Today, working on the railroad is one of the most exciting and high-paying jobs in the world. If you’re looking for a career that offers adventure and high pay, railroads may be the perfect industry for you!
In this article, we’ll tell you about the 15 highest-paying jobs in the railroad industry. We’ll also show you the average salary for each job, as well as the skills and responsibilities you must perform to hold the position.
What is the Railroads Industry?
The railroad industry transports people and goods via rail. It consists of three main sectors: passenger, freight, and infrastructure. Passenger railroads transport people, while freight railroads transport goods. Infrastructure companies maintain and repair the railroad tracks.
There are many different types of jobs in the railroad industry. Some positions are entry-level, while others require experience and training.
Is the Railroad Industry a Good Career Choice?
Working in the railroad’s industry can be a very rewarding career. It offers many opportunities for advancement, and the pay is very competitive. In addition, working on the railroad can be a great way to see different parts of the country (or even the world)!
If you’re interested in a career in railroads, there are a few things you should keep in mind.
First, the industry is very regulated, so you’ll need to be comfortable with rules and regulations.
Second, railroads are a 24/hour operation, so you may need to work odd hours (including weekends and holidays).
Finally, because railroads are such a large industry, there is a lot of competition for jobs.
15 Best Paying Jobs in Railroads
Diesel mechanic
Average base salary: $49,935 per year
As a diesel mechanic, you will be responsible for the repair and maintenance of diesel-powered locomotives.
You will need experience with engines, electrical systems, and hydraulics. You should also be able to use diagnostic tools to identify problems. You’ll also need to be stress-resistant because sometimes you’ll have to work weekends and holidays.
Railroad Conductor
Average base salary: $47,131 per year
As a railroad conductor, you will be responsible for operating a train safely and accurately at all times of day and night.
You must be able to read train schedules and signals. You must also be able to communicate well with other members of the train crew. In addition, you must be able to make quick decisions in cases of emergency.
Signal maintainer
Average base salary: $48,443 per year
As a signal technician, you will be responsible for maintaining and repairing railroad signal poles.
You must know how to use hand and power tools, and in addition, you must also have experience with electrical systems and be able to work at heights and in confined spaces.
Welder
Average base salary: $47,784 per year
As a welder, you will be responsible for repairing, maintaining, and maintaining quality railroad track operations.
It is his or her responsibility to be able to use welding equipment safely and efficiently. In addition, you must have experience with other hand and power tools. You must also be able to work in a variety of weather conditions.
Utility clerk
Average base salary: $38,405 per year
As a handyman, you will be responsible for maintaining product and material records as well as record-keeping.
For this position, you need to be willing to serve customers, be able to follow instructions and have a good rapport with other people.
Locomotive Engineer
Average base salary: $54,796 per year
Your duties as a locomotive driver will include keeping track of all instruments and track conditions so that the train runs smoothly.
For this occupation, you need to have analytical thinking and be able to make predictions, have a college degree in the relevant field, and know the workings of the system.
Locomotive Mechanic
Average base salary: $51,464 per year
A locomotive mechanic is responsible for the repair and maintenance of diesel-electric locomotives.
You should have experience with engines, electrical systems, and hydraulics. You should also be able to use diagnostic instruments to identify problems. In addition, the job sometimes requires emergency attendance on holidays and weekends.
Crew member
Average base salary: $48,050 per year
As a member of the train crew, you check passengers’ tickets, make sure they get everything they ask for and monitor general conduct in the car.
You must get along well with people and be able to explain the rules clearly, as well as solve problems quickly. It is also important for this job to be available on holidays and weekends.
Switchman
Average base salary: $44,687 per year
The duties of a switchman include control, operation, and maintenance of railway switches.
To become a switchman, you need to know the train schedule well, be attentive to details, and be responsible. Additional training is likely to be required on the job.
Train Dispatcher
Average base salary: $43,786 per year
Train dispatchers give orders to trains and are responsible for the movement of trains. They also conduct inspections of trains.
To work as a train dispatcher, you need to know the train schedule and have experience in this field, but they can often be hired without experience and trained on the spot. Of course, it is important to be stress-resistant and to be able to solve problems quickly.
Train Electronic Technician
Average base salary: $49,257 per year
As a train electronic technician, you will be responsible for repairing and maintaining electronic equipment on diesel-electric locomotives.
You must have experience with electrical systems. You should also be able to use diagnostic tools to identify problems. You’ll also need to be stress-resistant because sometimes you’ll have to work weekends and holidays.
Terminal Trainmaster
Average base salary: $64,206 per year
As a terminal train dispatcher, you will be responsible for managing rail terminal operations.
For this job, you need to be stress-resistant and be able to make serious decisions in a short period.
Cook
Average base salary: $45,579 per year
The job of the cook is to prepare food for the train crew and passengers.
For this job, it is important to prepare food and drink quickly and deliciously, to work efficiently under pressure and tight deadlines, and to be easy to get along with people.
Rail Operator
Average base salary: $44,779 per year
Operators are responsible for cleaning, repairing, and maintaining heavy equipment.
This job requires experience, attentiveness, and responsibility, as well as the ability to get along well with people because you have to work in a team.
Subway Operator
Average base salary: $30,289 per year
Subway operators are responsible for the operation of subway trains.
To work as a subway operator, you need to be able to pay attention to details, always be alert, and keep track of time. It is important to be stress-resistant and have good reaction speed, as well as on-the-job training.