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Light Rail Train Operator Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

Backhoe Operator American Track, a North American Rail Solutions company, is seeking a skilled ... Ability and willingness to be trained as well as train others on the machine * Performs all other ...

Laborer - Rail Crew

Tampa, FL · On-site

$15.25 - $20/hr

... operating hand tools and heavy equipment, and moving materials as directed. Experience working in ... in train movements within CYD's rail yards. During the orientation period, the Rail Crew Laborer ...

Laborer Rail Crew

Miami, FL

$16 - $21/hr

... operating hand tools and heavy equipment, and moving materials as directed. Experience working in ... in train movements within CYD's rail yards. During the orientation period, the Rail Crew Laborer ...

Posted today

Laborer - Rail Crew

Tampa, FL

$15.75 - $20.75/hr

... operating hand tools and heavy equipment, and moving materials as directed. Experience working in ... in train movements within CYD's rail yards. During the orientation period, the Rail Crew Laborer ...

... the forefront of rail safety - ensuring that the signal systems guiding train movement are ... ABS, CTC, Search Light and Color Light Signals, Hot Box Detectors, Interlockers and AEI Readers ...

Laborer Rail Crew Jacksonville, FL

Jacksonville, FL · On-site

$15 - $18.75/hr

... operating hand tools and heavy equipment, and moving materials as directed. Experience working in ... in train movements within CYD's rail yards. During the orientation period, the Rail Crew Laborer ...

Laborer Rail Crew Jacksonville, FL

Jacksonville, FL · On-site

$14.75 - $18.50/hr

... operating hand tools and heavy equipment, and moving materials as directed. Experience working in ... in train movements within CYD's rail yards. During the orientation period, the Rail Crew Laborer ...

Laborer Rail Crew - Largo, FL

Palmetto, FL · On-site

$14.50 - $18/hr

... operating hand tools and heavy equipment, and moving materials as directed. Experience working in ... in train movements within CYD's rail yards. During the orientation period, the Rail Crew Laborer ...

Laborer Rail Crew - Largo, FL

Palmetto, FL

$14.50 - $18/hr

... operating hand tools and heavy equipment, and moving materials as directed. Experience working in ... in train movements within CYD's rail yards. During the orientation period, the Rail Crew Laborer ...

Backhoe Operator Build your career with an innovative and sustainable railroad maintenance and ... Ability and willingness to be trained as well as train others on the machine Why You'll Love ...

New

... operating. * Replace rail anchors, drive spikes and tamp ballast as needed. * Monitor and maintain flow of gases, light torch and adjust gas mixture and pressure to obtain desired flame when making ...

New

... operating. * Replace rail anchors, drive spikes and tamp ballast as needed. * Monitor and maintain flow of gases, light torch and adjust gas mixture and pressure to obtain desired flame when making ...

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Light Rail Train Operator information

See Florida salary details

$6

$22

$54

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

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for light rail train operator in Florida is $22.55, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $10.72 and $27.19 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

How to become a railroad train operator?

To become a light rail train operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, a valid driver's license, and a clean driving record. They must complete specialized training provided by the transit agency, which includes classroom instruction and on-the-job practice, and often pass written and practical exams. Additionally, a background check and medical examination are usually required before certification and employment.

What are Light Rail Train Operators?

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 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.

How do you become a light rail operator?

To become a light rail train operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, a valid driver's license, and a clean driving record. They must complete specialized training on train operation, safety procedures, and customer service, often provided by the transit agency, and pass written and practical exams before obtaining certification or a license to operate light rail vehicles.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Light Rail Train Operators typically earn less than $4,000 per week, but some high-paying roles such as commercial pilots, certain sales managers, or specialized trades like oil rig workers can reach or exceed that level without requiring a college degree. These jobs often involve specialized skills, certifications, or extensive experience and may require physical endurance or technical training.

How much do light rail operators make?

Light rail train operators typically earn an average annual salary of around $50,000 to $60,000, depending on experience, certifications, and the transit agency. They often work full-time schedules that include weekends and holidays, and may receive benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans.

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 Florida? For Light Rail Train Operator jobs in Florida, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Light Rail Train Operator jobs in Florida look for? The top searched job categories for Light Rail Train Operator jobs in Florida are:
What cities in Florida are hiring for Light Rail Train Operator jobs? Cities in Florida with the most Light Rail Train Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Light Rail Train Operator job openings in Florida as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,913 per year, or $22.6 per hour.
Operator -Rail Support

Operator -Rail Support

Vulcan Materials Company

Winter Haven, FL • On-site

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago

New


Vulcan Materials rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 148 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

315th of 527 rated manufacturers


Job description


Job Summary
Operates and maintains equipment to support rail operations, including track maintenance, signaling systems, and train dispatching. Monitors and controls train movements, communicates with train crews and maintenance personnel, and ensures compliance with safety regulations and operating procedures. Performs routine inspections, repairs, and maintenance tasks on rail equipment and infrastructure. Assists in responding to emergencies and coordinating with other departments to ensure efficient and safe rail operations. Requires knowledge of rail operations, equipment operation, and safety protocols. This includes, but is not limited to, operating and maintaining rail equipment, conducting inspections, and providing technical assistance.
Essential Functions
• Job requirements include weighing trucks on scale; entering appropriate data into computer (price, product, weight, customer name, etc.)
• Collecting cash/checks; interfacing with company personnel and with outside haulers
• Generating bill of sale, dray tickets, and bills of lading
• Inspect all equipment on cars prior to movement. Instruct locomotive operator threw radio communication in coupling and uncoupling cars, operate switches, and make minor repairs to railcars, including replacing heavy couplings; i.e., replacing broken knuckles or air brake hoses
• Required to operate switches; operate uncoupling levers; operate remote control devices; sets/releases hand brakes; inspects and makes minor train repairs; comprehends color and/or hand signals, safety, operating rules and communications; and, switching activities and train movements
• Operate and maintain rail equipment, including locomotives, railcars, and other specialized equipment
• Conduct regular inspections of rail equipment to ensure safety and compliance with regulations
• Perform minor repairs and maintenance on rail equipment
• Receive and review directions from supervisor, lead man and clerk and discuss with locomotive engineer and other crew members
• The employee may work in high and/or precarious places or cramped work space that requires getting into awkward positions
• Must be able to stand, walk, or sit for extended periods of time; grip, climb, reach, shovel, squat, crawl, or pull, push, as well as, bend and lift up to 45 pounds
• Must be able to speak, read, and have a working knowledge of the English language if required for the position
• Performs start-up and shut down procedures and monitors material flow, load out settings throughout assigned responsible area, making adjustments as required to maximize production and to provide a quality product along with operating same such machines to load same finished product into rail car
• Comply with all safety rules and regulations
Critical Competencies
• Technical Expertise-Solid mechanical understanding of mobile equipment, including basic maintenance checks and troubleshooting minor issues. Ability to identify signs of equipment malfunction and report them to the maintenance team.
• Problem Solving- identify, analyze, and resolve work-related issues efficiently and effectively using practical knowledge, experience, and hands-on skills. This involves identifying the problem, diagnosing the cause, finding practical solutions, implementing fixes, and adapting to unexpected challenges.
• Safety Awareness- Ability to recognize, understand, and adhere to safety protocols and procedures in the workplace; proactive in identifying potential hazards, taking steps to mitigate risks, and ensuring that both personal and collective safety are maintained in all tasks and environments.
• Collaboration- Ability to work effectively with others to achieve common goals by fostering teamwork, open communication, and mutual respect. It involves actively listening, sharing ideas, problem-solving collectively, and leveraging diverse skills and perspectives. Strong collaboration requires adaptability, conflict resolution, and a willingness to support team members, ensuring productivity and a positive work environment.
• Adaptability: Adjusts to new conditions, challenges, or changes in the work environment; demonstrate the ability to be flexible, open-minded, and resilient when facing shifting priorities, unforeseen obstacles, or evolving situations; responds positively to change, learns new skills when necessary, and maintains high performance even in unfamiliar or uncertain circumstances.
Responsibilities
Education
• High School Diploma/GED or an equivalent combination of training and work experience.
Experience
• Office and clerical experience, word processing, and calculator operations are preferred.
• Knowledge of the rail weight regulations, capacities, and limitations is a plus.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
• Proficient in operating and maintaining rail equipment, including locomotives, railcars, and other specialized equipment.
• Strong mechanical and electrical skills
• Excellent communication skills
• Able to perform switching, loading/unloading, breaking or making up of trains.
• Must be able to operate hand controlled rail switches, pneumatic air valves, manual hand-wheel brakes on railcars, high pressure water hoses, pry bar and shovel
• Able to safely and efficiently operate rail load out through the use of conveyor belts, crushers, motor, gear boxes, screens, etc.
• Work outdoors and exposed to varying and/or extreme weather conditions (i.e., heat, wet, cold, etc.)
• Strong mechanical and electrical skills.
• Ability to read and understand technical manuals and schematic
Other Requirements
• Must be able to work required overtime, weekends and flexible work schedule as needed
• Travel with the train on its assigned route to protect the movement of train
• Maintain a clean and safe work environment
• Strong mechanical and electrical skills
• Valid driver's license
JD Disclaimer
Vulcan Materials Company is an equal opportunity employer.

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