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Freight Train Driver Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

CSX

Freight Conductor - Nashville, TN

Nashville, TN

  • Retirement

A Freight Conductor's primary responsibility is to safely coordinate train crews on a freight train ... Valid Driver's Licence Job Requirements * Work safely to prevent on the job accidents and injuries

Forward Air

Freight Handler

Nashville, TN · On-site

$20/hr

Pick, pack, and prepare items for shipping and delivery. * Assist drivers with loading and ... Train, mentor, and support the development of other Material Handlers. * All other duties as ...

Forward Air Corporation

Freight Handler

Nashville, TN · On-site

$20/hr

Pick, pack, and prepare items for shipping and delivery. * Assist drivers with loading and ... Train, mentor, and support the development of other Material Handlers. * All other duties as ...

National DCP

Lead, Driver

Nashville, TN · On-site

$37.95/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Incumbent is responsible for training new drivers how to transport and delivering freight to Dunkin ... Train Drivers * Safely operate a tractor trailer truck that transports product to and from ...

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All JobsFreight Train Driver JobsFreight Train Driver Jobs in Tennessee

Freight Train Driver information

See Tennessee salary details

$13

$27

$62

How much do freight train driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for freight train driver in Tennessee is $27.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.45 and $25.53 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a freight train driver?

A Freight Train Driver operates heavy freight trains, transporting goods and cargo over long distances. They are responsible for ensuring the train runs safely, adhering to schedules and railway regulations. Duties include monitoring instruments, responding to signals, and handling any operational issues. The role requires strong concentration, quick decision-making, and often involves working irregular hours.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freight train driver?

To thrive as a Freight Train Driver, you need excellent attention to detail, strong situational awareness, and a valid train driving license or certification, often supported by completion of rigorous training programs. Familiarity with railway signaling systems, onboard control panels, and safety protocols is crucial for operating freight trains safely and efficiently. Dependability, stress management, and effective communication help drivers respond to unexpected issues and coordinate with dispatchers and rail yard personnel. These skills and qualities are essential to ensure safe, timely, and compliant freight transportation across rail networks.

What does a typical work schedule look like for a freight train driver?

Freight Train Drivers often work varied schedules that can include nights, weekends, and holidays, as freight rail operations typically run 24/7. Shifts may be long—sometimes up to 12 hours—and can require being on-call, especially for routes covering significant distances. You’ll work both independently in the locomotive cab and in close coordination with conductors, train dispatchers, and yard crews. This dynamic schedule offers opportunities for overtime but also requires flexibility and a strong commitment to safety. Many rail companies provide structured rest periods and support to help drivers manage work-life balance.

How hard is it to become a freight train driver?

Becoming a freight train driver typically requires completing a training program, obtaining a commercial driver's license with a freight endorsement, and gaining experience operating trains. The process can take several months and involves learning safety protocols, operating procedures, and sometimes passing written and practical exams.

How much do freight train drivers earn?

Freight train drivers typically earn between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and employer. Experienced drivers with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher salaries, and some may receive additional pay for overtime or night shifts.

What qualifications do you need to drive a freight train?

To become a freight train driver, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, a valid commercial driver's license (CDL) with a passenger and freight endorsement, and specialized training or certification in locomotive operation. Experience with train handling, knowledge of safety protocols, and passing medical examinations are also required.

What are popular job titles related to Freight Train Driver jobs in Tennessee?

For Freight Train Driver jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Freight Train Driver jobs in Tennessee look for?

The top searched job categories for Freight Train Driver jobs in Tennessee are:

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Freight Train Driver jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Freight Train Driver job openings:

Freight Train Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freight Train Driver job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 24% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,156 per year, or $28 per hour.

Student Driver-CDL-A Training Reimbursed in Murfreesboro, TN

Covenant Transport

Murfreesboro, TN • On-site

$1.6K - $2.5K/wk

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

Company Reimbursed Training Offered for Inexperienced Drivers - Limited Positions Available. Student Drivers Earn $70,000-$100,000 in their First Year - no experience needed! The Driver Resource Center's (DRC) training program provides students with the skills to obtain a class A CDL. DRC has partnered with a well-known logistics company who are seeking applicants interested in entering the Trucking Industry. Apply today to find out more! Full Benefits offered to New CDL-A Truck Drivers and Family Inexperienced Drivers Receive:
  • Company Reimbursed CDL Training - Housing Available, Travel & Full Tuition Reimbursement
  • EXCEPTIONAL BENEFITS : Health, Dental, Vision & Life Insurance
  • 401k Retirement Savings Plan
  • Drive the Latest Trucks: Train on the same equipment you will drive
Great opportunities for Team Drivers:
  • Be a part of an Elite Team
  • Higher Pay
  • Be on a Preferred Account
  • Train and work with your spouse, friends, or family
  • Don't have a team member? No Worries! We will pair you with someone while you are in training.
Additional Details:
  • First year CDL-A drivers potentially earn between $1,600 - $2,500 per week.
  • No touch freight
  • Train & Drive with Automatic Trucks
  • First Choice for available accounts
Apply to our CDL-A truck driver training opportunities online or over the phone today at 888-823-6670! Covenant is an Equal Opportunity Employer Disability/Veteran VEVRAA Federal Contractor Pay Range: 600.00-850.00 per_week, General Benefits: Company offers a comprehensive benefits program. On the 1st day of the month following 60 days of active service, you may elect to participate in the following employee benefit plans: Medical, Dental, Vision, Optional Life, Optional STD/LTD, and Flexible Spending Accounts. Following 180 days of active service, you may elect to participate in the company's 401(k) plan. If you miss the deadline, you will not be able to elect benefits until open enorllment of each year.
  • Valid US Driver License
  • Able to Pass a DOT Physical and Drug Screen
  • No DUI in the past 5 years

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