The Track Inspector is responsible for ensuring the safe and compliant condition of track, roadbed, and related infrastructure by performing detailed inspections, identifying defects, reporting findings, and coordinating necessary repairs. Supports operational safety, reliability, and compliance with FRA (Federal Railroad Administration), company standards, and other applicable regulations.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Inspect track structure, switches, roadbeds, and associated components for wear, defects, and compliance with federal, state, and company standards.
• Identify deviations from standards and initiate corrective action, including directing repair crews or contractors.
• Document inspection results in the designated system (e.g., SAP or other tracking systems) and maintain accurate inspection records.
• Conduct special inspections after severe weather events, accidents, or other potentially damaging occurrences.
• Operate and inspect track switches to ensure functionality and safety.
• Supervise and provide direction to production or maintenance crews on necessary repairs and safety protocols.
• Follow up on completed repairs to ensure conformance with standards and verify resolution of identified issues.
• Assist with the development of maintenance programs and inspection schedules to meet compliance and operational needs.
• Stay current on changes in FRA Track Safety Standards (49 CFR 213) and industry best practices; attend training and ensure team members are informed of relevant updates.
• Assist and mentor less experienced inspectors or maintenance personnel on inspection methods and safety protocols.
• Support budgeting efforts through cost control suggestions and efficient maintenance practices.
• Respond to emergencies, derailments, or other urgent maintenance needs on or near the tracks.
• Maintain positive working relationships with internal departments and contractors.
• Participate in safety meetings and foster a culture of safety and accountability.

Qualifications:

• Minimum 5 years of experience in track inspection or railroad maintenance required.
• Knowledge of FRA Track Safety Standards (49 CFR Part 213) and railroad maintenance practices.
• Demonstrated ability to identify track geometry defects and assess component wear (ties, rails, fasteners, etc.).

• Must hold or obtain Qualified Track Inspector certification within 60 days and ability to maintain it annually.

• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage inspections, reporting, and scheduling independently.
• Experience with leading work teams preferred.
• Excellent communication skills—both verbal and written.
• Must be proficient in communications via radio and able to obtain proper track protection from Dispatcher and/or Yardmaster.
• Bilingual in English and Spanish, preferred.
• Proficient with computers and inspection/reporting software (e.g., SAP, Excel).
• Valid driver’s license required; CDL preferred.
• Must pass all applicable company and regulatory tests and certifications (e.g., Track Safety Standards exam).
• Must successfully complete any required orientation, training, and continuing education courses including the following, with a score of 85% or higher:
  • • Track Safety Standards
    • Roadway Worker Protection Rules
    • Railroad Operating Rules
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision and effectively as part of a team.
• Must be proficient in reading, writing, and communicating in English.
• Ability to work a flexible schedule, including nights, weekends, holidays, and overtime as required.

Working Conditions and Physical Requirements:

The work environment characteristics and physical requirements described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. 

Working Conditions:

• While performing the duties of this job, the employee works and drives in outside weather conditions on a regular basis.
• Working conditions may be rainy, hot, humid, dusty, foggy etc. depending on the weather and may be at nighttime.
• The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate to loud.
• Duties of this job are also performed in an office and shop environment.
• Exposed to heights of up to 40 feet and rapidly changing temperatures, including extreme heat and other weather conditions.

Physical Requirements:

• While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit.
• The employee is frequently required to stand, walk, use hands to handle and/or move various objects, tools and/or controls, reach with hands and arms, climb or balance, talk, hear, and see.
• Specific vision abilities required by this job include distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus. Visibility must extend to 62’ and beyond.
• Ability to move or handle various items generally weighing between 0-75 pounds. Ability to lift and carry up to 75 pounds.
• Prolonged kneeling, standing, and looking up.  Incumbent is required to regularly climb stairs and ladders, and will perform overhead work while standing, kneeling, or lying flat, and will constantly crawl, bend at the waist and reach overhead, occasionally lift, pull or carry up to 75 lbs., and walk on uneven ground containing trip hazards.

This job description should not be construed to imply that these requirements are the exclusive standards of the position.  Employees will be expected to follow any other instructions, and perform any other duties, as may be required by supervision.