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Railroad Worker Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

... Road & Rail Services is hiring a dependable and safety-focused Railcar Mechanic in Wausau ... This position is ideal for someone with strong mechanical skills who enjoys working with tools ...

Railroad Mechanic

Wausau, WI · On-site

$25 - $28/hr

... Road & Rail Services is hiring a dependable and safety-focused Railcar Mechanic in Wausau ... This position is ideal for someone with strong mechanical skills who enjoys working with tools ...

WI · On-site

$100 - $125/hr

Join CPKC, North America's first transnational railroad connecting U.S. Canada and Mexico, where ... Working up to 12 hour shifts which include days, evenings, overnight, weekends and holidays

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Railroad Worker information

See Wisconsin salary details

$8

$18

$30

How much do railroad worker jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for railroad worker in Wisconsin is $18.45, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.29 and $21.95 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a railroad worker?

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 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 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.

How do you 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 depending on the role.

What cities in Wisconsin are hiring for Railroad Worker jobs?

Cities in Wisconsin with the most Railroad Worker job openings:

Infographic showing various Railroad Worker job openings in Wisconsin as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,379 per year, or $18.5 per hour.

$25 - $28/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago


Road & Rail Services rating

5.3

Company rating: 5.3 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Railcar Mechanic

Location: Wausau, WI
Pay: $25.00–$28.00 per hour, based on experience
Job Type: Full-Time

Build Your Skilled-Trade Career with Road & Rail Services

Road & Rail Services is hiring a dependable and safety-focused Railcar Mechanic in Wausau, Wisconsin. This position is ideal for someone with strong mechanical skills who enjoys working with tools, completing physical repairs, and working outdoors.

You will inspect railcars, identify maintenance needs, and perform authorized mechanical repairs. Previous railcar experience is preferred but not required. Candidates with backgrounds in welding, metal fabrication, industrial maintenance, heavy-equipment repair, trailer repair, or other mechanical trades are encouraged to apply.

Welding experience is highly recommended for this position.

What You'll Do

Your primary responsibilities will include:

Inspecting railcars for damage, wear, fatigue, and mechanical defects

Determining which repairs can be safely completed by Road & Rail Services

Performing approved railcar repairs according to customer requirements and Association of American Railroads specifications

Using pipe wrenches, pry bars, ratchets, grinders, and other hand or power tools

Operating tractors, all-terrain vehicles, and other company equipment as assigned

Keeping tools, equipment, and work areas clean and organized

Reporting unsafe conditions, damaged equipment, and repair concerns to management

Following all company, customer, and job-site safety procedures

Completing assigned work accurately and within established productivity expectations

Safety is our top priority. Every employee is expected to follow required procedures, use provided personal protective equipment, and contribute to a safe working environment.

Qualifications

We are looking for candidates who have:

A strong mechanical background

Previous welding experience, preferably in an industrial or repair environment

Experience using basic hand and power tools

The ability to understand and follow repair instructions

Strong attention to safety, quality, and detail

Dependable attendance and the ability to work independently

Previous railcar repair experience is preferred but not required

A valid driver's license when required to operate company vehicles or equipment

Physical and Work Requirements

This is an active, outdoor industrial position. Candidates must be able to:

Bend, squat, twist, stand, and walk throughout the work shift

Frequently open railcar end doors requiring up to 90 pounds of pulling force and 68 pounds of pushing force

Occasionally climb ladders and work at heights greater than 16 feet

Work outdoors in changing weather conditions, including heat, cold, wind, dust, and noise

Safely use tools and equipment required to complete mechanical repairs

Perform duties independently while maintaining communication with supervisors and team members

Pay and Benefits

This position pays $25.00–$28.00 per hour, depending on relevant skills and experience.

Road & Rail Services offers:

Medical, vision, and dental insurance

401(k) retirement plan with company matching

Paid holidays and paid vacation

Annual steel-toe boot allowance

Company-provided personal protective equipment

Yearly safety bonus opportunities

Veteran-friendly workplace

Advancement opportunities

A promote-from-within culture

About Road & Rail Services

Established in 1987, Road & Rail Services is a leading provider of rail-related services across North America. Our experienced teams provide plant and terminal operations, railcar services, and field maintenance support for railroads, shippers, and owners of rail equipment and facilities.

Apply Today

If you have mechanical or welding experience and are ready to put your skills to work in the rail industry, apply today to join Road & Rail Services in Wausau, Wisconsin.


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