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Railroad Track Machine Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Experience using various machines for railroad construction or maintenance work in an operating railroad environment preferred. * Knowledge of safe and proper procedures for operating track tools and ...

The position starts as a track maintainer, with an opportunity to qualify as a machine operator. RESPONSIBILITIES: * Repair and rebuild railroad track using hydraulic or hand tools * Remove and ...

Track Laborer

Manistee, MI · On-site

$25.81/hr

The position starts as a track maintainer, with an opportunity to qualify as a machine operator. RESPONSIBILITIES: * Repair and rebuild railroad track using hydraulic or hand tools * Remove and ...

... operating a hi-rail truck and performing on-track inspections * 5+ years experience railroad construction, repair, and maintenance * Ability to operate heavy machinery * Knowledge of rail maintenance ...

Showing results 21-40

Railroad Track Machine Operator information

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$12

$18

$23

How much do railroad track machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for railroad track machine operator in the United States is $18.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $19.47 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a railroad track machine operator?

Railroad Track Machine Operators are skilled workers responsible for operating specialized equipment used to construct, maintain, and repair railroad tracks. They handle machinery such as tampers, ballast regulators, and track-laying machines to ensure tracks are aligned, stabilized, and safe for trains. These operators work outdoors in various weather conditions and often travel to different job sites, sometimes working nights, weekends, or holidays to minimize disruptions to train schedules. Safety is a top priority in this role, as working around heavy equipment and moving trains can be hazardous.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a railroad track machine operator?

To thrive as a Railroad Track Machine Operator, you need strong mechanical aptitude, physical stamina, and a high school diploma or equivalent, with additional on-the-job training or certifications in railway operations preferred. Familiarity with track maintenance machines, safety procedures, and sometimes computerized control systems is vital. Attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication are standout soft skills for this role. These abilities ensure the safe, efficient, and precise maintenance of railroad infrastructure, minimizing risks and operational disruptions.

What are some common challenges faced by railroad track machine operators on the job?

Railroad Track Machine Operators often work outdoors in varying weather conditions and must be prepared for physically demanding tasks. A common challenge is adhering to strict safety protocols while operating heavy machinery near active rail lines. Coordination with other crew members is essential, as projects are typically completed by teams working together to ensure tracks are aligned and maintained efficiently. Flexibility with work hours, including nights and weekends, is also often required due to maintenance schedules and track availability.

What is the difference between Railroad Track Machine Operator vs Track Maintainer?

AspectRailroad Track Machine OperatorTrack Maintainer
CredentialsHigh school diploma, specialized training, certifications for operating machineryHigh school diploma, technical training, safety certifications
Work EnvironmentOperating heavy machinery on active rail lines, outdoor construction sitesInspecting, repairing, and maintaining tracks, often outdoors
Industry UsageRailroad companies, construction firmsRailroad companies, maintenance contractors

Railroad Track Machine Operators primarily operate heavy machinery to install and repair tracks, requiring specialized training and certifications. Track Maintainers focus on inspecting and maintaining existing tracks, often performing manual repairs. Both roles work outdoors in similar environments but differ in their specific duties and equipment used.

What are popular job titles related to Railroad Track Machine Operator jobs?

For Railroad Track Machine Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Railroad Track Machine Operator job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,827 per year, or $18.2 per hour.

Track Laborer

Albuquerque, NM

Full-time

Medical, Dental

Re-posted 3 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Install railroad track, embankments, and related components such as crossing surfaces, signage, and rail lubricators.

  • Use hand tools, power tools, and track machines to remove and replace ties, rails, fasteners, and other track components.

  • Complete work under time pressures, work as part of a crew or independently, and follow safety procedures.


Herzog rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 28 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

162nd of 284 rated repair and maintenance companies


Job description

Overview

Herzog Contracting Corp. is currently seeking a Track Laborer in Albuquerque, NM to join our team.

Duties and Responsibilities:

*This is a non-exhaustive overview of the job duties for this position.

  • Installs railroad track and embankments including special track work, road crossings, signage, and rail lubricators.
  • Capable of using hand and power tools, as well as a and a wide variety of track machines and equipment, including spike pullers, spike drivers, tie adze, hydraulic rail jacks, power wrenches, tie boring machines, rail drills, rail grinders, rail saws, and highway trucks equipped with rail guide wheels, hydraulic booms, and lift gates to remove and replace ties, rails, fasteners (cut or screw spikes, anti-creepers, bolts, elastic clips, insulators, rail seat pads, and conventional and insulated rail joints), special track work components, crushed rock ballast, crossing surfaces, paving, subgrade material, vegetation, signs, and structures.
  • Complete work under time pressures and maintain composure under the stress of emergency situations.
  • Work as a member of a crew or independently.
  • May work under the direction of a Railroad Track Foreman or Railroad Track Welder.
  • Regular and consistent engagement, participation and promotion of Herzog’s Culture and its essential behaviors are a requirement for this position.
  • Regular and predictable attendance and punctuality are a requirement for this position.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Must be fluent in the English language.
  • Three years’ experience in railroad track construction and/or maintenance preferred but not required.
  • Experience using various machines for railroad construction or maintenance work in an operating railroad environment preferred.
  • Knowledge of safe and proper procedures for operating track tools and equipment.
  • Knowledge of safe and efficient manipulation of equipment and tools to perform construction and maintenance tasks.
  • Company provides required Personal Protective Equipment including a Safety Boots Allowance Program.

Pre-Employment Requirements:

  • Subject to pre-employment background check and motor vehicle report review.
  • Subject to pre-employment physical, medical evaluation, and drug screen due to the safety sensitive nature of this position.
  • Successfully complete and maintain any required safety certification and testing on an annual basis.

Physical Requirements:

The physical demands described below must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential job functions of this role. This position will be physically demanding at times. This is a non-exhaustive overview of the physical requirements of this job.

  • Regularly lift up to 75 pounds of weight, up to an end height of 36 inches for a distance of up to 10 feet.
  • Regularly lift up to 50 pounds of weight, up to an end height of 48 inches for a distance of up to 10 feet.
  • Regularly carry weight up to 16 pounds for a distance of up to 100 feet.
  • Regularly push/pull a force up to 25 pounds for up to eight minutes continuously.
  • Regularly grasp/squeeze equipment or tools with a force up to 40 pounds.
  • Regularly ascend and descend a 10 step ladder with up to 25 pounds. Frequently climb on/off equipment.
  • Regularly ascend/descend a step with a height of 28 inches from the floor.
  • Regularly kneel, bend, squat for extended periods of time.
  • Regularly sit and stand for an extended period of time.
  • Able to walk on uneven surfaces up to 1 mile.
  • Able to work outdoors in all weather conditions (hot, cold, rain, snow, and sleet).
  • Available to work a 40 hour work week subject to overtime, on call and alternate shifts that may include weeknights, weekends and holidays.
  • Must successfully pass color/vision examinations as required by the position.
  • Must be able to hear and distinguish auditory signals as required by the position.

Safety:

  • Herzog is nationally recognized for its excellent corporate safety record which results from all employees at all levels, in all positions adhering to established policies and procedures. Reporting any and all safety violations to your immediate supervisor is a prerequisite for continued employment. Safety diligence by all results in a safe work environment for all. 

Benefits:

  • Herzog offers a robust benefits package including medical and dental coverage. The plans are specific to projects and locations.

Why Herzog:

Founded in 1969, Herzog is headquartered in St. Joseph, Missouri, with a satellite office in Fort Worth, Texas.

Over the course of our 50+ year history, Herzog has become a national leader in the construction, operations and maintenance of commuter rail, light rail, streetcar, and freight rail projects. 

We believe our culture is at the heart of our existence. It is that belief which empowers every member of our professional family to act with purpose and passion as they advance their career throughout their personal pursuit of excellence.

Backed by over five decades of experience, Herzog delivers exceptional customer service and elite results.
 

Our success is the outcome of our relentless pursuit of excellence, our passion for our customers, safety without compromise, and a deep-rooted belief in the power of team.

We invite you to join us on our journey to excellence as we work to be better today than yesterday and better tomorrow than today.

It is the policy of Herzog Contracting Corp. to provide equal opportunity in employment for all qualified individuals regardless of race, color, religion, ethnicity, national origin, ancestry, disability, medical condition, age, citizenship, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, pregnancy, genetic information, military status, veteran status, and any other characteristic protected by law.

Qualifications:UNAVAILABLEEducation:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: UNAVAILABLE

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