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Railroad Machinist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

voestalpine Railway Systems Nortrak LLC

Machinist

Cheyenne, WY · On-site

$20.50 - $28.25/hr

Join Our Team at voestalpine Railway Systems Nortrak! Embark on a rewarding career journey with ... PURPOSE OF POSITION The Machinist is responsible to operate machines and other equipment in a safe ...

Amsted Rail

Machinist

Petersburg, VA

$21.25 - $29.25/hr

The Machinist position will analyze specifications, set up and operate machine tools, and fit and ... Adhere to plant-wide safety, ergonomics and environmental requirements defined by Amsted Rail ...

Amsted Rail Company

Machinist

Petersburg, VA

$26 - $36/hr

The Machinist position will analyze specifications, set up and operate machine tools, and fit and ... Adhere to plant-wide safety, ergonomics and environmental requirements defined by Amsted Rail ...

Amsted Rail Company

Machinist

Petersburg, VA · On-site

$21.25 - $29.25/hr

The Machinist position will analyze specifications, set up and operate machine tools, and fit and ... Adhere to plant-wide safety, ergonomics and environmental requirements defined by Amsted Rail ...

Amsted Rail Company Inc

Machinist

Petersburg, VA

$21.25 - $29.25/hr

The Machinist position will analyze specifications, set up and operate machine tools, and fit and ... Adhere to plant-wide safety, ergonomics and environmental requirements defined by Amsted Rail ...

Amsted Rail Company Inc

Machinist

Petersburg, VA

$21.25 - $29.25/hr

The Machinist position will analyze specifications, set up and operate machine tools, and fit and ... Adhere to plant-wide safety, ergonomics and environmental requirements defined by Amsted Rail ...

Progress Rail Services Corporation

Machinist I

Lincoln, NE · On-site

$19 - $26/hr

Job Purpose A machinist is responsible for a variety of machine -specific functions -- from setting ... Company Description Progress Rail stands at the intersection of legacy and innovation-driving the ...

Indiana Furniture

General Tech (Machine Floater)

Jasper, IN

$17.75 - $23/hr

Operate pod and rail machinery * Waterspider as needed * Machining and Mechanical skill required. * Good eye for detail is required. * Ability to work alone. * Work efficiently * Ability to multitask.

Amsted Manufacturing USA

Machinist

Petersburg, VA · On-site

$21.25 - $29.25/hr

The Machinist position will analyze specifications, set up and operate machine tools, and fit and ... Adhere to plant-wide safety, ergonomics and environmental requirements defined by Amsted Rail ...

Quality Machine & Fab

Railroad Inspector

Tulsa, OK

$18 - $20/hr

Railroad Spike Inspector Sand Springs | $18-$20/hr | Night Shift We're hiring Railroad Spike ... If you have experience in manufacturing, quality inspection, production, or machine operation, this ...

Amsted Rail

CNC Shop Machinist

Granite City, IL

$35.12/hr

Maintenance Shop Machinist (CNC) Amsted Rail is the world's leading provider of fully integrated bogie systems for the heavy haul freight market, with facilities spanning 40 locations across 10 ...

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Railroad Machinist information

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How much do railroad machinist jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for railroad machinist in the United States is $23.65, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.71 and $26.92 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges Railroad Machinists face when maintaining locomotives in the field?

Railroad Machinists often encounter challenges such as working in outdoor environments under varying weather conditions, handling heavy and complex locomotive components, and adhering to tight maintenance schedules to minimize train downtime. Additionally, they must remain vigilant about safety protocols due to the potentially hazardous nature of rail yards and equipment. Effective teamwork and communication with engineers, conductors, and other maintenance staff are essential for diagnosing issues quickly and ensuring repairs meet industry standards.

What is the highest paid machinist?

The highest paid machinists are often those with specialized skills, extensive experience, and certifications in advanced manufacturing or CNC machining. In some industries, senior or master machinists can earn salaries exceeding $70,000 to $80,000 annually, especially in high-demand sectors or with overtime and supervisory roles.

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

To thrive as a Railroad Machinist, you need strong mechanical aptitude, experience in machine tool operation, and a high school diploma or equivalent—often supplemented by vocational training or an apprenticeship. Familiarity with precision measuring instruments, welding equipment, and computer-aided maintenance management systems (CMMS) is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and the ability to work effectively in a team are standout soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure the safe, efficient repair and maintenance of locomotives and rail equipment, which are critical for reliable railroad operations.

What is the highest paid railroad job?

The highest paid railroad jobs are typically senior management positions such as railroad executives or specialized roles like locomotive engineers with extensive experience. These roles often require advanced certifications, years of experience, and technical skills, and can earn six-figure salaries. Compensation varies based on company size, location, and responsibilities.

What does a railroad machinist do?

A railroad machinist repairs, maintains, and inspects railway equipment, including locomotives and rolling stock. They use specialized tools and follow safety protocols to ensure equipment operates efficiently and safely, often working in repair shops or on-site at rail yards.

What jobs make $1,000,000 a year?

Railroad machinists typically do not earn $1,000,000 annually; such high salaries are usually found in executive, investment, or entrepreneurial roles. Highly specialized or business-owning positions in industries like finance, technology, or healthcare are more likely to reach that income level. Most railroad machinists earn a median salary well below that figure, with top earners making significantly less than $1 million per year.

What are Railroad Machinists?

Railroad Machinists are skilled tradespeople responsible for maintaining, repairing, and overhauling the mechanical components of trains, such as diesel engines, brakes, and other locomotive systems. They use a variety of tools and machines to inspect, troubleshoot, and ensure that locomotives and rail cars operate safely and efficiently. Their work is vital for keeping rail transportation reliable and minimizing downtime due to mechanical failures.

What is the difference between Railroad Machinist vs Railroad Car Repairer?

AspectRailroad MachinistRailroad Car Repairer
CredentialsTechnical training, certifications in machining and safetyTechnical training, certifications in welding, carpentry, and safety
Work EnvironmentMachine shops, maintenance yards, on-site repair facilitiesRailroad yards, repair shops, on-site at rail facilities
Employer & Industry UsageRailroads, transportation companies, maintenance contractorsRailroads, freight companies, maintenance depots

Railroad Machinists focus on operating and maintaining machining tools to repair and fabricate parts for trains and equipment, often working in machine shops. Railroad Car Repairers specialize in repairing and maintaining entire railcars, including structural repairs and systems, typically working in repair yards. Both roles require technical skills and safety certifications but differ in their specific tasks and work environments.

More about Railroad Machinist jobs
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Railroad Machinist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Railroad Machinist job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 8% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $49,183 per year, or $23.6 per hour.
Railroad Production Crew Operator

Railroad Production Crew Operator

Pointer Smith Contracting Corporation

Houston, TX

$16 - $19.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

Railroad Production Crew Operator

A Railroad Production Crew Operator performs hands-on construction, maintenance, and rehabilitation of railroad track infrastructure. Working as part of a production crew, this individual is responsible for the installation, repair, and replacement of track components including rail, ties, ballast, and related hardware.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Operate and assist with heavy equipment and specialized railroad machinery (tie tampers, spike drivers, rail anchoring machines, etc.)
  • Install, replace, and maintain cross ties, rail, spikes, bolts, and track hardware
  • Perform ballast work including undercutting, surfacing, and lining of track
  • Follow all railroad flagging and safety protocols, including FRA and company guidelines
  • Work in accordance with track foreman/supervisor direction to meet production goals
  • Maintain and inspect tools and equipment
  • Perform manual labor in varying weather conditions and challenging terrain

Requirements:

  • Ability to perform physically demanding work outdoors in all weather conditions
  • Willingness to travel and work away from home for extended periods
  • Basic mechanical aptitude preferred
  • Prior railroad or heavy construction experience a plus
  • Must pass pre-employment drug screen and background check
  • Valid driver's license preferred
Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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