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Light Rail Operator Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Gohrt

Light Rail Vehicle Operator Trainee

Norfolk, VA

$23/hr

Maintains knowledge of HRT bus and light rail system in order to provide routine information and ... Must be able pass LRV Operator training pre-screening quiz with 85% or higher. * Must be able pass ...

Gohrt

Electro-Mechanical Technician

Norfolk, VA

$34.50/hr

Responsible for high operating and safety performance of light rail vehicles. * Ability to quickly troubleshoot, repair and program carborne and localized programmable logic controllers, network ...

New

Herzog

Equipment Operators

Springfield, VA

$35 - $43/hr

Operates and performs operator-level maintenance of several types of heavy equipment including end ... light rail, streetcar, and freight rail projects. We believe our culture is at the heart of our ...

Herzog

Equipment Operators

Springfield, VA · On-site

$35 - $43/hr

Operates and performs operator-level maintenance of several types of heavy equipment including end ... light rail, streetcar, and freight rail projects. We believe our culture is at the heart of our ...

Hampton Roads Transit

Staff Auditor

Hampton, VA · On-site

Assists with all PTASP and SSPP internal audits for all departments that fall under Light Rail ... operating processes; identifying root causes. Supports external auditors by coordinating ...

Charah Solutions Inc.

Rail Equipment Operator

Chester, VA · On-site

$18.54 - $27.75/hr

Operating automated systems that propel trains, add or remove cars, or switch cars around to unload ... light, picture, etc) * Must have the ability to communicate clearly, listen and understand ...

Charah Solutions Inc.

Rail Equipment Operator

Chester, VA · On-site

$18.54 - $27.75/hr

Operating automated systems that propel trains, add or remove cars, or switch cars around to unload ... light, picture, etc) * Must have the ability to communicate clearly, listen and understand ...

Gohrt

Extra Duty Police - Norfolk

Norfolk, VA

$65/hr

Patrol within The Tide light rail vehicles and on station platforms, assist in inspect passengers ... operating procedures, to perform duties in a professional manner and appearance, to write and ...

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All JobsLight Rail Operator JobsLight Rail Operator Jobs in Virginia

Light Rail Operator information

See Virginia salary details

$10

$26

$64

How much do light rail operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for light rail operator in Virginia is $26.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.36 and $26.65 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Light Rail Operator position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Light Rail Operator, you generally need a high school diploma or GED, a clean driving record, and strong mechanical aptitude. Familiarity with rail operations, signaling systems, and often completion of formal safety and operational training or certification is typically required. Excellent situational awareness, communication skills, and the ability to stay calm under pressure are highly valued soft skills. These competencies ensure the safe, timely, and efficient transportation of passengers while adhering to strict operational and safety protocols.

What does a typical day look like for a Light Rail Operator?

A typical day for a Light Rail Operator involves preparing the train for service, operating the train along scheduled routes, monitoring signals, and adhering to safety regulations. Operators frequently interact with passengers, providing assistance or information as needed and responding calmly to unexpected situations, such as delays or emergencies. The role often requires working varying shifts, including early mornings, nights, weekends, or holidays. Light Rail Operators collaborate closely with dispatchers, maintenance crews, and fellow operators to ensure smooth and safe transit operations throughout their shift.

What is a Light Rail Operator job?

A Light Rail Operator is responsible for safely operating light rail vehicles to transport passengers along a designated route. They monitor train functions, follow schedules, make station announcements, and ensure passenger safety. Operators must adhere to traffic regulations, respond to emergencies, and provide customer service. This role requires attention to detail, strong communication skills, and the ability to remain calm under pressure.

What are popular job titles related to Light Rail Operator jobs in Virginia? For Light Rail Operator jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Light Rail Operator jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Light Rail Operator jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Light Rail Operator jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Light Rail Operator job openings:
Light Rail Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Light Rail Operator job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,724 per year, or $26.8 per hour.
Light Rail Vehicle Operator Trainee

Light Rail Vehicle Operator Trainee

Hampton Roads Transit

Norfolk, VA • On-site

$23/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

Hampton Roads Transit is looking for dynamic, customer service oriented, and energetic people to become part of a committed team providing excellent and effective public transportation to the Hampton Roads region. We offer unmatched benefits and competitive wages in a stimulating and rewarding environment.
Hourly Wage: $23.00
Essential Job Functions:
(Duties listed are not intended to be all inclusive nor to limit duties that might reasonably be assigned.)
  • Ensures to the highest quality and agency's safety standards, policies and rules are followed.
  • Ensures quality and safety are included in all aspects of your responsibility.
  • Inspects, prepares for operation and/or reports vehicle defects found during routine vehicle inspection, to ensure safe and serviceable conditions. Reports these problems or defects to the Operation Control Center (OCC).
  • Operates LRV in revenue service in a safe manner in accordance with operating rules and procedures, maintaining appropriate speed and distance from preceding vehicles, boards and alights passengers.
  • Makes and brakes up train consist; operates trains in non-revenue service on main line.
  • Operates switches through controls or manually; performs operations necessary to restore movement by trouble-shooting problem conditions.
  • Answers customer inquiries and maintains a courteous and friendly demeanor with all HRT customers.
  • Announces all special and station stops; provides proper information to customers requesting it; makes special announcements as requested.
  • Notifies OCC of any emergency situation on or near right-of-way (ROW) or of service disruption, requesting appropriate additional instruction or assistance as required.
  • Communicates to customers and OCC appropriate information in the event of a need to evacuate an LRV or train and then oversees the safe and orderly evacuation of the vehicle(s).
  • Guides and assists customers to access alternate bus service in the event of a service disruption. Performs flagging duties during emergency situations, such as collisions, derailments or vehicle breakdowns.
  • Activates switches, electrically or manually, as circumstances may warrant, ensuring correct routing.
  • Maintains knowledge of HRT bus and light rail system in order to provide routine information and direction to our customers.
  • Produces written reports of witnessed incidents as well as accidents, incidents and unusual conditions in which there has been direct or indirect involvement or that affect the movement of trains or the condition of Agency property.
  • Reports observed defects and unsafe conditions regarding tracks, switches and related equipment while operating LRV's, and other conditions that may affect the safe movement of trains.

Required Knowledge, Abilities and Skills Essential to Job Functions:
  • Must be able pass LRV Operator training pre-screening quiz with 85% or higher.
  • Must be able pass all quiz/test associated with LRV Operator training course with 85% or higher with 100% on signal test and re-qualify as directed.
  • Must be able to secure and maintain a Virginia Commercial Drivers License.
  • Ability to learn the HRT's Transit System, including the, safety regulations and guidelines; train and bus service schedules and fare structures.
  • Ability to maintain an effective working relationship with Controller/Dispatcher & Supervisor.
  • Ability to learn troubleshooting of HRT's Light Rail Vehicles.
  • Ability to communicate orally with customers and supervisor.
  • Ability to complete 90 working day probation period plus 7-week training
  • Ability to read and understand training materials, operating manuals and operating and safety rules directives
  • Ability to prepare clear written reports of incidents and accidents.
  • Ability to maintain good customer relations.
  • No more than one (1) preventable accident in the twelve (12) months immediately preceding bid on LRV Operator.

Required Software Knowledge and Skills Essential to Job Functions:
Proficiency in using computer systems and the listed software applications associated with performance of assigned work is essential. Basic problem-solving skills associated with software applications used is expected. Software usage relevant to job duties will be evaluated.
Software applications:
Safety Responsibility:
Perform all job duties and responsibilities in a safe manner to protect oneself, fellow employees, and the public from injury or harm. Promote safety awareness and follow safety procedures and policies. Take an active part in reporting unsafe conditions and any hazards within the workplace to their Supervisor, Manager and/or the Safety Department.
Training and/or Education:
Graduation from High School or GED
Required Experience:
Internal candidates must be full time bus operator with one-year experience, or full time HRT employee with a minimum of two years of previous transportation experience and have successfully passed the probationary period.
In order to be eligible, the Operator must have the following:
  • No more than three (3) miss-outs or unexcused absences within the last six (6) months;
  • No more than one (1) corrective/disciplinary action issued for violations of rules and procedures in the last twelve (12) months;
  • A good driving record that meets HRT's standards;
  • No preventable accidents or safety violations during the previous twelve (12) month period;
  • No valid passenger complaints within the previous twelve (12) months;
  • Not be out of work for thirty-five (35) consecutive days or more within a twelve-month period (with the exception of excused absences); and
  • Must successfully pass the written assessment and physical agility assessment for Rail Operator.

External candidates must have a minimum of 2 years transportation experience.
Licenses or Certificates:
Must have CDL Class B license and/or CDL permit and the ability to acquire within sixty (60) days of employment a valid Virginia CDL Class B license with air brake and passenger endorsements.
Special Requirements:
  • Must be able to pass essential function test conducted by HRT Rail Operations.
  • No more than three points against DMV driving record
  • Upon management direction and when assigned, all Operators are required to mentor and assist in training Student Operators.
  • When assigned students, Operators are required to monitor and supervise the student activities throughout their entire shift
  • Ability to pass DOT physical examination.
  • Ability to meet night vision requirements.
  • This position is classified as essential personnel.

FMLA Status:
Non-Exempt
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. The demands include balancing, eye-hand coordination, gripping, lifting, stooping, squatting, walking, carry object (20 lb.), lift (80) lbs., push/pull, reaching and communication. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The work involves the operation of Light Rail Vehicles their equipment.
Unusual Demands:
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Work involves meeting multiple demands on a timely basis. Duties may require working weekends and Holidays.
Non-Exempt
HRT is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. If you need reasonable accommodations to complete the HRT employment application and/or the interview, contact HRT Human Resources at (757) 222-6000 or email careers@hrtransit.org.

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