Railway track workers work outdoors on the construction of passenger and freight rail transport lines. They work in most weather conditions. They also work in train depots and railway yards. Conditions may be hazardous as they usually work with large industrial machinery.

Railway track workers use a range of tools and equipment in the construction of railway tracks, including rails, sleepers, bolts, welding and industrial bolting equipment. They also work with ballast, which provides the foundations for railway tracks, and also install railway switches. Railway track workers may also use electrical equipment to repair signals. They may also use two-way radios, and may be required to wear protective clothing such as boots, helmets, goggles, gloves and high-visibility clothing.