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Brakeman Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Brakeman information

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$5

$15

$34

How much do brakeman jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for brakeman in the United States is $15.91, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $9.62 and $18.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a brakeman?

Brakemen are railroad workers responsible for assisting with the operation and safety of trains. Traditionally, their main duty was to operate the brakes on individual railroad cars, especially before automatic air brakes were standard. Today, brakemen typically help with coupling and uncoupling train cars, inspecting equipment, and ensuring the safe movement of trains in rail yards or during transit. They often work closely with conductors and engineers to coordinate train movements and handle switching duties. The job requires attention to safety, physical stamina, and knowledge of railroad operations.

What are some of the common challenges faced by a brakeman in daily operations?

Brakemen often encounter challenges such as working in varying weather conditions, maintaining safety while moving between rail cars, and staying alert during long or irregular shifts. Effective communication with conductors and engineers is essential to ensure smooth operations and prevent accidents. Adapting quickly to schedule changes and following strict safety protocols are crucial aspects of the job, making attention to detail and physical stamina important for success.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a brakeman, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Brakeman, you need a solid understanding of railroad operations, safety protocols, and the physical fitness to perform manual tasks, often acquired through on-the-job training or vocational programs. Familiarity with signaling devices, hand tools, and communication systems like radios is typically required. Attention to detail, strong teamwork, and situational awareness are crucial soft skills in this role. These abilities ensure safe train operations, prevent accidents, and support efficient rail transportation.

What is the difference between Brakeman vs Signal Maintainer?

AspectBrakemanSignal Maintainer
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, safety training, sometimes certificationsHigh school diploma, technical training, certifications often required
Work EnvironmentRail yards, tracks, maintenance facilitiesRailway tracks, signal systems, maintenance shops
Industry UsageRailroad companies, transit agenciesRailroad companies, transit agencies
Common Search/ComparisonBrakeman vs Signal Maintainer

Brakemen and Signal Maintainers both work in the railroad industry, focusing on safety and maintenance. Brakemen primarily handle train safety, coupling, and emergency procedures, while Signal Maintainers focus on maintaining and repairing signal systems. Both roles require safety training and certifications, often working in similar environments. The main difference lies in their specific responsibilities: Brakemen ensure train safety during operations, whereas Signal Maintainers ensure the proper functioning of signaling systems to prevent accidents.

How much does a train brakeman make?

A train brakeman typically earns between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and union agreements. The role often requires working long hours and safety certifications, with pay increasing with seniority and additional responsibilities.
More about Brakeman jobs

Who are the top companies hiring for Brakeman jobs?

The top employers for Brakeman jobs are:

What states have the most Brakeman jobs?

States with the most job openings for Brakeman jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Brakeman jobs?

For Brakeman jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Brakeman job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $33,085 per year, or $15.9 per hour.

CVB Train Service Personnel III

Grapevine, TX

$25.38 - $36.80/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Operate steam and/or diesel train locomotives and passenger cars in a safe and efficient manner.

  • Perform preventive maintenance inspections, diagnose malfunctions, and assist in repairs of locomotives and train systems.

  • Complete required reports, logs, and documentation related to train operations and maintenance.


Job description

Job Summary Under direct supervision, the Train Service Personnel III will operate steam and/or diesel train locomotives and passenger cars for Grapevine Vintage Railroad (GVRR) in the capacity of conductor, fireman and engineer in a safe and efficient manner. Provides a clean, safe and pleasant experience for employees and passengers and promotes the Grapevine Vintage Railroad as a premier excursion railroad. Essential Functions 1.

Must be proficient in all positions while operating on the Grapevine Vintage Railroad, including brakeman, conductor, fireman, and engineer. 2. Works with other engine crew members to ensure on time departures and arrivals.

3. Performs preventive maintenance inspections on locomotives, passenger coaches and related equipment. 4.

Makes daily inspections of equipment in use. 5. Completes required GVRR Federal Railroad Administration log reports and forms in a timely manner.

6. Assists in needed repairs and scheduled maintenance of all equipment. 7.

Diagnoses malfunctions, services and repairs locomotive and train systems, including but not limited to brakes, electrical, cooling, fuel, exhaust, power train, suspension, and HVAC systems. 8. Completes all associated reporting, record keeping and required Federal Railroad Administration forms in a timely, accurate, and organized manner.

9. Maintains FRA required qualifications and certification requirements as "service covered employee" as expressed in GVRR Engineer and Steam programs. 10.

Successfully take and pass, with a score of not less than 85, the General Code of Operating Rules (GCOR) rules test after every 36 months of service. 11. Assists in Roundhouse operations to include, but not limited to, the proper use, storage, ordering, and maintenance of tools, supplies, and equipment.

12. May oversee check rides and hands-on training for new and volunteer staff. 13.

Participates in charters, special events and other duties as assigned. 14. Assists in volunteer programs to promote the Grapevine Vintage Railroad.

15. Ensures that fellow employees and passengers have a safe and pleasant experience. 16.

Ensures equipment, facilities and grounds are secure, clean and well maintained. 17. Ensures all records, files, forms and logs are well maintained and organized.

18. Ensures cost effective repairs and maintenance of all equipment, grounds, and facilities. 19.

Maintains current rule book and special instructions. 20. Performs related duties as directed when such duties are a logical and appropriate assignment to the position.

21. Regular and timely attendance are required for this position. 22.

Interacts professionally and respectfully with the public, coworkers and others in the course of daily work. Required Skills SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE AND ABILITIES Must be proficient in office procedures with skill in operations of computers and communicating verbally and in writing. Knowledge of the safety standards for passenger trains and related equipment.

Knowledge of federal railroad inspection standards. Knowledge of the methods and procedures used in servicing and repairing steam, gasoline and diesel equipment. Knowledge of vehicle and equipment mechanics, including internal combustion engines and hydraulic and electrical systems.

Ability to identify abnormal reading or trends in data collected from gauges, meters, dials, instruments, etc. according to established formats Ability to follow oral and written directions. Ability to diagnose defective operations and excessive wear on mechanical equipment parts and components.

Ability to diagnose and repair railroad equipment. Ability to determine functional interrelationship of parts within a mechanical system. Ability to interpret technical reference manuals.

Skill in operating a variety of equipment used in railroads maintenance and repair functions and operations including but not limited to forklifts, steam and diesel locomotives, passenger coaches, railroad switches, turn tables, two-way radio and a variety of hand and power tools. EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE AND OTHER REQUIREMENTS Requires a High School Diploma or GED. Must successfully pass the GCOR rules test, with a score of not less than 85.

Certified as a Locomotive Engineer is preferred or the ability to obtain within six months of hire or promotion. Must be proficient in current Federal Railroad Administration Code of Federal Regulations, General Code of Operating Rules, state, and local laws and regulations. Must have knowledge of federal, state and local environmental laws and regulations applicable to locomotive and equipment standards.

Must posses the ability to interact and entertain passengers. Must be willing to work flexible hours, weekends, and holidays. Must pass a Federal/National criminal background check.

Must have a valid Texas driver's license with an acceptable driving record as defined by City policy. Must pass a National Highway Traffic Safety Administration driver's license check. Must pass a pre-employment basic physical, FRA 5 panel drug screen, and functional assessment screening (Level 1).

Must pass a pre-employment Department of Transportation Railroad (FRA) vision (Ishihara and Titmus) and audio screening.Will be subject to periodic random drug and alcohol testing. Will be subject to Department of Transportation Railroad (FRA) vision and audio screenings every three years as required by law. WORKING CONDITIONS While performing the essential functions of this position, there will be routine and frequent exposure to: Bright/dim light Dusts and pollen Extreme heat and/or cold Wet or humid conditions Extreme noise levels Animals/wildlife Vibration Fumes and/or noxious odors Traffic Moving machinery Electrical shock Heights Toxic/caustic chemicals Other extreme hazards not listed above Safety equipment such as gloves, goggles, hard hats, safety vests, steel-toe boots, back support belts, and seat belts are provided and must be worn as required by department procedures and good safety practices

PHYSICAL DEMANDS The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations maybe be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. This job entails moderate physical labor, which requires strength and agility.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee frequently is required to stand; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; and talk and hear. The employee is occasionally required to sit and taste or smell. The employee must occasionally lift, shovel, and carry 50 pounds and exert up to 100 pounds of force.

Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus. Disclaimer The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by the person assigned to this position. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties and skills required.

This job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and the employee and is subject to change by the employer as the needs of the employer and the job requirements change.