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Apprentice Railway Jobs (NOW HIRING)

You must have advanced knowledge of the railroad industry from vocational education, apprenticeship, on-the-job training, or similar experience. * You must be able to pass a vision and hearing test.

Railroad Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$17 - $18/hr

You must have advanced knowledge of the railroad industry from vocational education, apprenticeship, on-the-job training, or similar experience. * You must be able to pass a vision and hearing test.

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Apprentice Railway information

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$11

$19

$28

How much do apprentice railway jobs pay per hour?

As of May 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice railway in the United States is $19.36, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $21.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Apprentice Railway, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Apprentice Railway, you need a basic understanding of mechanical and electrical systems, strong problem-solving abilities, and at least a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with railway-specific tools, safety protocols, and industry certifications such as Personal Track Safety (PTS) are typically required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication are vital soft skills for learning and collaborating safely on-site. These skills ensure safe operations, quality maintenance, and smooth career progression within the railway industry.

What kind of support and mentorship can Apprentice Railway workers expect during their training period?

As an Apprentice Railway worker, you can expect to receive structured support through a combination of on-the-job training and classroom instruction. Most railway companies assign experienced mentors or supervisors to guide apprentices, ensuring you gain hands-on experience in safety procedures, equipment handling, and daily maintenance tasks. Regular feedback sessions and skills assessments are common, helping you track your progress and address any challenges early on. This supportive environment is designed to build your confidence and competence as you advance toward a full-time railway position.

What is an Apprentice Railway?

An Apprentice Railway is an entry-level position in the rail industry where individuals receive on-the-job training and classroom instruction to learn various skills needed for railway operations. Apprentices work under the supervision of experienced professionals and may be involved in tasks such as track maintenance, signaling, or train operations, depending on the specific apprenticeship program. This role is designed to help apprentices gain the knowledge and practical experience required to advance to qualified railway positions after completing the program.

What is the difference between Apprentice Railway vs Railway Technician?

AspectApprentice RailwayRailway Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingTechnical diploma or certification; specialized training
Work EnvironmentTraining sites, railway yards, on-site supervisionMaintenance facilities, on-site repairs, fieldwork
Employer & Industry UsageRailway companies during training phaseRailway companies, maintenance depots, repair shops

In summary, an Apprentice Railway is in the training phase, gaining foundational skills and certifications, while a Railway Technician is a more experienced professional responsible for maintenance and repairs. The apprenticeship prepares individuals for a career as a Railway Technician, with the main difference being experience level and job responsibilities.

More about Apprentice Railway jobs
What cities are hiring for Apprentice Railway jobs? Cities with the most Apprentice Railway job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Railway jobs? The most popular types of Railway jobs are:
What states have the most Apprentice Railway jobs? States with the most job openings for Apprentice Railway jobs include:
Infographic showing various Apprentice Railway job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $40,268 per year, or $19.4 per hour.
Railroad Engineer

$17 - $18/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 hours ago


Job description

PRS Auto is hiring immediately for a Railroad Conductor & Engineer to join our team at the Union Pacific Houston, TX Auto Terminal!
PRIOR EXPERIENCE IS REQUIRED.  We are looking for ambitious, capable, and skilled team members to join our nationwide crew. We offer a team-oriented atmosphere with quality employee benefits, and room to grow your career!  We have multiple shifts available both day and night.

Apply Online or in Person at the work location:

PRS Auto (UP Houston Railroad)
20909 West Hardy Rd
Houston, TX 77073
Pay: $17-18 per hour to start
Benefits: (Medical benefits start after 60 days and the first of the month after that. Other benefits start after your 90-day probationary period)
  • Affordable Healthcare, Free Dental, cheap Vision Benefits.
  • Free Life Insurance.
  • Paid holidays, paid personal days.
  • Boot reimbursement.
  • 401K.
  • Vacation Pay.
  • Weekly Pay.
  • Travel Opportunities.
  • Automobile Manufacturer Discounts.
  • Safety Incentives and Bonus programs.

APPLICANTS MUST currently live within a 45 minute commute of our business location. OUT OF AREA candidates and/or those requiring a relocation will NOT be considered.
Job Summary
The Conductor and Engineer are responsible for the movement of rail equipment to ensure the accurate placement of rail cars that will facilitate the loading and unloading of trains in the rail yard.
Various shifts available both day and night (Typically 8-12 hr shifts depending on workload) 

Job Responsibilities:
  • Responsible for assisting the Train Engineer with the movement of rail equipment (locomotives, rail cars, tracks, etc.) within the rail yard in a safe and efficient manner.
  • Maintain an efficient and orderly rail yard by moving rail cars and freeing rail tracks for incoming rail traffic.
  • Manage rail track switches to direct rail cars to appropriate tracks.
  • Ability to connect and disconnect rail air hoses as needed to consolidate rail cars efficiently.
  • Lead job briefings with the Supervisors and crew prior to work beginning.
  • Ensures compliance is met under HAZMAT and OSHA Regulations. This includes reporting any incidents to the supervisory immediately.
  • The conductor is required to wear Personal Protection Equipment (PPE), such as a safety vest, safety glasses, hearing protection, and safety toe boots.
  • Responsible for maintaining clear communication with Train Engineer/Operator and other crew members while moving locomotives with either verbal, hand, or radio signals.
  • Participates in daily safety briefings.
  • Inspects all rail equipment to ensure there is no damage and notify the operator and supervisor immediately if there is.
  • Handles all rail equipment in a safe and efficient manner.
  • Maintain awareness and organization within the rail yard, including attention to the ground surface (potholes, debris, and/or slippery conditions).

Minimum Qualifications:
  • You must have a valid driver's license.
  • Prior Conductor / Engineer experience is required. 
  • You must have advanced knowledge of the railroad industry from vocational education, apprenticeship, on-the-job training, or similar experience.
  • You must be able to pass a vision and hearing test.
  • You must have excellent written and verbal communication skills to coordinate with a variety of individuals.

Work Environment Requirements:
  • Job duties are performed in an ambient outdoor environment, which would include varying conditions (rain, snow, ice, heat, wind, cold, etc).
  • This position requires that you travel throughout the yard and the transfer station either by walking and/or driving.
  • The noise level in the work environment is loud and this noise is continuous.
  • You must have the ability to work in an environment which can be hazardous at times.  
  • You must have the physical ability to see and hear fast-moving equipment and be able to move so that you can remain safe always.

You will be an employee of PRS Auto and not an employee of the Railroad.  

About Rail Management Services:

One of America’s largest intermodal terminal operators, with more than 60 U.S. intermodal and auto handling facilities.Rail Management Services (RMS) is one of the largest suppliers of intermodal ramp services in the United States handling over 9 million lifts per year. An FRA certified rail switching service provider, RMS serves all U.S. Class 1 railroads.With more than three decades of experience focused on facilitating the railroad motor carrier interface, RMS has been the lowest cost and most efficient providers while maintaining one of the best safety records in the industry. Today RMS subsidiaries include Pacific Rail Services, Pacific Trailer Repair Services, Rail Terminal Services, Terminal Switching Services and PRS Auto.