Track Maintainer

United States, Minnesota, Minneapolis

Mar 02, 2026

This posting is open continuously. However, it may close any time after February 23rd, 2026.

The Metropolitan Council is the regional government for the seven‑county Twin Cities metropolitan area. It plans 30 years ahead for the future of the metropolitan area and provides regional transportation, wastewater, and housing services. Metro Transit, a division of the Metropolitan Council, is the largest provider of transit service in the region and one of the country’s largest transit systems. The agency operates bus and rail service essential to the region’s mobility, as well as resources for carpooling, van‑pooling and bike commuting.

Metro Transit helps people get to where they’re going, reduces regional traffic congestion and promotes a cleaner environment.

Track Maintainers will provide track maintenance and inspection activities that comply with the safety requirements prescribed in the US Department of Transportation (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below). Metro Transit rules and practices. Duties include inspection, repair and replacement of tracks. The position works the third shift between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m.; scheduled days are consecutive (usually including one weekend day) and are based on seniority during shift picks.

Hiring bonus: $4,000 ($2,000 after 30 days, $2,000 after successful completion of probation). Hourly pay: $39.69 in year one, $41.90 in year two, $44.10 in year three, with shift differentials of 5% and 7% as applicable.

• Maintains and repairs tracks, turnouts, at‑grade crossings, rail lubrication machines and other mechanical systems on track structure.
• Conducts and records track, turnout, and joint inspections.
• Replaces areas of concrete or timber ties, turnouts, and track fastenings.
• Operates small tools and equipment (rail saw, rail drill and spiking equipment).
• Assists with track surfacing, alignment, and gauging operations.
• Assists in emergency situations.
• Attends safety and training meetings.
• Operates hi‑rail vehicles and other vehicles used with track maintenance, inspection and recording, wheel/skid‑steer loaders, vacuum trucks, rail grinders, track tamper and ballast regulators.
• Assists with inventory of spare parts to ensure parts are available to carry out track maintenance.
• Updates maintenance reporting system and maintains maintenance records as required by Metro Transit.
• Performs snow removal; operates snow removal equipment (self‑propelled and handheld removal equipment).
• Performs vegetation control, graffiti, and debris removal.
• Ensures that vehicles, tools, equipment, and storage areas are kept in good repair, clean, organized, and secure.
• Performs other related duties.

High school diploma or GED plus at least 2 years of experience as a railroad maintenance‑of‑way worker, including experience operating hi‑rail equipment.

• Valid driver’s license with an acceptable driving record.
• Must obtain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) with General Knowledge, Air Brake, Combination Vehicle, and Tanker endorsements prior to being hired.
• Publish these within 90 days of employment and meet ongoing DOT physical requirements.
• Pass physical examinations, Rail Operations Rule Book and physical agility examinations and complete Rail Operator Training Program for Maintenance Personnel.
• Obtain and maintain Train Operator Certification for Maintenance Personnel.

• Knowledge of rail industry standards and practices for track maintenance, inspections, and repairs.
• Ability to operate the district’s radio and telephone communication system in compliance with regulations and procedures.
• Demonstrated mechanical skills, including proper use of hand and power tools.
• Keep up with ongoing educational and training requirements; maintain OTE Certification and complete basic and advanced track maintenance classes.
• Knowledge of US Department of Transportation  Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) regulations.
• Knowledge of Track Safety Standards Part 213 Subparts A‑F.
• Basic computer skills, ability to prepare reports and documentation.
• Ability to read and…