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Track Maintenance Jobs (NOW HIRING)

As a member of our Track Maintenance Team, you'll play a vital role in constructing, inspecting, and repairing tracks and other railroad assets and maintaining our railway corridors. This is a ...

Track Supervisor

Jamaica, NY ยท On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

You'll specifically take care of supervising the maintenance and repair of mainline and yard tracks, special track work, and related systems, but also support the training and development of Track ...

Track Laborer

Englewood, CO ยท Remote

$20 - $23/hr

Railroad industry experience, including track maintenance and construction preferred but not ... necessary * Track Inspection Guideline Certification is an asset * Ability to read and understand ...

Perform track maintenance, repair and installation including but not limited to: * Observe condition of tracks, track beds, and track right of way for problems or defects * Inspect track, including ...

Track Laborer

Englewood, CO ยท On-site

$20 - $23/hr

Railroad industry experience, including track maintenance and construction preferred but not ... necessary * Track Inspection Guideline Certification is an asset * Ability to read and understand ...

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Track Maintenance information

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$12

$31

$56

How much do track maintenance jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for track maintenance in the United States is $31.57, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.08 and $38.22 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are track maintenance workers?

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 jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

In track maintenance, high-paying roles such as senior track inspectors or specialized track supervisors can earn around $4,000 weekly, especially with experience and overtime. These positions typically require technical skills, certifications, and knowledge of railway systems but do not always require a college degree.

What is a track maintenance worker?

A track maintenance worker is responsible for inspecting, repairing, and maintaining railway tracks to ensure safe and efficient train operations. They use tools such as track gauges and ballast regulators and often work outdoors in various weather conditions, sometimes requiring certifications in safety procedures or equipment operation.

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

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 qualifications do track maintainers need?

Track maintainers typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with knowledge of track components and maintenance procedures. Relevant skills include mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and the ability to operate specialized tools and equipment. Certifications in safety and track inspection may also be required depending on the employer.

What does a track maintainer do?

A track maintainer is responsible for inspecting, repairing, and maintaining railway tracks to ensure safety and proper operation. They use tools and equipment to replace ties, align rails, and address issues such as wear or damage, often working outdoors and following safety protocols. The role may require knowledge of track standards and certifications in railway safety.

What are some 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.

More about Track Maintenance jobs
What cities are hiring for Track Maintenance jobs? Cities with the most Track Maintenance job openings:
Who are the top companies hiring for Track Maintenance jobs? The top employers for Track Maintenance jobs are:
What states have the most Track Maintenance jobs? States with the most job openings for Track Maintenance jobs include:
Infographic showing various Track Maintenance job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 5% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $65,662 per year, or $31.6 per hour.

Track Maintenance - Laborer-Dubuque IA

BNSF

Dubuque, IA โ€ข On-site

$37.66/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 25 days ago


Job description

Be part of a team that values safety, inclusion, and excellence

We are one of the largest U.S. railroads transporting the nation's freight across 28 western states and 3 Canadian provinces. As a member of our team, you will play a role in supporting the movement of essential products and materials that help feed, clothe, supply, and power communities throughout America and the world. ย 

We are committed to a culture where all employees are included, belong, and have equal opportunity to achieve their full potential.Come make a difference with us!

Learn more aboutย BNSFย andย ourย Benefits

Job Location:ย Dubuque
Other Potential Locations:ย Dubuque, IAย 
Anticipated Start Date:ย 08/03/2026
Number of Positions:ย 1ย 
Salary Range:ย Entry rate is approx. $37.66/hr

Apply early as this job may be removed or filled prior to the closing date, which is approximately seven (7) days after the posting date.

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 Team, you'll play a vital role in constructing, inspecting, and repairing tracks and other railroad assets and maintaining our railway corridors.ย ย 

This is a full-timeย (40hrs/wk) position and is subject to on-call, overtime, nights, alternatingย shifts, weekends, and holidays.ย 

Travel is required to (and remain at) job sites for extended periods, sometimes for days or weeks at a time, in the designated seniority region.

Residency Requirement: ย Maintenance of Way employees must reside within their hired district for the duration of employment. Employees are required to:

  • Maintain residency within the hired district or within 50 miles of a designated BNSF depot serving that district.
  • Notify and obtain written approval from BNSF before any change of residence outside of the hired district.
  • Failure to comply may result in:
    • Loss of travel pay benefits
    • Repayment of previously paid travel expenses
    • Impact to employment status

Training for this position is company-paid on-the-job and classroom training and will include travel to the BNSF Training Center.

Key responsibilities may include:ย 

Track maintenance repair and installation; repair and rebuild railroad trackย as well as perform maintenance by pulling spikes, cutting, welding, or drilling rail.ย  This also includes maintaining a clean right of way by removing hazards such as brush, trees, vegetation, litter, and cargo spillage.

Maintain trackbed which includes manually compressing ballast, remove/install ties and replacing, cutting, and adjusting rail in addition to lifting and carrying materials with assistance.

Operate equipment - power hand tools such as electric, pneumatic or hydraulic tools (drills, impact wrenches, jacks, power saws and grinders) as well as non-powered hand tools and shovels, picks, saws, and grinders.ย 

Daily work is conducted in a safety sensitive environment where the working conditions can include diverse and extreme weather conditions (hot, cold, rain, snow, and sleet), walking and performing work on uneven surfaces, working around loud noises, fumes, and heavy/moving machinery.ย ย 

BNSF prioritizes safety as a core value of how we do business. Our employees engage in daily safety conversations to achieve our vision. In addition, they must adhere to safety regulations, rules, and policies, including wearing safety equipment, responding to concerns, and taking action in emergencies.ย 

Relocation assistance is not available and there is a 60-day probationary period.ย 

The duties and responsibilities in this posting are representative categories to be used in deciding whether to apply for this position.This is notan exhaustive list of the position's duties.ย 

At BNSF Railway, we encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply, showcasing their skills, experiences and development. We provide resources and tools to help you reach your full potential, fostering a supportive and inclusive environment.

Basic Qualifications:ย 

  • Able to work now and in the future without BNSF's assistance (whether monetary, through sponsorship, or otherwise) in obtaining, maintaining, or extending employment authorization (including H-1B, STEM OPT/CPT, or TN nonimmigrant status).
  • At least 18 years of age or will be by the anticipated start date listed above.ย 
  • Possess a valid state-issued driver's license.ย 
  • Ability to report for duty at the designated work location.ย 
  • Able to work safely in the above working conditions.ย 
  • Able toworkthe above shift/hours.ย 
  • Able to meet the above travel requirements.ย 
  • Able to read, write and communicate (speak, hear and understand) English.ย 
  • Available to travel to and remain on job sites in designated seniority regionand remain on sitefor extended periods, sometimes days or weeks at atime.ย 
  • Able to lift and carry up to 60lbsoccasionally.ย 
  • Able to visually distinguish colors - red, blue, green, yellow, and lunar (clear) light.ย 
  • Ability to discriminate and differentiate between verbal and non-verbal sounds (signals, alarms, etc.) in the work environment.ย 
  • Able to use hands to perform activities involving holding, grasping, turning, and pulling.ย 
  • Occasionallyclimb on/off equipmentย 
  • Bend, walk, standand sit for extended time,use hand tools.ย 
  • Follow safety policies and proceduresalong with rules compliance; wear required personal protective equipment.ย 
  • Maintain residency within the hired district or within 50 miles of a designated BNSF depot serving that district.

Unionย membership is with the Brotherhoodย of Maintenance of Way Employees (BMWE) and union dues are required per union agreement.

Seniority district transfersย are handled per union agreement, are seniority based and require Director approval.ย 

Here are some of the perks/benefits you can expect as a BNSF employee

At BNSF, you will have access to a comprehensive and competitive benefits package that meets you where you are, a few of those benefits include:

  • A range of health care options for you and your dependents including medical, dental, vision, telemedicine, mental health, wellness coaching, 2nd opinionย services, and high-quality care network options. You will also have life insurance, provided at no cost to you.
  • A Railroad Retirement program and competitive 401(k) plan to help you meet your retirement goals.
  • Family benefits including parental and pediatric support, adoption and surrogacy reimbursement, and spending accounts.
  • Access to discounts on travel, gym memberships and more!
  • Benefits vary by union collective bargaining agreement.
  • For more information, visitย Benefits.

Please be aware of potential fraud that can occur when searching for new career opportunities. ย Please review ourย FAQย for more information and awareness.

All positions require pre-employment background verification, medical review and pre-employment drug screen. You can find more information by reviewing theย Hiring Process.ย  Federal authority requires BNSF employees, whose work requires unescorted access to secure areas of port facilities, to obtain a TWIC.ย ย More information is available atย https://www.tsa.gov/for-industry/twic

BNSF Railway is an Equal Opportunity Employer, all qualified applicants receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.

F:ย MOย |ย Engineeringย Transitioning Militaryย ย |ย Operations - Engineeringย |ย Dubuque,ย IAย |ย 52099ย