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Track Inspector Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Track Superintendent

San Dimas, CA · On-site

$147K - $184K/yr

Supervise and manage the activities of track gangs, track inspectors, and hi-rail operations * Provide clear direction and goals while providing coaching and guidance to both union and non-union ...

Track Superintendent

Miami, FL · On-site

$147K - $184K/yr

Supervise and manage the activities of track gangs, track inspectors, and hi-rail operations * Provide clear direction and goals while providing coaching and guidance to both union and non-union ...

Supervise and manage the activities of track gangs, track inspectors, and hi-rail operations *  Provide clear direction and goals while providing coaching and guidance to both union and non-union ...

Track Laborer

Englewood, CO · Remote

$20 - $23/hr

Track Inspection Guideline Certification is an asset * Ability to read and understand specific documents including schedules, standard railway plans and specifications * Ability to understand and ...

Track Laborer

Englewood, CO · On-site

$20 - $23/hr

Track Inspection Guideline Certification is an asset * Ability to read and understand specific documents including schedules, standard railway plans and specifications * Ability to understand and ...

WI

$89K/yr

To be qualified for a Railroad Safety Inspector (Track), the Qualifications Standard states you MUST have demonstrated knowledge in the following areas: * Railroad industry, including economic and ...

WI · On-site

$89K/yr

To be qualified for a Railroad Safety Inspector (Track), the Qualifications Standard states you MUST have demonstrated knowledge in the following areas: * Railroad industry, including economic and ...

WI

$89K/yr

To be qualified for a Railroad Safety Inspector (Track), the Qualifications Standard states you MUST have demonstrated knowledge in the following areas: * Railroad industry, including economic and ...

Showing results 41-60

Track Inspector information

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$5

$28

$51

How much do track inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for track inspector in the United States is $28.10, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.04 and $25.96 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 cities are hiring for Track Inspector jobs? Cities with the most Track Inspector job openings:
Who are the top companies hiring for Track Inspector jobs? The top employers for Track Inspector jobs are:
What states have the most Track Inspector jobs? States with the most job openings for Track Inspector jobs include:
What are popular job titles related to Track Inspector jobs? For Track Inspector jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Track Inspector job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,439 per year, or $28.1 per hour.
RAIL TRACK SUPERVISOR

$52.98 - $70.39/hr

Other

Posted 24 days ago


Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority rating

9.3

Company rating: 9.3 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

2nd of 81 rated public transport


Job description

Metro's mission is to provide a world-class transportation system that enhances the quality of life for all who live, work, and play within LA County. Description Supervises personnel in the repair and maintenance of rail track, including its supporting infrastructure, to help ensure a safe track structure for the public. Examples of Duties Plans, organizes, and assigns repair and maintenance work of track-related systems and equipment, including roadbeds, ties, rails, frogs, and replacement of track switches in yards and on the mainline Investigates, troubleshoots, and diagnoses track system and equipment problems and develops maintenance procedures Conducts track inspections and reviews and approves track inspection reports Develops and administers preventive maintenance program; maintains tracking system of all repairs and maintenance work performed, inspections, and equipment and system performance Develops and administers staff training programs Enforces safety regulations and instructs subordinates on the use of safety devices and procedures Provides input on design and maintenance of track system for new rail projects to ensure compliance with operational needs and design standards Responds to emergency calls to ensure proper restoration of track following system failures Identifies equipment and materials needed to maintain track system; initiates requisitions for parts, material, equipment, and outside labor procurement necessary to perform designated maintenance Provides flagging assistance during revenue service periods to control local train movement Assists staff with repair and maintenance during revenue service periods Utilizes hand-held radios to effectively communicate with staff and direct equipment during revenue and non-revenue service periods Oversees and implements repairs to equipment and materials, including external vendors and/or other parties who make repairs to revenue and non-revenue service equipment Provides hands-on training to employees utilizing live equipment which supports revenue and non-revenue service periods Organizes, supervises, and provides guidance to subordinates Contributes to ensuring that the Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) policies and programs of Metro are carried out May be required to perform other related job duties Minimum Qualifications A combination of education and/or experience that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the essential functions of the position.

Additional experience, as outlined below, may be substituted for required education on a year-for-year basis. A typical combination includes: Education Associate's Degree in a related field or equivalent training from a recognized trade school Experience Three years of relevant experience performing installation, repair, and maintenance of rail track facilities and equipment Certifications/Licenses/Special Requirements Must comply with all California Occupational Safety & Health Act (Cal/OSHA) regulations and utilize approved safety equipment and protective gear "including but not limited" to respirators and/or hearing protective devices (HPD), if and when required Frequent exposure to energized overhead catenary or contact rail power distribution, long-line freight and vehicular traffic Must have normal color vision Overtime, on call, weekend/holiday work required when necessary Valid California Class C Driver License Positions in this job classification are considered safety-sensitive and subject to drug and alcohol testing, including random testing, under Federal Transit Administration (FTA) regulations Essential Knowledge Knowledge of (defined as a learned body of information that is required for and applied in the performance of job tasks) Theories, principles, practices, and procedures of repair and maintenance of rail track Materials and equipment used for track installation, repair and maintenance Inspection methods Standard safety operating procedures for entering and working on track systems Principles of supervision Skill in (defined as the proficient manual, verbal, or mental utilization of data, people, or things) Planning, organizing, and monitoring the work of inspection, installation, repair, and maintenance of rail track functions Analyzing situations, identifying problems, and recommending solutions Communicating effectively orally and in writing Ability to (defined as a present competence to perform an observable behavior or produce an observable result) Understand, interpret, and apply laws, rules, regulations, policies, procedures, contracts, budgets, and labor/management agreements Prepare comprehensive reports and correspondence Maintain records, logs, and files of activities Interact professionally with various levels of employees and outside representatives Supervise subordinates Read, write, speak, and understand English Special Conditions The physical demands described are representative of those that must be met by the employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Metro provides reasonable accommodation to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Working Conditions Typical office situation Close exposure to computer monitors and video screen Work on elevated surfaces or below ground level Work on slippery or uneven surfaces Exposure to hostile and armed criminal suspects Exposure to moving machinery and/or vehicles Exposure to radiant or electrical energy (e.g., ionizing radiation, overhead catenary or contact rail power distribution, etc.) Exposure to outdoor weather including extreme heat, cold, dampness and/or humidity Extensive safety training and/or use of protective devices and personal protective gear Work irregular hours, split shifts, weekends, holidays, or 24-hour-a-day on-call assignments Physical Effort Required Sitting at a desk or table Standing Walking (distance 5' to 100') Intermittently sitting, standing, stooping Good distance vision and/or depth perception to judge distances Color recognition (e.g., distinguishing wires, resistors, containers, light signals, etc.) Metro is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, ancestry, national origin, gender, marital status, sexual orientation, religion, age, veteran status, or disability. Learn more about Metro's Equal Employment Opportunity Program. Metro does not deny participation in the application process to anyone with prior justice system involvement, in line with Fair Chance hiring practices

Selection Procedure Applicants who best meet job-related qualifications will be invited to participate in the examination process that may consist of any combination of written, performance, or oral appraisal to further evaluate job-related experience, knowledge, skills and abilities. Application Procedure To apply, visit Metro's website at www.metro.net and complete an online Employment Application. Computers are available to complete online Employment Applications at the following Metro locations: METRO Headquarters, Employment Office One Gateway Plaza Los Angeles, CA 90012 Open: Monday through Friday, 8am-4pm (Closed Sat & Sun) Metro Talent Hub 8501 S

Evermont Place Los Angeles, CA 90044 Open: Monday through Friday, 9am-5pm (Closed Sat & Sun) East Los Angeles Customer Center 4501 B Whittier Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90022 Open: Tuesday through Saturday, 10am to 6pm (Closed Sun & Mon) Wilshire/Vermont Customer Center 3183 Wilshire Blvd, Ste 174 Los Angeles, CA 90010 Open: Monday through Friday, 10am-6pm (Closed Sat & Sun) Rosa Parks Customer Center Willowbrook/Rosa Parks Station 11720 Wilmington Ave Los Angeles, CA 90059 Open: Monday through Friday, 6am to 6:30pm (Closed Sat & Sun) Telephone: (213) 922-6217 or persons with hearing or speech impairments can use California Relay Service 711 to contact Metro. All completed online Employment Applications must be received by 5:00 p.m. on the closing date

Late applications will not be considered. *Open to the public and all Metro employees This job bulletin is not to be construed as an exhaustive list of duties, responsibilities, or requirements. Employees may be required to perform other related job duties.


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