, and maintaining railway systems, while Civil Engineering covers a wider range of infrastructure projects. Both roles require similar credentials and often overlap in work environments, but Railroad Engineering is specialized for rail systems.

More about Railroad Engineering jobs
What cities are hiring for Railroad Engineering jobs? Cities with the most Railroad Engineering job openings:
What states have the most Railroad Engineering jobs? States with the most job openings for Railroad Engineering jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Railroad Engineering jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Railroad Engineering jobs are:
Railroad Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Railroad Engineering job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, and 4% Part Time. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,971 per year, or $26.9 per hour.
Railroad Flagger

Railroad Flagger

National Railroad Safety Services

San Diego, CA

$25 - $37/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Railroad Flagging
Location: San Diego, CA
Job Type: Full-Time
Reports To: District Manager
Travel: Yes, travel is expected for this position (50% - 85% on average).
Compensation: $25 - $37 based on experience

Job Description:

National Railroad Safety Services, Inc. (NRSS) is hiring a Railroad Flagger. This role keeps workers safe on train tracks by controlling train movements and following federal safety rules. The job supports major railroads, smaller rail lines, transit systems, state transportation projects, and contractors.

Required Experience: Minimum 2 years of experience with a Class 1 Railroad, Regional Short Line, Transit System, State DOT Rail Division, Railroad Supplier, Railroad Contractor, and/or Railroad Consultant; preferably within the Maintenance Of Way (MOW) Department.

Job Requirements:

  • Skilled with basic computer tools, including Citrix, email, phone, and texting apps
  • Comfortable using Android tablets and smartphones
  • Highly organized with strong attention to detail
  • Good verbal and written communication skills
  • Knowledge of railroad engineering, design, construction, and safety
  • Able to build and maintain strong client relationships
  • Willing to travel for long periods (even months at a time)
  • Able to complete required federal, client, and company training

Job Duties:

  • Coordinate activities at the job site
  • Communicate clearly with dispatchers, train crews, railroad staff, and contractors
  • Lead safety briefings before work begins
  • Follow and enforce all railroad, state, and federal rules
  • Ensure contractors meet training requirements
  • Spot and address any rule violations
  • Complete daily reports on work activities
  • Maintain on-track safety following federal regulations

Work Environment:

  • This job operates in a field environment.
  • Must communicate clearly in English (speaking, reading, and writing)
  • Must be willing to travel or drive long distances
  • Must be able to stand for long periods and walk on uneven ground
  • Must have good vision (near, far, color, and peripheral)
  • Must handle extreme weather (hot and cold)
  • Must work in dusty and noisy environments
  • Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds

Benefits:

  • Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance
  • Short-Term, Long-Term Disability Insurance
  • Paid Vacation and Holidays
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan

Required Education: High School Diploma or Equivalent.

Keywords: Assistant Roadmaster, Bridge Inspector, Bridge Manager, Bridge Maintainer, Bridge Supervisor, Division Engineer (DE), Employee In Charge (EIC), Flagger, Flagging, Flagman, Foreman, Foremen, Maintenance Of Way (MOW), Manager Track Maintenance (MTM), Manager Track Projects (MTP), Rail, Railroad, Railroad Project Manager, Railway, Railway Project Manager, Roadmaster, Roadway Worker, Roadway Worker In Charge (RWIC), Roadway Worker Protection (RWP), Safety, Signal Inspector, Signal Maintainer, Signal Manager, Signal Supervisor, Track Inspector, Track Maintainer, Track Manager, Track Supervisor.

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.

Safety Commitment: All employees at NRSS must always prioritize safety. No job is so urgent that it can't be done safely. Safety is a core value, ensuring the protection of workers, customers, and communities while maintaining leadership in railroad safety.

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.


Apply