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Railway Maintenance Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Shift Manager Operations

MN · On-site

$80K - $105K/yr

Communicate with Railroad Dispatcher, Mine Dispatcher, Railroad maintenance technicians, coarse crusher, and the Silver Bay Railroad Shift Manager to meet the production goals set forth by the train ...

Maintain an efficient and orderly rail yard by moving rail cars and freeing rail tracks for incoming rail traffic. * Manage rail track switches to direct rail cars to appropriate tracks. * Ability to ...

Railroad Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$17 - $18/hr

Maintain an efficient and orderly rail yard by moving rail cars and freeing rail tracks for incoming rail traffic. * Manage rail track switches to direct rail cars to appropriate tracks. * Ability to ...

Road & Rail Services Railroad Carman We are seeking an experienced Railcar Repairman/Carman to work ... Must maintain a valid state driver's license if required to operate company equipment; Ability to ...

Road & Rail Services Railroad Carman We are seeking an experienced Railcar Repairman/Carman to work ... Must maintain a valid state driver's license if required to operate company equipment; Ability to ...

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 ... Must maintain a valid state driver's license if required to operate company equipment We Offer: * A ...

Railroad Carman

Burnet, TX · On-site

$24 - $28/hr

Road & Rail Services Railroad Carman We are seeking an experienced Railcar Repairman/Carman to work ... Must maintain a valid state driver's license if required to operate company equipment; Ability to ...

Road & Rail Services Rail Road Carman Are you looking for a great Company who treats you well and ... Must maintain a valid state driver's license if required to operate company equipment We Offer: * A ...

Railroad Carman

Burnet, TX · On-site

$24 - $28/hr

Road & Rail Services Railroad Carman We are seeking an experienced Railcar Repairman/Carman to work ... Must maintain a valid state driver's license if required to operate company equipment; Ability to ...

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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 17, 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 railroad jobs pay the most?

In railway maintenance, supervisory roles such as Maintenance of Way Managers and Track Supervisors tend to have the highest salaries, often exceeding $80,000 annually. Skilled positions like Signal Electricians and Heavy Equipment Operators also earn higher wages due to specialized skills and certifications required for the work environment.

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 does a railway maintenance do?

A railway maintenance worker is responsible for inspecting, repairing, and maintaining railway tracks, signals, and equipment to ensure safe and efficient train operations. They use tools and follow safety protocols, often working in various weather conditions and on a scheduled basis. Certification in safety procedures and technical skills are typically required for this role.

What is the highest paying maintenance job?

In railway maintenance, senior roles such as Maintenance Supervisor, Maintenance Manager, or specialized positions like Signal or Electrical Maintenance Engineers tend to have the highest salaries. These roles often require extensive experience, technical skills, and certifications, and may involve overseeing large teams or complex systems.

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 paid railway job?

The highest paid railway jobs are typically senior management positions such as railway executives, directors, or project managers, who oversee operations, safety, and large-scale projects. These roles often require extensive experience, specialized skills, and sometimes certifications, and they can earn six-figure salaries depending on the company and location.

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:
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.
Lead Thermite Welder / Class B CDL Driver

Lead Thermite Welder / Class B CDL Driver

Road & Rail Services

Frankfort, KY • On-site

$16.25 - $21.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


Road & Rail Services rating

5.2

Company rating: 5.2 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Lead Thermite Welder / Class B CDL Driver

Central Track Services
Based Out of Frankfort, KY
100% Travel Required
Pay: Based on Experience + Overtime Opportunities

A Day in the Life

When you join Central Track Services as a Lead Thermite Welder / CDL Driver, you'll play a key role in maintaining and repairing railroad infrastructure throughout the United States. This is a hands-on position for an experienced thermite welder who takes pride in quality workmanship, values safety, and enjoys the variety that comes with traveling to projects across the country.

Your primary responsibility will be performing thermite welds and ensuring that railroad track is repaired and maintained to the highest standards. You'll also be responsible for transporting equipment and materials, operating company vehicles that require a Class B CDL, and helping coordinate daily activities in the field. While thermite welding is the primary focus of this role, there will be opportunities to assist with track maintenance, rail replacement, and other railroad construction activities as needed.

This position requires 100% travel. Company-paid lodging is provided while working on the road, employees receive a daily per diem, and overtime opportunities are frequently available depending on project schedules.

What You'll Be Doing

Most days will involve performing thermite welds, inspecting completed work, preparing rail for welding, and operating the equipment necessary to safely complete repairs. You'll work closely with other railroad professionals in the field and may be asked to lead small crews on assigned projects.

In addition to welding duties, team members may assist with rail replacement, track construction, track restoration, material handling, and general railroad maintenance activities. Successful candidates are comfortable working outdoors, traveling extensively, and adapting to changing project needs.

Qualifications

We're looking for experienced railroad professionals who can work independently, take ownership of their work, and represent the company professionally on customer job sites. Candidates should have demonstrated thermite welding experience, a strong commitment to safety, and the ability to travel extensively.

To be considered, applicants must possess a valid Class B Commercial Driver's License (CDL), be at least 18 years of age, and have a high school diploma or GED. Previous experience leading small crews is highly valued. Additional railroad maintenance, track construction, rail cutting, or welding experience is a plus.

Physical Requirements

This is a physically demanding outdoor position that requires frequent standing, walking, bending, kneeling, climbing, and lifting. Employees must be able to safely lift up to 50 pounds and perform work in varying weather conditions, including heat, cold, rain, and other outdoor environments common to railroad construction and maintenance projects.

Benefits

Central Track Services offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support our employees both on and off the job. Benefits include medical, dental, and vision coverage, a 401(k) retirement plan, short-term and long-term disability coverage, paid vacations and holidays, an annual steel-toe boot allowance, and company-provided PPE. Employees also enjoy company-paid lodging while traveling, daily per diem, overtime opportunities, and the ability to grow their careers with a company that promotes from within whenever possible.

About Central Track Services

Central Track Services provides railroad maintenance, repair, and construction services throughout the United States. Our reputation has been built on safety, quality workmanship, and dependable service. We are seeking experienced professionals who are ready to travel, take pride in their craft, and contribute to a team that keeps America's rail infrastructure moving.

Candidates located in or near Frankfort, Lexington, Louisville, Georgetown, Richmond, Shelbyville, Bardstown, Danville, Elizabethtown, Lawrenceburg, Versailles, Winchester, Nicholasville, Paris, Cincinnati, Florence, Maysville, Bowling Green, Huntington, Charleston, Corbin, and London are encouraged to apply.


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