Rail Track Maintenance Worker

Job Description:

Rail track maintenance workers inspect and repair railway tracks, bridges, tunnels and viaducts.

Job Category:

Transport & Logistics

See Transport & Logistics jobs

What you will do:

As a rail track maintenance worker, you could:

install and renew track, tunnels, embankments, cuttings, level crossings and bridges
check sections of track are the correct height and distance apart
inspect track to see if it has any defects or needs any maintenance
clear potential obstacles and report incidents
use hand signals and be a lookout when working on the track to keep your team safe

Skills:

You’ll need:

knowledge of building and construction
the ability to use, repair and maintain machines and tools
knowledge of engineering science and technology
to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device

As well as:

physical skills like movement, coordination, dexterity and grace
the ability to work well with others (teamwork skills)
to be thorough and pay attention to detail
to be flexible and open to change (adaptability skills)
leadership skills

Illustration of employee looking at workspace

Entry Requirements:

You can get into this job through:

a college course
an apprenticeship
applying directly

College

You might find it useful to take an engineering qualification at college before looking for work.

In the UK, for example, courses include:

Certificate in Mechanical Engineering
Diploma in Maintenance Engineering Technology

Apprenticeship

You could do a Rail Engineering Operative Intermediate apprenticeship. You might be able to find apprenticeships with companies.

Direct Application

You could apply directly to work as a rail track maintenance worker. You’ll usually start as a trainee.

You’ll find it useful to have:

experience of manual work in a related role like construction or engineering
studied subjects including English and maths

Working Hours and Environment:

A typical week consists of 45-47 hours of work. You could be required to work evenings/weekends/ bank holidays on shifts.

You could work on rail tracks. Your working environment may be physically demanding and outdoors in all weathers. You may need to wear safety clothing and use safety equipment.

Career Path & Progression:

With experience, you could be promoted to supervisor or team leader.

With further training, you could become a track inspector, engineering technician, track designer or manager.

Rail Track Maintenance Worker