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Railroad Track Maintenance Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Road & Rail Services

Track Worker

Frankfort, KY

$21/hr

Road & Rail Services is hiring Track Workers / Equipment Operators to support railroad track maintenance projects across multiple states. This is a travel-based position-you will be working outdoors ...

Road & Rail Services

Track Worker

Frankfort, KY · On-site

$21/hr

Road & Rail Services is hiring Track Workers / Equipment Operators to support railroad track maintenance projects across multiple states. This is a travel-based position-you will be working outdoors ...

Road & Rail Services

Track Worker

Frankfort, KY · On-site

$21/hr

Road & Rail Services is hiring Track Workers / Equipment Operators to support railroad track maintenance projects across multiple states. This is a travel-based position-you will be working outdoors ...

RailPros

Railroad Track Inspector

Irving, TX

The Railroad Track Specialist plays an integral role in developing and maintaining the RailPros client relationship . Essential Duties & Responsibilities: * Inspect railroad track structure ...

360 Rail Services

Railroad Track Laborer

Baytown, TX

$16 - $18/hr

Reporting to the Track Maintenance Foreman or the Construction Foreman, the Track Laborer is ... Railroad industry experience, including track maintenance and construction preferred but not ...

RailPros

Railroad Track Inspector

Irving, TX · On-site

The Railroad Track Specialist plays an integral role in developing and maintaining the RailPros client relationship . Essential Duties & Responsibilities: * Inspect railroad track structure ...

RailPros

Railroad Track Inspector

Irving, IL

$45 - $50/hr

The Railroad Track Specialist plays an integral role in developing and maintaining the RailPros client relationship . Essential Duties & Responsibilities: * Inspect railroad track structure ...

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Railroad Track Maintenance information

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$31

$56

How much do railroad track maintenance jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for railroad track maintenance in the United States is $31.57, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.08 and $38.22 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a typical workday look like for someone in Railroad Track Maintenance?

A typical day in Railroad Track Maintenance often involves inspecting tracks for defects, repairing rails and ties, replacing ballast, and ensuring the overall integrity of the rail infrastructure. You’ll frequently work outdoors in varying weather conditions, sometimes during nights or weekends, to complete scheduled maintenance or respond to urgent track issues. Teamwork is vital, as tasks are usually performed in crews for efficiency and safety, and you'll use specialized tools and machinery under strict safety guidelines. The work can be physically demanding but is essential to keeping railroad operations smooth and safe. This role offers a strong sense of accomplishment and opportunities for advancement into supervisory or specialized technical positions with experience.

What is a Railroad Track Maintenance job?

A Railroad Track Maintenance job involves inspecting, repairing, and maintaining railroad tracks to ensure safe and efficient train operations. Workers replace worn-out rails, ties, and ballast, as well as adjust tracks to prevent derailments. The job requires physical labor, working outdoors in various weather conditions, and following strict safety protocols. It is essential for the safe transportation of goods and passengers on the railway system.

What is the highest paying railroad job?

The highest paying railroad jobs are typically senior management positions such as railroad executives or specialized roles like signal engineers and project managers, which require extensive experience and technical skills. These roles often offer salaries exceeding $100,000 annually, depending on the company and location.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Railroad Track Maintenance position, and why are they important?

To thrive in Railroad Track Maintenance, you need strong mechanical aptitude, physical stamina, basic math skills, and usually a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with track inspection equipment, hand and power tools, and relevant safety certifications such as FRA (Federal Railroad Administration) compliance are important. Attention to detail, teamwork, reliability, and effective communication are valuable soft skills in this field. These competencies ensure safe, efficient rail operations and minimize downtime due to track issues.

What is the highest paying maintenance job?

In railroad track maintenance, supervisory roles such as Track Supervisor or Maintenance Manager tend to be the highest paying positions, often earning higher salaries due to increased responsibilities and experience requirements. These roles may require specialized knowledge of track systems, safety protocols, and certifications, and often involve overseeing crews and maintenance operations.

How much does a track maintenance for BNSF make?

Railroad track maintenance workers at BNSF typically earn an average annual salary ranging from $50,000 to $70,000, depending on experience and location. The role involves working outdoors, often requiring safety certifications and physical stamina. Compensation may include benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans.

What qualifications do track maintainers need?

Railroad track maintainers typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and must have knowledge of track components, safety procedures, and maintenance tools. Relevant certifications, such as OSHA safety training, and physical ability to perform manual labor are also important. Experience with track inspection and repair equipment can be beneficial.
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Railroad Track Maintenance jobs near you
Infographic showing various Railroad Track Maintenance job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,662 per year, or $31.6 per hour.
Railroad Track Maintenance Tamper Operator

Railroad Track Maintenance Tamper Operator

Road & Rail Services

Frankfort, KY

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 13 days ago

Road & Rail Services rating

5.2

Company rating: 5.2 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Railroad Track Maintenance Tamper Operator

Location: Based out of Frankfort, KY (Nationwide Travel Required)
Pay: Negotiable Based on Experience
Job Type: Full-Time

Road & Rail Services is a national leader in specialized logistics and rail support services. Our Track Maintenance division is built on skill, precision, and accountability. We take pride in maintaining safe, efficient rail infrastructure and in hiring experienced railroad professionals who understand the demands of track maintenance work.

We are seeking an experienced Tamper Operator to join our nationwide travel team. This position is based out of Frankfort, Kentucky and requires up to 100% travel. The successful candidate will operate production tampers on railroad maintenance projects throughout the region and across the United States.

This is not an entry-level position. Candidates must have prior tamper operating experience and be comfortable working in a travel-based environment supporting track maintenance and rehabilitation projects.

Key Responsibilities
Safely operate railroad tampers on maintenance and construction projects
Perform track surfacing and alignment work to maintain proper track geometry
Conduct pre-trip and post-shift inspections of equipment
Identify equipment issues and communicate maintenance needs promptly
Work closely with supervisors and crew members to complete projects safely and efficiently
Follow all FRA regulations, railroad operating rules, and company safety policies
Support other track maintenance activities as needed
Maintain accurate records related to equipment operation and inspections


Required Qualifications
Previous experience operating a railroad tamper is required
Strong understanding of railroad track maintenance practices and track geometry
Ability to read and follow project specifications and instructions
Commitment to workplace safety and FRA compliance
Ability to travel extensively (up to 100%) and work away from home for extended periods
Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions
Ability to perform physically demanding work in an active railroad environment


Preferred Qualifications
Experience operating Jackson tampers strongly preferred
Additional experience with regulators, ballast equipment, or other production maintenance machines
Experience working on Class I, regional, or short line railroads


Work Environment & Travel
Up to 100% nationwide travel
Projects may be located across multiple states
Employees should expect extended periods away from home
Work is performed outdoors in active railroad environments and varying weather conditions

Road & Rail Services offers competitive compensation based on experience, stable full-time employment, ongoing training opportunities, quality equipment, and a professional work environment. Employees are eligible for a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, and 401(k).

If you are an experienced Tamper Operator who enjoys travel, takes pride in quality track work, and is looking for a long-term opportunity with a growing company, we encourage you to apply today.

Join Road & Rail Services and help keep America's rail network moving safely and efficiently.


This job requires a background check and drug screen.

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