Railroad Track Inspector

Railroad Track Inspector

The Railroad Track Inspector is responsible for inspecting, evaluating, and documenting the condition of railroad track infrastructure to ensure compliance with Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) Track Safety Standards (49 CFR Part 213), company policies, and industry best practices. The Track Inspector identifies defects, recommends corrective actions, and monitors track conditions to maintain safe train operations and protect railroad personnel, customers, and the public.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Conduct required track inspections in accordance with FRA Track Safety Standards (49 CFR Part 213) and company procedures.
• Inspect track structures including rail, ties, fasteners, anchors, ballast, turnouts, switches, crossings, and other track components.
• Measure and evaluate track geometry, including alignment, surface, gauge, cross-level, curvature, and profile.
• Identify and document track defects, hazardous conditions, and non-compliant infrastructure.
• Determine appropriate remedial actions.
• Complete inspection reports, defect logs, maintenance recommendations, and regulatory documentation accurately and timely.
• Utilize track inspection equipment including gauges, electronic measuring devices, and other approved tools.
• Verify that repairs and maintenance activities meet FRA requirements and company standards.
• Coordinate with maintenance crews, supervisors, and engineering personnel to prioritize corrective actions.
• Monitor track conditions following weather events, derailments, construction activities, or other conditions affecting track integrity.
• Participate in audits, regulatory inspections, and safety investigations as required.
• Maintain records demonstrating compliance with FRA inspection frequency requirements.
• Support company safety initiatives and ensure adherence to all railroad operating rules and safety procedures.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Minimum of two (2) years of railroad track maintenance, track inspection, engineering, or related railroad experience preferred.
• Demonstrated knowledge of FRA Track Safety Standards (49 CFR Part 213).
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings, track charts, and inspection records.
• Proficiency in the use of track inspection tools and measuring devices.
• Valid driver's license with acceptable driving record.
• Ability to obtain and maintain company qualification as a Track Inspector.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Thorough understanding of railroad track components and track structure.
• Knowledge of railroad operating practices and safety rules.
• Strong observational and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to recognize track defects and assess their impact on safe operations.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency with computer-based inspection and reporting systems.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to walk extended distances on uneven terrain, ballast, bridges, and railroad rights-of-way.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to climb, bend, kneel, squat, and work in confined spaces.
• Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions.
• Ability to distinguish colors and visual defects in track components.
• Ability to work varying schedules, including nights, weekends, holidays, and emergency call-outs.

Working Conditions

• Exposure to moving trains, heavy equipment, noise, dust, vibration, and adverse weather conditions.
• Frequent travel within assigned territory.
• Work performed in accordance with railroad safety rules, FRA regulations, and company policies.

Preferred Certifications

• FRA Qualified Track Inspector.
• Roadway Worker Protection (RWP) Qualification.
• Track Safety Standards Training.
• Track Geometry and Ultrasonic Testing Familiarity.
• Railroad Engineering and Maintenance-of-Way Certifications.

Reporting Relationship Reports to: Director Performance Expectations Successful performance is measured by:

• Compliance with FRA inspection requirements.
• Accuracy and completeness of inspection records.
• Timely identification and reporting of defects.
• Reduction of track-related safety risks.
• Support of safe and efficient railroad operations.

Thank you for your interest in applying with one of the Bettis Companies. The Bettis Group of Companies includes: Bettis Asphalt & Construction, Mid-States Materials, Capital Trucking, Bettis Contractors, Bettis Fabrication, Capital Crane, Capital Ready-Mix, Heartland Rail Service, Koss Construction, Midwest Pavement Grinding, PCI, and PTMW. If the position you applied for is filled or we feel your experience fits another job, your information may be sent to one of the other Bettis Companies if an opening is available.

Bettis Asphalt & Construction, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer and Drug Free Workplace. Women, Minorities, and Veterans are encouraged to apply. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.