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Why Work in Rail?

Canada’s railways power our economy ― transporting millions of passengers and approximately $380 billion worth of goods across our country each year. Not only do railways move people and goods safely and efficiently, but trains relieve road congestion and are highly fuel-efficient, helping to limit harmful emissions to our environment.

By choosing a career in the rail industry, you’ll join the over 35,000 Canadians working in railway operations, maintenance, technology, customer service and leadership positions. Railway employees earn an average of more than $100,000 a year ― among the highest annual earnings in Canadian industry.

You’ll also have the opportunity to work at one of Canada’s largest employers (CN or CPKC), or at a smaller rail business. Scroll through the images below to see the many types of Canadian railways in operation today. If you’d like to learn more about the industry, visit the Railways 101 section of railcan.ca. You may also want to take our short quiz, to see if you have what it takes for a career in rail.