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Railroad Track Laborer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

G&W

Track Laborer-Class A CDL preferred

Bakersfield, CA · On-site

$23.96/hr

Are you ready to build a rewarding career in the railroad industry? Join the Genesee & Wyoming Inc ... As a Track Laborer, you'll help maintain the safety and reliability of our railroad infrastructure.

RailWorks Corporation

Track Laborer

Stockton, CA · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

... physical labor at construction sites, utilizing hand and power tools and other equipment. This ... Removes and replaces track and track components (e.g., ties, rails, bars, etc.) * Slides and aligns ...

RailWorks

Track Laborer

Stockton, CA

$20 - $25/hr

... physical labor at construction sites, utilizing hand and power tools and other equipment. This ... Removes and replaces track and track components (e.g., ties, rails, bars, etc.) * Slides and aligns ...

Union Pacific

$33.21/hr

Conducting thorough inspections of railroad tracks, track beds, and track right-of-way to identify any problems or defects. * Performing necessary repairs and replacements of rails, rail anchors ...

Los Angeles Metro

RAIL TRACK SUPERVISOR

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$54.91 - $73.21/hr

OPERATIONS Cost Center: 3927 - RAIL MOW TRACK SYSTEMS Opening Date: 08/21/2026 Closing Date: 9/7 ... outside labor procurement necessary to perform designated maintenance * Provides flagging ...

New

RailWorks

Thermite Welder

Stockton, CA · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

Experienced in general railroad track work; such as; rail cutting, rail measuring, rail removal ... Performs heavy physical labor; may lift/carry and push/pull objects weighing up to 75 pounds.

RailWorks Corporation

Thermite Welder

Stockton, CA · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

Experienced in general railroad track work; such as; rail cutting, rail measuring, rail removal ... Performs heavy physical labor; may lift/carry and push/pull objects weighing up to 75 pounds.

RailWorks

Track Foreman

Stockton, CA · On-site

$38 - $45/hr

... of work, including labor, tools, equipment, and material. * Takes responsibility for crew ... RailWorks is North America's leading rail maintenance and infrastructure solutions provider. With ...

RailWorks

Track Foreman

Stockton, CA · On-site

$38 - $45/hr

... of work, including labor, tools, equipment, and material. * Takes responsibility for crew ... RailWorks is North America's leading rail maintenance and infrastructure solutions provider. With ...

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All JobsRailroad Track Laborer JobsRailroad Track Laborer Jobs in California

Railroad Track Laborer information

See California salary details

$10

$17

$23

How much do railroad track laborer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for railroad track laborer in California is $17.29, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.19 and $18.99 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a railroad track laborer?

Railroad Track Laborers are workers responsible for building, maintaining, and repairing railroad tracks, switches, and related equipment. Their duties often include replacing rails, ties, and ballast, as well as inspecting tracks for damage or wear. They use a variety of hand tools and heavy machinery to ensure that the tracks are safe and operational for train traffic. The work can be physically demanding and is often performed outdoors in all weather conditions. Railroad Track Laborers play a critical role in keeping the rail system running smoothly and safely.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a railroad track laborer?

To thrive as a Railroad Track Laborer, you need strong physical stamina, mechanical aptitude, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with hand tools, power tools, and rail maintenance equipment, along with certifications in track safety or equipment operation, is typically required. Teamwork, attention to detail, and reliability are crucial soft skills for working safely and efficiently in outdoor, sometimes hazardous environments. These skills ensure the safe, timely maintenance and repair of rail infrastructure, which is vital for railroad operations and public safety.

What are common challenges faced by railroad track laborers on the job?

Railroad Track Laborers often work outdoors in a variety of weather conditions, which can make the job physically demanding and sometimes uncomfortable. A key challenge is the need to maintain safety while working near moving trains and heavy equipment. The role also involves repetitive tasks such as lifting, aligning, and securing track components, which requires physical stamina and attention to detail. Additionally, laborers frequently work as part of a team and may be required to work irregular hours, including nights and weekends, to minimize disruption to rail traffic.

What is the difference between Railroad Track Laborer vs Track Maintenance Worker?

AspectRailroad Track LaborerTrack Maintenance Worker
CertificationsOSHA safety training, sometimes specialized track safety coursesOSHA safety training, track safety certifications often required
Work EnvironmentRailroad yards, construction sites, track installation areasRailroad tracks, maintenance yards, construction zones
Employer & Industry UsageRailroads, transportation companies, construction firmsRailroads, transit authorities, infrastructure contractors

Railroad Track Laborers and Track Maintenance Workers perform similar tasks related to track installation, repair, and safety. While both roles require safety certifications and work in railroad environments, Track Maintenance Workers often have more specialized skills and may perform more technical repairs. Both roles are essential for maintaining safe and operational rail infrastructure.

How to become a railroad track laborer?

To become a railroad track laborer, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and must pass a physical exam. On-the-job training is common, and familiarity with tools and safety procedures is important. Some positions may require a valid driver's license and the ability to work in outdoor environments, often involving shift work and physical labor.

What are popular job titles related to Railroad Track Laborer jobs in California?

For Railroad Track Laborer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Railroad Track Laborer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Railroad Track Laborer jobs in California are:

Railroad Track Laborer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Railroad Track Laborer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,965 per year, or $17.3 per hour.

Track Laborer-Class A CDL preferred

Genesee & Wyoming Inc

Bakersfield, CA • On-site

$23.96/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago

Genesee & Wyoming rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 31 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

271st of 366 rated logistics

Job description

Company / Benefits Overview:
Are you ready to build a rewarding career in the railroad industry? Join the Genesee & Wyoming Inc. (G&W) team — part of a legacy that is over 125 years old. With a network of 100+ individual freight railroads and 4,000 employees across North America, we provide transportation and logistics services to more than 2,000 customers.

At G&W, we live by our Core Values: Safety, Service, Integrity, Respect, Transparency, Accountability, Innovation and Excellence. We offer competitive pay, a comprehensive benefits package, and paid training to help you succeed. Check out some of our great benefits below:

  • Medical, Dental, Vision & Telehealth
  • Life Insurance
  • Optional benefit coverages for Accident, Critical Illness, Hospital, ID Theft & Life Insurance
  • Flexible Spending & Health Savings account plans
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan
  • On the Job Training
  • Paid Time Off
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • And more!

* Benefits are subject to change and may vary by labor agreement

Explore your future with G&W today and learn more about the opportunities to grow across our organization!

Job Summary:
As a Track Laborer, you’ll help maintain the safety and reliability of our railroad infrastructure. You’ll work outdoors in all weather conditions, using hand tools and heavy equipment to maintain, repair, and replace track components. This physically active role offers hands-on training and real opportunities for growth in a dynamic, team-driven environment.

Please watch our career video for more information https://www.gwrr.com/careers/

Responsibilities:

  • Comply with all federal, state, and other applicable railroad safety and operational regulations
  • Follow instructions when working with a certified trainer, mentor, or supervisor
  • Repair and rebuild railroad track using hydraulic or hand tools
  • Remove and replace ties and rails; pull and drive spikes; shovel rock ballast; load and unload equipment and material
  • Inspect tools and equipment for defects to determine if they are in a safe condition prior to use
  • Use various types of tools and equipment, including torches, hammers, jacks, rail saws and other mechanical, hydraulic, and pneumatic tools
  • Perform routine maintenance and troubleshoot problems on equipment
  • Perform other duties as assigned

Working Conditions / Physical Requirements:

  • Full-time (40 plus hours weekly)
  • Varying schedule in a 24/7 work environment that includes nights, holidays, weekends, and on-call as needed
  • Outdoor work in all weather conditions
  • Walking on uneven surfaces and climbing ladders and equipment always ensuring three points of contact
  • Able to squat, bend and lift overhead with extended periods of kneeling or crouching (bending at the knees)
  • Frequent lifting of equipment and tools up to 76 pounds

Skills and Experience:

  • Able to complete written forms and reports as required
  • Working knowledge of equipment such as torches, hammers, jacks, and other mechanical, hydraulic, and pneumatic tools is a plus
  • Skilled in routine equipment maintenance and troubleshooting is a plus
  • Able to read and interpret documents including safety rules, manuals, and regulations
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • Experience with heavy hand tools and outdoor work is a plus
  • Commercial Driver's License (CDL) is a plus or willingness to obtain if required
  • Possess situational awareness and decision-making abilities to respond effectively in a safety sensitive environment

Required Education and Credentials:

  • High school diploma or GED; or an equivalent combination of education and/or work experience
  • Valid driver’s license
  • At least 18 years of age

Employment Requirements:

  • Pre-employment physical, hearing, and vision medical review
  • Subject to federally mandated drug and alcohol testing including pre-employment drug screening
  • Background screening including criminal and motor vehicle driving history

Pay Rates:  Student Track Laborer $23.96 per hr.  Qualified Track Laborer $29.96 per hr.

Relocation:
Must live within 50 miles of assigned location or be willing to relocate. Relocation assistance is not offered for this position. 

This position is employed by the specific entity set forth in the job posting.

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