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Track Maintenance Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Moves, stages, loads/unloads materials/equipment in preparation of work activities for rerailing, load adjust/transfer, and/or track maintenance/repair/new builds. Upon conclusion of assignment ...

Moves, stages, loads/unloads materials/equipment in preparation of work activities for rerailing, load adjust/transfer, and/or track maintenance/repair/new builds. Upon conclusion of assignment ...

AVP Track

Homewood, IL ยท Hybrid

$177K - $228K/yr

In addition, the incumbent leads a team that oversees the execution of large scale and complex track maintenance initiatives, in collaboration with other senior leaders. Main Responsibilities Track ...

Senior Track Engineer

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$107K - $147K/yr

Track maintenance principles * Experience using engineering software such as: * AutoCAD Civil 3D * MicroStation * OpenRail Designer * GIS and survey tools * Strong project management and ...

Maintenance Planner

Niles, IL ยท On-site

$31.15 - $38.94/hr

Monitor and track maintenance metrics and performance through detailed reports, spreadsheets, and visual presentations * Ensure compliance with environmental regulations and current GMP standards ...

Senior Track Engineer

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$167K - $200K/yr

Track maintenance principles * Experience using engineering software such as: * AutoCAD Civil 3D * MicroStation * OpenRail Designer * GIS and survey tools * Strong project management and ...

Track maintenance inventory and notify the Facilities' Manager of supply needs. Safety and Compliance * Maintain compliance with OSHA standards, infection prevention practices, fire safety ...

Track Supervisor

Addison, IL ยท On-site

$16.50 - $17.50/hr

To ensure that all track attendants provide a fun, safe and efficient racing environment for our ... Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance ...

Track Supervisor

Buffalo Grove, IL ยท On-site

$16 - $18/hr

To ensure that all track attendants provide a fun, safe and efficient racing environment for our ... Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance ...

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Track Maintenance information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$12

$32

$57

How much do track maintenance jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for track maintenance in Chicago, IL is $32.55, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.80 and $39.42 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a track maintenance worker?

Track maintenance workers are professionals responsible for inspecting, repairing, and maintaining railroad tracks and related infrastructure. Their duties include replacing rails, ties, and ballast, as well as ensuring track alignment and safety. They use specialized tools and machinery to perform regular maintenance and emergency repairs, helping to prevent derailments and ensure safe train operations. Track maintenance is physically demanding and often requires working outdoors in various weather conditions. These workers play a crucial role in keeping rail networks functional and safe for both freight and passenger trains.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a track maintenance worker?

To thrive in Track Maintenance, you need a solid understanding of rail infrastructure, mechanical aptitude, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with specialized track inspection equipment, hand and power tools, and relevant safety certifications like FRA or OSHA are typically required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and the ability to work in physically demanding and variable outdoor conditions are crucial soft skills. These skills ensure the safety, reliability, and efficiency of rail operations by minimizing hazards and maintaining infrastructure integrity.

What are common challenges faced in a track maintenance role, and how can they be managed?

Track Maintenance professionals often work outdoors in varying weather conditions, which can make the job physically demanding. They also need to be vigilant about safety protocols, as they frequently work near active rail lines and heavy equipment. Navigating tight deadlines for repairs, especially during emergencies, is another challenge. Effective teamwork and clear communication with colleagues and supervisors are essential for managing these demands and ensuring efficient, safe operations.

What is the difference between Track Maintenance vs Track Inspector?

AspectTrack MaintenanceTrack Inspector
CertificationsRailroad certifications, safety trainingRailroad certifications, safety training
Work EnvironmentFieldwork on tracks, repair sitesField inspections, site assessments
Primary ResponsibilitiesRepairing and maintaining tracksInspecting track conditions and safety

Track Maintenance involves actively repairing and maintaining railway tracks to ensure safety and functionality. Track Inspectors focus on examining tracks for defects, safety issues, and compliance. While both roles require similar certifications and work in the same environment, Track Maintenance workers perform hands-on repairs, whereas Track Inspectors assess track conditions to recommend necessary actions.

How do you become a track maintenance?

To become a track maintenance worker, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and relevant experience or training in railroad or track work. Skills in operating maintenance tools, understanding safety protocols, and physical fitness are important; some positions may require certifications such as OSHA safety training. On-the-job training is common, and knowledge of track inspection and repair techniques is beneficial.

How much do track maintenance workers make?

Track maintenance workers typically earn an average annual salary of around $50,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, location, and union membership. They often work in outdoor environments and may need certifications in safety and track inspection tools.

What are popular job titles related to Track Maintenance jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Track Maintenance jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Track Maintenance jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Track Maintenance jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Infographic showing various Track Maintenance job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,695 per year, or $32.5 per hour.

Track Laborer

Cranemasters

Merrillville, IN โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 19 days ago


Job description

Responsible for loading, unloading and safe transportation of equipment and/or materials to/from job site, operation of equipment at job site (if qualified) and providing assistance, including manual labor, in one or more of the following: rerailing operations, maintenance/repair of railroad cars, load adjust/transfer activities and track maintenance/repair/new builds.

Ensures that all activities are carried out in a safe, effective, professional, and efficient manner so as to protect employees and the assets of the Company.

Essential Functions:

  1. Performs pre-trip and post-trip inspection of trucks, trailers, and equipment in accordance with Company policy and D.O.T. regulations.
  2. Drives tractor-trailer to/from job sites, inspects loads, and machinery being transported. Verifies transportation permits to ensure that specifications for overweight and oversize loads/equipment are accurate.
  3. Upon arrival at job site, participates in discussions related to the days' work plan in to ensure safety/efficiency in carrying out daily work assignment. Actively participates in daily safety briefing.
  4. Moves, stages, loads/unloads materials/equipment in preparation of work activities for rerailing, load adjust/transfer, and/or track maintenance/repair/new builds. Upon conclusion of assignment ensures that equipment/materials are reloaded for safe transportation and actively participates in site clean-up.
  5. Assist in assembly, inspection, and operation of cranes and other equipment. Operates equipment in conformance with standard operational policies/procedures while following all safety rules/regulations. Assist with rigging and connection of chains, cables, and winches during derailments. Performs equipment operations with awareness to surroundings and co-workers so as to avoid dangerous situations.
  6. Operates equipment (cranes, backhoes, grapple truck, dump truck, excavators, etc.) in accomplishment of tasks associated with specialty lifting, re-railing, load transfer, track maintenance/repair, grading or other work in preparation for railroad construction and related activities.
  7. Works with hydraulic tools, welding, cutting with torches, electrical tools and common hand tools in accomplishment of work assignments.
  8. Continuously monitors equipment/vehicles to minimize down time and to ensure operational readiness.
  9. Perform and document minor service on equipment/vehicles, referring more complicated mechanical issues to Shop Manager/Foreman for repair.
  10. Participates in disassembly/loading of cranes and other equipment as necessary at the end of job assignment.
  11. Upon return to home base restocks vehicles/equipment with necessary parts, components, supplies in preparation of future work. Sorts scrap materials placing same in designated locations.
  12. Flexible/work-ready to perform tasks for other departments/divisions as may be required to meet business needs and customer expectations.
  13. Follows all required safety policies and procedures.
  14. Maintains vehicles/equipment and work area ensuring that they are cleared of debris/trash, tools and equipment are organized and that the work area/vehicle/equipment present the level of quality and craftsmanship expected of Cranemasters' team members.

Required Travel: Yes; Frequent/extended overnight travel

Required Skills and Experience:

  1. Three years of progressive experience operating heavy motorized equipment to include: backhoe, bulldozer, excavator, front-end loader, grapple truck, rail-bound equipment, tractor and skid-steer loaders; or an equivalent combination of training and experience.
  2. Must possess a valid Class A or Class B Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with good driving record.
  3. Capable of understanding and following directions.
  4. Display strong adherence to safety policies and procedures.
  5. Able to read, write and speak English
  6. Must pass qualification tests as required (includes E-Rail Safe and other training/safety programs).
  7. Must meet 24/7 availability in order to respond to emergency calls for service including weekends and holidays.

Physical Demands:

  1. Constantly on feet
  2. Walking / carrying loads on uneven surfaces and in ballast.
  3. Working in ALL weather conditions.
  4. Working extended hours.
  5. Constant bending, twisting, stooping, standing and / or walking.
  6. Regular lifting of up to 50 pounds; loads in excess of 50 pounds and which can be reduced, should be made lighter.
  7. Employee must obtain assistance when lifting items weighing more than 75 pounds, or items which present ergonomic challenges in lifting/movement/placement.