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Hourly Rail Train Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Marmon

Rail Switching Technician

Richmond, VA · On-site

$18.50 - $20.50/hr

Our teams deliver on-site rail switching, material handling and transloading, track construction ... Interpret train orders, signals, and operating procedures * Inspect locomotives prior to operation

Road & Rail Services

Railroad Carman

Nitro, WV · On-site

$26.50/hr

Starting pay is $26.50 per hour with Welding experience - Your hourly rate increases with ... terminal operating expertise as well as field maintenance of rail assets for railroads, rail ...

Road & Rail Services

Railroad Carman

Nitro, WV · On-site

$26.50/hr

Starting pay is $26.50 per hour with Welding experience - Your hourly rate increases with ... terminal operating expertise as well as field maintenance of rail assets for railroads, rail ...

Marmon

Rail Switching Technician-Magna, UT

Magna, UT · On-site

$24 - $26/hr

... train orders, signals, and operating procedures Inspect locomotives prior to operation Operate hand ... on rail equipment Ability to lift, carry, and handle heavy equipment and materials Strong ...

Rail Management Services

Rail Terminal Conductor

Sandy, UT · On-site

$45K - $65K/yr

Manage rail track switches to direct rail cars to appropriate tracks. * Ability to connect and ... Responsible for maintaining clear communication with Train Engineer/Operator and other crew members ...

Rail Management Services

Railroad Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$17 - $18/hr

... 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 ...

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Hourly Rail Train Operator information

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How much do hourly rail train operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for hourly rail train operator in the United States is $27.75, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.04 and $28.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do train drivers get per hour?

Hourly rail train operators typically earn between $20 and $35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer. Salaries may increase with seniority, certifications, and overtime work, and operators often work shifts that include nights and weekends.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

Hourly Rail Train Operators typically do not earn $2000 a day; their wages are usually based on hourly rates and standard schedules. High-paying jobs that can reach or exceed $2000 daily often include specialized roles such as executive positions, certain medical specialists, or high-level consultants, but these are not typical for train operators. Most train operators earn a salary that is significantly below this level, even with overtime or bonuses.

How many hours does a train operator work?

Hourly rail train operators typically work shifts that range from 8 to 12 hours, including overnight and weekend shifts, depending on the employer and schedule needs. Overtime may be required during peak times or for special events, and schedules often involve rotating shifts to ensure continuous service.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Hourly Rail Train Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Hourly Rail Train Operator, you need a high school diploma or equivalent, strong attention to safety protocols, and a clean driving record, often supplemented by specialized training or certification in rail operations. Familiarity with train control systems, signaling equipment, and communication tools is typically required. Outstanding situational awareness, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication set exceptional operators apart. These skills are crucial for ensuring the safe and timely transport of passengers or freight and for maintaining operational efficiency in a regulated environment.

What are hourly rail train operators?

Hourly rail train operators are professionals responsible for operating trains on a scheduled basis, typically working shifts that are paid by the hour. They ensure the safe and timely transportation of passengers or freight along designated rail routes. Their duties include monitoring train controls, adhering to safety protocols, communicating with dispatchers, and responding to emergencies or unexpected situations on the tracks. These operators play a crucial role in maintaining the efficiency and safety of rail transportation systems.

Is 55 too old to become a train driver?

Age is generally not a strict barrier for becoming a rail train operator, as many employers value experience, safety record, and physical fitness. Most train companies require candidates to pass medical and background checks, and there is often no maximum age limit as long as health requirements are met. Candidates over 55 can pursue training and certification to become train operators if they meet these standards.

What is the difference between Hourly Rail Train Operator vs Conductor?

AspectHourly Rail Train OperatorConductor
CredentialsState-issued train operator license, safety certificationsConductor certification, safety training
Work EnvironmentOperate trains, monitor controls, ensure safetyCoordinate train operations, oversee passenger safety
Employer & IndustryRailroads, transit agencies

Both roles are essential in rail operations, with the train operator focusing on driving and controlling the train, while the conductor manages passenger safety and operational coordination. They often work together but have distinct responsibilities within the rail industry.

What are some common challenges faced by hourly rail train operators, and how can they be managed?

Hourly rail train operators often face challenges such as maintaining strict adherence to schedules, managing unexpected delays, and ensuring passenger safety in a variety of weather and operational conditions. Effective communication with dispatchers and other crew members is crucial for timely problem-solving, and operators must remain alert at all times to quickly respond to signals or track obstructions. Staying current on safety procedures and participating in ongoing training can help operators manage these challenges and maintain a smooth, efficient service.
What cities are hiring for Hourly Rail Train Operator jobs? Cities with the most Hourly Rail Train Operator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Rail Train Operator jobs? The most popular types of Rail Train Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Hourly Rail Train Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Hourly Rail Train Operator jobs include:
Hourly Rail Train Operator jobs near you
Manager, Train Control Systems

Manager, Train Control Systems

San Mateo County Transit District

Millbrae, CA • On-site

$143K - $200K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

Salary : $143,142.00 - $200,398.00 Annually
Location : Millbrae, CA
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 2025-00299
Division: Rail
Department: Rail Development
Opening Date: 01/30/2026
General
The Manager, Train Control Systems reports to the Deputy Director Rail Systems Engineering and is responsible for oversight and managing of complex train control systems including the installation, modification, maintenance, and upgrade of the District's Rail Operations Control System (ROCS) and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system for the Peninsula Corridor Joint Powers Board (Caltrain).
Essential Functions & Duties
  • Responsible for updates, upgrades and maintenance of the following systems: Rail Operations Control System (ROCS); Predictive Arrival and Departure System (PADS), Positive Train Control (PTC) back-office systems, Traction Power Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) System and Rail Scheduling.
  • Perform Quality Assurances and system engineering support of all back off systems including PTC office systems, Back Office Server (BOS), Rail Operations Control System (ROCS), Network Management System (NMS); Interoperable Train Control Message Server (ITCMS); Wayside Status Relay Service (WSRS), and the interfaces to all other operational systems.
  • Develop, document, and maintain Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), technical standards, and best practices for all train control and related systems to ensure consistency, safety, and regulatory compliance.
  • Develop and implement training programs to upskill staff, mentoring team members at all levels on train control systems, operational procedures, and project management to strengthen technical capacity, foster skill development, and ensure succession planning.
  • Ensure Caltrain systems meet Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) mandated interoperability requirements with all tenant railroads; ensure Caltrain train control systems are compatible with Association of American Railroads (AAR) standards; follow the ITC guidelines that Caltrain must maintain "N-2" backwards compatible software versions.
  • Manage complex and large-scale train control engineering projects as the Technical Lead for Caltrain.
  • Manage the work of outside contractors and assist higher level Caltrain Directors and Executives in planning and evaluating the quantity and quality of work performed by subordinate staff.
  • Supervise staff. Hire, mentor, and take appropriate corrective and/or disciplinary action. Ensure EEO policies and procedures are followed. Participate in selection of staff. Coordinate staff training and professional development. Establish performance objectives. Monitor and evaluate employee performance.
Examples of Essential Duties:
  • Establish and maintain work relationships with internal and external stakeholders to develop consensus on capital project work plans.
  • Establish schedules and methods for providing train control system engineering design services on assigned capital projects; identify resource needs; review needs with appropriate management staff; allocate resources accordingly.
  • Review and approve project schedules; assist in strategic planning; prepare status reports; coordinate project resources; communicate with all project participants on relevant issues; identify and resolve train control engineering issues.
  • Provide general technical oversight of railroad train control systems.
  • Perform system usage and performance analyses.
  • Support Caltrain Configuration Management (CM) Manager on configuration control, prioritize system defects and corrective actions; participate in Configuration Control Board (CCB) meetings as required.
  • Direct, review, and approve the preparation of train control engineering designs, drawings, and specifications; identify and resolve technical engineering issues.
  • Manage technical elements of the office systems warranty and long-term maintenance support service agreements.
  • Review and approve operating manuals and procedures developed by various systems providers or vendors.
  • Manage all technology refresh and software upgrades/updates and associated testing without interrupting regular railroad operations.
  • Establish and lead a knowledge management framework to systematically capture, update, and share institutional knowledge through structured documentation, training programs, and knowledge transfer initiatives.
  • Participate in the preparation and administration of the train control engineering program budget (Operating & Maintenance, and Capital); submit budget recommendations; monitor expenditures.
  • Review consultant proposals and designs; recommend awards; conduct or participate in the pre-bid conferences prior to system contract awards.
  • Perform all job duties and responsibilities in a safe manner to protect one's self, fellow employees, and the public from injury or harm. Promote safety awareness and follow safety procedures in an effort to reduce or eliminate accidents.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications
Sufficient experience, training and/or education to demonstrate the knowledge and ability to successfully perform the essential functions of the position. In lieu of a degree, work-related experience that demonstrates the skills and experience necessary to perform this role will be accepted. Development of the required knowledge and abilities is typically obtained through but not limited to:
  • Bachelor's degree in electrical/electronics, computer science, or a related field.
  • Five (5) years of railroad industry experience in Train Control System and SCADA system development and maintenance.
  • Two (2) years supervisory experience
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Knowledge and experience with AIMCore Product/Software a plus.
  • Possesses a broad interdisciplinary knowledge of supervisory train control, wayside signal, highway crossing warning system, predictive and arrival system, traffic signal control, traction power substations and distribution, SCADA, server systems, virtualized server architectures, databases, cloud server systems, networking, etc.
  • Knowledge of operating systems (UNIX, Linux, Microsoft)
  • Knowledge of VHF and UHF radio voice and data communications, information assurance, data security and networking technologies.
  • Experience with Configuration Management and Quality Assurance Systems.
  • Ability to Interpret and revise engineering plans, drawings, and specifications.
  • Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite.
  • Effective oral and written communication skills.

The selection process may include a panel interview, written and skills test assessments, or supplemental questions. Only those candidates who are the most qualified will continue in the selection process. Meeting the minimum qualifications does not guarantee an invitation to continue in the process.
How to Apply
  • Complete an online employment application by 11:59 p.m. of the listed closing date. Resumes and cover letters will not be accepted in lieu of fully completed applications. It is the applicant's responsibility to ensure that applications are completed with all relevant information (experience, education, certifications, licenses, references and/or other information).
  • The Human Resources Department will make reasonable efforts in the recruitment/examination process to accommodate applicants with disabilities upon request. If you have a need for an accommodation, please contact the Human Resources Department.
  • We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive and welcoming workplace environment. We are an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer. Minorities, Women, Persons with Disabilities and Veterans are encouraged to apply.

Below is a summary of the comprehensive benefits provided to District full-time employees:
Health and Welfare Benefits:
  • Healthcare Benefits -District employees are offered a choice of healthcare providers under the CalPERS Health Benefits Program. The District will contribute ninety (90) percent towards monthly premiums for full-time employees. Fifty (50) percent for part-time employees.
  • Free Dental and Vision Benefits provided - Employer Covers Premiums
  • Free Employee Assistance Benefit - Employees are entitled to 5 face-to-face sessions or telephonic or web-video consultations for problem-solving support per incident, per calendar year.
  • Flexible Spending Accounts - Pre-tax dollars to pay for qualified Health or Dependent Care expenses.

Retirement Medical Benefits:
  • Long Term Disability Insurance - After 90 days of total disability, Administrative full-time employees are eligible for 60% of monthly income covered by the District.
  • Health and Wellness - Gyms located at most work locations and discounted Weight Watcher Membership Option.

Holidays and Paid Time Off:
  • Paid Time Off - Newly hired employees accrue 6.5 hours bi-weekly when hired (if Exempt 8.25 hours). As you move up in years of service credit, the rate of the amount of PTO accrued will also increase.
  • Paid Holidays - The District provides seven paid holidays throughout the year - New Years Day, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day (July 4th), Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day
  • Floating Holidays - District employees can earn up to five (5) floating holidays.

Financial Planning Benefits:
  • Pension Benefits through CalPERS -You must have a minimum of 5 years of service to be eligible for this pension.
  • CalPERS PEPRA vs. Classic - All employees hired on, or after January 1, 2013, are considered PEPRA members and will contribute 8% of their salary up to the maximum IRS cut-off. All Classic members will contribute 6%
  • Deferred Compensation Options - Select to contribute to one or both of our Tax Deferred Compensation Options
  • Reliance Standard Life Insurance with 100% premium paid by the District - 1 times annual salary of employee - max $200,000
  • Optional Life Insurance - Employees may purchase additional life insurance for themselves and their eligible family members.

Growth and Education Benefits:
  • Professional Development - Access to LinkedIn Learning and San Mateo County's professional training. District Tuition Reimbursement Program - A maximum of $5,250 per year for courses related to your job or career goals with the District.
  • Computer Loan Program - Interest-free two-year loan with a maximum amount of $2,000.

Other Amazing Benefits:
  • Credit Union - Employees and family members are eligible to join the San Mateo Credit Union and Patelco Credit Union.
  • Employee Clean Commute (ECC) - Car/Van poolers and Public Transit riders receive a monthly reimbursement.
  • Commuter Benefits - Free Employee Parking; Free Bus Pass for employee as well as children/spouse; Clipper Card/Go Pass Program for Central employees.

For union employees, all of the above benefits are subject to the employee's Collective Bargaining Agreement. Benefits listed are also subject to change with or without notice and are subject to contract/provider terms and conditions.

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