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Light Rail Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Wescom Solutions Careers

OCS Engineer

Sacramento, CA · On-site

Design OCS layout, wire tensions, for light rail, commuter rail and streetcar with pantograph as ... Support System Engineering and Assurance efforts such as Requirements Management, Verification ...

Kimley-Horn

Transit Civil Engineer

Seattle, WA

... BRT) and Light Rail Transit (LRT) projects. * Assist in the development of project plans ... Select appropriate materials and prepare engineering specifications for road construction and ...

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Light Rail Engineer information

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$10

$41

$73

How much do light rail engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for light rail engineer in the United States is $41.28, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.60 and $59.13 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

While most light rail engineers earn between $70,000 and $120,000 annually, highly experienced or senior-level engineers working in large metropolitan transit agencies or specialized consulting roles can potentially earn around $200,000 to $300,000. Achieving a $500,000 salary typically requires executive-level positions, such as transit agency directors or senior project managers, or roles combining engineering with executive responsibilities, often supplemented by bonuses or profit-sharing.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles. High compensation often involves working in high-demand industries, holding managerial positions, or possessing rare technical expertise.

What does a Light Rail Engineer do?

A Light Rail Engineer is responsible for the planning, design, construction, and maintenance of light rail transit systems. Their work includes overseeing tracks, stations, signaling systems, and integration with other transportation modes. They collaborate with architects, urban planners, and contractors to ensure safe, efficient, and sustainable rail services. Additionally, Light Rail Engineers address technical challenges and regulatory requirements throughout the lifecycle of a light rail project.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

Light Rail Engineers typically do not earn $200,000 annually; salaries for this role usually range from $70,000 to $130,000 depending on experience and location. Higher salaries may be seen in senior or specialized engineering positions within transportation or infrastructure projects, often requiring advanced skills, certifications, and extensive experience.

How much do rail engineers get paid?

Rail or light rail engineers typically earn between $60,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced engineers or those in supervisory roles can earn higher salaries, often with additional benefits for working in technical environments and requiring specialized skills.

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

To thrive as a Light Rail Engineer, you need a solid background in civil or electrical engineering, often with a bachelor's degree and relevant professional registration. Familiarity with CAD software, rail signaling systems, and project management tools is typically required, along with knowledge of safety and regulatory standards. Strong problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills help facilitate collaboration and effective project delivery. These skills ensure the safe, efficient, and timely design and implementation of light rail systems.

What are some common challenges faced by Light Rail Engineers during the design and construction phases of a project?

Light Rail Engineers often encounter challenges such as coordinating with multiple stakeholders, ensuring compliance with safety and regulatory standards, and integrating new systems within existing urban infrastructure. Managing tight project timelines and budgets while addressing unforeseen site conditions can also be demanding. Effective communication and collaboration with architects, city planners, and contractors are essential to navigate these complexities and deliver successful light rail projects.

What is the difference between Light Rail Engineer vs Tram Engineer?

AspectLight Rail EngineerTram Engineer
CredentialsEngineering degree, certifications in transit systemsEngineering degree, certifications in transit or rail systems
Work EnvironmentUrban transit systems, rail yards, maintenance facilitiesCity streets, tram lines, urban areas
Employer & IndustryPublic transit agencies, rail companiesMunicipal transit authorities, private tram operators
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Light Rail Engineers and Tram Engineers share similar roles in designing, maintaining, and improving urban transit systems. Both require engineering credentials and work within public transit environments. The main difference lies in their specific systems: Light Rail Engineers focus on larger, often modernized light rail networks, while Tram Engineers typically work on city street-level tram lines. Understanding these distinctions helps job seekers find the right career path in urban transit engineering.

More about Light Rail Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Light Rail Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Light Rail Engineer job openings:
What states have the most Light Rail Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Light Rail Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Light Rail Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Light Rail Engineer jobs are:
Light Rail Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Light Rail Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $85,858 per year, or $41.3 per hour.
Senior Project Manager - Rail & Transit

Senior Project Manager - Rail & Transit

NW Recruiting Partners

Seattle, WA • On-site

$150K - $225K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 23 days ago

Job description

Senior Project Manager – Rail & Transit
Seattle, WA
We are seeking a Senior Project Manager – Rail & Transit (15+ years of experience) to join our client's Seattle-based team. This is an exciting opportunity to lead complex civil and transit infrastructure projects for a nationally recognized firm known for delivering innovative transportation solutions. With a strong emphasis on quality, collaboration, and measurable results, the company partners with public infrastructure clients to develop impactful transit systems across the region.

In this role, you will lead integrated engineering and construction teams, guiding complex rail and transit projects from inception through completion. You will work hand-in-hand with contractors, consultants, and clients to guarantee safe, efficient, and compliant project delivery. Your responsibilities will span budgeting, scheduling, technical oversight, contract negotiation, and continuous performance evaluation to ensure every project milestone is achieved successfully.

Responsibilities

  • Manage complex rail and transit projects, prioritizing tasks to meet scope, budget, and schedule goals.
  • Supervise consultants and contractors, ensuring smooth communication and coordination.
  • Ensure projects comply with all relevant federal, state, and local regulations and standards.
  • Implement best practices in project management, budgeting, estimating, and contract administration.
  • Develop and maintain detailed project schedules with clear milestones and deliverables.
  • Facilitate communication across multidisciplinary teams through clear reports, presentations, and documentation.
  • Apply creative problem-solving to overcome project challenges.
  • Track project performance metrics to ensure client expectations and contractual obligations are met.

Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering or Construction Management
  • PE license in Washington State (required)
  • At least 15 years managing large civil engineering projects
  • At least 5 years managing light rail transit projects
  • Proficient in MS Office and project management software
  • Strong communication and relationship-building skills
  • Skilled in technical writing and presentations
  • Experienced in contract negotiation and closeout
  • Knowledgeable about U.S. rail and transit markets

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience with alternative delivery methods (design-build, CM/GC, P3)
  • PE licensure in additional states including California, Nevada, or Florida is a plus
  • Background in business development or proposal support
  • Familiarity with rail project management tools

Salary Range: $150,000-$225,000 per year