ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Railroad Maintenance Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Whiting Corporation

Rail Service Technician

Crete, IL

$35 - $40/hr

Railroad Maintenance Applications * Nuclear & Power Plant Applications * Whiting Services * Services Branch Locations * Overhead Crane Services * Associations and Certifications * Whiting Nuclear

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsRailroad Maintenance Jobs

Railroad Maintenance information

See salary details

$12

$31

$56

How much do railroad maintenance jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for railroad maintenance in the United States is $31.57, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.08 and $38.22 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is railroad maintenance?

Railroad maintenance refers to the regular inspection, repair, and upkeep of railroad tracks, equipment, and infrastructure to ensure safe and efficient train operations. This includes tasks like replacing worn rails and ties, maintaining signals and switches, and clearing debris from tracks. Railroad maintenance workers use specialized tools and machinery to perform these duties, often working outdoors and sometimes during overnight hours. Their work is essential for preventing accidents and minimizing service interruptions.

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

To thrive as a Railroad Maintenance Worker, you need knowledge of track inspection, repair procedures, and mechanical aptitude, often supported by a high school diploma and on-the-job training. Familiarity with specialized tools such as track gauges, hydraulic jacks, and safety certifications like FRA compliance are typically required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and strong problem-solving skills help workers identify issues and coordinate repairs efficiently. These skills ensure the safety, reliability, and smooth operation of rail systems.

What are the most common challenges faced in a Railroad Maintenance role, and how are they typically addressed?

Railroad Maintenance professionals often encounter challenges such as working in varying weather conditions, addressing unexpected equipment failures, and adhering to strict safety protocols. Teams typically overcome these obstacles through thorough safety training, regular equipment inspections, and effective communication with dispatchers and other crews to coordinate track availability and minimize disruptions. Being adaptable, detail-oriented, and proactive in problem-solving helps ensure safe and efficient rail operations.

What is the difference between Railroad Maintenance vs Track Inspector?

AspectRailroad MaintenanceTrack Inspector
Primary RolePerforms repairs, repairs, and upkeep of railroad tracks, signals, and infrastructureInspects tracks for defects, safety issues, and compliance with regulations
Required CertificationsOSHA safety training, sometimes certifications in track maintenanceRailroad safety certifications, track inspection training
Work EnvironmentMaintenance yards, trackside, sometimes outdoors in various weather conditionsTrackside, rail yards, often outdoors and in variable weather
Employer & Industry UsageRailroads, transit agencies, freight companiesRailroads, transit authorities, safety agencies

Railroad Maintenance workers focus on repairing and maintaining tracks and infrastructure, while Track Inspectors primarily assess track conditions for safety and compliance. Both roles require safety certifications and work outdoors in similar environments, but their core responsibilities differ—maintenance involves hands-on repairs, whereas inspection emphasizes evaluation and reporting.

More about Railroad Maintenance jobs
What cities are hiring for Railroad Maintenance jobs? Cities with the most Railroad Maintenance job openings:
What states have the most Railroad Maintenance jobs? States with the most job openings for Railroad Maintenance jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Railroad Maintenance jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Railroad Maintenance jobs are:
Railroad Maintenance jobs near you
Infographic showing various Railroad Maintenance job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,662 per year, or $31.6 per hour.
Track Inspector

Track Inspector

Pinsly Railroad

La Crosse, IN • On-site

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Note: The schedule is subject to change as needed by operations and at the direction of management.

  • Inspect railroad track structure for compliance with railroad policy and federal/state regulations.
  • Train, qualify, and work with the transportation department as Conductor as needed.
  • Detect deviations from railroad policy and federal/state regulations.
  • Implement remedial action on defects, pending repair.
  • Repair or direct crews to repair or replace track-structure defects found during inspections.
  • Inspect completed work to verify conformance to railroad policy and government regulations.
  • Prepare inspection reports per railroad policy and government compliance.
  • Know and apply applicable rules, regulations, and policies, or have the ability to learn them.
  • Perform special inspections of the track structure in times of severe weather or other events that may damage the railroad.
  • Perform other tasks necessary to the efficient operation of the railroad.
  • Manage other projects and perform other duties as assigned
  • Knowledge of FRA Track Safety Standards.
  • Knowledge of Roadway Worker Protection rules.
  • Willingness to work outdoors in various weather conditions and temperatures.
  • Willingness to work flexible schedules and work assignments and to travel to other parts of the railroad as necessary.
  • Valid driver's license.
  • High school diploma or GED
  • Three to five years of related Railroad Maintenance of Way work experience.

Ability to pass a background check and drug screening.

Apply