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Railroad Track Inspector Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Federal Railroad Administration

WI · On-site

$89K/yr

To be qualified for a Railroad Safety Inspector (Track), the Qualifications Standard states you MUST have demonstrated knowledge in the following areas: * Railroad industry, including economic and ...

Federal Railroad Administration

WI · On-site

$89K/yr

To be qualified for a Railroad Safety Inspector (Track), the Qualifications Standard states you MUST have demonstrated knowledge in the following areas: * Railroad industry, including economic and ...

Federal Railroad Administration

WI · On-site

$89K/yr

To be qualified for a Railroad Safety Inspector (Track), the Qualifications Standard states you MUST have demonstrated knowledge in the following areas: * Railroad industry, including economic and ...

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How much do railroad track inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for railroad track inspector in the United States is $27.36, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.51 and $31.49 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 inspectors usually need to pass a background check and physical exam. On-the-job training is common, and familiarity with inspection tools and safety protocols is essential.

How much do train ticket inspectors get paid?

Train ticket inspectors typically earn an average salary ranging from $25,000 to $45,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and employer. The role often requires customer service skills and the ability to operate ticketing equipment, with some positions offering overtime or shift differentials.

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 track inspectors, such as those with extensive experience or certifications in safety and maintenance, tend to earn higher salaries. Supervisory roles or inspectors working for large companies with advanced technology and safety protocols also typically receive higher pay. Salary can vary based on experience, location, and the complexity of the inspection tasks performed.

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.

How much does a track inspector make at BNSF?

A railroad track inspector at BNSF typically earns between $50,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience and location. The role involves inspecting tracks, identifying defects, and ensuring safety standards are met, often requiring certifications and knowledge of inspection tools.

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.

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Railroad Track Inspector jobs near you
Infographic showing various Railroad Track Inspector job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 33% Full Time, 61% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,905 per year, or $27.4 per hour.
Railroad Safety Inspector (Track)- DIRECT HIRE- SME

Railroad Safety Inspector (Track)- DIRECT HIRE- SME

Federal Railroad Administration

Springfield, IL • On-site

$89K/yr

Other

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

The position(s) are located in the Office of Railroad Safety, Track and Structures Division. The Track and Structures Division is responsible for executing and administering the track and structures safety programs to ensure maximum safety in railroad operations relevants to railroad track, track configuration, track components, rail integrity, bridge and structures, and railroad workplace safety.

PLEASE NOTE: This vacancy has been amended to add additional locations. 

Qualifications:

To meet the minimum qualifications for this position, you must meet the specialized experience requirements.

To be qualified for a Railroad Safety Inspector (Track), the Qualifications Standard states you MUST have demonstrated knowledge in the following areas: 

  • Railroad industry, including economic and operating considerations and equipment.
  • General safety and health principles and practices applicable to the railroad industry.
  • Railroad accident investigation techniques.
  • Skill in written an oral communication.
  • Knowledge of railroad track system construction, maintenance, testing, or inspection techniques;
  • Knowledge of the capabilities and limitations of various track system configurations; AND
  • Knowledge of Federal railroad track safety standards.

For the GS-12, to qualify, your experience should include all of the above plus at least one year of specialize experience equal or equivalent to the GS-11, which includes the following:

  • Experience applying Federal Railroad track safety standards/regulations for the purpose of inspecting and identifying track safety deficiencies.
  • Experience ensuring railroad compliance with federal regulations by auditing railroad inspections activities, conducting inspections, assessing safety complaints, and performing accident investigations.
  • Experience producing electronic and automated track inspection and violation reports that describe defective track conditions, narrative accident / incident reports and present safety related information to railroad managers, and federal and state stakeholders.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (KSAs): Your qualifications will be evaluated on the basis of your level of knowledge, skills, abilities and/or competencies in the following areas:

  1. Accident Investigation - Knowledge of guidelines, regulations, and procedures associated with an accident investigation including preservation of accident scene, root cause analysis, and evidence detection and handling.
  2. Planning and Evaluating - Organize work, sets priorities, and determine resource requirements; determine short- or long-term goals and strategies to achieve them; coordinate with other organizations or parts of the organization to accomplish goals; monitors progress and evaluates outcomes.
  3. Attention to Detail - Is thorough when performing work and conscientious about attending to detail.
  4. Oral Communication - Make clear and convincing oral presentations. Listen effectively; clarify information as needed.
  5. Written Communication - Write in a clear, concise, organized, and convincing manner for the intended audience.

For all types of consideration, experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional, philanthropic, religious, spiritual, community, student, social).  Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment.  You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
For additional information about applying to Federal positions, please click on the following link:  https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-policies/#url=e4
All applicants must meet all qualification requirements by the closing date of this announcement.

Education:Employment Type: OTHER

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