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Railroad Track Inspector Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

To always inspect all equipment on cars prior to departures; To accurately receive and transmit ... rail saws, spike pullers, track wrench machines, power drills; Prefer experience reading and ...

To always inspect all equipment on cars prior to departures; To accurately receive and transmit ... rail saws, spike pullers, track wrench machines, power drills; Prefer experience reading and ...

Apprentice Operator I

Bondurant, IA · On-site

$26.84 - $28.52/hr

... work, track maintenance, disaster response, and environmental projects. What You'll Do: * Drive ... Climbing and crawling on and under derailed railroad cars. * Maintenance, cleaning and setup of ...

... railway construction equipment and other related construction equipment and vehicles. Working hours ... Conduct inspections and tests, repair or replace parts with limited resources in remote locations ...

Applies herbicide to on-track and off-track railroad areas * Communicates with customers effectively to resolve concerns and plans for success * Conducts pre-inspections of work areas to identify ...

Applies herbicide to on-track and off-track railroad areas * Communicates with customers effectively to resolve concerns and plans for success * Conducts pre-inspections of work areas to identify ...

Superintendent

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$85K - $115K/yr

... railroad work and site development. Its project portfolio includes interstate paving, roadway ... Coordinate with inspectors, engineers, municipalities and other project stakeholders * Track ...

... railings, stairs, temporary doors/openings, items required for site safety, and other temporary ... Track production of completed tasks and maintain clean and organized work area. * Maintain positive ...

Showing results 21-36

Railroad Track Inspector information

See Iowa salary details

$11

$25

$48

How much do railroad track inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for railroad track inspector in Iowa is $25.70, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.40 and $29.57 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the salary of a railroad track inspector in railway?

The average salary of a railroad track inspector in the railway industry typically ranges from $45,000 to $70,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and certifications. They often work in outdoor environments and may need knowledge of safety standards and inspection tools.

How to become a railroad track inspector?

To become a railroad track inspector, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and relevant experience in railroad maintenance or inspection. Certification in safety standards and knowledge of track components are often required, and some positions may require a valid driver's license and the ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions.

What are some common challenges faced by railroad track inspectors and how can they be managed?

Railroad Track Inspectors frequently work in varying weather conditions, at different hours, and often have to travel to remote locations along rail lines. The role involves meticulous attention to detail and the ability to identify issues that may not be immediately visible, which can be physically demanding and requires strong focus over long shifts. Inspectors also face the challenge of meeting strict federal safety and documentation standards, necessitating ongoing training and adherence to regulatory protocols. To manage these challenges, many inspectors rely on strong teamwork, thorough planning, and utilizing the latest inspection technologies to boost accuracy and efficiency on the job.

What is a railroad track inspector?

A Railroad Track Inspector is responsible for examining railroad tracks, switches, and related infrastructure to ensure they meet safety and operational standards. They identify defects, measure track alignment, and report necessary repairs to prevent accidents and service disruptions. Inspectors often use specialized tools and equipment to assess track conditions and document findings. Their work helps maintain the safety and efficiency of railway systems by ensuring compliance with federal and industry regulations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a railroad track inspector?

To thrive as a Railroad Track Inspector, you need a solid understanding of railroad track construction, maintenance standards, and safety regulations, often supported by relevant work experience or vocational training. Proficiency with specialized tools such as track gauges, ultrasonic testers, and inspection management software, along with certifications like FRA Track Safety Standards training, is commonly required. Strong attention to detail, effective communication, and the ability to work independently or in teams are valuable soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure the safe and efficient operation of rail networks by enabling inspectors to identify and address track defects promptly.

What are popular job titles related to Railroad Track Inspector jobs in Iowa? For Railroad Track Inspector jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Railroad Track Inspector jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Railroad Track Inspector jobs in Iowa are:
Infographic showing various Railroad Track Inspector job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,449 per year, or $25.7 per hour.

Full-time

Re-posted 19 days ago


Job description

SUMMARY OF POSITION

The primary function of the Conductor is to maintain responsibility over the physical operation and safety of the locomotive. All train crew employees are responsible for strict adherence to safety guidelines and for completing their duties with integrity and professionalism.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Conductor:

To always ensure compliance with all train orders, signals, and railroad rules and regulations for safety, operations, and the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA);

To always review instructions from dispatchers and yardmasters, and discuss with locomotive engineer and train crew;

To always inspect all equipment on cars prior to departures;

To accurately receive and transmit information by radio and telephone;

To accurately read and understand bulletins, work orders, and switch lists;

To safely assist and instruct train crews to couple and uncouple cars, operate switches, and make minor repairs to railcars, including replacing heavy couplings or air brake hoses;

To safely and professionally work with customers to ensure accurate movement and placement of cars;

To always safely maintain awareness of surrounding area and suspicious activity to ensure rail safety;

To comprehend color and/or hand signals and systems;

To safely, quickly, and repeatedly make precise adjustments in moving the controls of a machine or vehicle to exact positions;

To accurately and quickly respond (with the hand, finger, or foot) to visual symbols, signals and displays (sound, light, picture, etc.);

Locomotive Engineer:

To safely maintain responsibility for safe and efficient operation of the locomotive;

To safely perform manipulation of throttle and brake controls as well as interpreting gauges and controls;

To safely manipulate valves and switches both inside and outside of the cab;

To safely and efficiently apply and release handbrakes;

To safely ascend and descend steps and ladders to get on and off the equipment;

To takes directions from conductors and brakemen;

To safely line switches;

To safely perform maintenance services to the locomotive (brake shoes, oil, sand and fuel);

To always comply with all new and outstanding railroad instructions regarding the operation of the train.;

To always comply with all federal regulations regarding the operation of the train air brakes; and

To perform any additional duties as assigned by operations and/or management.

ESSENTIAL JOB REQUIREMENTS:

18 years of age or older;

Valid Driver's License;

2 years verifiable work experience and/or college; railroad industry experience strongly preferred;

Must pass all required assessments;

Must pass a background screening;

Federal regulations require random testing for drugs and/or alcohol;

No driving violations involving alcohol or drugs within the past 3 years;

Knowledge of and skills in using hand tools, including wrenches, sockets, screwdrivers, measuring tapes, etc. and skills in using power tools and hydraulic equipment, including portable grinders, rail saws, spike pullers, track wrench machines, power drills;

Prefer experience reading and comprehending safety manuals, operating and maintenance instructions, test materials, drawings, schematics, and procedure manuals;

Must be able to meet physical requirements of the position;

Position requires flexible work schedule and the need to work overtime on occasion; and

Must report to work as called on a 24-hour schedule.

CORE COMPETENCIES

Verbal Comprehension – Understands oral and written communications (both general and technical).

Communication Skills – Provides clear instructions/directions. Listens and adheres to operations and management guidance.

Reasoning Skills – Demonstrates high level of skill to effectively use his/her problem solving and troubleshooting skills.

Time Management – Values and manages time effectively. Effectively prioritizes, manages, and organizes workload and broad range of activities.

Excellent Interpersonal Skills – Ability to communicate and collaborate with diverse personalities.

Exceptional Organizational Skills – Demonstrates high level of organization.

Resourcefulness – Ability to find innovate ways to overcome obstacles, problems, and unforeseen/challenging situations.

ESSENTIAL PHYSICAL DEMANDS/WORK ENVIRONMENT

Locomotive Engineers must meet and maintain the following physical requirements:

Must meet and maintain color vision requirements as described in the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) Regulations; and

Must meet and maintain all hearing requirements as described in the FRA Regulations.

The physical nature of the work will vary from day to day based on operational needs; however, the job requires that the incumbent be able to perform the following non-exhaustive list: climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, bending, crouching, crawling, reaching, standing, walking, pushing, pulling, lifting, typing, grasping, handling, feeling, talking, hearing, seeing, and repetitive motion. Employees in this position may work in cramped, confined, enclosed, or awkward places. Employees will walk long distances over uneven terrain. Heavy work requires occasional lifting, carrying, frequent pushing and pulling of up to or greater than 80 lbs. A wide range of motion is required for throwing ground and waist-level switches. Outdoor position requiring a tolerance to extreme heat, cold and wet conditions. Employees in this position must be able to work outside in all weather conditions. Perform activities in the proximity of moving equipment. Good auditory and visual acuity/tracking/inspection, accommodation, field of vision and depth perception to successfully perform duties and for general safety. Color vision is necessary for perceiving signals. Employees must wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) including but not limited to hearing protection, safety-toe boots, and safety glasses. Must be able to work outside in all weather conditions.

This is a Safety Sensitive Position

SAFETY

Safety is the cornerstone value in our Company. Our employees are expected to live our values on the job in how we work, how we act, and how we create value. Safety is a personal responsibility. We are professionals and our activities must reflect that professionalism. Each team member must demonstrate safety advocacy every day – regardless of their role in the Company. Compliance with safety and operating rules is required and essential to our own safety and that of others.