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Apprentice Train Driver Jobs in Schenectady, NY (NOW HIRING)

Trades Generalist

Schenectady, NY · On-site

$50K - $61K/yr

... train and supervise others. • Candidate will be trained in the operation and maintenance ... When required to operate motor vehicles, candidates must possess a valid New York State driver ...

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Apprentice Train Driver information

See Schenectady, NY salary details

$10

$18

$27

How much do apprentice train driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice train driver in Schenectady, NY is $18.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.82 and $20.48 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 Schenectady, NY? The most popular types of Train Driver jobs in Schenectady, NY are:
What cities near Schenectady, NY are hiring for Apprentice Train Driver jobs? Cities near Schenectady, NY with the most Apprentice Train Driver job openings:
Infographic showing various Apprentice Train Driver job openings in Schenectady, NY 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 $38,960 per year, or $18.7 per hour.

Trades Generalist

StateJobsNY

Schenectady, NY • On-site

$50K - $61K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

Duties Description POSITION DESCRIPTION:
A Trades Generalist performs a variety of skilled and semi-skilled maintenance repair, installation and construction tasks in the mechanical, building and electrical trades in multiple community residences and other buildings.
PRIMARY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
• Performs a variety of carpentry related duties, including but not limited to installations and repairs of flooring, repair and adjustment of doors and hardware, stairs, railings, and replacement of ceiling tile.
• Performs minor electrical duties including but not limited to replacing receptacles, light fixtures, and circuit breakers.
• Repairs, installs and maintains plumbing fixtures and appliances, including but not limited to: sinks, showers, baths, commodes, dishwashers, domestic water and drainage distribution systems.
• Preforms a variety of painting related duties including but not limited to preparing surfaces, priming and painting.
• Performs maintenance, and preventative maintenance on mechanical equipment including but not limited to bathroom exhaust fans, clothes dryers, sump pumps and generators
• Requires daily travel within the district.
• May require some travel within NY State to assist other districts with special projects.
PREFERRED REQUIREMENTS:
• Working knowledge of the methods, materials, tools and equipment used in the trade or trades to which assigned.
• Working knowledge of safety standards and procedures.
• Ability to understand and carry out written and oral instructions.
• Will be required to train and supervise others.
• Candidate will be trained in the operation and maintenance procedures as related to Asbestos Containing Materials.
• Will be required to plan and lay out work, develop time and material lists for projects assigned.
• Will be required to read and interpret plans, codes, diagrams, architectural blueprints and specifications.
• Basic computer skills preferred
• Valid NYS driver's License
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/nys-office-for-people-with-developmental-disabilities/posts/?feedView=all
#LI-SS1
Minimum Qualifications Non-competitive:
Four years of full-time experience in a trade under a skilled tradesperson which would provide training equivalent to that given in a training, apprenticeship, or equivalent program; or an equivalent combination of experience and training gained by completion of technical courses in skilled trades at a school, institute, or branch of the Armed Services.
When required to operate motor vehicles, candidates must possess a valid New York State driver's license appropriate for the type of vehicle to be operated.
Additional Comments • For CSEA positions: Local Bidding Agreements will be honored.
• Preference will be given to OPWDD employees impacted by closures. If you are being impacted by closure, please indicate this on your resume.
• All OPWDD employees must be eligible and maintain eligibility for full and unconditional participation in the Medicare and Medicaid programs. Continued employment will depend on maintaining eligibility.
• If you are employed by state government you may be able to receive loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF). The PSLF Program forgives the remaining balance on Direct Loans after 120 qualifying monthly payments have been made under a qualifying repayment plan while working full-time for a qualifying employer. For more information on PSLF, please visit www.studentAid.gov/publicservice.
• Employees on long term leave can bid on positions but must be able to report to work within fourteen (14) days and be able to perform the essential functions of their positions with or without reasonable accommodation (RA).
• If an employee or job applicant believes that they need a reasonable accommodation, they should contact the Reasonable Accommodation Unit at (518) 486-7222 or email accommodationrequests@opwdd.ny.gov to obtain information and RA forms.
• Savings programs such as the U.S. Savings Bond and the College Savings Plan.
• Voluntary pre-tax savings programs such as Health Care Spending Account and the Dependent Care Advantage Account offer employees options to pay for uncovered health care expenses or dependent care expenses.
• Access to the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) an assessment and referral service that connects employees with local service providers and support services to address their personal needs.
• Life insurance and Disability insurance.
• The New York State Deferred Compensation Plan is a voluntary retirement plan that offers employees the option to invest a part of their salaries for retirement on a tax-deferred basis.
• Paid Holidays and Leave:
° Thirteen (13) paid holidays each year.
° Thirteen (13) days of paid vacation leave initially.
° Five (5) days paid personal leave each year.
° Thirteen (13) days of paid sick leave each year (PEF/CSEA), which may carry over from year to year.
° Up to three (3) days professional leave each year to participate in professional development events.
• Health Care Coverage:
Employees and their eligible dependents can choose from a variety of affordable health insurance programs. Employees are provided family dental and vision plans at no extra cost.
• Paid Parental Leave:
Paid Parental Leave allows eligible employees to take up to 12 weeks of paid leave at full pay for each qualifying event. A qualifying event is defined as the birth of a child or placement of a child for adoption or foster care.
• Retirement Program:
Participate in The NYS Employees' Retirement System (ERS), which is recognized as one of the best-managed and best-funded public retirement systems in the nation.
• Professional Development and Education and Training:
NYS offers training programs and tuition assistance to eligible employees to maintain and increase their professional skills and prepare them for promotional opportunities. For more information, please visit https://oer.ny.gov/training-and-professional-development.
• Additionally, the Public Service Workshops Program (PSWP) offers certain professional training opportunities for PEF represented and M/C designated employees that may grant continuing education credits towards maintaining professional licensure. For more information, please visit https://oer.ny.gov/public-service-workshops-program-pswp.
• OPWDD is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer dedicated to creating and sustaining a culture of inclusion. We believe that we are most effective in managing and improving our service system with a diverse team of employees. With such a large workforce, we rely on the collective individual differences, life experiences, knowledge, self-expression, ideas and talent that our employees bring to their work. This speaks to our culture and is a key part of our successes. As we continuously recruit people for our team, we welcome the unique contributions that applicants bring in terms of their education, culture, ethnicity, race, sex, gender identity and expression, nation of origin, age, languages spoken, veteran's status, color, religion, disability, sexual orientation and beliefs.
***All people with disabilities are encouraged to apply.***
Some positions may require additional credentials or a background check to verify your identity.
Name Capital District Human Resources
Telephone 518-388-0838
Fax 518-370-7536
Email Address CapitalDistrict.Careers@opwdd.ny.gov
Address
Street 500 Balltown Rd
City Schenectady
State NY
Zip Code 12304
Notes on Applying APPLICATION PROCEDURE:
Please submit cover letter and resume to:
Capital District DDSO
Human Resources Office
Building 1
500 Balltown Road
Schenectady, New York 12304
Phone: 518-388-0838
Fax: 518-370-7536
Email: CapitalDistrict.Careers@opwdd.ny.gov
*Please reference EOA #26-086 in all correspondence.