Student Aid on the Web Skip Navigation

Career Details : Railroad Inspectors

   << Back    Add Career to MyFSA

Description

Inspect railroad equipment, roadbed, and track to ensure safe transport of people or cargo.

Experience

Some previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience may be helpful in these occupations, but usually is not needed. For example, a drywall installer might benefit from experience installing drywall, but an inexperienced person could still learn to be an installer with little difficulty.

Education

These occupations usually require a high school diploma and may require some vocational training or job-related course work. In some cases, an associate's or bachelor's degree could be needed.

Training

Employees in these occupations need anywhere from a few months to one year of working with experienced employees.

Tasks

  • Inspects signals and track wiring to determine continuity of electrical connections.
  • Replaces defective brake rod pins and tightens safety appliances.
  • Notifies train dispatcher of railcar to be moved to shop for repair.
  • Inspects and tests completed work.
  • Examines locomotives and cars to detect damage or structural defects.
  • Operates switches to determine working conditions.
  • Makes minor repairs.
  • Tags rail cars needing immediate repair.
  • Tests and synchronizes rail-flaw-detection machine, using circuit tester and hand tools, and reloads machine with paper and ink.
  • Starts machine and signals worker to operate rail-detector car.
  • Packs brake bearings with grease.
  • Examines roadbed, switches, fishplates, rails, and ties to detect damage or wear.
  • Seals leaks found during inspection that can be sealed with caulking compound.
  • Fills paint container on rail-detector car used to mark section of defective rail with paint.
  • Directs crews to repair or replace defective equipment or to re-ballast roadbed.
  • Prepares reports on repairs made and equipment, railcars, or roadbed needing repairs.
  • Places lanterns or flags in front and rear of train to signal that inspection is being performed.

    Related Careers

    Important Abilities

    General Work Activities

    Important Skills

    Frequent Work Context

    • Consequence of Error
    • Responsible for Others' Health & Safety
    • Importance of Being Exact or Accurate
    • Importance of Being Sure All Is Done
    • Responsibility for Outcomes and Results
       TOP    

    • End of Page