Rail-Track Laying and Maintenance Equipment Operators
Lay, repair, and maintain track for standard or narrow-gauge railroad equipment used in regular railroad service or in plant yards, quarries, sand and gravel pits, and mines. Includes ballast cleaning machine operators and railroad bed tamping machine operators.
SOC: 47-4061.00
Common Job Titles
Track Inspector
Track Laborer
Track Maintainer
Track Repairer
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
Hands-onOperate rail-track laying and maintenance equipment including tamping machines, ballast cleaners, and rail grinders in railroad service environments, quarries, and industrial yards following safety protocols.
Developing
Hands-onPerform manual track repair tasks using hand tools and pneumatic equipment under varied environmental conditions, adhering to railroad safety standards.
Developing
KnowledgeAssess track condition and structural integrity through visual inspection and measurement to determine compliance with railroad specifications and identify maintenance needs.
Developing
KnowledgeApply troubleshooting procedures for mechanical equipment malfunctions in field settings with limited supervision, minimizing downtime.
Developing
Hands-onExecute preventive maintenance on track equipment and machinery following manufacturer specifications and railroad maintenance schedules.
Developing
KnowledgeAnalyze track geometry data and measurements using precision instruments to identify deviations from standards.
Developing
MindsetEngage in safety-focused communication with crew members and supervisors during coordinated track maintenance operations near active rail lines.
Developing
KnowledgeApply knowledge of mechanical systems, hydraulics, and construction principles when diagnosing equipment issues and planning track repairs.
Developing
KnowledgeDemonstrate time management and work prioritization to complete track maintenance within scheduled service windows.
Developing
Hands-onManipulate rail sections, ties, and ballast materials using specialized equipment and rigging ensuring proper alignment and structural stability.
Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Rail-Track Laying and Maintenance Equipment Operators (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
16,480
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $45,720. 25th percentile: U.S. $51,630. 50th percentile: U.S. $67,370. 75th percentile: U.S. $79,330. 90th percentile: U.S. $84,840. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$45,720
10% of workers earn the following or more
$84,840
Workers on average earn
$68,270
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
Transportation3.7/5
Mechanical3.6/5
Building and Construction3.5/5
Public Safety and Security3.3/5
Administration and Management3.0/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
