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Light Rail Train Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

360 IT Professionals

Electrical Tech

Pittsburg, CA

... light rail vehicles; performs related work as assigned. CLASS CHARACTERISTICS This is a ... Including those associated with propulsion, train control, pneumatic supply and brake control, air ...

Federal Railroad Administration

CA

$89K/yr

As a Railroad Safety Inspector (Signal & Train Control), you will enforce Federal safety and health ... Railroad industry, including economic and operating considerations and equipment. * General safety ...

Federal Railroad Administration

CA

$89K/yr

As a Railroad Safety Inspector (Signal & Train Control), you will enforce Federal safety and health ... Railroad industry, including economic and operating considerations and equipment. * General safety ...

Herzog

Manager of Field Operations

San Jose, CA · On-site

$152K - $160K/yr

Regulatory and railroad operating rules proficiency. Pre-Employment Requirements: * Subject to pre ... Perform light work, occasionally exerting up to 20 pounds of force. * Able to walk on uneven ...

Herzog

Manager of Field Operations

San Jose, CA · On-site

$152K - $160K/yr

Regulatory and railroad operating rules proficiency. Pre-Employment Requirements: * Subject to pre ... Perform light work, occasionally exerting up to 20 pounds of force. * Able to walk on uneven ...

Herzog

Manager of Field Operations

San Jose, CA · On-site

$152 - $160/hr

Regulatory and railroad operating rules proficiency. Pre-Employment Requirements * Subject to pre ... Perform light work, occasionally exerting up to 20 pounds of force. * Able to walk on uneven ...

Tutorperini

Project Manager

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$150K - $200K/yr

... Third Street Light Rail in San Francisco, Minute Maid Park in Houston and multiple airport ... Transit experience is a must, particularly in traction power, train control, and communications ...

Tutor Perini

Project Manager

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$150K - $200K/yr

... Third Street Light Rail in San Francisco, Minute Maid Park in Houston and multiple airport ... Transit experience is a must, particularly in traction power, train control, and communications ...

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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.

Electrical Technician

360 IT Professionals

Pittsburg, CA

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago

Job description

Company Description

360 IT Professionals is leading name in the software development industry, bring innovative business solutions to clients in Silicon Valley. We are always looking forward to bring aboard IT professionals and help them build a career in the IT Industry by providing the opportunity to work with our top clients in US.

Job Description

DEFINITION
Under general supervision, performs skilled, installation, assembly, and modification to a variety of electronic and electro-mechanical equipment and components found in heavy and light rail vehicles; performs related work as assigned.

CLASS CHARACTERISTICS
This is a classification performing skilled, installation and assembly of electronic and electro-mechanical systems and components found in transit light and heavy rail vehicles. Incumbents work independently according to accepted standards of the trade, supervisory direction, Company established procedures, practices, and specifications. This class of electricians work is specifically install, and assemble electro-mechanical and electronic systems and other miscellaneous electrical components found on transit revenue vehicles.

Qualifications

EXAMPLES OF DUTIES

  • Following a pre-established schedule for assembly and installation of electronic and related electro-mechanical systems found on transit vehicles. Including those associated with propulsion, train control, pneumatic supply and brake control, air conditioning, annunciation, communications, door control, lighting, and auxiliary electrical supply. 
  • Performs modifications to rail vehicle electronic and electro-mechanical systems, as directed by engineering and supervisory staff. 
  • Works with engineering and other production staff regarding modifications. 
  • Uses diagnostic test equipment and precision measuring devices in the course of the work; may fabricate new testing equipment as required for use on new components and systems.
  • Performs secondary dismantling and repair of electronic and electro-mechanical systems.
  • Works closely with transit vehicle mechanics in performing primary repairs. 
  • Reads and interprets diagrams, engineering drawings, manuals, schematics and work orders. 
  • Documents work performed and parts and materials used; follows specified safety procedures.

Knowledge of:

  • Basic operating principles of analog and digital electronics, electrical and electronic circuitry, and associated mechanical mechanisms, methods, equipment and materials used in the primary maintenance and repair of a variety of electronic and electro-mechanical systems, components and equipment. 
  •  Use and care of power and hand tools of the trade. Shop arithmetic as required for the trade. Safety practices pertaining to the work.
Additional Information

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

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