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Light Rail Train Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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OCS Engineer

Sacramento, CA · On-site

Design OCS layout, wire tensions, for light rail, commuter rail and streetcar with pantograph as ... Collaborate with other technical teams such as Traction Power, Communications, Signals & Train ...

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All JobsLight Rail Train Operator JobsLight Rail Train Operator Jobs in California

Light Rail Train Operator information

See California salary details

$8

$27

$67

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

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for light rail train operator in California is $27.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.18 and $33.43 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a light rail train operator?

Light Rail Train Operators are professionals responsible for driving and controlling light rail vehicles, ensuring passenger safety, and adhering to schedules and traffic regulations. They monitor train operations, communicate with dispatchers, respond to emergencies, and assist passengers as needed. Operators also perform basic inspections of their vehicles before and after trips to ensure they are functioning properly. This role requires strong attention to detail, customer service skills, and knowledge of safety procedures.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a light rail train operator?

To thrive as a Light Rail Train Operator, you need a high school diploma or equivalent, strong situational awareness, and a thorough understanding of transit regulations and safety procedures. Familiarity with train control systems, signaling technology, and sometimes possession of a commercial driver’s license (CDL) are required. Excellent communication, attention to detail, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are crucial soft skills. These competencies are vital for ensuring passenger safety, adhering to schedules, and efficiently handling both routine and emergency situations.

What are the typical challenges faced by light rail train operators during their shifts and how are they addressed?

Light Rail Train Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining strict adherence to schedules, ensuring passenger safety during peak hours, and responding to unexpected incidents like signal malfunctions or track obstructions. Operators must remain alert and calm under pressure, utilizing effective communication with dispatchers and emergency responders when necessary. Ongoing training and strong teamwork with maintenance crews and station staff help operators handle these situations efficiently, ensuring smooth and safe rail operations.

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

AspectLight Rail Train OperatorBus Driver
CredentialsCommercial driver's license (CDL), sometimes additional certifications for rail operationCommercial driver's license (CDL)
Work EnvironmentOperate trains on fixed rail tracks, often in urban areasDrive buses on designated routes, often in city streets
Employer & IndustryPublic transit agencies, rail companiesPublic transit agencies, private bus companies
Job Search & ComparisonOften compared due to transit operation and licensing requirementsCommon alternative for transit operators

The Light Rail Train Operator and Bus Driver roles both require CDL licenses and involve operating vehicles in public transit settings. While train operators focus on rail systems within urban areas, bus drivers navigate city streets. Both roles are essential for public transportation and share similar credentials, but differ in work environment and vehicle operation specifics.

What are popular job titles related to Light Rail Train Operator jobs in California?

For Light Rail Train Operator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Light Rail Train Operator jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Light Rail Train Operator jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Light Rail Train Operator jobs?

Cities in California with the most Light Rail Train Operator job openings:

Light Rail Train Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Light Rail Train Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,669 per year, or $27.7 per hour.

Student Train Operator

San Diego Metropolitan Transit System

San Diego, CA • On-site

$30.09/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago

San Diego Metropolitan Transit System rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7th of 99 rated public transport

Job description

Application Review: The position will remain open until filled. The next Train Operator Academy begins on September 28th, 2026.
Do you love to drive? Are you technically and academically inclined? Have you been searching for a company and a career that gives back to society and the environment? Are you ready to master a trade that has career growth and promotional opportunities? Then this is the CAREER for you!
Why become a Train Operator?
Hourly Pay: $30.09 per hour ($24.96 per hour during the 11-week Student training period)
  • Incremental wage increases and career growth
  • Promotional opportunities (We love to promote!)
  • CalPers pension & other retirement options
  • Health, dental and vision benefits
  • Vacation time and holiday pay
  • Employment stability
  • Community impact
  • Environmental impact - be a part of the solution!
  • And MUCH MORE!

MTS offers competitive benefits including, but not limited to, medical, dental, and vision coverage for you and your family, paid time off, retirement plans, and wellness programs.
Additional perks and benefits include:
  • Incremental pay increases
  • Employer-paid holidays
  • Employer-paid DMV licensing (if additional licensing is required for the position)
  • Free transit pass for you and your family
  • Gym membership reimbursement
  • Walk, run, and bike event reimbursement
  • Employer-paid bereavement leave and jury duty
  • Employer-paid uniforms
  • And much more!

Train Operators are responsible for operating Light Rail Vehicle (LRV) trains in revenue and non-revenue service, performing pre-departure checkouts, making public address announcements, monitoring and reporting passenger movements, exercising prudent judgment during any onboard vehicle failures, preparing vehicle defect reports and assisting in providing on-the-job instruction to student personnel.
Train Operators are hired as part-time employees only and are scheduled to work approximately 25-32 hours per week. Additional hours are frequently assigned to employees in a manner designed to give employees an equal opportunity to work extra hours. The Transportation Department works 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and Train Operator shift assignments are bid on in seniority order. Train Operators can expect to be assigned to work nights, weekends, and holidays until such time as their individual seniority allows them to bid to more desirable shifts and days off. Part-time employees are eligible for promotion to full-time positions in seniority order, as full-time positions become available. Candidates should assume that they would be working in a part-time status for five or more years. Part-time employees are not guaranteed any specific number of working hours per week, nor do they receive full MTS Rail employee benefits.
What Train Operators do:
  • Operates Light Rail Vehicle (LRV) trains in revenue and non-revenue service in strict compliance with the MTS Rail Rules and Instructions for Employees.
  • Exercises good judgment and adheres to all safety policies and procedures to ensure the safety of passengers and equipment.
  • Operates LRV's during onboard vehicle failures where specific features, i.e., propulsion, braking, etc., are rendered inoperative.
  • Makes required public address announcements regarding the impact of specific mainline occurrences on train service, as well as other announcements as instructed by Transportation Supervisors/Controllers.
  • Reports all unusual occurrences to the controller.
  • Assists with wheelchair or basic equipment trouble shooting.
  • Uses a variety of keys, levers, and buttons to activate the train, accelerate, brake, operate doors, and uses the public address system, horn, headlights and TWC (Train to Wayside Control).
  • Prepares trains for service, as determined by schedule requirements or Supervisor/Controller instructions.
  • Performs yard switching activities, including movement of LRVs through an automated car wash, coupling and uncoupling of train sets, and manual operation of track switches.
  • Operates trains into and out of shop buildings for repairs.
  • Operates test trains for acceptance of equipment, repair and checkouts as required.
  • Prepares detailed reports pertaining to unusual events.
  • Assists in providing on-the-job instruction to student personnel qualifying for the Train Operator position.
  • Provides superficial first aid and/or requests medical assistance for ill or injured passengers.
  • Maintains a thorough and up-to-date knowledge of current Rules and Regulations and other standard operating procedures pertaining to the Trolley.
  • Performs such other duties as assigned.

What MTS is looking for:
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
  • Knowledge of or ability to learn MTS policies and regulations; ability to read, understand and apply MTS policies, regulations and union labor contracts; ability to write letters, memoranda and reports using clear, concise and grammatically correct English; ability to speak clearly, distinctly and effectively in person-to-person or small group situations using tact and diplomacy; ability to establish and maintain priorities in order to complete assignments by deadlines without detailed instructions; strong organizational skills and demonstrated ability to multi-task; skill in verifying the accuracy and completeness of forms and reports; ability to coordinate and initiate actions necessary to implement decisions and delegate responsibilities to appropriate personnel; ability to exercise prudent and timely judgment in normal and emergency situations; ability to sit for long periods of time in a confined area; must have a flexible schedule and be available to work on days, nights, weekends and holidays.

Physical Requirements
  • The successful candidate must be 21 years of age or older and able to fulfill the physical demands of the job such as driving, walking, climbing stairs, stooping, sitting, bending, reaching overhead and lifting (must be able to lift up to 50 pounds).
  • Must be able to operate a motor vehicle and perform tasks involving manual dexterity, such as use of a computer and 10-key.
  • Must have good eyesight and the ability to maintain constant alertness under tedious circumstances.
  • Work will at times require more than 8 hours per day, travel to other agencies, variable shifts, or require irregular hours to perform the essential duties of the position.
  • Duties will be performed primarily in an LRV operator cubicle, as well as in an office environment

Experience/Education/Certificates/License(s)
  • The minimum age at time of appointment is 21.
  • Candidates should demonstrate stable employment, good attendance records and a favorable attitude toward public service.
  • Candidates must demonstrate ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
  • Bilingual skills are preferred and encouraged.
  • Must possess and maintain a valid California driver's license.
  • A minimum of three years current and satisfactory driving experience.
  • Candidates must turn in a valid California's Driving Record. CA Driving Records can be obtained at the DMV's Website (CLICK HERE). Once obtained, submit the Driving Record to MTS (ATTENTION: Train Operator) by:
    • Email jobs@sdmts.com

General Information:
  • Must satisfactorily pass all applicable examinations including, but not limited to, a pre-employment physical, drug screen, reference check and background check.

EEO is The Law - Equal Employer Opportunity Employer Minorities/Women/Protected Veterans/Disabled
MTS is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer with an ongoing commitment to treat all people, including customers, co-workers and the public at large, with dignity and respect. As a public transportation agency, MTS is committed to providing an inclusive workplace that reflects the diverse communities in which we work and live.
MTS supports and promotes an environment that is free of discrimination and harassment. MTS recruits, hires, trains and promotes individuals without regard to race, such as hair texture and hairstyles), color, religion, ancestry, national origin, age (40 years or older), sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, medical condition (cured or rehabilitated cancer), physical disability, mental disability, reproductive health decision-making, genetic information (including family medical history), military or veteran status, or any other protected class.
MTS encourages veterans, military spouses and people from different backgrounds to apply for open positions for which they are interested. Additionally, MTS employees are encouraged to refer qualified candidates from all backgrounds and age groups. At MTS, we are committed to a fair and equitable workplace where everyone is a respected and valued member of the team.

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