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

Port of Tacoma

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 of Tacoma, WA

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 ...

RailWorks

CRAFT FOREMAN / TRACK FOREMAN

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$35 - $45/hr

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 ...

WSP

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 ...

WSP

Track Engineering Design Lead

Seattle, WA

$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 ...

Union Pacific

Track Laborer Driver Eligible

Kent, WA

$32.21/hr

Conduct regular inspections of tracks, track beds, and right-of-way to identify any issues or defects. * Replace and repair rails, rail anchors, spikes, ballast, ties, and other track components as ...

Ferrellgas

Rail & Yard Technician

Puyallup, WA · On-site

$27/hr

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

Ferrellgas

Rail & Yard Technician

Puyallup, WA

$27/hr

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

Ferrellgas

Rail & Yard Technician

Puyallup, WA

$27/hr

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

BNSF Railway

Conductor Trainee - Everett, WA

Everett, WA · On-site

$70K - $82K/yr

Monitoring track conditions for any issues/problems and reporting on passing train conditions ... A Railroad Retirement program and competitive 401(k) plan to help you meet your retirement goals.

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All JobsRailroad Track Inspector JobsRailroad Track Inspector Jobs in Seattle, WA

Railroad Track Inspector information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$14

$31

$59

How much do railroad track inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for railroad track inspector in Seattle, WA is $31.13, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.06 and $35.82 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 type of inspector gets paid the most?

In the railroad industry, senior or specialized Railroad Track Inspectors with extensive experience, certifications, and advanced skills tend to earn the highest salaries. Inspectors working for large companies or in regions with a high cost of living may also receive higher pay. Generally, those with supervisory roles or additional technical expertise command the top wages.

How much does a BNSF track inspector make?

A railroad track inspector typically earns between $50,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. They inspect and maintain track conditions, often working outdoors and requiring knowledge of safety standards and inspection tools.

What is a Railroad Track Inspector job?

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 in the Railroad Track Inspector position, and why are they important?

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.

How much do FRA inspectors make?

Railroad track inspectors employed by the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) typically earn between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience and location. They conduct safety inspections, often working in various environments and requiring knowledge of safety standards and inspection tools.
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Railroad Track Inspector jobs near you
Railroad Flagger

Railroad Flagger

National Railroad Safety Services

Seattle, WA

$25 - $37/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 28 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Railroad Flagging
Location: Seattle, WA
Job Type: Full-Time
Reports To: District Manager
Travel: Yes, travel is expected for this position (50% - 85% on average).
Compensation: $25 - $37 based on experience

Job Description:

National Railroad Safety Services, Inc. (NRSS) is hiring a Railroad Flagger. This role keeps workers safe on train tracks by controlling train movements and following federal safety rules. The job supports major railroads, smaller rail lines, transit systems, state transportation projects, and contractors.

Required Experience: Minimum 2 years of experience with a Class 1 Railroad, Regional Short Line, Transit System, State DOT Rail Division, Railroad Supplier, Railroad Contractor, and/or Railroad Consultant; preferably within the Maintenance Of Way (MOW) Department.

Job Requirements:

  • Skilled with basic computer tools, including Citrix, email, phone, and texting apps
  • Comfortable using Android tablets and smartphones
  • Highly organized with strong attention to detail
  • Good verbal and written communication skills
  • Knowledge of railroad engineering, design, construction, and safety
  • Able to build and maintain strong client relationships
  • Willing to travel for long periods (even months at a time)
  • Able to complete required federal, client, and company training

Job Duties:

  • Coordinate activities at the job site
  • Communicate clearly with dispatchers, train crews, railroad staff, and contractors
  • Lead safety briefings before work begins
  • Follow and enforce all railroad, state, and federal rules
  • Ensure contractors meet training requirements
  • Spot and address any rule violations
  • Complete daily reports on work activities
  • Maintain on-track safety following federal regulations

Work Environment:

  • This job operates in a field environment.
  • Must communicate clearly in English (speaking, reading, and writing)
  • Must be willing to travel or drive long distances
  • Must be able to stand for long periods and walk on uneven ground
  • Must have good vision (near, far, color, and peripheral)
  • Must handle extreme weather (hot and cold)
  • Must work in dusty and noisy environments
  • Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds

Benefits:

  • Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance
  • Short-Term, Long-Term Disability Insurance
  • Paid Vacation and Holidays
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan

Required Education: High School Diploma or Equivalent.

Keywords: Assistant Roadmaster, Bridge Inspector, Bridge Manager, Bridge Maintainer, Bridge Supervisor, Division Engineer (DE), Employee In Charge (EIC), Flagger, Flagging, Flagman, Foreman, Foremen, Maintenance Of Way (MOW), Manager Track Maintenance (MTM), Manager Track Projects (MTP), Rail, Railroad, Railroad Project Manager, Railway, Railway Project Manager, Roadmaster, Roadway Worker, Roadway Worker In Charge (RWIC), Roadway Worker Protection (RWP), Safety, Signal Inspector, Signal Maintainer, Signal Manager, Signal Supervisor, Track Inspector, Track Maintainer, Track Manager, Track Supervisor.

Company Profile: National Railroad Safety Services, Inc. (NRSS) is a certified DBE/WBE firm primarily focused on providing safety services to the railroad industry. NRSS is the most trusted name in the railroad industry for providing qualified field safety staff and safety training. To best serve the railroad industry, NRSS provides all these services in the continental United States, Canada, and Mexico. NRSS has the proven ability and the proven safety record to handle any project.

Safety Commitment: All employees at NRSS must always prioritize safety. No job is so urgent that it can't be done safely. Safety is a core value, ensuring the protection of workers, customers, and communities while maintaining leadership in railroad safety.

Closing Statement: National Railroad Safety Services, Inc. (NRSS) is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. Any candidate selected for this position must be able to successfully pass pre-employment/recurrent background checks, drug/alcohol testing, and classroom training.


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