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Railroad Track Inspector Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

Rail Laborer

Seattle, WA

$28.39 - $43.59/hr

Perform snow and ice removal. Assist in the performance of a wide range of maintenance activities including Track inspections, Welding and grinding repairs, tie tamping, Rail replacements/relays ...

Building & Grounds (Track)

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$51.90 - $57.67/hr

... Port's railroad system which includes day-to-day maintenance and repairs, inspections ... Inspection of the track, trackbed, and track right-of-way. Report on safety concerns, defects, or ...

... Port's railroad system which includes day-to-day maintenance and repairs, inspections ... Inspection of the track, trackbed, and track right-of-way. Report on safety concerns, defects, or ...

A minimum of 4 years related job experience in the railway industry. * Track Inspection Guidelines certification is an asset * Ability to read and understand specific documents including schedules ...

Track Engineering Design Lead

Seattle, WA · On-site

$116K - $153K/yr

... inspection. It also plays a critical role in business development, client engagement, and the long-term growth of the transit and rail engineering practice. Your Impact Track Design Leadership ...

Track Engineering Design Lead

Seattle, WA · On-site

$116K - $153K/yr

... inspection. It also plays a critical role in business development, client engagement, and the longterm growth of the transit and rail engineering practice. Your Impact Track Design Leadership ...

Inspect, repair, refurbish, and maintain propane cylinders and tanks, including scraping, sanding ... Offload propane railcars, track railcar movements, and coordinate with railroad personnel on ...

Hook Truck Driver

Seattle, WA · On-site

$28 - $30/hr

... trips inspections. * Communicate with dispatcher throughout the day. * Log/track loads in our ... rails, will need to do as needed prior to leaving job site or yard. * Climb the attached metal ...

Hook Truck Driver

Redmond, WA · On-site

$28 - $30/hr

... trips inspections. * Communicate with dispatcher throughout the day. * Log/track loads in our ... rails, will need to do as needed prior to leaving job site or yard. * Climb the attached metal ...

Hook Truck Driver

Renton, WA · On-site

$28 - $30/hr

... trips inspections. * Communicate with dispatcher throughout the day. * Log/track loads in our ... rails, will need to do as needed prior to leaving job site or yard. * Climb the attached metal ...

Hook Truck Driver

Everett, WA · On-site

$28 - $30/hr

... trips inspections. * Communicate with dispatcher throughout the day. * Log/track loads in our ... rails, will need to do as needed prior to leaving job site or yard. * Climb the attached metal ...

Track schedule performance, support cost control efforts, and prepare progress reports and ... years in transit, rail, or heavy civil infrastructure. Key Skills & Abilities: * Strong ...

Track schedule performance, support cost control efforts, and prepare progress reports and ... years in transit, rail, or heavy civil infrastructure. Key Skills & Abilities: * Strong ...

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Railroad Track Inspector information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$14

$31

$59

How much do railroad track inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for railroad track inspector in Seattle, WA is $31.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.06 and $35.87 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 the most commonly searched types of Railroad Track Inspector jobs in Seattle, WA? The most popular types of Railroad Track Inspector jobs in Seattle, WA are:
What are popular job titles related to Railroad Track Inspector jobs in Seattle, WA? For Railroad Track Inspector jobs in Seattle, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Railroad Track Inspector jobs in Seattle, WA look for? The top searched job categories for Railroad Track Inspector jobs in Seattle, WA are:
Infographic showing various Railroad Track Inspector job openings in Seattle, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, and 10% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $64,796 per year, or $31.2 per hour.

Streetcar Rail Track and ROW Maintainer

King County

Seattle, WA

$38.82 - $59.62/hr

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago


King County (Washington) rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 38 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

199th of 844 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Summary Learn how Metro connects you with what matters Metro Transit's Streetcar Section has an exciting Career Service (CS) opportunity for one (1) Streetcar Rail Track and Right of Way (ROW) Maintainer. Streetcar is looking for a dependable, detail-oriented Track and ROW Maintainer to perform journey-level trades work to troubleshoot, diagnose, maintain, repair, weld, upgrade and conduct comprehensive preventive maintenance on track, special track work, track switches, and associated equipment and components. Metro Transit's Streetcar Section is responsible for operating and maintaining Seattle Streetcar service on both the 1.3 mile South Lake Union Line and the 2.5 mile First Hill Line, proudly serving the diverse and vibrant residential communities and business districts around Seattle's downtown core

Follow the link to learn more. Welcome to Seattle Streetcar - YouTube Who May Apply We are hiring for one (1) Career Service vacancy. This recruitment is open to the general public and King County employees and may be used to establish an eligibility list to fill future Career Service and/or temporary vacancies which may occur over the next twelve (12) months, at the discretion of the hiring authority.

This position is considered safety sensitive. Applicants for these positions are required to undergo drug testing prior to employment and subsequent to commencement of employment, will be subject to random, post-accident, reasonable suspicion, return to duty, and follow-up drug and alcohol testing in compliance with Federal DOT alcohol and controlled substance testing program protocols. Work Schedule This position is non-exempt from the provisions of the Fair Labor Standards Act and is overtime eligible.

Employees must be willing to work any one of three shifts (day, swing or graveyard). Current available shift is graveyard/3rd Shift on a 4/10 schedule. The work schedule may include non-standard work hours including evenings, weekends and holidays as needed.

Schedules are based on a seniority "pick" system. Per the union contract shift differentials are paid to those working swing shift and graveyard. Swing shift differential is + 5%, Graveyard differential is + 7.5% on top of the hourly pay

Current hourly rates: Dayshift: $38.82 - $55.46 | Swing shift: $40.76 - $58.23 | Graveyard shift: $41.73 - $59.62 Work Location Employees may report to any of the following locations: First Hill (848 7th Ave. S, Seattle), or South Lake Union (318 Fairview Ave. N, Seattle), or any additional locations based on business needs

For questions regarding this recruitment, please contact: Jacky Lu, Talent Advisor at jacky.lu@kingcounty.gov Job Duties Applying equity and social justice principles is a daily responsibility and a foundational expectation for all King County employees. In this role you will apply equity and social justice principles that exemplify shared values, behaviors, and practices to all aspects of the work. You will: Inspect, diagnose, repair, maintain, and/or replace running rails, restraining rails, fasteners, switch components, crossings, and all other components associated with embedded track maintenance and construction

Operate service vehicles, small cranes and other vehicles used in track maintenance and inspection. Use rail saws, rail drills, portable ballast tampers, and other specialized tools and equipment to perform inspection, maintenance and repair tasks. Set up work-zone traffic control areas; flag track way to provide safe rail work zones.

Manually operate switch machines under revenue and non-revenue conditions. Prioritize emergency maintenance tasks in the absence of on-site supervision. Record and document maintenance and diagnostic data.

Assist other trades as necessary; respond to emergency calls as necessary. Perform snow and ice removal. Perform other duties as assigned.

Experience, Qualifications, Knowledge, Skills Minimum Qualifications Two years of experience maintaining or constructing railroad tracks and associated structures OR Twelve months experience working in King County's Rail Division's Track & ROW Workgroup OR Any equivalent combination of experience and education which provides the applicant with the needed skills, knowledge and ability required to perform the work. Additional qualifications include: Demonstrated experience operating rail and crane equipment. Knowledge of and skill in track and structures maintenance work for rail systems.

Knowledge of FRA Track Safety Standards, APTA Standards, FTA Standards and AREMA standards for Rail Transit Track Inspection and Maintenance. Knowledge of associated hardware, manuals, procedures, parts catalogs and other pertinent documentation. Knowledge of industrial safety standards and procedures including working with small cranes and lifting equipment such as track jacks, tie tongs, and rail tongs.

Skill in oral and written communication including reading, writing and following instructions. Skill in basic computer skills Skill in problem solving and analyzing data to solve common and complex problems. Skill in mechanical tools associated with maintaining fixed track and associated structures.

Demonstrated mechanical skills including ability to properly use hand and power tools. Knowledge of and skill in the application of codes and compliance requirements for track and associated structures. Knowledge of and skill in concrete work including finishing.

Knowledge of traffic safety techniques and procedures for establishing safe work zones both on Track and within a public motor vehicle roadway. Ability to establish and maintain good working relationships and to work efficiently and effectively in a team environment, including skill and demonstrated values of respect and fairness in working effectively with a diverse population in varying occupations or situations. Ability to deal proactively and sensitively with customers.

Ability to work safely and efficiently in all types of weather and environmental conditions, including on elevated structures as well as underground structures. Desirable Qualifications (not required) Railroad welding experience with stick (SMAW), wire feed (GMAW) welding process, exothermic welding including experience with Manganese steel and the ability to obtain and maintain certification, if not currently certified. Knowledge of Maintenance Management Information Systems (MMIS), Enterprise Asset Management Systems (EAMS) or equivalent maintenance work order tracking system.

Ability to operate radio and telephone communication systems in compliance with FTA regulations and procedures. Necessary Special Requirements A valid Driver's License and an acceptable driving record. If you possess an out-of-state driver's license, you must obtain a WA state license within 30 days of hire.

Ability to obtain Forklift, Aerial Lift, First-Aid/CPR and other certifications within three months of hire date (training will be provided by Rail) Applicants must be able to meet on-going educational and training requirements and maintain required certifications. Physical Requirements This position requires the ability to be mobile, perform heavy manual labor, exert physical effort while standing, walking for long distances, or lifting materials, tools and objects weighting up to 100 pounds. Supplemental Information Application & Selection Process An online employment application and answers to the supplemental questions detailing your relevant qualifications to the position are required.

Applications will be screened for clarity, completeness, and qualifications. The most competitive candidates may be invited to participate in an interview. Employment offers will be finalized after candidates have successfully completed reference checks and a complete driving record review will also be conducted prior to any final offer of employment.

Union Membership This position is represented by Amalgamated Transit Union, Local 587 Classification/Pay Grade 816104 (Rail Track & ROW Mnt -3rdShf), Grade 187 To Apply If you are interested in pursuing this position, please follow the application instructions carefully. If you need this announcement in an alternate language or format, would like to request accommodation or assistance in the application or assessment process or if you have questions please contact: Jacky Lu, Talent Advisor, jacky.lu@kingcounty.gov. Forbes recently named King County as one of Washington State's best employers

Together, with leadership and our employees, we're changing the way government delivers service and winning national recognition as a model of excellence. Are you ready to make a difference. Come join the team dedicated to serving one of the nation's best places to live, work and play.

Guided by our "True North", we are making King County a welcoming community where every person can thrive. We value diversity, inclusion and belonging in our workplace and workforce. To reach this goal we are committed to workforce equity.

Equitable recruiting, support, and retention is how we will obtain the highest quality workforce in our region; a workforce that shares and will help advance our guiding principles--we are one team; we solve problems; we focus on the customer; we drive for results; we are racially just; we respect all people; we lead the way; and we are responsible stewards. We encourage people of all backgrounds and identities to apply, including Native American and people of color, immigrants, refugees, women, LGBTQ+, people living with disabilities, and veterans. King County is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Employer No person is unlawfully excluded from employment opportunities based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex (including gender identity, sexual orientation and pregnancy), age, genetic information, disability, veteran status, or other protected class.

Our EEO policy applies to all employment actions, including but not limited to recruitment, hiring, selection for training, promotion, transfer, demotion, layoff, termination, rates of pay or other forms of compensation. #RailJobs #TradesJobs


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About King County

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Forbes recently named King County as one of Washington State's best employers. Together, with leadership and our employees, we're changing the way government delivers service and winning national recognition as a model of excellence. Are you ready to make a difference? Come join the team dedicated to serving one of the nation's best places to live, work and play. Guided by our "True North", we are making King County a welcoming community where every person can thrive. We value diversity, inclusion and belonging in our workplace and workforce.

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Seattle, WA, US

Year founded

1852

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