Rail-Track Laying and Maintenance Equipment Operators

SOC Code: 47-4061

Rail-Track Laying and Maintenance Equipment Operatorss patrol assigned track sections so that damaged or broken track can be located and reported. This career typically requires moderate-term on-the-job training (months to 1 year). With an AI-proof score of 84.8/100, this role has high resilience to automation. Key skills include Operations Monitoring, Operation and Control, Operations Monitoring.

AI-Proof Score: 84.8Very High
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Median Salary

$67,370

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Job Growth

1.6%

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Training Time

Moderate-term on-the-job training (months to 1 year)

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Job Zone

Zone 2 / 5

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Training Cost

~$5,000

Key Skills

  • Operations Monitoring
  • Operation and Control
  • Troubleshooting
  • Equipment Maintenance
  • Quality Control Analysis
  • Repairing
  • Coordination

Common Tasks

  • Patrol assigned track sections so that damaged or broken track can be located and reported.
  • Repair or adjust track switches, using wrenches and replacement parts.
  • Weld sections of track together, such as switch points and frogs.
  • Observe leveling indicator arms to verify levelness and alignment of tracks.
  • Operate single- or multiple-head spike driving machines to drive spikes into ties and secure rails.

Why AI-Proof?

  • Requires hands-on physical presence and dexterity
  • Demands human empathy, judgment, and trust
  • Operates in unpredictable, variable environments
  • Social and regulatory barriers to full automation
Rail-Track Laying and Maintenance Equipment Operators — AI-Proof Careers