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Railroad Worker Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Road & Rail Services

Traveling Railroad Carman

Burnet, TX · On-site

$28 - $34/hr

... comfortable working outdoors in all weather conditions. If you are a self-starter looking for ... What We Offer Road & Rail Services offers steady work, competitive pay, and the opportunity to ...

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$33

How much do railroad worker jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for railroad worker in the United States is $20.21, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.46 and $24.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by railroad workers on the job?

Railroad workers often encounter challenges such as working in varying weather conditions, managing physically demanding tasks, and adhering to strict safety protocols. The role typically involves irregular hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays, due to the 24/7 nature of rail operations. Additionally, effective communication with dispatchers and team members is essential for ensuring safety and keeping trains running smoothly. Adapting to new technologies and regulations is also a key part of the job.

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 physical stamina, mechanical aptitude, knowledge of safety regulations, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with hand tools, track inspection equipment, and sometimes certification in railroad operations or safety protocols is common. Attention to detail, teamwork, and strong communication skills help individuals excel in this demanding environment. These skills are crucial for maintaining safe, efficient rail operations and preventing accidents or service disruptions.

What's the highest paying railroad job?

The highest paying railroad jobs are typically senior management positions such as railroad executives or specialized roles like trainmasters and safety directors, which can earn six-figure salaries. These roles often require extensive experience, leadership skills, and industry knowledge, along with relevant certifications or degrees.

How much money do railroad workers get paid?

Railroad workers typically earn an average annual salary ranging from $60,000 to $80,000, depending on experience, location, and specific roles such as conductors or engineers. They often work in shifts that include nights and weekends, and some positions may offer overtime pay or additional benefits.

How do I become a Railroad Worker?

To become a railroad worker, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, and must pass physical and background checks. Training is often provided on the job, and relevant skills include safety awareness, communication, and the ability to work in a team. Some positions may require certifications or licenses, such as operating certain equipment or handling hazardous materials.

What is the difference between Railroad Worker vs Train Conductor?

AspectRailroad WorkerTrain Conductor
CredentialsHigh school diploma, safety trainingHigh school diploma, safety training, certification
Work EnvironmentRail yards, tracks, maintenance sitesOnboard trains, stations, terminals
Employer & Industry UsageRailroads, freight and passenger servicesRailroads, passenger services
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Railroad workers perform maintenance, track repairs, and safety inspections in rail yards and along tracks. Train conductors operate trains, oversee passenger or freight services, and ensure safety during transit. While both roles are essential in the railroad industry, railroad workers focus on infrastructure and safety tasks, whereas train conductors manage train operations and passenger interactions.

What are railroad workers?

Railroad workers are professionals who build, maintain, and operate trains and railway tracks. Their duties can include repairing tracks, operating locomotives, inspecting equipment, and ensuring the safe and efficient movement of passengers and freight. There are several types of railroad workers, such as conductors, engineers, signal operators, and track maintenance crews. The job often involves working outdoors in various weather conditions and may require shift work, including nights and weekends. Railroad workers play a crucial role in the transportation industry by helping goods and people move across the country safely and efficiently.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Railroad workers, such as conductors and engineers, can earn around $4,000 or more per week, especially with experience and overtime. These roles typically require specialized training, certifications, and working in physically demanding environments, often with shift work and safety protocols.
More about Railroad Worker jobs
What cities are hiring for Railroad Worker jobs? Cities with the most Railroad Worker job openings:
What states have the most Railroad Worker jobs? States with the most job openings for Railroad Worker jobs include:
Railroad Worker jobs near you
Infographic showing various Railroad Worker job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,030 per year, or $20.2 per hour.
Railway Systems Engineer - Forensic Investigator

Railway Systems Engineer - Forensic Investigator

Robson Forensic

Lancaster, PA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

You have 15+ years of passenger rail systems experience and a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering. You have significant employment experience with a passenger railroad, and/or a consulting engineering firm with a focus on the railroad industry.

You are already an expert. Robson Forensic will train you to be a forensic expert.

As a Railway Systems Engineering Forensic Expert, you will:

  • Investigate railway systems incidents.
  • Analyze railway systems procedures, applying your comprehensive knowledge of standards and practices.
  • Write clear, scientifically sound reports.
  • Provide expert testimony.

You will delve into the "why" behind incidents, critically assessing decision-making, operational procedures, and the standard of care. This role offers you a chance to:

  • Use your cumulative training, experience, and critical thinking skills.
  • Collaborate with highly respected experts.
  • Continuously learn and grow.
  • Make a tangible difference.

Locations: Dublin, OH & Lancaster, PA (hybrid)

Requirements:

  • Licensure: Active Professional Engineer (P.E.) license is highly preferred.
  • Education: Bachelor’s degree in Engineering from an ABET-accredited program.
  • Experience: 15+ years of hands-on passenger rail systems experience (additional freight experience is a plus).
    • Depth of experience should include some combination of consulting design work, construction, manufacturing, engineering, operations, and/or maintenance of rail operations, rail infrastructure, and/or rolling stock.
    • Breadth of experience should include a working knowledge of some combination of mainline track, rail yards, sidings, stations (above & below grade), terminals, grade crossings, tunnels, bridges, switches, signal systems, power systems (overhead catenary, third-rail), locomotives (diesel, diesel/electric, or electric power), passenger cars, transit cars, freight cars, maintenance-of-way cars/vehicles, rolling stock maintenance, facilities maintenance, maintenance-of-way, Federal Employees Liability Act (FELA), railroad worker safety, track safety, passenger safety, etc.
  • Skills: Excellent technical, analytical, writing, and communication skills.
  • Aptitude: Strong ability to translate complex technical findings into clear, objective evidence for non-technical audiences.
  • Work Style: Approximately 20% travel for inspections; the remainder is focused on analysis and report drafting, working independently and as part of a collaborative team.
  • Prior forensic experience is not required. We seek professionals eager to apply their deep industry knowledge to a challenging new domain.


You must have a clean background screen, a driver’s license, and the ability to drive.

ABOUT US:

Robson Forensic is a national leader in expert witness consulting, providing technical expertise across many fields within engineering, architecture, science, and a broad range of specialty disciplines.

Employees at Robson Forensic work alongside highly respected experts from both industry and academia. Our forensic experts are engaged in meaningful casework that is consequential to industry and society. Robson Forensic provides a unique working dynamic that blends collaboration and autonomy.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer.

HOW TO APPLY:

If this opportunity meets your expectations for a challenging and rewarding career, and you meet our minimum requirements, please apply and attach your resume and a cover letter outlining your professional background and experience.