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Short Line Railroad Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

... rail services division that operates short line railroads and contract switching and transloading sites. Our Conductor/Engineers are responsible for the operation and movement of locomotives and ...

... rail services division that operates short line railroads and contract switching and transloading sites. Our Conductor/Engineers are responsible for the operation and movement of locomotives and ...

It provides rail, intermodal and rail-to-truck transload services and solutions to customers across ... It also links more than 230 short-line railroads and more than 70 ocean, river and lake ports with ...

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Short Line Railroad information

See Virginia salary details

$10

$19

$43

How much do short line railroad jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for short line railroad in Virginia is $19.57, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.52 and $18.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are short line railroad jobs?

Short line railroad jobs involve train operations and maintenance in a rail yard or on the tracks. Your duties and responsibilities vary depending on the details of your post. Railroad crew members perform maintenance, inspect rails, test crossing signals, and operate switches along the line. Roadmasters oversee operations on the track, while yardmasters manage railroad yards. Yard laborers, or carmen, maintain, paint, and clean rail cars. Train engineers control the train when it is traveling. Short-line railroads also have conductors whose responsibilities include overseeing cargo and passengers during the journey.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a short line railroad operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Short Line Railroad Operator, you need a solid understanding of railroad operations, safety protocols, and mechanical systems, often supported by a high school diploma and on-the-job training or relevant certifications. Familiarity with track-switching systems, locomotive controls, and compliance with Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) regulations is typically required. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and problem-solving skills help operators ensure safe and efficient rail service. These competencies are vital for maintaining operational safety, minimizing delays, and supporting reliable transportation for freight or passengers.

What is the difference between Short Line Railroad vs Railroad Conductor?

AspectShort Line RailroadRailroad Conductor
CredentialsHigh school diploma, safety training, sometimes certificationsHigh school diploma, safety training, conductor certification often required
Work EnvironmentRural or regional rail lines, on-site at rail yards and tracksOn trains, at rail yards, and in stations
Industry UsageOperates regional or local freight linesManages train operations, safety, and crew coordination

Short Line Railroad and Railroad Conductor roles both operate within the rail industry, often requiring similar certifications and safety training. While short line railroads focus on regional freight services, conductors are responsible for managing train operations and crew on various rail lines. The roles are interconnected but differ in daily responsibilities and work settings.

What are some common challenges faced by employees working on a short line railroad, and how can they prepare for them?

Employees on a Short Line Railroad often encounter challenges such as managing tight schedules, adapting to varying weather conditions, and maintaining safety standards on smaller teams with fewer resources. Unlike larger railroads, short lines usually require staff to be versatile, performing multiple roles such as operating trains, performing track maintenance, and handling administrative tasks. Preparing for these challenges involves developing strong communication skills, staying up to date with safety regulations, and being proactive in problem-solving. Many short line railroads also offer on-the-job training and encourage collaboration, making it a supportive environment for those willing to learn and adapt.

What is a short line railroad?

A Short Line Railroad is a small or regional railroad company that operates over a relatively short distance compared to major national railroads. These railroads typically connect rural areas, industries, or smaller communities to the larger national rail network, often serving as a crucial link for freight transportation. Short Line Railroads can be independently owned or operate as subsidiaries of larger rail companies. They play an essential role in supporting local economies and providing customized rail services that larger railroads may not offer.

What are the most commonly searched types of Short Line Railroad jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Short Line Railroad jobs in Virginia are:

What are popular job titles related to Short Line Railroad jobs in Virginia?

For Short Line Railroad jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Short Line Railroad jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Short Line Railroad jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Short Line Railroad jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Short Line Railroad job openings:

Infographic showing various Short Line Railroad job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $40,714 per year, or $19.6 per hour.

$23 - $25/hr

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Field Construction Inspector (FCI)
Location: Ashburn, VA
Job Type: Full-time
FLSA Status: Hourly; Non-Exempt
Reports To: District Manager
Travel: Yes, travel is expected for this position (50% - 85% on average).
Supervisory Responsibility: No
Compensation: $23 to $25 based on experience

Company Profile:
National Railroad Safety Services, Inc. (NRSS) is a certified DBE/WBE firm primarily focused on providing safety services to the railroad industry. NRSS is the most trusted name in the railroad industry for providing qualified field safety staff and safety training. To best serve the railroad industry, NRSS provides all these services in the continental United States, Canada, and Mexico. NRSS has the proven ability and the proven safety record to handle any project. Find the safety you have been missing today!

Job Description:
National Railroad Safety Services, Inc. (NRSS) is seeking a Field Construction Inspector (FCI) to support railroad safety services for Class 1 Railroads, Regional Short Lines, Transit Systems, State DOT's, as well as Railroad Suppliers, Contractors, and Consultants alike.

Required Education:
High school diploma or equivalent.

Required Experience:
Minimum 2 years of experience in one or more of the following, civil construction inspection involving grade separation projects, roadway paving/construction, utility work and/or experience with a Freight Railroad, Regional Short Line Railroad, Transit System, State DOT Highway or Rail Division, Railroad Supplier, Highway/Railroad Contractor, and/or Civil Engineering/Railroad Consultant.

Job Requirements:
Proficient computer skills in basic email, phone, and text message applications.
Proficient computer skills in Android OS; on tablet & smart phone.
Proficient computer skills in Citrix Applications.
Strong oral and written communication skills.
Strong technical knowledge in Civil Highway Construction, or Railroad Engineering, Railroad Design, Railroad Construction, and Safety.
High level of accuracy and attention to detail; well organized.
Demonstrated ability to develop and maintain strong client relationships.
Ability to travel for extended periods of time; sometimes week(s) at a time.
Ability to successfully complete Federal, Client, and/or Company Specific Training.

Job Duties:
Provide jobsite coordination.
Provide clear and concise communication with Railroad Personnel, and/or Contractor personnel.
Provide clear, concise, and thorough safety briefings with all personnel on each job site.
Enforce all Railroad, State, and Federal Policies.
Identify rule violations and resolve in accordance with Railroad, State, and Federal Policies.
Enforce Contractor training requirements.
Submit daily field reports detailing Contractor and/or Railroad activities.
Enforce Project Site Safety in accordance Federal, State, Local and Railroad polices.

Work Environment:
This job operates in a field environment.

Physical Demands:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.
Must be able to hear, speak, read, and write clearly in English.
Must be able to drive long distances and/or travel by other modes as necessary.
Must be able to stand for long periods of time and/or walk on level/uneven ground.
Must be able to see up close, distances, colors and have use of peripheral vision and depth perception.
Must be able to tolerate extreme heat/cold temperatures.
Must be able to tolerate dusty/noisy conditions.

Keywords:
Civil Engineer, Construction Inspector, Construction Foreman, Construction Manager, Project Superintendent, Civil Engineering Technician, Safety Manager, Safety Inspector, Assistant Division Engineer (ADE), Assistant General Manager (AGM), Assistant Roadmaster, Bridge Inspector, Bridge Manager, Bridge Maintainer, Bridge Supervisor, Division Engineer (DE), Employee In Charge (EIC), Flagger, Flagging, Flagman, Flagmen, Flag Person, Foreman, Foremen, General Manager (GM), Maintenance Of Way (MOW), Manager Track Maintenance (MTM), Manager Track Projects (MTP), Rail, Railroad, Railroad Project Manager, Railway, Railway Project Manager, Roadmaster, Roadway Worker, Roadway Worker In Charge (RWIC), Roadway Worker Protection (RWP), Safety, Signal Inspector, Signal Maintainer, Signal Manager, Signal Supervisor, Track Inspector, Track Maintainer, Track Manager, Track Supervisor.

Safety Commitment:
All employees of all levels are to always remain committed to safety while employed at National Railroad Safety Services, Inc. (NRSS). As such, no job is so important, and no service is so urgent that we may not take the time to perform all work safely. Simply put, safety is our way of life. By placing safety first, we not only ensure the wellbeing of our employees, customers, and communities, but we hold true to our commitment to being the leader in safety throughout the railroad industry.

Closing Statement:
National Railroad Safety Services, Inc. (NRSS) is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, citizenship, marital status, sex/gender, sexual preference/orientation, gender identify, age, veteran status, national origin, or any other status protected by law or regulation.