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Railway Maintenance Jobs (NOW HIRING)

US Department of the Army

$26.73/hr

Ability to do the work of a(n) Railroad Maintenance Vehicle Operator ~ without more than normal supervision. I have the ability to perform common Railroad Maintenance Vehicle Operator duties for ...

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Railway Maintenance information

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$12

$31

$56

How much do railway maintenance jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for railway 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 is railway maintenance?

Railway maintenance refers to the activities and tasks involved in keeping railway tracks, equipment, and infrastructure in safe and working condition. This includes inspecting, repairing, and replacing rails, ties, switches, and signaling systems. Regular maintenance ensures the safety of train operations, reduces the risk of accidents, and prolongs the lifespan of railway assets. Maintenance crews use specialized equipment and often work during off-peak hours to minimize disruptions to rail service.

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

Railway maintenance workers often encounter challenges such as working in varying weather conditions, adhering to strict safety protocols, and managing unexpected equipment failures. Teams address these challenges by following comprehensive safety training, utilizing specialized tools and technology for diagnostics, and coordinating closely with dispatchers and engineers to minimize service disruptions. Regular communication and ongoing professional development help workers adapt to evolving standards and maintain high safety and efficiency levels.

What is the highest salary for maintenance?

The highest salaries for railway maintenance workers can reach over $80,000 annually, especially for experienced technicians, supervisors, or those with specialized skills and certifications. Salaries vary based on location, level of experience, and the complexity of the maintenance tasks performed.

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

To thrive as a Railway Maintenance Worker, you need a strong understanding of mechanical systems, track infrastructure, and safety procedures, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent and on-the-job training. Familiarity with specialized track inspection tools, heavy machinery, and possibly certifications like the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) Track Safety Standards is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving, teamwork, and effective communication are essential soft skills in this role. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring the safe and efficient operation of railway systems and for minimizing service disruptions.

What is the difference between Railway Maintenance vs Railway Signaling Technician?

AspectRailway MaintenanceRailway Signaling Technician
Required CredentialsCertifications in track inspection, safety, and equipment repairCertifications in signaling systems, electrical work, and safety protocols
Work EnvironmentTrack areas, maintenance yards, and equipment workshopsSignaling control rooms, trackside signaling equipment, and electrical systems
Employer & Industry UsageRailway companies, transit authorities, maintenance contractorsRailway operators, signaling companies, transit agencies

Railway Maintenance involves inspecting, repairing, and maintaining tracks, equipment, and infrastructure to ensure safe train operations. Railway Signaling Technicians focus on installing, troubleshooting, and maintaining signaling systems that control train movements. While both roles require safety certifications and work in railway environments, Railway Maintenance covers a broader scope of infrastructure, whereas Railway Signaling Technicians specialize in signaling systems essential for train safety and coordination.

More about Railway Maintenance jobs
What cities are hiring for Railway Maintenance jobs? Cities with the most Railway Maintenance job openings:
What states have the most Railway Maintenance jobs? States with the most job openings for Railway Maintenance jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Railway Maintenance jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Railway Maintenance jobs are:
Railway Maintenance jobs near you
Infographic showing various Railway Maintenance job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,662 per year, or $31.6 per hour.
Railroad Maintenance Vehicle Operator

Railroad Maintenance Vehicle Operator

US Department of the Army

On-site

$26.73/hr

Other

Posted 9 days ago

United States Army rating

5.9

Company rating: 5.9 out of 10

Based on 468 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

42nd of 46 rated military and defense

Job description

About the Position: Sierra Army Depot is located in Herlong CA, a rural town in Northern California. Herlong is approximately 60 miles north of Reno, NV, and 35 miles south of Susanville, CA. The depot serves as an Army Expeditionary Logistical Support Center. Employees work Mon-Thurs, 0630-1700 hrs. Youth Facilities and childcare available. Mass transportation is available at minimal cost. Surrounding area boasts a full range of outdoor sports/recreation activities.Qualifications:This is a Direct Hire Authority (DHA) solicitation utilizing the DHA for Domestic Defense Industrial Base (DIB) & Major Range and Test Facilities Base (MRTFB) to recruit and appoint qualified candidates to positions in the competitive service. This announcement is a Direct Hire solicitation. Category rating, veteran's preference, and traditional rating and ranking of applicants do NOT apply for this vacancy.
Who May Apply: US Citizens
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; student; social). You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
There is no specific length of training or experience required. However, you must be able to demonstrate, through experience shown in your written application materials that you possess the sufficient knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully perform the work of this position without more than normal supervision.
Minimum Qualifications (Screen Out Element): Ability to do the work of a(n) Railroad Maintenance Vehicle Operator ~ without more than normal supervision. I have the ability to perform common Railroad Maintenance Vehicle Operator duties for railroad maintenance vehicles. I can drive railroad maintenance vehicles; and perform maintenance on railroad maintenance vehicles. I work under normal supervision of a work leader or journey-level employee who observes tasks in progress and upon completion to make sure they are properly performed. - Failure to meet this Screen out Element will result in an ineligible rating.
  • PHYSICAL EFFORT: Moderate to heavy physical exertion is required in operating machines and tools used on track maintenance and in loading and unloading track materials (ties, rail, switch parts and other hardware). Operators also typically lift and move heavy items weighing 80 pounds and more. All lifts over 50 pounds will be assisted with a two person lift or using a mechanical handling equipment lifting device. The two persons lift limit is 100 pounds and will only be used for single event, non-routine lifts.
  • WORKING CONDITIONS: The operator is exposed to a wide range of weather, and temperature conditions, high noise levels, fumes and odors from fuel, exhaust, lubricants, creosote, and possible accidents.
Education:This job does not have an education qualification requirement.Employment Type: OTHER

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Industry

National security, health care and social assistance, national security and international affairs and public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Arlington, VA, US

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