Track Maintenance Laborer

Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad; Durango (CO); On-site; USD 24,796 - 30,307; Part time

Job summary

Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad is seeking a Track Maintenance Laborer to inspect, maintain, and repair railway lines. Responsibilities include using hand and power tools, handling crossties, and clearing debris. The role is critical during summer and fall seasons for fire risk mitigation.

This seasonal position in Durango, CO, offers an hourly wage range of $18.00 to $22.00 and requires physical endurance for demanding tasks in varied weather conditions.

Qualifications

• Prior experience in railroad maintenance, construction preferred.
• Must possess a valid Driver’s License.
• Must pass a pre-employment drug test.
• Must maintain a clean driving record.
• Wildland Firefighting experience is a bonus.

Responsibilities

• Inspects, maintains and repairs railway lines.
• Changes ties, cuts brush, and works on the fire line.
• Gives hand signals to equipment operators.
• Controls traffic around work zones.
• Clears track of debris.

Skills

Prior experience in railroad maintenance

Heavy Equipment Operation

Valid Driver’s License

Wildland Firefighting experience

Tools

Hand tools

Heavy equipment

Job description

Job Details Level: Entry

Job Location: DURANGO, CO 81301

Position Type: Seasonal

Salary Range: $18.00 - $22.00 Hourly

Division/Department: Maintenance of Way

Job Title: Track Maintenance Laborer

Reports To: Roadmaster, Assistant Roadmaster

Type of position: Non-Exempt, Hourly

Employee Classification: Seasonal

Pay Range: $18-$22/hr.

Location: Durango, CO

This position has an expected start date of March 1st, 2026, but will remain open until all positions are filled.

Job Summary

The Track Maintenance Worker is responsible for inspecting, maintaining and repairing railway lines. This includes inspecting tracks, bridges, embankments and crossings for defects, rocks, water or other debris that could interfere with train service. The Track Maintenance Worker also uses hand and power tools, construction equipment, and must be able to safely work around heavy equipment. During Summer and Fall seasons, patrolling track and potentially mitigate fire risks (proper training will be provided).

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Responsible for track-related duties including changing ties, cutting brush and working on the fire line.
• Clears and prepares construction worksites to eliminate possible hazards.
• Attaches rail, removes spikes, lift/handle railroad crossties.
• Give hand signals to equipment operators to facilitate alignment, movement and adjustment of machinery, equipment and materials.
• Controls traffic passing near/in/around work zones.
• Cutting brush, digging fire lines, and performing other fire mitigation work.
• Handles general maintenance on track such as tightening bolts and changing broken rails.
• Performs repair work on bridges' riprap along river
• Clears track of rocks, mud, snow, trees or other debris

Education, Skill and Work Experience Requirements

• Prior experience in railroad maintenance, construction and Heavy Equipment Operation preferred
• Must possess a valid Driver’s License
• Must pass a pre-employment drug test and partake in ongoing random, reasonable suspicion and post accident drug testing.
• Must pass a pre-employement Physical Capabilities Evaluation
• Must maintain a clean driving record which will be monitored through a third party.
• Wildland Firefighting experience would be a bonus.

Work Environment

• Working in varied terrain including remote wilderness locations and in all-weather conditions both during daylight and dark hours.
• Perform physically demanding work in and around railyard utilizing various hand tools and heavy equipment.
• Varied schedule requiring full-time hours with overtime work, as necessary.
• Normal summer schedule consists of 4, 10-hour shifts
• Normal winter schedule consists of 5, 8-hour shifts

Physical Requirements

• Must be physically capable to lift and carry 50lbs frequently and up to 75lbs occasionally.
• Must be physically capable of standing for extended periods of time.