Rail and rolling stock builders and repairers Salary
Median salary £64,322 per year (2025). Based on ONS ASHE data.
Gross pay, before deductions. See take-home pay on £64,000 after tax and National Insurance →
For rail and rolling stock builders and repairers, £64,322 is the typical (median) pay. That is well above the UK full-time median of £39,039 — +65% versus the national average.
About this role
Rail and rolling stock builders and repairers construct, maintain and repair railway vehicles including locomotives, passenger coaches, freight wagons and specialist rail vehicles. They work on mechanical, electrical and structural components to ensure safe and reliable rail operations.
Key responsibilities
- Building, maintaining and repairing rolling stock and rail vehicles
- Inspecting components and systems for wear and damage
- Carrying out overhauls and modifications to existing stock
- Testing systems and ensuring compliance with railway standards
- Following Network Rail and ORR safety procedures
Qualifications and entry routes
Typically requires an apprenticeship or NVQ in engineering or rail vehicle maintenance. PTS (Personal Track Safety) certification is required for trackside work. Rail-specific safety qualifications are mandatory.
Career outlook
Major rolling stock orders and railway expansion sustain strong demand. HS2 and fleet renewal programmes create long-term career opportunities.
Key skills
Common industries
- Train operating companies
- Rolling stock manufacturers (Alstom, Siemens, Hitachi)
- Rail maintenance depots
- Network Rail
- Heritage railways
Data coverage
Salary Range (2025)
Estimated Career Progression
Based on salary percentile distribution for this occupation
Mid Level
£64,322
3-7 years
Salary Trend (2015-2025)
Gender Pay Comparison (2025)
Full-time vs All Employees (2025)
Full-time premium: +£0
Rail and rolling stock builders and repairers salary: common questions
How much do rail and rolling stock builders and repairers earn in the UK?
Is £64,322 a good salary in the UK?
Have rail and rolling stock builders and repairers salaries kept up with inflation?
Figures: ONS Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings, gross annual pay. UK full-time median £39,039 (2025).