Railroad Maintenance Vehicle Operating
This standard is used to grade work involved in the operation of self-propelled, flanged wheel railroad maintenance vehicles and equipment to lay, remove, repair, elevate, align, and maintain ties, rails, ballast, and other parts of the railway, and to transport maintenance supplies, tools, equipment, and personnel. This work requires the ability to safely operate one or more flanged feel railroad maintenance vehicles, knowledge of railway maintenance and repair methods and requirements, and kno
💰WG-5738 Salary Information
Federal Wage System Pay
Federal Wage Grade (WG) pay varies by geographic location and is determined by local prevailing wage surveys.
Look Up WG Pay by LocationSource: DoD Civilian Personnel Advisory Service
Qualification Requirements
Official OPM qualification standards for WG-5738
Railroad Maintenance Vehicle Operating
Federal Wage System Position
Work Performed
This standard is used to grade work involved in the operation of self-propelled, flanged wheel railroad maintenance vehicles and equipment to lay, remove, repair, elevate, align, and maintain ties, rails, ballast, and other parts of the railway, and to transport maintenance supplies, tools, equipment, and personnel. This work requires the ability to safely operate one or more flanged feel railroad maintenance vehicles, knowledge of railway maintenance and repair methods and requirements, and knowledge of track system layout, operating rules, and maintenance procedures.
Physical Effort
in reaching, bending, turning, and moving arms, hands, legs, and feet to operate hand and foot-controls and maintain maximum vision. In performing work such as loading, unloading, and arranging cargo, the operators frequently lift, move, and handle items weighing up to 23 kilograms (50 pounds), and may lift heavier items, usually with the help of other workers. U.S. Office of Personnel Management 3 Railroad Maintenance Vehicle Operating, 5738 TS-28 January 1974, TS-38 October 1979
Working Conditions
at this grade are generally the same as those described for the
🎖️Tips for Veterans
- ✓Translate military experience: Map duties to civilian terminology.
- ✓Highlight training: Include courses and certifications.
- ✓Veterans preference: Claim your 5 or 10-point preference.
- ✓Experience substitution: Military experience may substitute for education.
📝How to Qualify for WG-5738
Step-by-step guide to landing a federal railroad maintenance vehicle operating position
- 1
Review Trade/Craft Requirements
WG positions require demonstrated skill in a specific trade or craft. Review the job announcement for required certifications, licenses, and hands-on experience.
- 2
Document Your Experience
WG positions are experience-based, not grade-based. Document your years of hands-on trade experience, apprenticeships completed, and journeyman status if applicable.
- 3
Gather Credentials
Collect your DD-214, trade certifications (welding, electrical, HVAC, etc.), apprenticeship completion certificates, and any specialized licenses required for your trade.
- 4
Build Your Federal Resume
Create a detailed federal resume highlighting your hands-on trade experience, tools and equipment operated, safety training, and specific projects completed. Include hours worked per week.
- 5
Apply on USAJOBS
Search for WG positions in your trade specialty, carefully answer assessment questions about your skill level and experience, and submit before the closing date.
📋Typical Duties
- •Perform railroad maintenance vehicle operating tasks as assigned
- •Follow safety procedures and regulations
- •Maintain and operate tools and equipment
- •Complete work orders and documentation
- •Coordinate with team members and supervisors
🎯Key Competencies
🔑Resume Keywords
💡 Use these phrases to help ATS systems and human recruiters find your qualifications.
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Grade Levels
Typical grades for Federal Wage System positions
❓Frequently Asked Questions about WG-5738
What is a Railroad Maintenance Vehicle Operator?
A Railroad Maintenance Vehicle Operator (WG-5738) operates self-propelled, flanged wheel railroad maintenance vehicles and equipment to lay, remove, repair, align, and maintain ties, rails, ballast, and railway components at federal rail facilities.
How much does a federal Railroad Maintenance Vehicle Operator make?
WG-5738 positions are paid under the Federal Wage System based on local prevailing rates. Typical wages range $24-$38 per hour depending on equipment complexity and locality. Annual earnings range $50,000-$79,000.
What are the requirements for WG-5738 positions?
WG-5738 requires ability to safely operate flanged wheel railroad maintenance vehicles. Qualifications include knowledge of railway maintenance methods, track repair requirements, and safe operation on active rail lines.
Can military experience substitute for education in WG-5738?
Military railroad experience directly qualifies. Army 88U (Railway Operations) and related transportation MOSs with rail equipment experience provide relevant skills for railroad maintenance vehicle operator positions.
What is the career progression for Railroad Maintenance Vehicle Operating?
Railroad Maintenance Vehicle Operators progress through equipment types and complexity. Career paths include rail maintenance supervisor, WG-3546 (Railroad Repairing), or transition to broader equipment operation positions.
How do I apply for WG-5738 jobs on USAJOBS?
Search USAJOBS for 'Railroad Maintenance Vehicle' or series '5738.' Positions exist at depots and installations with active rail systems. Highlight your rail equipment experience, safety training, and maintenance knowledge. Veterans receive preference.
Ready to Apply for WG-5738?
Create a tailored federal resume that meets OPM standards.