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Light Rail Train Operator Jobs in Massachusetts (NOW HIRING)

Knowledge of various rail modes such as Commuter Rail, Light Rail, and / or Streetcar preferred ... Performs technical analyses and due diligences in areas such as train operations, planning and ...

Knowledge of various rail modes such as Commuter Rail, Light Rail, and / or Streetcar preferred ... Performs technical analyses and due diligences in areas such as train and infrastructure ...

Knowledge of various rail modes such as Commuter Rail, Light Rail, and / or Streetcar preferred ... Leads technical analyses and due diligences in areas such as operations, train and infrastructure ...

Hands-on engineering work within the light rail, subway, and commuter rail environment including ... Develop technical specifications for the new and upgraded train equipment and systems. * Review ...

Hands-on engineering work within the light rail, subway, and commuter rail environment including ... Develop technical specifications for the new and upgraded train equipment and systems. * Review ...

Hands‑on engineering work within the light rail, subway, and commuter rail environment including ... Develop technical specifications for the new and upgraded train equipment and systems. * Review ...

Hands-on engineering work within the light rail, subway, and commuter rail environment including ... Develop technical specifications for the new and upgraded train equipment and systems. * Review ...

Passenger Concierge

Boston, MA · On-site

$16.75 - $21.75/hr

Railroad Retirement Benefits - a federal program that administers retirement, survivor ... Solari Operator * Responsible for the timely operation of the Train Information Display System to ...

MA

$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 ...

MA

$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 ...

MA

$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 ...

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Light Rail Train Operator information

See Massachusetts salary details

$8

$30

$74

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 Massachusetts is $30.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.44 and $36.62 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 Massachusetts?

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

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Light Rail Train Operator job openings in Massachusetts 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 $63,178 per year, or $30.4 per hour.

Rail Operations SME

Keolis America

Boston, MA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 27 days ago


Job description

Knowledge and Experience:

  • A minimum of 5 years of Rail operations experience required
  • Knowledge of various rail modes such as Commuter Rail, Light Rail, and / or Streetcar preferred
  • Knowledge of Operations of DMUs and EMUs required
  • Knowledge of FRA and FTA regulations required
  • Knowledge of Customer Service, Mobilizations / Transitions, Planning & Scheduling, Safety & Training, and / or Security, Labor / Unions as it applies to operations, required
  • Must have experience writing technical documents (including but not limited to plans, SOPs, etc.)
  • Experience working on pursuits preferred
  • College degree preferred

 

Skills:

  • Excellent writing skills
  • Excellent communication skills

 

Key Accountabilities:

Business Development

  • Lead Operations SME and technical writer for pursuits
  • Performs technical analyses and due diligences in areas such as train operations, planning and scheduling and run cutting and rostering
  • Performs research and reviews of documents and plans, with a focus on Customer Service, Mobilizations / Transitions, Planning & Scheduling, Safety & Training, and / or Security, Labor / Unions as it applies to operations, required
  • Develops operations plans and standard operating procedures (SOPs)Participates in technical reviews and discussions
  • Assist with pricing activities

Collaboration

  • Collaborates with other team members including Project Director/Manager, Operations and Pricing, and other support functions
  • Supports other activities as needed by the Technical Director and the VP of Rail Development

Additional Statements:

  • Drug and alcohol screening: Employment contingent upon passing pre-employment drug and alcohol screen. Also, contingent upon receiving a favorable background check. Must pass a physical examination.
  • Safety commitment: Safety is a way of life at Keolis. By placing safety first, we ensure the wellbeing of our employees, customers, and communities. Together we can become the most successful transportation company in the world. 
  • Environmental commitment: Keolis is committed to protecting the environment by minimizing the impact of operations to our people and the communities in which we operate.
  • EEO statement: Our policy is to afford Equal Employment Opportunity to qualified individuals regardless of their race, color, sex, religion, age, creed, marital status, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation, or gender identification. We maintain a drug-free workplace and perform pre-employment substance abuse testing.

 

  • Disclaimer and closing statement: The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by employees assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of employees assigned to this job. Keolis is committed to offering our employees competitive compensation and benefits, opportunities for development and growth throughout an exciting and rewarding career, and the safest work environment possible