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Light Rail Train Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Basic Function The Light Rail Train Operator Trainee is required to complete the training class to be become a full-time LRT Operator. Upon successful completion of training, the LRT Operator Trainee ...

Basic Function The Light Rail Train Operator Trainee is required to complete the training class to be become a full-time LRT Operator. Upon successful completion of training, the LRT Operator Trainee ...

Train Dispatcher

Denver, CO

$36.40 - $42.49/hr

Free RTD Light Rail & Commuter Train pass * Career advancement opportunities, (we promote from within!) * Relocation Assistance Training You Can Expect: As a Train Dispatcher, you will receive formal ...

Cleaner, Rail

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$48K - $69K/yr

... light rail and commuter train, as well as resources for those who carpool, vanpool, walk or bike in the Twin Cities. How your work would contribute to our organization and the Twin Cities region:

Cleaner, Rail

Saint Paul, MN · On-site

$48K - $69K/yr

... light rail and commuter train, as well as resources for those who carpool, vanpool, walk or bike in the Twin Cities. How your work would contribute to our organization and the Twin Cities region:

... light rail and commuter train, as well as resources for those who carpool, vanpool, walk or bike in the Twin Cities. How your work would contribute to our organization and the Twin Cities region:

As a member of the Technical Training team, you will train the light rail workforce in King County. Rail Technical Trainers play a critical role in onboarding, training, and developing Rail employees ...

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Light Rail Train information

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How much do light rail train jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for light rail train in the United States is $25.64, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.04 and $27.40 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Light Rail Train vs Bus Driver?

AspectLight Rail TrainBus Driver
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, specialized transit training, possibly a commercial driver's license (CDL) with passenger endorsementHigh school diploma, CDL with passenger endorsement
Work EnvironmentRail stations, tracks, dedicated transit corridorsOn-road, city streets, highways
Industry UsagePublic transit agencies, urban rail systemsPublic transit, private companies, school districts
Job FocusOperating and maintaining light rail vehicles on fixed routesDriving buses safely, managing passenger needs

While both Light Rail Train operators and Bus Drivers work in public transportation, Light Rail Train operators focus on operating rail vehicles on fixed tracks within urban transit systems, requiring specialized training. Bus Drivers operate on roads, navigating city streets, and often require a CDL with passenger endorsement. Each role involves passenger safety and customer service but differs in environment and vehicle operation.

What is a Light Rail Train operator?

A Light Rail Train operator is a professional responsible for operating light rail vehicles that run on tracks, usually within urban areas. They ensure the safe and timely transportation of passengers, monitor train controls, communicate with dispatchers, and respond to emergencies or unexpected situations. Light rail operators also assist passengers with boarding and exiting, make announcements, and check that safety protocols are followed. Their role is crucial for the efficient functioning of public transit systems.

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

To thrive as a Light Rail Train Operator, you generally need a high school diploma or equivalent, a valid driver’s license, and comprehensive knowledge of transit safety regulations and operating procedures. Familiarity with train control systems, signaling technology, and sometimes completion of specialized transit authority certification programs is typical. Strong attention to detail, situational awareness, and excellent communication skills help operators effectively manage routes and interact with passengers. These skills and qualifications are essential to ensure the safe, timely, and efficient operation of light rail services in urban environments.

What are some common challenges faced by Light Rail Train Operators, and how can they be managed on the job?

Light Rail Train Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining punctuality during peak hours, handling unexpected technical issues, and ensuring passenger safety under varying conditions. Operators must stay alert and follow protocols for managing delays, communicating with dispatchers, and responding calmly to emergencies or passenger concerns. Continuous training and collaboration with maintenance and station staff help operators effectively address these challenges and maintain smooth operations.
More about Light Rail Train jobs
What states have the most Light Rail Train jobs? States with the most job openings for Light Rail Train jobs include:
Infographic showing various Light Rail Train job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 10% Contract, and 10% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $53,325 per year, or $25.6 per hour.
Light Rail Train Operator Trainee

Light Rail Train Operator Trainee

METRO

Houston, TX

Other

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

Basic Function

The Light Rail Train Operator Trainee is required to complete the training class to be become a full-time LRT Operator.  Upon successful completion of training, the LRT Operator Trainee will become certified and reclassified to the position of LRT Operator.  Training includes classroom and on-the-job environment and requires working outside and in inclement weather conditions.  Reporting and shift times, as well as days off may vary during the training process.  LRT Operators are required to clearly understand the requirements and responsibilities for the position of LRT Operator as stated on the job description and become knowledgeable with METRORail policies and procedures, Labor Agreement, Employee Performance Codes and Work Rules.  Performs duties in a safe, efficient manner and in compliance with all applicable rules and safety procedures.

Responsibilities and Specific Duties
  • Must pass all safety and training standards and obtain certification as an LRT Operator.
  • Upon completion of training the new full-time LRT Operator will report to assigned rail operating facility (ROC or S&I) based upon staffing needs of the facilities at the time of graduation.  
  • Full-Time LRT Operators will remain at the assigned facility for up to six (6) months unless there is a general sign-up, or whichever occurs first.  Full-Time LRT Operators shifts vary and may work holidays or weekends.
  • Operates LRV's in accordance with METRORail policies, procedures and rulebook.
  • Maintains METRORail schedules and running times.
  • Operates vehicle in the storage yard and into and out of the maintenance building.
  • Interacts with passengers in a professional manner, answers questions, provides information and addresses concerns of riders.
  • Operates radio system in accordance with set radio protocols and FCC regulations, notifying Train Control Center of appropriate information regarding emergency situations and other operational situations.
  • Troubleshoots mechanical and electrical failures of vehicle using on board diagnostic equipment.  Utilizes circuit breakers, brake cutouts and bypass switches under the direction of Rail Supervisors and TCC as appropriate.
  • Announces station stops in event of service interruption or failure of automated announcement equipment.
  • Performs LRV safety checks and inspections in accordance with set procedures.
  • Operates electric and manual track switches as required.
  • Works flagging duties as assigned.
  • Assists in the acceptance and commissioning of new light rail vehicles and test operations.
  • Requires successful completion of Vehicle Familiarization Course for all light rail vehicles.
  • Successfully completes vendor-training courses for vehicle and wayside equipment as required.
  • Completes all accident/incident forms, logs and completes associated required paperwork.
  • Maintains a safe clean work environment.
  • Safely operates METRORail non-revenue vehicles.
  • Provides excellent customer service to METRO internal and external customers.
  • Promotes safety awareness and follows safety procedures to reduce or eliminate accidents.
  • Performs other job-related duties as assigned.
Education Requirement

High school diploma or equivalent is required.

Years & Experience Required

INTERNAL APPLICANTS
Minimum six (6) months as part time or full time METRO Bus Operator or one (1) year as METRO employee.  Acceptable work record to include but not limited to: No suspensions, no more than one (1) reprimand, three (3) misses or less and no preventable vehicular accidents within the preceding twelve (12) months of application. 
EXTERNAL APPLICANTS
Must have current driving record with no tickets or accidents within three (3) years of application. Transportation experience desirable. Must have a minimum of three (3) years of consistent work history. Customer service experience, working with the public; ability to work independently as well as part of a team; willing to work all shifts and split shifts, weekends and holiday.  Must pass a pre-employment background investigation and a drug and alcohol screen.  No job related felony/misdemeanors.  Criminal convictions are reviewed on a case-by-case basis and the job relatedness is determined by METRO.

 
ALL APPLICANTS
Must be 21 years or older
Pass all pre-selection testing
Meet all physical requirements to include medical examinations and pre-selection physical assessment
Valid Texas drivers' license required and must be able to maintain

Disqualifying Criteria:  Two or more DUI or DWI convictions with no time limit; any DUI or DWI convictions within the preceding three (3) years; invalid, suspended, or revoked drivers' license and no more than two (2) moving violations in the past 3 years.

Knowledge & Skills Required
  • Valid Texas Driver's License is required.
  • Must obtain certification as an LRT Operator and maintain annual certification
  • Ability to pass all safety and training courses.
  • Must know or become knowledgeable of METRORail policies and procedures and the METRORail rulebook.
  • Ability to communicate proficiently both verbally and written.
  • Ability to accurately complete written reports, records and forms.
  • Bilingual ability is a plus.
Additional Information

The Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County, Texas has a zero tolerance drug and alcohol policy for all employees. All internal and external applicants will be required to undergo drug testing before employment and will be subject to further drug and/or alcohol testing throughout their employment.

Further, employees who perform safety-sensitive functions will submit to drug and/or alcohol testing in accordance to the Department of Transportation (DOT) and the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) regulatory requirements.

We provide equal opportunity to all qualified individuals regardless of race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, veteran status, genetic information or disability.


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