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Temporary Railroad Track Maintenance Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Track Maintenance - Laborer-Dubuque IA

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$37.66/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Embark on a fulfilling career at BNSF Railway, where joining our Engineering Department means contributing to the backbone of our nation's rail infrastructure. As a member of our Track Maintenance ...

Rail Track Maintainer

Schoolcraft, MI · On-site

$35.80/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

In addition, CN employees are also eligible to an employee share investment plan (ESIP), Pension, Benefits, Railroad Retirement Benefits (RRB) and other perks. Rail Track Maintainer At CN, we are ...

New

Rail Track Maintainer

Baudette, MN · On-site

$34.84/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

In addition, CN employees are also eligible to an employee share investment plan (ESIP), Pension, Benefits, Railroad Retirement Benefits (RRB) and other perks. Rail Track Maintainer At CN, we are ...

Showing results 41-60

Temporary Railroad Track Maintenance information

What is the difference between Temporary Railroad Track Maintenance vs Railroad Track Inspector?

AspectTemporary Railroad Track MaintenanceRailroad Track Inspector
CredentialsOSHA safety training, basic track maintenance certificationsRailroad safety certifications, inspection training
Work EnvironmentOn-site track repair, construction zonesTrack inspections, safety assessments
Employer & Industry UseRailroads, construction contractorsRailroads, regulatory agencies

Temporary Railroad Track Maintenance involves hands-on repair and upkeep of tracks, often in construction zones, requiring safety and maintenance certifications. Railroad Track Inspectors focus on assessing track conditions, ensuring safety compliance through inspections. Both roles are essential in maintaining rail safety but differ in daily tasks and certification requirements.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a temporary railroad track maintenance worker?

To thrive as a Temporary Railroad Track Maintenance Worker, you need a basic understanding of track construction, physical stamina, and the ability to use hand and power tools, often requiring a high school diploma or GED. Familiarity with track inspection equipment, hydraulic tools, and adherence to safety protocols are typically necessary, and some positions may require safety certifications like OSHA. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and reliability help workers stand out in this physically demanding environment. These skills and qualities are crucial to ensure the safe, efficient maintenance and operation of railroad infrastructure.

What are some typical challenges faced in a temporary railroad track maintenance role, and how can workers effectively address them?

Temporary railroad track maintenance workers often encounter challenges such as working outdoors in varying weather conditions, handling heavy equipment, and adhering to strict safety protocols around active rail lines. Communication and teamwork are essential, as tasks are usually completed in crews where coordination ensures both efficiency and safety. To overcome these challenges, it’s important to stay vigilant with safety procedures, actively communicate with supervisors and team members, and be prepared for physically demanding tasks. Adaptability and a strong work ethic are key to successfully navigating the dynamic work environment.

What qualifications do temporary railroad track maintenance workers need?

Temporary railroad track maintenance workers typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and must pass safety training specific to railway operations. Physical fitness, the ability to work in outdoor environments, and knowledge of track inspection tools are also important; some positions may require certifications such as OSHA safety training or equipment operation licenses.

What is a temporary railroad track maintenance worker?

A Temporary Railroad Track Maintenance worker is responsible for inspecting, repairing, and maintaining railroad tracks and related infrastructure on a short-term or seasonal basis. These workers perform tasks such as replacing ties, tightening bolts, aligning rails, and clearing debris to ensure the safe and efficient operation of trains. The role often requires physical labor, working outdoors in various weather conditions, and following strict safety protocols. Temporary positions may be offered to address increased workloads, special projects, or seasonal maintenance needs.

How to get into temporary railroad track maintenance?

To enter temporary railroad track maintenance, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with physical fitness and the ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions. Relevant skills include knowledge of safety procedures, operating maintenance tools, and sometimes a valid driver's license; certifications such as OSHA safety training can also be beneficial.

What cities are hiring for Temporary Railroad Track Maintenance jobs?

Cities with the most Temporary Railroad Track Maintenance job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Railroad Track Maintenance jobs?

The most popular types of Railroad Track Maintenance jobs are:

What states have the most Temporary Railroad Track Maintenance jobs?

States with the most job openings for Temporary Railroad Track Maintenance jobs include:

Infographic showing various Temporary Railroad Track Maintenance job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 91% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 6 days ago


Canadian National Railway rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 49 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

136th of 364 rated logistics


Job description

Rail Track Maintainer

At CN, we are committed to our pursuit of excellence. We take pride in delivering work of the highest standard, continually innovating to shape the railroad of the future. As responsible railroaders, we make the right decisions every time, putting safety first, acting with unwavering integrity, and holding ourselves accountable for our actions. We believe in succeeding together-by fostering inclusivity and collaboration, we sustainably deliver exceptional results for our customers.

If you are a skilled trades person or interested in skilled trades and continuous learning in a safety-focused environment, working at CN could be a great fit for you. You'll be working on all types of equipment and structures designed to support the distribution of freight across North America. Enjoy paid training and evolve your skills. The careers we offer are meaningful because the work we do matters. Join us and get your career moving!  

Job Summary

The Rail Track Maintainer is responsible for inspecting, repairing and replacing rails, ties, switches and ballasts. The role is performed outdoors in various types of weather and environmental conditions and ensures a safe working environment.

Working Conditions

  • Shift work, with overtime when required.
  • Long periods of travel required, including overnight.
  • Primarily work outdoors in all weather conditions.
  • Repetitive physical activity.
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds frequently, and up to 70 pounds occasionally.

Major Responsibilities

  • Maintain CN's train rails, ties, switches and ballasts through inspection, repair, and replacement.
  • Maintain various hand tools for assigned work.
  • Remove and replace defective ties, rails spikes, and anchors.
  • Repair deviations in track surface, alignment, and gauge.
  • Install and repair street and railroad crossings and assist in the replacement or repair of items such as power-operated switches and insulated joints.
  • Unload ballasts and distribute track material.
  • Sort used track material for loading.
  • Ensure railroad right-of-way is clear of brush, vegetation, snow and litter.
  • Ensure a safe working environment, by following CN's safety policies and procedures.

Requirements

  • Relevant work experience in similar working conditions or regulatory and safety environment.
  • Experience operating heavy equipment and machinery.
  • High School Diploma, General Education Diploma (GED), or equivalent.
  • Valid driver's license.
  • Must be at least 18 years of age.
  • Must meet all medical fitness for duty requirements for the position, including requirements for Safety.
  • Ability to work autonomously, adapt to different situations and handle stress.
  • Demonstrate good teamwork and maintain positive interactions with others.
  • Dedicated to getting the job done while meeting established standards of quality, safety, productivity and client satisfaction.
  • Displays common sense and good judgment.
  • Hand-eye coordination.
  • Grasping skills

Assets

  • Welding skills
  • Knowledge of signals or Railroad Operating Rules

What We Offer

  • Competitive Wages, Benefits, and Pension Plan
  • Paid Training and Career Development
  • Medical, vision, and dental insurance
  • 24/7 Telemedicine Service
  • Employee Share Investment Plan
  • Educational Financial Assistance Program
  • Employee Resource Groups (ERGs)
  • Extensive Employee Discount Program
  • Employee & Family Assistance Program (EFAP)

Paid Training

Successful candidates will take part in a paid 5-week training program at a CN Campus (Homewood, IL) with additional on-the-job training to help ensure that they have received the adequate knowledge to operate in accordance with regulatory requirements and CN's safety standards. The training is primarily on health and safety rules as successful completion of the classroom and on-the-job training is required to continue employment as a Track Maintainer at CN.

Successful Candidate Process:

  • Medical assessment (including drug, hearing, and vision).
  • Criminal background check.
  • Offer Letter

Paid Training Structure:

  • 5 weeks at CN Campus (Homewood, IL) 

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