How to Become a Railroad Inspector
A Railroad Inspector is a person who inspects railroad tracks for flaws that could cause catastrophic failures. According to the United States Federal Railway Administration Office of Safety Analysis, track defects are the second-leading cause of rail accidents. In order to become a Railroad Inspector, you must have a passion for railway safety. In this article, we’ll discuss the career path for this professional. Let’s begin with the basics of this career.
If you’re ready to work as a Railroad Inspector, you can start working as soon as you graduate. You must have four years of experience and pass an examination to be considered. The NYS Department of Civil Service maintains a list of jobs that are available and you can sign up for email notifications to receive notifications of upcoming openings. Starting salaries for this position are $47,000 per year, and you can always apply for higher positions as you gain experience and improve your salary.
The railroad inspector’s job involves examining the condition of rails. He will look for cracks and breaks. If these are apparent, the inspector will conduct tests on the rails to determine the root cause of the problem. Standing water on the rails is also a red flag that something is wrong. If it’s not, the Inspector will take measures to correct the situation. During a visit to a railroad station, the Inspector can check for missing spikes, bent ties, or loose ties.
A Railroad Inspector should have a detailed knowledge of railroad regulations. An inspection is a must when there are trains on the tracks. An inspector should be familiar with the rules and guidelines and ensure that the track is clear and free of debris. A train accident can result in deadly accidents and injuries, which is why a good inspection is essential. The best way to stay safe on the railroad is to be prepared. There are many advantages to being a Railroad Inspector.
The railroad inspector will also look for signs of rotted ties. If the ties are rotten, they will shift, causing accidents. The railroad inspector will also look for standing water, which indicates a problem with the ballast or substrate. The Railroad Inspector should also check for loose, bent, or missing spikes. Besides, the investigator will be aware of any other railroad safety issues, such as a malfunctioning train.
To become a Railroad Inspector, you must have a high school diploma or at least a high school diploma. While there are no specific educational requirements, an applicant with a high school education is the best qualified for this job. However, higher-level positions may require a college degree or post-secondary training. For instance, a person with an engineering background may be more desirable, as their training will help them in their work.