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Railroad Lineman Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Job Summary Lineman Trainees are responsible for the construction, maintenance, and installation of ... Previous electric traction railroad experience preferred. * CDL License Communications and ...

Job Summary Lineman Trainees are responsible for the construction, maintenance, and installation of ... Previous electric traction railroad experience preferred. * CDL License Communications and ...

Job Summary Lineman Trainees are responsible for the construction, maintenance, and installation of ... Previous electric traction railroad experience preferred. * CDL License Communications and ...

Job Summary Lineman Trainees are responsible for the construction, maintenance, and installation of ... Previous electric traction railroad experience preferred. * CDL License Communications and ...

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Railroad Lineman information

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$14

$41

$60

How much do railroad lineman jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for railroad lineman in the United States is $41.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.61 and $53.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is 32 too old to become a lineman?

Railroad linemen can typically start at age 32, as the job often values physical fitness, technical skills, and safety training over age. Many companies accept mature candidates who pass physical and background requirements, and prior experience in related trades can be advantageous. Age limits are generally flexible as long as the candidate can meet the job's physical demands and obtain necessary certifications.

What does a railroad lineman do?

A railroad lineman installs, maintains, and repairs electrical systems and signals on railway tracks and infrastructure. They work outdoors in various weather conditions, often using specialized tools and safety equipment, and typically require knowledge of electrical systems and safety protocols. The role involves climbing, working at heights, and adhering to strict safety standards to ensure railway operations run smoothly.

What is the highest paid type of lineman?

In the railroad industry, the highest paid type of lineman is typically a senior or specialized lineman with extensive experience, often working in high-voltage or critical infrastructure roles. These positions may require advanced certifications, safety training, and the ability to work in challenging environments, leading to higher compensation compared to entry-level linemen.

What is a Railroad Lineman job?

A Railroad Lineman is responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing electrical and communication lines along railroad tracks. They ensure that power systems, signaling equipment, and communication networks function properly for safe train operations. The job involves working at heights, performing inspections, and troubleshooting electrical issues. Railroad Linemen often work in various weather conditions and may be required to travel for assignments. Safety is a critical aspect of the role, as they work with high-voltage systems and near active railway lines.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Railroad Lineman position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Railroad Lineman, you need expertise in electrical and telecommunications systems, physical fitness, and a high school diploma or equivalent, often supplemented by completion of a technical training program or apprenticeship. Familiarity with climbing gear, power tools, signal systems, and relevant safety certifications such as OSHA training are typically required. Strong problem-solving, attention to detail, and teamwork skills are essential for managing complex repairs in challenging environments. These qualifications are crucial for ensuring the safe, efficient installation and maintenance of critical railroad communication and power infrastructure.

What is a typical work environment like for a Railroad Lineman?

Railroad Linemen often work outdoors in various weather conditions and may be required to travel frequently to different locations along railroad tracks. The role involves working at heights on poles and towers as well as alongside active rail lines, making safety awareness and adherence to protocols especially important. Most linemen work as part of a crew, collaborating closely to install, maintain, and repair overhead and signal lines. The schedule may include nights, weekends, or on-call shifts, especially when urgent repairs are needed to maintain rail system operations. This dynamic environment offers those who enjoy hands-on work, variety, and critical teamwork a rewarding career path.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Railroad linemen can earn around $4,000 or more per week, especially with overtime, specialized skills, and experience working in challenging environments. These roles often require physical fitness, technical knowledge of electrical systems, and safety certifications but typically do not require a college degree.
What cities are hiring for Railroad Lineman jobs? Cities with the most Railroad Lineman job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Railroad Lineman jobs? The most popular types of Railroad Lineman jobs are:
What states have the most Railroad Lineman jobs? States with the most job openings for Railroad Lineman jobs include:
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Infographic showing various Railroad Lineman job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 33% Full Time, and 67% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $85,590 per year, or $41.1 per hour.
Lineman Trainee - 90413225 - Baltimore

Lineman Trainee - 90413225 - Baltimore

Amtrak

Baltimore, MD

$45.67 - $50.74/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 11 days ago


Amtrak rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 144 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

38th of 96 rated public transport


Job description

Your success is a train ride away!

As we move America's workforce toward the future, Amtrak connects businesses and communities across the country. We employ more than 20,000 diverse, energetic professionals in a variety of career fields throughout the United States. The safety of our passengers, our employees, the public and our operating environment is our priority, and the success of our railroad is due to our employees.

Are you ready to join our team?

Our values of 'Do the Right Thing, Excel Together and Put Customers First' are at the heart of what matters most to us, and our Core Capabilities, 'Building Trust, Accountability, Effective Communication, Customer Focus, and Proactive Safety & Security' are what every employee needs to know and do to be most impactful at Amtrak. By living the Amtrak values, focusing on our capabilities, and actively embracing and fostering diverse ideas, backgrounds, and perspectives, together we will honor our past and make Amtrak a company of the future.

Job Summary

Lineman Trainees are responsible for the construction, maintenance, and installation of high voltage transmission, catenary, and signal transmission systems.

Essential Functions

Duties include attaching appurtenances, relocate lines away from existing lines, shift poles requiring newfoundations, install anchors and foundations, shift under traffic, move poles with wires attached, splice existing appurtenances, and install new foundations and certain designated power lines and signal transmissionsystems.

Minimum Qualifications
  • Must be a minimum of 18 years of age and a high school graduate or GED Equivalent.
  • Must have a minimum of 2 years' experience in heavy physical labor.
  • Must be able to lift 50lbs or more.
  • Applicants must have a valid driver's license on the date of hire.
  • Must be able to obtain CDL license within 90 days of hire date. 
  • Pursuant to the regulations set forth by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), Amtrak shall conduct a comprehensive evaluation of a candidate's Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) to ascertain the presence of any disqualifying offenses that may impair their qualification to operate commercial motor vehicles, as delineated in 49 CFR Part 391.25 and 383.51.
    https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-49/subtitle-B/chapter-III/subchapter-B/part-391/subpart-C/section-391.25
    https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-49/subtitle-B/chapter-III/subchapter-B/part-383/subpart-D/section-383.51
  • Applicants must be able to perform basic mathematical computations including fractions and decimals.
  • Ability to pass required training with written exams including two weeks of safety training and required department training modules over a 24-month period to progress to qualified lineman.
  • Must read, write, & speak the English language clearly and have the ability to communicate using telephone and radio.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Basic climbing, rigging, and lineman experience is a plus.
  • Basic mechanical aptitude and knowledge of hand tools.
  • Electronic/electrical background or education is a plus.
  • Previous electric traction railroad experience preferred.
  • CDL License
Communications and Interpersonal Skills
  • Must have excellent written and oral communication skills.
Physical Requirements/Environmental Conditions

Applicants must be able and willing to understand and apply safety rules, practice safe work habits, identify safety risks and avoid potentially risky behaviors and situations. 

The hourly range is $45.67 - $50.74 (with opportunity for increases, as per the applicable collective bargaining agreement, after beginning employment). 

Health and Wellbeing Financial and Retirement Work and Family Life Support Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance 401K  Rail Pass Privileges Wellness Programs Railroad Retirement Benefits Employee Assistance Program Medical Plan Opt-out Credit Life Insurance Commuter and Flexible Spending Accounts No-cost Personal Health Advocate No-cost Financial Advisor Session Fertility and Family Building Benefits

Some benefits are subject to the collective bargaining agreement. Learn more about our benefits offerings here.

Requisition ID:166913
Posting Location(s):Maryland

Relocation Offered:No
Travel Requirements:Up to 25%
You power our progress through your performance.

We want your work at Amtrak to be more than a job. We want your career at Amtrak to be a fulfilling experience where you find challenging work, rewarding opportunities, respect among colleagues, and attractive compensation. Amtrak maintains a culture that values high performance and recognizes individual employee contributions.


Amtrak is committed to a safe workplace free of drugs and alcohol. All Amtrak positions requires a pre-employment background check that includes prior employment verification, a criminal history check and a pre-employment drug screen.

Candidates who test positive for marijuana will be disqualified, regardless of any state or local statute, ordinance, regulation, or other law that legalizes or decriminalizes the use or possession of marijuana, whether for medical, recreational, or other use. Amtrak's pre-employment drug testing program is administered in accordance with DOT regulations and applicable law.


In accordance with DOT regulations (49 CFR 40.25), Amtrak is required to obtain prior drug and alcohol testing records for applicants/employees intending to perform safety-sensitive duties for covered Department of Transportation positions. If an applicant/employee refuses to provide written consent for Amtrak to obtain these records, the individual will not be permitted to perform safety-sensitive functions.

In accordance with federal law governing security checks of covered individuals for providers of public transportation (Title 6 U.S.C. 1143), Amtrak is required to screen applicants for any permanent or interim disqualifying criminal offenses.


Note that any education requirement listed above may be deemed satisfied if you have an equivalent combination of education, training and experience.

Amtrak is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race/color, to include traits historically associated with race, including but not limited to, hair texture and hairstyles such as braids, locks and twists, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth and related conditions, such as lactation), national origin/ethnicity, disability (intellectual, mental and physical), veteran status, marital status, ancestry, sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression, genetic information, citizenship or any other personal characteristics protected by law.


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About Amtrak

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

As we move America's workforce toward the future, Amtrak connects businesses and communities across the country. We employ more than 20,000 diverse, energetic professionals in a variety of career fields throughout the United States. The safety of our passengers, our employees, the public and our operating environment is our priority, and the success of our railroad is due to our employees.

Industry

Travel arrangement services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Washington, DC, US

Year founded

1971