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Railroad Track Worker Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Track Maintainer

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$27.41/hr

... working on the Light Rail Right of Way. * Performs inspections of tracks and related drainage ... Communicates effectively with the Manager, Maintenance of Way the results of track inspection ...

Track Maintainer

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$27.41/hr

... working on the Light Rail Right of Way. * Performs inspections of tracks and related drainage ... Communicates effectively with the Manager, Maintenance of Way the results of track inspection ...

Laborers

Springfield, VA · On-site

$19 - $33/hr

May work under the direction of a Railroad Track Foreman or Railroad Track Welder. * Take actions to avoid potential hazards and obstructions, such as utility lines, other equipment, other workers ...

Laborers

Springfield, VA · On-site

$19 - $33/hr

May work under the direction of a Railroad Track Foreman or Railroad Track Welder. * Take actions to avoid potential hazards and obstructions, such as utility lines, other equipment, other workers ...

Welder Helper

Lynchburg, VA · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Experienced in general railroad track work; such as; rail cutting, rail measuring, rail removal ... Physical Requirements and Working Conditions * Works outdoors at railroad construction sites.

Welder Helper

Lynchburg, VA · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Experienced in general railroad track work; such as; rail cutting, rail measuring, rail removal ... Physical Requirements and Working Conditions * Works outdoors at railroad construction sites.

Welder Helper

Richmond, VA · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Experienced in general railroad track work; such as; rail cutting, rail measuring, rail removal ... Physical Requirements and Working Conditions * Works outdoors at railroad construction sites.

Welder Helper

Roanoke, VA · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Experienced in general railroad track work; such as; rail cutting, rail measuring, rail removal ... Physical Requirements and Working Conditions * Works outdoors at railroad construction sites.

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Railroad Track Worker information

See Virginia salary details

$5

$23

$43

How much do railroad track worker jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for railroad track worker in Virginia is $23.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.20 and $24.33 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a railroad track worker do?

Railroad track workers are skilled laborers responsible for building, inspecting, maintaining, and repairing railroad tracks, switches, and other related infrastructure. Their work ensures that trains operate safely and efficiently by keeping the tracks in good condition and free from defects. Typical duties include replacing rails, ties, and ballast, operating specialized machinery, and performing regular inspections to spot potential hazards. The job can be physically demanding and often requires working outdoors in various weather conditions. Railroad track workers play a crucial role in the overall safety and reliability of train transportation.

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

To thrive as a Railroad Track Worker, you need strong mechanical aptitude, physical stamina, attention to safety, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with hand tools, power tools, track inspection systems, and sometimes specialized certifications such as FRA track safety standards is important. Dependability, teamwork, and clear communication are crucial soft skills for collaborating effectively and responding to hazards. These skills and qualifications ensure the safe, efficient maintenance and repair of railroad infrastructure, minimizing risks and service interruptions.

What are some common challenges faced by railroad track workers, and how are these addressed on the job?

Railroad track workers often encounter challenges such as working in varying weather conditions, performing physically demanding tasks, and maintaining strict safety standards while working near active rail lines. To address these, employers provide comprehensive safety training, supply appropriate personal protective equipment, and implement protocols to minimize risks, such as scheduling maintenance during off-peak hours. Teamwork and clear communication are essential, as workers must coordinate closely with colleagues and train dispatchers to ensure safety and efficiency during repairs and inspections.

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

AspectRailroad Track WorkerRailroad Maintenance Worker
CredentialsHigh school diploma, safety certificationsHigh school diploma, safety certifications
Work EnvironmentOn tracks, outdoor, physically demandingOn tracks, outdoor, physically demanding
Industry UsageSpecific to track installation and repairBroader, includes track and infrastructure maintenance
Common Search IntentCompare roles in track workCompare roles in railroad upkeep

Railroad Track Workers focus specifically on installing, repairing, and maintaining railroad tracks, often working directly on the tracks themselves. Railroad Maintenance Workers have a broader role that includes maintaining tracks, signals, and other infrastructure. Both roles require safety certifications and outdoor, physically demanding work environments, but their scope of work differs slightly.

How much do you get paid for working on train tracks?

Railroad track workers typically earn an average hourly wage between $20 and $30, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $40,000 to $60,000. Wages can vary based on experience, location, and union agreements, and the job often requires safety training and physical stamina.

How to become a railroad track worker?

To become a railroad track worker, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and must pass a physical exam. On-the-job training is common, and workers often learn safety procedures, equipment use, and track maintenance techniques. Some positions may require certifications in safety or operating specific tools and machinery.

What are popular job titles related to Railroad Track Worker jobs in Virginia?

For Railroad Track Worker jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Railroad Track Worker jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Railroad Track Worker jobs in Virginia are:

Infographic showing various Railroad Track Worker job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,963 per year, or $23.1 per hour.

$27.41/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Perform maintenance projects on rail tracks, drainage structures, utilities, bridges, and related elements, ensuring work is completed within schedule and budget.

  • Inspect tracks and related infrastructure, report findings, and identify safety hazards to maintain safe operating conditions.

  • Operate on-track equipment and other maintenance machinery to support track and facility maintenance activities.


Hampton Roads Transit rating

6.0

Company rating: 6.0 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

92nd of 101 rated public transport


Job description

Hampton Roads Transit is looking for dynamic, customer service oriented, and energetic people to become part of a committed team providing excellent and effective public transportation to the Hampton Roads region. We offer unmatched benefits and competitive wages in a stimulating and rewarding environment.
Hourly Wage: $27.41
Essential Job Functions:
(Duties listed are not intended to be all inclusive nor to limit duties that might reasonably be assigned.)
  • Perform maintenance projects within schedule and budget utilizing work windows allowed by operating considerations. Report delays and problems promptly, taking appropriate action to maintain effective coordination of activities.
  • Comply with all applicable policies and rules. Recommend safety procedures and standard practices to ensure maintenance activities precede safely and efficiently.
  • Adheres to the highest quality standards while meeting original equipment manufacturers requirement in the performance of all job responsibilities.
  • Prepares safe work zones and provides flagging along the HRT alignment for work crews working on the Light Rail Right of Way.
  • Performs inspections of tracks and related drainage structures, paving, utilities, bridges, underpasses, and other elements related to maintaining safe operating right of way. Submits verbal and written reports of inspection findings to the Manager, Maintenance of Way.
  • Perform weed abatement, tree branch and bush trimming, cutting grass and landscaping along the LRT Right of Way and Wayside.
  • Communicates effectively with the Manager, Maintenance of Way the results of track inspection, track maintenance activities, and other relative information and to other Hampton Roads Transit personnel as necessary.
  • Identify and correct imminent safety hazards for Hampton Roads Transit total rail system. Investigates, analyzes, and makes recommendations for correcting potential safety problems.
  • Provide emergency service as needed to maintain safe, reliable, and efficient LRT service.
  • Ensure that services are performed on schedule.
  • Ensure that daily, accurate records are maintained, and a detailed account of the specific work functions accomplished.
  • Operate On Track Equipment and other maintenance equipment as required for training and maintenance activities.
  • Manage records created and received in compliance with the Hampton Roads Transit Records Management Policies and Procedures.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Required Knowledge, Abilities and Skills essential to Job Functions:
  • Written and verbal communication skills.
  • Problem analysis and resolution skills.
  • Ability to perform maintenance repair, troubleshooting, rebuilds and overhaul of rail track equipment, and materials.
  • Ability to analyze malfunctions in mechanical, pneumatic, hydraulic equipment and determines repair and performs track fabrication and assembly tasks.
  • Ability to operate on-track equipment such as bucket trucks, crane trucks, and the like.
  • Knowledge of basic math skills.
  • Ability to maintain accurate maintenance records.
  • Ability to complete track and facility maintenance and inspection programs.
  • Ability to establish and maintain good working relationships.
  • Ability to work effectively in a team environment.
  • Must meet established Hampton Roads Transit goals and work standards.
  • Knowledge of and experience with track maintenance safety practices as they pertain to rail transportation systems.
  • Knowledge of pneumatic and hydraulic systems, testing and inspections methods, and tools for track maintenance.

Non-Exempt
HRT is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. If you need reasonable accommodations to complete the HRT employment application and/or the interview, contact HRT Human Resources at (757) 222-6000 or email careers@hrtransit.org.

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