Rail-Track Laying and Maintenance Equipment Operators Salary 2025: $70,070 Median
Rail-Track Laying and Maintenance Equipment Operators earn a median of $70,070 per year, or about $34 an hour. The typical range runs from $45,640 at the 10th percentile to $87,420 at the 90th. These BLS figures reflect the national picture for 2024.
How much Rail-Track Laying and Maintenance Equipment Operators earn
The median annual wage for this occupation is $70,070, with a mean annual wage of $68,740. That translates to roughly $34.00 per hour at the median. Bottom earners make around $45,640, while top earners can exceed $87,420.
- Median annual wage: $70,070
- Mean annual wage: $68,740
- Hourly median: ~$34.00
- 10th percentile: $45,640
- 90th percentile: $87,420
Pay by state
Where you work dramatically affects pay. Highest-paying states include Massachusetts ($94,330), Maryland ($92,030), New York ($87,150), Virginia ($84,750), and New Mexico ($83,370). On the lower end, North Carolina ($47,700), Iowa ($45,640), and Louisiana ($44,150) pay far less. Relocating to a high-wage state can boost earnings by over $50,000.
- Massachusetts: $94,330
- Maryland: $92,030
- New York: $87,150
- Virginia: $84,750
- New Mexico: $83,370
- North Carolina: $47,700
- Iowa: $45,640
- Louisiana: $44,150
How to become Rail-Track Laying and Maintenance Equipment Operator
The typical path starts with a high school diploma or equivalent. Most operators learn through on-the-job training or a formal apprenticeship, often sponsored by railroads or unions. No college degree is required. Some employers prefer candidates with a commercial driver's license (CDL) or experience in heavy equipment operation. Safety certifications (e.g., OSHA) may boost hiring odds.
- High school diploma or GED.
- Apprenticeship program or on-the-job training (typically lasts 6-12 months).
- Optional: CDL license, heavy equipment operation experience.
- Railroad-specific safety training (e.g., track safety, flagging).
Job outlook
Employment is projected to grow 1.6% from 2024 to 2034, slower than the average for all occupations. That adds up to about 1,100 openings per year nationally, mostly replacing workers who retire or leave the field. The occupation employs 19,580 people currently. Demand is tied to freight and passenger rail investment, which remains steady but limited.
- Projected growth (2024-2034): 1.6% (slower than average)
- Current employment: 19,580
- Annual openings: ~1,100
Frequently asked questions
What is the salary of a Rail-Track Laying and Maintenance Equipment Operator?
The national median annual salary is $70,070, or about $34 per hour. Most earn between $45,640 and $87,420.
How do I become a Rail-Track Laying and Maintenance Equipment Operator?
You typically need a high school diploma and complete on-the-job training or a railroad apprenticeship. A CDL or heavy equipment experience helps. No college degree required.
Is rail track operator a good career?
It offers solid pay (median $70,070) and stable employment, but growth is slow (1.6%). The job involves outdoor work, physical labor, and safety risks. About 1,100 openings per year.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Rail-Track Laying and Maintenance Equipment Operators data.