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Railroad Inspector Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Federal Railroad Administration

AZ

$89K/yr

A Railroad Safety Inspector (MP&E) provides technical expertise and direction in th execution and administration of rail safety programs to ensure maximum safety in railroad operations relevant to ...

Federal Railroad Administration

CO

$89K/yr

A Railroad Safety Inspector (MP&E) provides technical expertise and direction in th execution and administration of rail safety programs to ensure maximum safety in railroad operations relevant to ...

Federal Railroad Administration

AZ

$89K/yr

A Railroad Safety Inspector (MP&E) provides technical expertise and direction in th execution and administration of rail safety programs to ensure maximum safety in railroad operations relevant to ...

Federal Railroad Administration

AZ

$89K/yr

A Railroad Safety Inspector (MP&E) provides technical expertise and direction in th execution and administration of rail safety programs to ensure maximum safety in railroad operations relevant to ...

Federal Railroad Administration

CA

$89K/yr

A Railroad Safety Inspector (MP&E) provides technical expertise and direction in th execution and administration of rail safety programs to ensure maximum safety in railroad operations relevant to ...

Federal Railroad Administration

CO

$89K/yr

A Railroad Safety Inspector (MP&E) provides technical expertise and direction in th execution and administration of rail safety programs to ensure maximum safety in railroad operations relevant to ...

Federal Railroad Administration

CO

$89K/yr

A Railroad Safety Inspector (MP&E) provides technical expertise and direction in th execution and administration of rail safety programs to ensure maximum safety in railroad operations relevant to ...

Federal Railroad Administration

AZ

$89K/yr

A Railroad Safety Inspector (MP&E) provides technical expertise and direction in th execution and administration of rail safety programs to ensure maximum safety in railroad operations relevant to ...

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Railroad Inspector information

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$24.5K

$54.9K

$99K

How much do railroad inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for railroad 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.

How much do train ticket inspectors get paid?

Train ticket inspectors typically earn an average annual salary between $25,000 and $45,000, depending on experience, location, and employer. They often work flexible hours and may need to pass background checks and customer service assessments.

What kind of inspector gets paid the most?

In the railroad industry, senior or specialized railroad inspectors, such as those overseeing safety compliance or conducting complex technical inspections, tend to earn the highest salaries. Experience, certifications, and the level of responsibility significantly influence pay rates for railroad inspectors.

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.

How to become a railroad inspector?

To become a railroad inspector, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with experience in railroad operations or maintenance. Many positions require passing written exams and physical assessments, and some employers prefer candidates with technical training or certifications related to safety standards and inspection procedures.

What is the highest paying railroad job?

The highest paying railroad jobs are typically executive or management positions such as railroad presidents, chief operating officers, or senior engineers, which can earn six-figure salaries. Specialized roles like locomotive engineers or signal managers with extensive experience and certifications also tend to have higher compensation. These roles often require advanced technical skills, leadership abilities, and industry experience.

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.
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Railroad Inspector jobs near you
Infographic showing various Railroad Inspector job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 62% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 18% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,939 per year, or $26.4 per hour.
Railroad Safety Inspector (Track)- DIRECT HIRE- SME

Railroad Safety Inspector (Track)- DIRECT HIRE- SME

Federal Railroad Administration

Appleton, WI

$89K/yr

Other

Posted 29 days ago

Job description

The position(s) are located in the Office of Railroad Safety, Track and Structures Division. The Track and Structures Division is responsible for executing and administering the track and structures safety programs to ensure maximum safety in railroad operations relevants to railroad track, track configuration, track components, rail integrity, bridge and structures, and railroad workplace safety.

PLEASE NOTE: This vacancy has been amended to add additional locations. 

Qualifications:

To meet the minimum qualifications for this position, you must meet the specialized experience requirements.

To be qualified for a Railroad Safety Inspector (Track), the Qualifications Standard states you MUST have demonstrated knowledge in the following areas: 

  • Railroad industry, including economic and operating considerations and equipment.
  • General safety and health principles and practices applicable to the railroad industry.
  • Railroad accident investigation techniques.
  • Skill in written an oral communication.
  • Knowledge of railroad track system construction, maintenance, testing, or inspection techniques;
  • Knowledge of the capabilities and limitations of various track system configurations; AND
  • Knowledge of Federal railroad track safety standards.

For the GS-12, to qualify, your experience should include all of the above plus at least one year of specialize experience equal or equivalent to the GS-11, which includes the following:

  • Experience applying Federal Railroad track safety standards/regulations for the purpose of inspecting and identifying track safety deficiencies.
  • Experience ensuring railroad compliance with federal regulations by auditing railroad inspections activities, conducting inspections, assessing safety complaints, and performing accident investigations.
  • Experience producing electronic and automated track inspection and violation reports that describe defective track conditions, narrative accident / incident reports and present safety related information to railroad managers, and federal and state stakeholders.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (KSAs): Your qualifications will be evaluated on the basis of your level of knowledge, skills, abilities and/or competencies in the following areas:

  1. Accident Investigation - Knowledge of guidelines, regulations, and procedures associated with an accident investigation including preservation of accident scene, root cause analysis, and evidence detection and handling.
  2. Planning and Evaluating - Organize work, sets priorities, and determine resource requirements; determine short- or long-term goals and strategies to achieve them; coordinate with other organizations or parts of the organization to accomplish goals; monitors progress and evaluates outcomes.
  3. Attention to Detail - Is thorough when performing work and conscientious about attending to detail.
  4. Oral Communication - Make clear and convincing oral presentations. Listen effectively; clarify information as needed.
  5. Written Communication - Write in a clear, concise, organized, and convincing manner for the intended audience.

For all types of consideration, experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional, philanthropic, religious, spiritual, community, student, social).  Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment.  You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
For additional information about applying to Federal positions, please click on the following link:  https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-policies/#url=e4
All applicants must meet all qualification requirements by the closing date of this announcement.

Education:Employment Type: OTHER

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