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Railroad Track Laborer Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

Track Laborer

Springfield, OH · On-site

$23.12/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.

Track Laborer

Lima, OH · On-site

$23.12/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.

Track Laborer

Springfield, OH · On-site

$23.12/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.

Track Laborer

Lima, OH · On-site

$23.12/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.

Our teams deliver on-site rail switching, material handling and transloading, track construction ... labor required Frequent walking, climbing, bending, kneeling, lifting, and carrying materials ...

Track Foreman

Cincinnati, OH · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

Our teams deliver on-site rail switching, material handling and transloading, track construction ... labor required • Frequent walking, climbing, bending, kneeling, lifting, and carrying materials ...

Cut rails to specific lengths. * Receive instructions, requests, orders, and information. * Adjust, lift and roll rails. * Sort track material for loading and unloading. * Install and repair street ...

... the railroad track infrastructure to ensure safe and efficient service to our customers. This ... track laborers and other personnel • Obtain and operate under track warrants • Supervise ...

... the railroad track infrastructure to ensure safe and efficient service to our customers. This ... track laborers and other personnel • Obtain and operate under track warrants • Supervise ...

Railroad Laborer

Cloverdale, OH · On-site

$19 - $21/hr

VORST RAIL SERVICES EMPLOYEE Laborer Reports To:Crew Leader and Management Team FLSA Status:Non ... Carry and set track materials with hand tools (rail forks, tie/rail tongs, lining bars, etc.

Railroad Laborer

Cloverdale, OH · On-site

$19 - $21/hr

VORST RAIL SERVICES EMPLOYEE Laborer Reports To: Crew Leader and Management Team FLSA Status: Non ... Carry and set track materials with hand tools (rail forks, tie/rail tongs, lining bars, etc.

Railroad Laborer

Cloverdale, OH · On-site

$19 - $21/hr

VORST RAIL SERVICES EMPLOYEE Laborer Reports To: Crew Leader and Management Team FLSA Status: Non ... Carry and set track materials with hand tools (rail forks, tie/rail tongs, lining bars, etc.

Conductor

Coshocton, OH · On-site

$32.64/hr

SUMMARY: The person in this position operates track switches, couples and uncouples cars, and ... Railroad or other relevant industry experience is a plus * Ability to work in a 24/7 work ...

Conductor

Cincinnati, OH · On-site

$29.70/hr

Benefits are subject to change and may vary by labor agreement Explore your future with G&W today ... Operate track switches to determine the route of the train or rail equipment * Evaluate, plan, and ...

Our teams deliver on-site rail switching, material handling and transloading, track construction ... physical labor required Frequent walking, climbing, balancing, bending, kneeling, and lifting ...

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Showing results 1-20

Railroad Track Laborer information

See Ohio salary details

$10

$16

$22

How much do railroad track laborer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for railroad track laborer in Ohio is $16.66, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.62 and $18.27 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 Ohio?

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Railroad Track Laborer job openings in Ohio 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 $34,645 per year, or $16.7 per hour.

Wheeling & Lake Erie Railway | Track Laborer (WLE-0077)

transtar

Norwalk, OH

$100/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

Wheeling & Lake Erie Railway (W&LE) is one of the largest regional railroads in the United States and the largest in Ohio, operating 840 miles of track across Ohio, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia.  W&LE runs 98 locomotives, moves more than 140,000 carloads annually, and supports operations through seven major rail yards and a 120,000 square foot locomotive and car repair facility. The railroad serves over 110 customers through a diverse fleet of 1,400 owned or leased railcars and hauls a wide range of commodities including steel, petroleum products, aggregates, chemicals, coal, lumber, paper, and plastics. With connections to three Class I railroads, Canadian National, CSX, and Norfolk Southern, and fourteen regional and short line partners, W&LE offers flexible routing and competitive service options.

Founded in 1871 and headquartered in Brewster, Ohio since 1913, the company continues its long legacy with seven day a week interchange operations and 24/7 customer support, delivering dependable, efficient service rooted in both regional heritage and modern capability.

Job Description

The Track Laborer position is a full-time, union position within the Engineering Department of Wheeling & Lake Erie Railway (W&LE). This position is responsible for the maintenance, repair, and installation of railroad track and related infrastructure to ensure safe and efficient railroad operations in accordance with W&LE standards and Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) regulations.
Track Laborers perform physically demanding outdoor work in all weather conditions. This role emphasizes safety, teamwork, compliance with operating rules, and maintaining track structure to support reliable freight service.

Duties/Responsibilities

Repair and rebuild railroad track using various power and hand tools.

Remove and replace railroad ties; pull and drive spikes; shovel and replace ballast.

Load and unload equipment and materials as assigned.

Inspect track, trackbed, and right-of-way for defects such as broken rails, defective switches, obstructions, and weather-related issues.

Perform track maintenance including installing/removing rail anchors, aligning tie plates, cutting rails, plugging spike holes, and operating track jacks.

Handle and move track materials and equipment weighing between 50 and 100 pounds (with or without assistance as required).

Operate tools and machinery such as air hammers, powered wrenches, rail drills, portable saws, and other assigned equipment.

Remove and replace ballast; tamp ballast; assist in unloading ballast.

Maintain safe working conditions by following company and industry safety rules and wearing required PPE.

Monitor for visual signals and warning sounds and take appropriate action to protect self and coworkers.

Working Conditions

Work safely at all times in compliance with all safety and operating rules.

Work outdoors in all weather conditions for extended periods of time.

Walk long distances on uneven and irregular surfaces.

Frequently stoop, bend, kneel, crouch, and climb.

Lift and carry objects weighing between 50 and 100 pounds.

Full Time

Full-time union position (40 hours per week). Position may require significant overtime, including nights, weekends, holidays, and scheduled rest days. The railroad operates 24 hours per day, seven days per week, and employees must be available to report for duty when notified.

Travel

Travel is required throughout the railroad system. Employees must be willing and able to work at any location on the railroad in Ohio, West Virginia, and Pennsylvania. Employees may be required to drive long distances to reach job sites.

Minimum Qualifications

High School Diploma or GED equivalent required.

Ability to perform strenuous physical labor.

Ability to secure appropriate Commercial Driver’s License within 120 days of hire.

Ability to comply with union requirements and collective bargaining agreement.

Ability to work irregular hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays.

Commitment to workplace safety and rule compliance.

Compensation

  • The starting hourly rate is $21.04/hour
  • Pay ranges from $21.04/hour to $29.21/hour (depending on position held)
  • $100 a week supplemental compensation
  • Employee Profit-Sharing Program (eligible after 90 days of employment)


Benefits

Wheeling & Lake Erie Railway Company offers a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, Railroad Retirement benefits, 401(k) with company match, profit sharing, paid holidays, paid vacation, and discretionary bonuses.

Drug Free Workplace

W&LE is a drug-free workplace and maintains a zero-tolerance policy.
Employees are subject to pre-employment and frequent drug and alcohol testing.
A DUI or OVI conviction within the last three years will disqualify you from consideration for this position.
All positions require pre-employment background verification, physical examination, and drug/alcohol screening.

Locations:  Hartland, OH and Carnegie, PA.