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Track Inspector Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

Closely track and maintain a project deficiency log * Manage the punch list process * Confer ... inspection experience * Preference to one or more of the following certifications: ICC, ACI ...

Closely track and maintain a project deficiency log * Manage the punch list process * Confer ... inspection experience * Preference to one or more of the following certifications: ICC, ACI ...

CM Inspector 2

Seattle, WA · On-site

$32 - $50/hr

Compose Daily Inspection Reports ... Track materials for contract compliance. * Observe testing of field related materials. * Review ...

Conduct regular inspections of tracks, track beds, and right-of-way to identify any issues or defects. * Replace and repair rails, rail anchors, spikes, ballast, ties, and other track components as ...

Be Seen First

Conduct daily equipment inspections and perform routine preventative maintenance, including greasing, fluid checks, and track inspections * Work closely with foremen, pipelayers, and utility laborers ...

Be Seen First

Conduct daily equipment inspections and perform routine preventative maintenance, including greasing, fluid checks, and track inspections * Work closely with foremen, pipelayers, and utility laborers ...

Apply Early

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Showing results 1-20

Track Inspector information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$6

$31

$58

How much do track inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for track inspector in Seattle, WA is $31.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $27.36 and $29.57 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Track Inspectors in the field?

Track Inspectors often work in varying weather conditions and must be prepared for physically demanding tasks such as walking long distances along railway lines and lifting heavy equipment. A key challenge is ensuring safety while working near active train tracks, which requires constant vigilance and adherence to strict safety protocols. Additionally, Track Inspectors must accurately identify and report defects or hazards, often under tight deadlines, as their findings directly impact rail service reliability and safety. Collaboration with maintenance crews and engineers is also essential for effective repairs and ongoing track integrity.

What are Track Inspectors?

Track Inspectors are professionals responsible for examining and evaluating railroad tracks to ensure they meet safety and regulatory standards. They look for defects, wear, and any potential hazards that could compromise the safe movement of trains. Their work involves walking along tracks, using specialized equipment, and maintaining detailed records of inspections. Track Inspectors play a critical role in preventing accidents and ensuring the smooth operation of rail services.

How do you become a track inspector?

To become a track inspector, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with experience in railroad maintenance or construction. Certification in safety standards and knowledge of track components are often required, and some positions may require a valid driver's license and physical fitness for field inspections.

How much does a BNSF track inspector make?

A BNSF track inspector typically earns between $50,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience and location. The role requires knowledge of track standards, safety protocols, and often involves working outdoors in various weather conditions.

What Is a Track Inspector?

A track inspector examines railroad tracks to make sure the tracks are safe for trains to use. The responsibilities of a track inspector are to maintain detailed records about the condition of railroad tracks and submit maintenance requests when necessary so that train engineers, railroad workers, and passengers can safely travel on the tracks. Other job duties are to drive high-rail trucks along the railroad right of ways, monitor the operation of signal and crossing equipment, and prepare reports. The qualifications you need to become a track inspector may include certification from the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA).

What jobs pay $500,000 a year in the US?

High-paying roles for a Track Inspector are rare, as the position typically offers salaries well below $500,000 annually. Executive-level positions in transportation companies or specialized consulting roles may reach or exceed this level, often requiring extensive experience, advanced certifications, and leadership responsibilities. Most jobs in this salary range are in executive management, investment banking, or specialized medical fields.

What is the difference between Track Inspector vs Track Supervisor?

AspectTrack InspectorTrack Supervisor
CertificationsRailroad certifications, safety trainingSame as Track Inspector, plus supervisory certifications
Work EnvironmentOn-site inspections, track maintenance areasOversees multiple crews, field and office settings
Job ResponsibilitiesInspecting track conditions, identifying defectsManaging inspection teams, planning maintenance

While both roles focus on track safety, the Track Inspector primarily conducts inspections and identifies issues, whereas the Track Supervisor manages inspection teams and oversees maintenance operations. The roles are interconnected, with the supervisor overseeing multiple inspectors to ensure track safety and compliance.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Track Inspector, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Track Inspector, you need a solid understanding of railroad track standards, safety regulations, and maintenance procedures, often supported by a high school diploma or relevant vocational training. Familiarity with track inspection tools, rail flaw detection systems, and digital reporting software is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and strong communication skills help inspectors identify hazards and work effectively with rail crews. These competencies are essential to ensure track integrity, prevent accidents, and maintain safe and efficient rail operations.

What is the highest paid railroad job?

The highest paid railroad jobs are typically executive and management positions, such as railroad presidents or chief operating officers, which can earn six-figure salaries. Among operational roles, locomotive engineers and signal managers also tend to have higher compensation, especially with experience and specialized skills. Salary levels depend on the company, location, and level of responsibility.
What are popular job titles related to Track Inspector jobs in Seattle, WA? For Track Inspector jobs in Seattle, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Track Inspector jobs in Seattle, WA look for? The top searched job categories for Track Inspector jobs in Seattle, WA are:
Infographic showing various Track Inspector job openings in Seattle, WA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $66,505 per year, or $32 per hour.
Quality Assurance Inspector

Quality Assurance Inspector

Clark

Seattle, WA

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

About Atkinson

Building our nation's infrastructure since 1926, Atkinson provides innovative design and construction solutions for heavy civil projects. We are committed to safely delivering complex, quality projects while building long-lasting, collaborative relationships with our clients.

The Role

As a Quality Inspector, you will support the project by reviewing contract document specifications, owner requirements, and making sure our jobs comply with local, state, and federal building codes. You will coordinate with other trades, process daily reports of project progress, and adhere to all guidelines issued by the owner. As a strong communicator, you will help to build a quality control team that is open, transparent, and delivers excellence.

Responsibilities

  • Partner with the project team to understand, plan, and implement the contract drawings and specifications

  • Collaborate with the owner, design team, and contractors to ensure quality and timeliness of project construction and completion

  • Review and assist with control documents related to quality control functions

  • Inspect, verify materials, and document all construction activities for compliance to the contract

  • Complete an Inspection Daily Report (IDR) of observations and communications they had with the project owner, sub-contractors, and Atkinson personnel

  • Closely track and maintain a project deficiency log

  • Manage the punch list process

  • Confer directly with the executive management team

  • Encourage, lead, and/or participate in staff training and development

  • Proactively identify and develop relationships with industry professionals to generate and win the right work

  • Exceed our stakeholders' expectations by anticipating their needs, desires, and goals

Basic Qualifications

  • Three (3) years' relevant work experience, plus a technical or Associate's degree or five (5) years of relevant inspection experience

  • Preference to one or more of the following certifications: ICC, ACI, Nuclear Gauge, WABO, WAQTC, and/or CWI

  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills

  • Proficiency in MS Office applications (Word, Excel, Outlook)

  • Valid driver's license and a good driving record

  • Ability to lift up to 50 pounds on occasion and navigate uneven construction sites

  • Alignment to our Standards of Excellence: self-motivated, results-oriented, adaptable, team player, accountable, ethical, innovative, resilient, builds relationships, builds people/teams and followership, sets direction and executes

The work environment and requirements described below are representative of those necessary for an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this role.

The Physical Side of the Role: This is an active, hands-on role. You can expect to be on your feet frequently, navigating active job sites with uneven terrain, stairs, ladders, and hoists. The work is physically demanding and requires a full range of motion, including bending, kneeling, and reaching. You'll need to be comfortable frequently lifting and carrying materials up to 25 pounds, and occasionally up to 50 pounds. This role requires the ability to communicate effectively, as well as visual acuity for reading plans and inspecting work. The role does include desk time in the office that may require prolonged periods of sitting for tasks like computer work, document review, and meetings.

Your Work Environment: You'll spend a significant amount of your time on active construction sites, which means being adaptable to all kinds of weather and moderate to loud noise levels, and comfortable in elevated or confined work areas with moving mechanical equipment and with the fast-paced nature of a project in progress. You will also spend time in a typical office setting with moderate noise levels. Your safety is our top priority, and you'll be expected to follow Atkinson Construction's safety policies and procedures, and all applicable laws, at all locations.

Our High-Performing Culture: This is a demanding, high-performance environment. We are looking for candidates who are energized by challenge, thrive under pressure, and are prepared to do what it takes to achieve exceptional results. Success in this role requires significant commitment, including flexibility to work extended hours, especially during critical project phases or client deadlines. Beyond regular working hours, there will be occasions where business needs require your attention, particularly for time-sensitive matters or emergencies. You are expected to monitor and respond to communications (phone calls, emails, text messages) as required to address these situations effectively. Your ability to manage these expectations and be responsive when critical issues arise is key to your success in this role and our collective success as a team.


A Drug Free Workplace: Atkinson promotes a drug-free workplace. A pre-employment drug "fitness for duty" screening is required, and the company conducts random quarterly drug "fitness for duty" tests.

Atkinson offers a total compensation package that includes base salary, bonus potential, and a comprehensive benefit package that includes health benefits (medical and dental plans), paid time off (vacation, sick, and holiday), financial benefits (retirement plan with both match and annual company contribution, life insurance, short and long term disability, and commuter benefits). Additional benefits include fitness reimbursement, healthcare and dependent care pre-tax spending plans, tuition reimbursement, back-up daycare and family support benefits, EAP, work-life assistance, and a holiday contribution program. Base salaries will be determined by factors such as geographic location, education, skills, experience, and market considerations. For this role, the base salary range is $82,000- $135,000.