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Apprentice Train Driver Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Your success is a train ride away! As we move America's workforce toward the future, Amtrak ... Applicants must have a valid driver's license on the date of hire. * Must be able to obtain CDL ...

Special Hazards Technician III

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$38K - $49K/yr

Train, mentor, and provide technical guidance to junior technicians and apprentices * Support ... Valid driver's license with acceptable driving record * Ability to pass background checks and meet ...

Train and mentor apprentices when required * Ensure all work is completed to company standards and ... Valid driver's license and clean driving record * Ability to work independently and as part of a ...

Showing results 41-60

Apprentice Train Driver information

See Washington salary details

$12

$21

$31

How much do apprentice train driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice train driver in Washington is $21.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.51 and $23.94 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Apprentice Train Driver vs Train Driver?

AspectApprentice Train DriverTrain Driver
QualificationsBasic train operating certifications, on-the-job trainingFull train driving license, advanced certifications
Work EnvironmentSupervised, training-focused, safety protocols emphasizedIndependent operation, responsibility for train safety and schedule
Employer & Industry UsageRail companies during training programsQualified professionals employed by rail operators

The main difference is that an Apprentice Train Driver is in training and gaining necessary certifications under supervision, while a Train Driver is fully qualified and responsible for operating trains independently. Apprentices are building experience, whereas train drivers have completed their training and hold full licensing to operate trains safely and efficiently.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an apprentice train driver?

To thrive as an Apprentice Train Driver, you need a strong understanding of safety protocols, mechanical aptitude, and basic numeracy, often supported by a minimum of GCSE-level education. Familiarity with train control systems, signaling technology, and completion of industry-specific safety training or certifications are typically required. Excellent communication, situational awareness, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are crucial soft skills. These competencies are vital for ensuring passenger safety, adhering to schedules, and effectively responding to unexpected situations on the railway.

What is an apprentice train driver?

Apprentice train drivers are individuals who are undergoing training to become fully qualified train drivers. They typically participate in a structured apprenticeship program that combines classroom instruction with practical, hands-on experience under the supervision of experienced drivers. Apprentices learn about railway safety, signaling systems, train operations, and customer service. This role serves as a stepping stone for a career as a professional train driver, offering both theoretical and practical knowledge. Upon successful completion of the apprenticeship, individuals are eligible to apply for full train driver positions.

What are the typical challenges apprentice train drivers face during their training period?

Apprentice train drivers often encounter challenges such as adapting to irregular shift patterns, managing fatigue, and mastering the technical aspects of train operation. The role requires strong focus and the ability to quickly respond to changing situations, which can be demanding, especially during the initial learning phase. Additionally, apprentices must learn to communicate effectively with control centers and other crew members to ensure safe and efficient train operations. Support from experienced drivers and structured training programs help apprentices overcome these challenges and build confidence in their role.
What are the most commonly searched types of Train Driver jobs in Washington? The most popular types of Train Driver jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Apprentice Train Driver jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Apprentice Train Driver job openings:
Infographic showing various Apprentice Train Driver job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 29% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,607 per year, or $21.9 per hour.

Lineman Trainee - 90413233 - Odenton

Amtrak

Odenton, MD • On-site

$45.67 - $50.74/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 19 days ago


Amtrak rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 145 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

42nd of 97 rated public transport


Job description

Your success is a train ride away!

As we move America’s workforce toward the future, Amtrak connects businesses and communities across the country. We employ more than 20,000 diverse, energetic professionals in a variety of career fields throughout the United States. The safety of our passengers, our employees, the public and our operating environment is our priority, and the success of our railroad is due to our employees.

Are you ready to join our team?

Our values of ‘Do the Right Thing, Excel Together and Put Customers First’ are at the heart of what matters most to us, and our Core Capabilities, ‘Building Trust, Accountability, Effective Communication, Customer Focus, and Proactive Safety & Security’ are what every employee needs to know and do to be most impactful at Amtrak. By living the Amtrak values, focusing on our capabilities, and actively embracing and fostering diverse ideas, backgrounds, and perspectives, together we will honor our past and make Amtrak a company of the future.

Job Summary

Lineman Trainees are responsible for the construction, maintenance, and installation of high voltage transmission, catenary, and signal transmission systems.

Essential Functions

Duties include attaching appurtenances, relocate lines away from existing lines, shift poles requiring newfoundations, install anchors and foundations, shift under traffic, move poles with wires attached, splice existing appurtenances, and install new foundations and certain designated power lines and signal transmissionsystems.

Minimum Qualifications
  • Must be a minimum of 18 years of age and a high school graduate or GED Equivalent.
  • Must have a minimum of 2 years' experience in heavy physical labor.
  • Must be able to lift 50lbs or more.
  • Applicants must have a valid driver’s license on the date of hire.
  • Must be able to obtain CDL license within 90 days of hire date. 
  • Pursuant to the regulations set forth by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), Amtrak shall conduct a comprehensive evaluation of a candidate's Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) to ascertain the presence of any disqualifying offenses that may impair their qualification to operate commercial motor vehicles, as delineated in 49 CFR Part 391.25 and 383.51.
    https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-49/subtitle-B/chapter-III/subchapter-B/part-391/subpart-C/section-391.25
    https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-49/subtitle-B/chapter-III/subchapter-B/part-383/subpart-D/section-383.51
  • Applicants must be able to perform basic mathematical computations including fractions and decimals.
  • Ability to pass required training with written exams including two weeks of safety training and required department training modules over a 24-month period to progress to qualified lineman.
  • Must read, write, & speak the English language clearly and have the ability to communicate using telephone and radio.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Basic climbing, rigging, and lineman experience is a plus.
  • Basic mechanical aptitude and knowledge of hand tools.
  • Electronic/electrical background or education is a plus.
  • Previous electric traction railroad experience preferred.
  • CDL License
Communications and Interpersonal Skills
  • Must have excellent written and oral communication skills.
Physical Requirements/Environmental Conditions

Applicants must be able and willing to understand and apply safety rules, practice safe work habits, identify safety risks and avoid potentially risky behaviors and situations. 

The hourly range is $45.67 – $50.74 (with opportunity for increases, as per the applicable collective bargaining agreement, after beginning employment). 

Health and WellbeingFinancial and RetirementWork and Family Life SupportHealth, Dental, and Vision Insurance401K Rail Pass PrivilegesWellness ProgramsRailroad Retirement BenefitsEmployee Assistance ProgramMedical Plan Opt-out CreditLife InsuranceCommuter and Flexible Spending AccountsNo-cost Personal Health AdvocateNo-cost Financial Advisor SessionFertility and Family Building Benefits

Some benefits are subject to the collective bargaining agreement. Learn more about our benefits offerings here.

Requisition ID:166914
Posting Location(s):Maryland

Relocation Offered:No
Travel Requirements:Up to 25%
You power our progress through your performance.

We want your work at Amtrak to be more than a job. We want your career at Amtrak to be a fulfilling experience where you find challenging work, rewarding opportunities, respect among colleagues, and attractive compensation. Amtrak maintains a culture that values high performance and recognizes individual employee contributions.


Amtrak is committed to a safe workplace free of drugs and alcohol. All Amtrak positions requires a pre-employment background check that includes prior employment verification, a criminal history check and a pre-employment drug screen.

Candidates who test positive for marijuana will be disqualified, regardless of any state or local statute, ordinance, regulation, or other law that legalizes or decriminalizes the use or possession of marijuana, whether for medical, recreational, or other use. Amtrak's pre-employment drug testing program is administered in accordance with DOT regulations and applicable law.


In accordance with DOT regulations (49 CFR § 40.25), Amtrak is required to obtain prior drug and alcohol testing records for applicants/employees intending to perform safety-sensitive duties for covered Department of Transportation positions. If an applicant/employee refuses to provide written consent for Amtrak to obtain these records, the individual will not be permitted to perform safety-sensitive functions.

In accordance with federal law governing security checks of covered individuals for providers of public transportation (Title 6 U.S.C. §1143), Amtrak is required to screen applicants for any permanent or interim disqualifying criminal offenses.


Note that any education requirement listed above may be deemed satisfied if you have an equivalent combination of education, training and experience.

Amtrak is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race/color, to include traits historically associated with race, including but not limited to, hair texture and hairstyles such as braids, locks and twists, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth and related conditions, such as lactation), national origin/ethnicity, disability (intellectual, mental and physical), veteran status, marital status, ancestry, sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression, genetic information, citizenship or any other personal characteristics protected by law.


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About Amtrak

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

As we move America's workforce toward the future, Amtrak connects businesses and communities across the country. We employ more than 20,000 diverse, energetic professionals in a variety of career fields throughout the United States. The safety of our passengers, our employees, the public and our operating environment is our priority, and the success of our railroad is due to our employees.

Industry

Travel arrangement services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Washington, DC, US

Year founded

1971