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Railroad Inspector Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

Additional qualifications desired include experience in conducting fleet inspections, knowledge of general maintenance shop practices and processes, and equipment installation in a rail or industrial ...

Inspect the property for safety hazards and report maintenance concerns. * Assist with fencing ... Follow all company safety policies, OSHA regulations, and railroad safety procedures. * Travel to ...

Inspect the property for safety hazards and report maintenance concerns. * Assist with fencing ... Follow all company safety policies, OSHA regulations, and railroad safety procedures. * Travel to ...

Inspect the property for safety hazards and report maintenance concerns. * Assist with fencing ... Follow all company safety policies, OSHA regulations, and railroad safety procedures. * Travel to ...

Inspect the property for safety hazards and report maintenance concerns. * Assist with fencing ... Follow all company safety policies, OSHA regulations, and railroad safety procedures. * Travel to ...

Inspect the property for safety hazards and report maintenance concerns. * Assist with fencing ... Follow all company safety policies, OSHA regulations, and railroad safety procedures. * Travel to ...

A career in transportation is more than bridges, roads, and rail. As we plan, design, and manage ... Stantec is seeking Senior Construction Inspectors (or Transportation Engineering Technicians of ...

Inspect the property for safety hazards and report maintenance concerns. * Assist with fencing ... Follow all company safety policies, OSHA regulations, and railroad safety procedures. * Travel to ...

Inspect the property for safety hazards and report maintenance concerns. * Assist with fencing ... Follow all company safety policies, OSHA regulations, and railroad safety procedures. * Travel to ...

Inspect the property for safety hazards and report maintenance concerns. * Assist with fencing ... Follow all company safety policies, OSHA regulations, and railroad safety procedures. * Travel to ...

Inspect the property for safety hazards and report maintenance concerns. * Assist with fencing ... Follow all company safety policies, OSHA regulations, and railroad safety procedures. * Travel to ...

Inspect the property for safety hazards and report maintenance concerns. * Assist with fencing ... Follow all company safety policies, OSHA regulations, and railroad safety procedures. * Travel to ...

Showing results 41-60

Railroad Inspector information

See Washington, DC salary details

$27.7K

$62.2K

$112.1K

How much do railroad inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for railroad inspector in Washington, DC is $62,224.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,600.00 and $71,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a railroad inspector do?

A Railroad Inspector is responsible for examining railroad equipment, tracks, and operations to ensure compliance with federal and state safety regulations. They inspect locomotives, railcars, signals, and infrastructure, looking for defects or safety hazards. Railroad Inspectors also investigate accidents, enforce safety standards, and may issue citations or recommend corrective actions. Their work helps ensure the safety and reliability of rail transportation for both freight and passengers.

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

To thrive as a Railroad Inspector, you need a comprehensive understanding of railroad operations, safety regulations, and inspection procedures, often supported by technical training or relevant certifications. Familiarity with inspection tools, track geometry measurement systems, and reporting software is typically required. Attention to detail, strong analytical skills, and effective communication are essential soft skills for this role. These abilities ensure the safety, reliability, and compliance of rail systems, which are critical for public safety and efficient transportation.

What are common challenges faced by railroad inspectors during field inspections?

Railroad Inspectors often encounter challenges such as working in varying weather conditions, navigating remote or hazardous locations, and adhering to strict safety protocols. Inspections can require close attention to detail to identify wear, defects, or regulatory non-compliance in rail infrastructure and equipment. Additionally, balancing thoroughness with efficiency and collaborating with train crews or maintenance staff to address issues promptly are important aspects of the role. These challenges are essential for ensuring the overall safety and reliability of rail operations.

How to become a railroad inspector?

To become a railroad inspector, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and relevant experience in railroad operations or maintenance. Many positions require passing written exams and physical assessments, and some employers prefer candidates with certifications such as the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) safety certifications or related technical training. On-the-job training is common, and inspectors often work in environments that require attention to safety regulations and technical standards.

What are popular job titles related to Railroad Inspector jobs in Washington, DC?

For Railroad Inspector jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Railroad Inspector jobs in Washington, DC look for?

The top searched job categories for Railroad Inspector jobs in Washington, DC are:

Infographic showing various Railroad Inspector job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 73% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 6% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,224 per year, or $29.9 per hour.

Construction Inspector (VDOT)

M&J Engineering

Washington, DC • On-site

$90K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 2 days ago


Job description

M&J Engineering, D.P.C. (M&J) is a quality provider of multi-discipline engineering and construction management services with a focus on “Innovative and State-of-the Art Solutions”. We specialize in providing full-service construction management, CE&I and design services for a full spectrum of industries encompassing construction projects for heavy highway roadway, bridge, railroad, tunnel, airport, seaport and marine, commercial and institutional building facilities, ITS, mechanical, electrical, environmental, water, sewer, utility, as well as design-build services for both new infrastructure and renovation projects. M&J proudly serves a broad range of clients, including federal and state agencies, local municipalities, private owners, architects, engineers, and contractors.

Since its inception in 2004, the M&J Company has steadily evolved its business and built a diverse and dedicated employee force of over 300, fostered by a culture that serves to attract, retain, and develop a workforce that is inclusive and representative of the communities that we serve. M&J bases its employment and personnel decisions on the principles of Equal Employment Opportunity, with the intent to further the Company’s Affirmative Action commitment. M&J does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy, gender identity or expression, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, citizenship status, employment status, veteran or military status, or any other category protected by law. M&J vigorously pursues opportunities to recruit and develop job candidates who have the desire and potential for becoming qualified employees through our Affirmative Action Plan.

We are seeking an experienced Construction Inspector to inspect monitors and inspect highway, roadway, structure, and bridge construction and maintenance projects. Operating under varying levels of supervision—ranging from entry-level workforce development roles to independent Lead Inspectors—this position ensures contractor compliance with project plans, specifications, and agency standards (such as VDOT) to deliver a safe, high-quality transportation system.

Salary: $90,000–$130,000 annually, commensurate with experience, certifications, and VDOT project expertise

Apply through this site or send resume to recruit@mjengineers.com.


  • Inspect all phases of civil construction—including excavations, drainage structures, traffic control devices, road surfaces, and structures—to ensure work matches engineering plans and contract specifications.
  • Review the placement of and perform standard field tests on construction materials; assist in obtaining designated highway material certifications through on-the-job and classroom training.
  • Verify lines, grades, dimensions, and elevations using standard survey and field engineering equipment.
  • Enforce the proper installation of erosion/siltation controls, work zone setups, and traffic control safety devices.
  • Coordinate and schedule construction phases and inspection timelines with the Contractor’s superintendent and agency personnel.
  • Manage project coordination with property owners, utility companies, and local/federal government representatives, especially on environmentally sensitive or high-traffic projects.
  • Observe, document, and communicate daily production rates and project milestones with contractors; immediately identify and report non-compliant work or violations of the plan of operations.
  • Recommend modifications to construction plans to adapt to changing field conditions or to achieve project cost savings.
  • Maintain meticulous project records, including daily inspector diaries, workbooks, materials notebooks, and as-built plans.
  • Take precise field measurements of pay items, track pay quantities, and assist with or prepare monthly progress estimates.
  • Evaluate progress schedules, perform work order analyses, and aid in the development of work orders or investigations into Notices of Intent.
  • Perform additional duties as assigned to support successful project delivery.

  • Comprehensive knowledge of roadway, structure, and bridge construction, maintenance, repair, and rehabilitation methods, materials, standards, and specifications.
  • Comprehensive knowledge of VDOT Road and Bridge Specifications, Road and Bridge Standards, Construction Manual, Inspector Manual, and the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD).
  • Thorough understanding of complex construction plans, symbols, engineering terminology, and specifications.
  • Deep knowledge of state and federal guidelines and regulations concerning environmental protection, job site safety, and Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO).
  • Proven ability to provide technical supervision, guidance, and leadership to a team of field inspectors.
  • Ability to apply advanced mathematical formulas and field management principles to independently determine, authorize, and execute major field adjustments.
  • Proficient in preparing agendas for, scheduling, and conducting formal project-related meetings.
  • Ability to draft formal, professional correspondence that clearly communicates complex technical, contractual, or regulatory information to agency staff, contractors, and the general public.
  • Ability to maintain detailed, legally defensible, and accurate project records (including daily diaries, materials notebooks, and as-built plans).
  • Competency in performing, reviewing, and documenting specialized materials testing in the field.
Licensure/Certifications and Experiences

VDOT Certifications

  • Soil and Aggregate Compaction - NICET LEVEL II*
  • Asphalt Field Level I & II
  • Hydraulic Cement Concrete Field - ACI Concrete Field Level I, or WACEL Concrete I, or NICET LEVEL II*
  • Pavement Marking
  • Slurry Surfacing
  • Surface Treatment
  • Flagger Certification
  • GRIT (Guardrail Certification)
  • *Beginning in 2013, VDOT Materials Division will no longer be recognizing Mid-Atlantic Regional Technician Certification Program (MARTCP) certifications; current VDOT Letters of Reciprocity will remain valid until the expiration of the MARTCP or state DOT certification that the letter is based on.
  • VDOT Materials Division will start recognizing NICET Level II Certifications in Soils and Concrete.

Other Certifications

  • Certification for Erosion and Sediment Control Inspection - Virginia DEQ
  • Nuclear Gauge Safety Training - Nuclear Regulatory Commission Recognized Provided
  • Stormwater Management (Inspector) Certification (Obtained prior to installation of stormwater items)
  • Intermediate Work Zone Traffic Control - VDOT Approved Provider
  • 10 Hour OSHA Safety Training - OSHA
  • 7+ year of experience

M&J is a leader in providing quality engineering consulting services to a diverse and exciting client base.  We attract experienced professionals who understand proactive client service, safety, risk management and loss prevention practices, quality control, teamwork, and the development of younger staff.  We seek employees who enjoy their work, desire continuous improvement, and want to contribute to the vision and growth of a quality, employee-owned, professional firm. To all full-time employees we provide a comprehensive package of benefits, including medical, dental and eye insurance, 401(k) retirement plan, life insurance, etc. Salary will depend on experience and credentials.