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Railroad Work Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Railroad Carman

Kansas City, KS · On-site

$23 - $28/hr

Road & Rail Services Rail Road Carman Are you looking for a great Company who treats you well and rewards your hard work? If you're looking for a company with opportunities for advancement and growth ...

Road & Rail Services Rail Road Carman Are you looking for a great Company who treats you well and rewards your hard work? If you're looking for a company with opportunities for advancement and growth ...

What We Offer Road & Rail Services offers steady work, competitive pay, and the opportunity to build a long-term career in the rail industry. We value safety, reliability, and employees who are ready ...

What We Offer Road & Rail Services offers steady work, competitive pay, and the opportunity to build a long-term career in the rail industry. We value safety, reliability, and employees who are ready ...

What We Offer Road & Rail Services offers steady work, competitive pay, and the opportunity to build a long-term career in the rail industry. We value safety, reliability, and employees who are ready ...

Railroad Carmen

Fort Collins, CO · On-site

$23 - $27/hr

Road & Rail Services Railroad Carmen Are you looking for a great Company who treats you well and rewards your hard work? If you're looking for a company with opportunities for advancement and growth ...

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Railroad Work information

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$18

$31

$54

How much do railroad work jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for railroad work in the United States is $31.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.48 and $36.54 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What's the highest paying railroad job?

The highest paying railroad jobs are typically senior management roles such as railroad executives or specialized engineering positions like railroad signal engineers, which can earn six-figure salaries. These roles often require extensive experience, technical skills, and relevant certifications, and may involve overseeing operations, safety, or infrastructure projects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Railroad Worker, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Railroad Worker, you need mechanical aptitude, physical stamina, attention to safety, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with railroad maintenance equipment, signaling systems, and sometimes certification in areas like track inspection or equipment operation is important. Teamwork, problem-solving, and strong communication are vital soft skills for handling emergencies and coordinating with crew members. These skills ensure the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of trains and rail infrastructure.

What is the difference between Railroad Work vs Railroad Conductor?

AspectRailroad WorkRailroad Conductor
CredentialsVaries; often includes safety training and certificationsRequires conductor certification and safety training
Work EnvironmentRail yards, tracks, stations, often outdoorsOn trains, stations, and in the field
Employer & Industry UsageRailroads, freight and passenger servicesRailroads, freight and passenger services
Job RoleGeneral rail industry tasks, maintenance, safetyManaging train operations, passenger safety, communication

Railroad work encompasses a broad range of roles within the rail industry, including maintenance, safety, and operational tasks. Railroad conductors specifically oversee train operations, coordinate crew, and ensure passenger safety. While both roles require safety training and certifications, conductors focus more on train management and customer service, whereas general railroad work covers a wider array of duties within the industry.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Railroad work roles such as locomotive engineers and train conductors can pay around $4,000 or more per week, especially with experience and overtime. These jobs typically require specialized training, certifications, and safety knowledge but do not always require a college degree.

How do you get into railroad work?

To get into railroad work, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, and some positions require a commercial driver's license or specialized certifications. Entry often involves applying through railroad companies, passing physical and background checks, and completing on-the-job training or apprenticeship programs.

Is it hard to get hired on the railroad?

Getting hired for railroad work can be competitive and often requires relevant experience, physical fitness, and sometimes certifications such as safety training or operating licenses. Candidates should be prepared for a structured application process that may include background checks, drug testing, and interviews, with some positions demanding physical stamina and technical skills.

What are railroad workers and what do they do?

Railroad workers are professionals responsible for building, maintaining, and operating trains and railway systems. Their duties can include repairing tracks, inspecting equipment, operating locomotives, and ensuring the safe and efficient movement of goods and passengers. These workers may specialize as conductors, engineers, track laborers, or signal operators. The job often requires working outdoors in various weather conditions and adhering to strict safety protocols to prevent accidents and delays.

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

Railroad workers often encounter challenges such as working in varying weather conditions, handling physically demanding tasks, and adhering to strict safety protocols. To address these challenges, employers typically provide comprehensive safety training, proper protective equipment, and clear communication procedures. Additionally, teamwork is emphasized, as many tasks require coordination with other crew members to ensure efficiency and safety. Support systems, including regular safety briefings and access to resources for physical well-being, further help railroad workers manage the demands of the job.
More about Railroad Work jobs
What cities are hiring for Railroad Work jobs? Cities with the most Railroad Work job openings:
What states have the most Railroad Work jobs? States with the most job openings for Railroad Work jobs include:
Infographic showing various Railroad Work job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 89% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $66,161 per year, or $31.8 per hour.
Track Maintenance Foreperson

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 4 days ago


Canadian National Railway rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 48 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

163rd of 356 rated logistics


Job description

Track Maintenance Foreperson

At CN, we are committed to our pursuit of excellence. We take pride in delivering work of the highest standard, continually innovating to shape the railroad of the future. As responsible railroaders, we make the right decisions every time, putting safety first, acting with unwavering integrity, and holding ourselves accountable for our actions. We believe in succeeding together-by fostering inclusivity and collaboration, we sustainably deliver exceptional results for our customers.  
If you enjoy working outdoors in a safety-focused team environment, a rewarding career in rail maintenance might be right for you! Working with a crew in different locations, you'll play a focal role in keeping the economy on track by ensuring that our infrastructure is safe, sound, and train-ready. The careers we offer are meaningful because the work we do matters. Join us and get your career moving!

Job Summary

The Track Maintenance Foreperson is responsible for the maintenance of track components. The position leads crews to ensure that fixtures on the railroad work properly. The incumbent participates in inspecting, repairing, and replacing rails, ties, switches, and ballast.

Major Responsibilities

  • Inspect and maintain track structure and right-of-way to CN's specifications
  • Supervise and develop track forces to ensure quality maintenance and safe work performance
  • Inspect track work on completion and approve track for service
  • Maintain train operating restrictions in alignment with track standards
  • Implement safety directives
  • Assist in the development of safety programs and goals
  • Remove and replace defective ties, rails spikes, and anchors
  • Correct deviations in track surface, alignment, and gauge
  • Install and repair street and railroad crossings
  • Assist in the replacement and repair of items such as power-operated switches and insulated joints
  • Help to unload ballast as well as unload and distribute track material
  • Sort used track material for loading, which may be loaded by hand
  • Clear brush, vegetation, snow, and litter from railroad right-of-way
  • Establish and maintain drainage
  • Clean up after work completion
  • Comply with track safety standards, Operating Rules, and Safe work procedures
  • Complete work, material inventory, and inspections reports

Working Conditions

  • Must be available to work shifts, away from home on various work cycles, and occasional overtime
  • Ability to work outdoors in various types of weather and environmental conditions, involving physical work
  • Must be able to perform repetitive physical activities
  • Ability to lift and carry 50 pounds (22 kg) frequently and up to 70 pounds (32 kg) occasionally
  • Must have good eye-hand coordination and grasping

Requirements

  • Foreperson or supervisory experience
  • Experience in similar working conditions
  • High School Diploma or equivalent General Education Diploma (GED)
  • Valid Driver's License
  • Knowledge of Microsoft Suite (Excel, PowerPoint, and Word)
  • Collaborates with others and shares information
  • Communicates with impact
  • Sets direction and inspires others
  • Leads by example for the safety and security of all
  • Considers ESG principles in all operations

Assets

  • Welding Skills
  • Knowledge of signals or Rail Operating Rules

What We Offer  

  • Competitive Wages and Benefits  
  • Paid Training and Career Development 
  • Medical, vision, and dental insurance 
  • Defined Benefits Pension Plan 
  • Employee Share Investment Plan 
  • Educational Financial Assistance Program 
  • Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) 
  • Generous Employee Discount Program 
  • Employee & Family Assistance Program (EFAP) 
  • Telemedicine Service  

This position is a unionized position, as such pay and benefits are governed by the applicable Collective Agreement.  

Paid Training
  

Successful candidates will take part in a paid four-week training program at a CN Campus (Homewood, IL) with additional on-the-job training to help ensure that they have received the adequate knowledge to operate in accordance with regulatory requirements and CN's safety standards. The training is primarily on health and safety rules as successful completion of the classroom and on-the-job training is required to continue employment as a Track Maintenance Foreperson at CN. 

Successful Candidate Process:
  

  • Medical assessment (including drug, hearing, and vision).  
  • Criminal background check. 
  • Offer Letter  

Paid Training Structure:  

  • 4 weeks at CN Campus 

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