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How much does a Railroader make?

The average salary for a Railroader is $44,762 per year in the US.

Railroaders can expect to earn a stable income in this field. The average yearly salary is $44,762. This number can vary depending on the role, experience, and region. Rail jobs offer a range of earnings from entry-level positions to higher-skilled roles.

When breaking down the salaries, the majority of railroaders earn between $37,420 and $51,100 per year. The data shows that most railroaders fall into the middle part of this range. This makes the profession financially rewarding and offers growth opportunities. With time and experience, many railroaders can expect their salaries to increase.

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What are the highest paying cities for a Railroader?

Looking for a Railroader job with a good salary? Portland, OR leads the pack with an average salary of $53,722. Kansas City, MO, and Salt Lake City, UT follow closely, offering competitive wages. These cities present great opportunities for those seeking rewarding careers in railroading. If a higher salary is a priority, consider cities like Houston, TX, and Cincinnati, OH. Both offer average salaries above $40,000, with Houston, TX, standing out at $43,257. These locations provide a balance of good pay and career growth.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Railroader jobs, highlighting Portland, OR with the highest at $53,722 and Greensboro, NC with the lowest at $35,543.
  1. Portland, OR
    Average Salary: $53,722
    Working in transportation in Portland offers access to the scenic Pacific Northwest. Railroad jobs here connect cities and transport goods. Major employers include Union Pacific and BNSF Railway.
    Find Railroader jobs in Portland, OR


  2. Kansas City, MO
    Average Salary: $46,068
    Kansas City is a central hub for railroads, making it ideal for freight and passenger services. Key companies like BNSF Railway provide diverse opportunities. The city's infrastructure supports a steady demand for skilled workers.
    Find Railroader jobs in Kansas City, MO


  3. Salt Lake City, UT
    Average Salary: $45,208
    Salt Lake City's railroads serve both freight and passenger lines, with a focus on efficient transport. Companies such as Union Pacific play a vital role. The job market benefits from Utah's strong logistics sector.
    Find Railroader jobs in Salt Lake City, UT


  4. Houston, TX
    Average Salary: $43,257
    Houston's railroads connect the city to major trade routes. This city's industrial sector relies heavily on rail transport. Major employers include BNSF Railway and Union Pacific, offering numerous job opportunities.
    Find Railroader jobs in Houston, TX


  5. Cincinnati, OH
    Average Salary: $41,678
    Cincinnati's railroad industry supports both freight and passenger services. Key companies include CSX Transportation and Norfolk Southern. The city's strategic location enhances job stability and growth prospects.
    Find Railroader jobs in Cincinnati, OH


  6. Reno, NV
    Average Salary: $41,125
    Reno's railroad jobs connect the city with major freight routes. With Union Pacific as a leading employer, the job market is robust. The city's growth offers good opportunities for those in the industry.
    Find Railroader jobs in Reno, NV


  7. Columbia, SC
    Average Salary: $39,214
    Columbia's railroads support a growing transportation network. The city's logistics sector depends on rail transport. Companies like Norfolk Southern provide numerous job opportunities for skilled workers.
    Find Railroader jobs in Columbia, SC


  8. Tulsa, OK
    Average Salary: $37,383
    Tulsa's railroads play a crucial role in the city's logistics. Key employers include BNSF Railway and Union Pacific. The job market here offers good prospects for those in the industry.
    Find Railroader jobs in Tulsa, OK


  9. Spokane, WA
    Average Salary: $37,073
    Spokane's railroads connect the city to major freight lines. Companies like BNSF Railway offer many job opportunities. The city's location in the Pacific Northwest enhances its rail network.
    Find Railroader jobs in Spokane, WA


  10. Greensboro, NC
    Average Salary: $35,543
    Greensboro's railroads support the transportation of goods across the region. Key companies include Norfolk Southern and CSX Transportation. The job market here provides good opportunities for skilled workers.
    Find Railroader jobs in Greensboro, NC

What are the best companies a Railroader can work for?

American Track and RoadSafe Traffic Systems offer strong salaries for railroader jobs. American Track pays an average of $39,042 per year. RoadSafe Traffic Systems provides an average of $37,507. Both companies provide solid career opportunities with competitive pay.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Railroader jobs, highlighting American Track with the highest at $39,042 and RoadSafe Traffic Systems with the lowest at $37,507.
  1. American Track
    Average Salary: $39,042
    American Track offers exciting opportunities for Railroaders. They provide safe and reliable railroad services. They operate across the United States, with major hubs in Florida, Texas, and Illinois.


  2. RoadSafe Traffic Systems
    Average Salary: $37,507
    RoadSafe Traffic Systems employs skilled Railroaders to ensure safety and efficiency on rail tracks. They focus on installing and maintaining railroad crossings. They work in multiple states, including California, New York, and Pennsylvania.

How to earn more as a Railroader?

Railroaders have many opportunities to increase their earnings through various paths. Pursuing additional certifications and training can significantly boost wages. Specialized skills, such as engineering or locomotive operations, often command higher salaries. Experience plays a crucial role in earning potential. As a railroader gains more years on the job, they typically see their pay rise.

Taking on leadership roles such as a conductor or a supervisor can also lead to higher earnings. These positions often come with increased responsibilities and, in turn, greater compensation. Working in high-demand areas or on specific routes may offer bonuses or higher base pay. Some railroads provide incentives for working in challenging or hazardous conditions. Being proactive about career development and seeking out these opportunities can lead to substantial financial gains.

Here are five factors that can help a railroader earn more:

  • Certifications and Training: Acquiring specialized certifications can lead to higher wages.
  • Skill Development: Skills in areas like engineering or locomotive operations often command higher pay.
  • Experience: More years on the job usually mean higher earnings.
  • Leadership Roles: Taking on positions like conductor or supervisor can boost pay.
  • Location and Conditions: Working in high-demand areas or challenging conditions may offer higher pay or bonuses.

Currently 17 Railroader job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Railroader in the US?

Learn what a Railroader does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Railroader today.
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Railroader
17 Job Openings