The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) is an operating administration of the U.S. Department of Transportation and was created by the Department of Transportation Act of 1966 (49 U.S.C. 103, Section 3(e)(1)).

The purpose of FRA is to: promulgate and enforce rail safety regulations; administer railroad assistance programs; conduct research and development in support of improved railroad safety and national rail transportation policy; provide for the rehabilitation of Northeast Corridor rail passenger service; and consolidate government support of rail transportation activities. Today, the FRA is one of ten agencies within the U.S. Department of Transportation concerned with intermodal transportation. It operates through seven divisions under the offices of the Administrator and Deputy Administrator.




Working for FRA

The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) is responsible for ensuring the safety of the Nation's passenger and freight rail operations and infrastructure by promoting safe, efficient and accessible rail transportation. The mission and focus of FRA has grown to include the design and management of an unprecedented investment in the creation of a nationwide passenger rail network. FRA is providing leadership for the creation of a more balanced transportation system, transforming the way Americans travel.

To meet this mission FRA promulgates and enforces rail safety regulations; consolidates government support of rail transportation activities; administers financial assistance programs; conducts research and development in support of improved railroad safety and efficiency, and national transportation policy, including improved intercity passenger service.

FRA is committed to fostering a diverse, highly skilled workforce capable of meeting or exceeding our strategic goals with efficiency, innovation, and a constant focus on better serving our customers.

See available FRA positions on the USAJobs site.

Benefits of Federal Employment

• Compensation: Most Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) employees are covered under the General Schedule (GS) pay scale, which is comprised of grades 1 though 15, with 10 steps within each grade.
• Leave: There are several categories of leave for Federal employees.
• Holidays: Federal employees are entitled to 10 paid holidays each year.
• Alternate Work Schedules: FRA employees may participate in Flexible Work Schedule and Compressed Work Schedule programs. Participation in these programs is subject to supervisory approval.
• Teleworking: FRA employees may telework from their home, a satellite work center, or any other approved work site.
• Health Insurance: Federal employees can enroll in the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) Program for themselves and their families at reasonable rates.

Check more benefits of FRA