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Railroad Starting Pay Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Road & Rail Services Job Type: Full-Time | On-Site Put Your Mechanical Skills to Work Road & Rail ... Starting pay of $23.40 per hour First-shift schedule Medical, dental, and vision insurance 401(k) ...

Railroad Mechanic

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$23.40/hr

Road & Rail Services Job Type: Full-Time | On-Site Put Your Mechanical Skills to Work Road & Rail ... Starting pay of $23.40 per hour First-shift schedule Medical, dental, and vision insurance 401(k) ...

Railroad Carman

Paris, KY · On-site

$24 - $26/hr

Paris, Kentucky Employment Type: Full-Time Starting Pay: Based on Experience Put Your Welding and Mechanical Skills to Work Road & Rail Services is seeking a skilled Railroad Carman for our Paris ...

Paris, Kentucky Employment Type: Full-Time Starting Pay: Based on Experience Put Your Welding and Mechanical Skills to Work Road & Rail Services is seeking a skilled Railroad Carman for our Paris ...

Starting Pay: $29.12/hour, additional $1.50 night shift differential available after training is ... As a Railroad Switchman at ConGlobal, you will play a critical role in the safe and efficient ...

Location: 32880 West 191st Street Edgerton, Kansas 66021 Starting Pay: $29.12/hour, additional $1 ... As a Railroad Switchman at ConGlobal, you will play a critical role in the safe and efficient ...

... Starting Pay: $29.12/hour, additional $1.50 night shift differential available after training is ... As a Railroad Switchman at ConGlobal, you will play a critical role in the safe and efficient ...

... Starting Pay: $29.12/hour, additional $1.50 night shift differential available after training is ... As a Railroad Switchman at ConGlobal, you will play a critical role in the safe and efficient ...

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Railroad Starting Pay information

What is the starting pay for railroad workers?

The starting pay for railroad workers varies depending on the specific position, the railroad company, and the location. On average, entry-level railroad workers such as conductors or track laborers can expect to earn between $20 and $28 per hour, which amounts to approximately $40,000 to $58,000 annually. Some positions may offer higher starting wages, especially with major freight railroads, and many jobs also include overtime pay, benefits, and opportunities for advancement. Union contracts and regional cost of living can also influence starting pay rates.

What challenges might new railroad employees face during their initial training and probationary period?

New railroad employees often encounter a steep learning curve during their initial training and probationary period. Challenges may include adapting to irregular work hours, working outdoors in varying weather conditions, and learning strict safety protocols. Additionally, trainees must become familiar with complex equipment and operational procedures while demonstrating reliability and strong teamwork skills. Support from experienced coworkers and a willingness to learn are key factors in successfully navigating this phase.

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

To thrive as a Railroad Worker, you generally need a high school diploma or equivalent, physical stamina, mechanical aptitude, and knowledge of safety regulations. Familiarity with rail-specific tools, signaling systems, and sometimes certifications from the Federal Railroad Administration are often required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and strong communication skills help individuals excel in coordinating operations and maintaining safety. These skills and qualifications are crucial to ensure efficient train operations and to uphold rigorous safety standards vital to the railroad industry.

What is the difference between Railroad Starting Pay vs Locomotive Engineer Starting Pay?

AspectRailroad Starting PayLocomotive Engineer Starting Pay
CredentialsHigh school diploma or GED, safety trainingHigh school diploma or GED, safety training, certification
Work EnvironmentRail yards, tracks, stationsLocomotive cabs, rail yards, on-track
Industry UsageRailroad companies, freight and passenger servicesRailroad companies, freight and passenger services
Typical Starting Pay$40,000 - $60,000 annually$50,000 - $70,000 annually

Railroad starting pay generally refers to entry-level wages for various railroad roles, while locomotive engineer starting pay specifically applies to new engineers operating trains. Although both roles require safety training and similar credentials, locomotive engineers tend to earn higher starting salaries due to specialized responsibilities. Understanding these differences helps job seekers target the right positions and salary expectations within the railroad industry.

What are some entry level railroad jobs?

Entry-level railroad jobs include positions such as brakeman, conductor trainee, and track laborer. These roles typically require physical fitness, the ability to work irregular hours, and on-the-job training. Certifications like a valid driver's license or safety training may be necessary for certain positions.
More about Railroad Starting Pay jobs

What cities are hiring for Railroad Starting Pay jobs?

Cities with the most Railroad Starting Pay job openings:

What states have the most Railroad Starting Pay jobs?

States with the most job openings for Railroad Starting Pay jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Railroad Starting Pay jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Railroad Starting Pay jobs are:

Infographic showing various Railroad Starting Pay job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 64% Full Time, 28% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution.

$23.40/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago


Road & Rail Services rating

5.3

Company rating: 5.3 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Railcar Mechanic – First Shift

Pay: $23.40 per hour
Schedule: First Shift
Company: Road & Rail Services
Job Type: Full-Time | On-Site

Put Your Mechanical Skills to Work

Road & Rail Services is hiring a mechanically inclined Railcar Mechanic for our first-shift operation. This hands-on position is responsible for inspecting railcars, identifying mechanical concerns, completing authorized repairs, and performing required brake testing.

Previous railcar repair experience is helpful but not required. Candidates with experience repairing farm equipment, lawn equipment, automobiles, trailers, heavy machinery, or other mechanical systems may have skills that transfer well to this position.

We are looking for someone who enjoys troubleshooting, working with tools, and learning new repair techniques. The ideal candidate will be dependable, safety-focused, and prepared to work in a fast-paced industrial environment.

What You'll Do

As a Railcar Mechanic, you will:

Inspect railcars for damage, wear, mechanical issues, and repair needs

Perform general mechanical and structural repairs on railroad equipment

Complete Class I air brake tests according to applicable procedures

Use welding equipment, cutting torches, grinders, and hand tools

Identify and report bad-order or unserviceable railcars and equipment

Complete repairs according to company, customer, and industry specifications

Notify management of equipment conditions and additional repair needs

Accurately document completed repairs, labor time, and parts used

Operate forklifts, spotter trucks, and other mechanical equipment as authorized

Inspect tools and equipment before use

Maintain an organized work area and complete required housekeeping duties

Follow all company, customer, and railroad safety requirements

What You'll Need

Qualified candidates should have:

A valid state-issued driver's license

Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills

The ability and willingness to learn railcar inspection and repair procedures

The ability to qualify under AWS D15.1 welding certification guidelines

The ability to safely use hand tools, power tools, grinders, cutting torches, and welding equipment

Dependable attendance and punctuality

A safety-first approach to every assignment

The ability to follow written and verbal instructions

A positive, team-oriented attitude

The ability to work in a fast-paced industrial environment

Benefits

Road & Rail Services offers eligible full-time employees:

Starting pay of $23.40 per hour

First-shift schedule

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

401(k) retirement plan with company matching

Paid holidays and vacation

Annual steel-toe boot allowance

Company-provided personal protective equipment

Hands-on training and skill development

Advancement opportunities

A veteran-friendly workplace

A promote-from-within culture

Build Your Career with Road & Rail Services

Established in 1987, Road & Rail Services has become a leading provider of rail-related services throughout North America. Our employees provide plant and terminal operations, railcar repair, field maintenance, and other specialized services for railroads, manufacturers, shippers, and rail equipment owners.

If you have mechanical ability, take pride in quality work, and want to learn a specialized trade, apply today for our first-shift Railcar Mechanic position.

Road & Rail Services is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to any characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

 

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