Railroad Track Maintenance Technician

Norfolk Southern Corp.; Richmond (VA); On-site; USD 43,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

Norfolk Southern Corp. is seeking a physically capable crew member to perform track maintenance and related tasks across multiple sites. The role involves lifting heavy loads, operating hand tools, and following clear signals to ensure safe, efficient work on rail lines.

Applicants must be at least 18, possess a valid driver’s license, and be prepared for travel including overnight stays. The job offers an hourly wage schedule with progression over time and a commitment to safety in all weather

Qualifications

• Must have a High School Diploma or GED.
• Must be 18 years of age or older.
• Must have a valid Driver’s License.
• Capable of lifting and carrying a minimum of 75 pounds.
• Willing and able to travel to various job sites, including overnight stays and short notice mobilization.
• Capable of working in inclement weather and/or conditions.
• Capable of covering distances afoot up to five (5) miles per day, on railroad right of way, negotiating steep grades and rough terrain, without assistance.
• Capable of working unsupervised at times.

Responsibilities

• Carry and place track materials using hand tools such as tie tongs, rail tongs, rail forks, lining bars, shovels, and jacks.
• Attach the rail to ties using spike mauls or spike drivers.
• Remove spikes with claw bars, spike lifters, and spike pullers.
• Lift, position, handle, remove and install railroad crossties in and around the track structure.
• Connect and disconnect rail using the track, impact, power wrenches, or welding materials.
• Move, clean, and tamp ballast (crushed stone-like material) with shovels, clay picks, lining bars, and ballast forks.
• Raise tracks, turnouts, crossings, and rails with track or power jacks.
• Cut associated materials with oxygen-propanetorches, rail saws, cut-off saws, and cold chisels.
• Drill holes with gasoline, pneumatic, hydraulic, and electric drill motors.
• Work alongside heavy equipment by connecting, disconnecting, and controlling material that is being moved and by directing such movement.
• Participate in safety meetings.
• Wear all appropriate personal protective equipment.

Skills

Interact effectively as a crew member

Follow verbal and visual signals

Quickly learn and perform job duties

Recognize hazards

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Job description

Norfolk Southern Corp. is seeking a physically capable crew member to perform track maintenance and related tasks across multiple sites. The role involves lifting heavy loads, operating hand tools, and following clear signals to ensure safe, efficient work on rail lines.

Applicants must be at least 18, possess a valid driver’s license, and be prepared for travel including overnight stays. The job offers an hourly wage schedule with progression over time and a commitment to safety in all weather