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Light Rail Train Operator Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

CN

Rail Track Maintainer

Baudette, MN · On-site

$34.84/hr

Maintain CN's train rails, ties, switches and ballasts through inspection, repair, and replacement ... Experience operating heavy equipment and machinery. * High School Diploma, General Education ...

CN

Rail Track Maintainer

Virginia, MN · On-site

$34.84/hr

Maintain CN's train rails, ties, switches and ballasts through inspection, repair, and replacement ... Experience operating heavy equipment and machinery. * High School Diploma, General Education ...

CN

Rail Track Maintainer

Iron, MN · On-site

$34.84/hr

Maintain CN's train rails, ties, switches and ballasts through inspection, repair, and replacement ... Experience operating heavy equipment and machinery. * High School Diploma, General Education ...

Metropolitan Council

Community Service Officer

Saint Paul, MN · On-site

$29.39 - $47.67/hr

Provide pedestrian control at light rail stations. May use handcuffs, chemical irritants to control ... operating and maintenance instructions and procedure manuals * Accurately copy data from one source ...

C S McCrossan, Inc.

Operator

Maple Grove, MN · On-site

$30.84 - $52.81/hr

We have also managed, or joint ventured several light rail transit projects in the Twin Cities. C ... Operators will operate various pieces of heavy equipment including but not limited to: cranes ...

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All JobsLight Rail Train Operator JobsLight Rail Train Operator Jobs in Minnesota

Light Rail Train Operator information

See Minnesota salary details

$7

$27

$67

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

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for light rail train operator in Minnesota is $27.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.08 and $33.17 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 Minnesota? For Light Rail Train Operator jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Light Rail Train Operator jobs in Minnesota look for? The top searched job categories for Light Rail Train Operator jobs in Minnesota are:
What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Light Rail Train Operator jobs? Cities in Minnesota 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 Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,221 per year, or $27.5 per hour.

Rail Track Maintainer

Canadian National Railway Company

Baudette, MN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 17 days ago

Canadian National Railway rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 49 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

136th of 360 rated logistics

Job description

Rail Track Maintainer

At CN, we are committed to our pursuit of excellence. We take pride in delivering work of the highest standard, continually innovating to shape the railroad of the future. As responsible railroaders, we make the right decisions every time, putting safety first, acting with unwavering integrity, and holding ourselves accountable for our actions. We believe in succeeding together-by fostering inclusivity and collaboration, we sustainably deliver exceptional results for our customers.

If you are a skilled trades person or interested in skilled trades and continuous learning in a safety-focused environment, working at CN could be a great fit for you. You'll be working on all types of equipment and structures designed to support the distribution of freight across North America. Enjoy paid training and evolve your skills. The careers we offer are meaningful because the work we do matters. Join us and get your career moving!  

Job Summary

The Rail Track Maintainer is responsible for inspecting, repairing and replacing rails, ties, switches and ballasts. The role is performed outdoors in various types of weather and environmental conditions and ensures a safe working environment.

Working Conditions
  • Shift work, with overtime when required.
  • Long periods of travel required, including overnight.
  • Primarily work outdoors in all weather conditions.
  • Repetitive physical activity.
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds frequently, and up to 70 pounds occasionally.
Major Responsibilities
  • Maintain CN's train rails, ties, switches and ballasts through inspection, repair, and replacement.
  • Maintain various hand tools for assigned work.
  • Remove and replace defective ties, rails spikes, and anchors.
  • Repair deviations in track surface, alignment, and gauge.
  • Install and repair street and railroad crossings and assist in the replacement or repair of items such as power-operated switches and insulated joints.
  • Unload ballasts and distribute track material.
  • Sort used track material for loading.
  • Ensure railroad right-of-way is clear of brush, vegetation, snow and litter.
  • Ensure a safe working environment, by following CN's safety policies and procedures.
Requirements
  • Relevant work experience in similar working conditions or regulatory and safety environment.
  • Experience operating heavy equipment and machinery.
  • High School Diploma, General Education Diploma (GED), or equivalent.
  • Valid driver's license.
  • Must be at least 18 years of age.
  • Must meet all medical fitness for duty requirements for the position, including requirements for Safety.
  • Ability to work autonomously, adapt to different situations and handle stress.
  • Demonstrate good teamwork and maintain positive interactions with others.
  • Dedicated to getting the job done while meeting established standards of quality, safety, productivity and client satisfaction.
  • Displays common sense and good judgment.
  • Hand-eye coordination.
  • Grasping skills
Assets
  • Welding skills
  • Knowledge of signals or Railroad Operating Rules
What We Offer
  • Competitive Wages, Benefits, and Pension Plan
  • Paid Training and Career Development
  • Medical, vision, and dental insurance
  • 24/7 Telemedicine Service
  • Employee Share Investment Plan
  • Educational Financial Assistance Program
  • Employee Resource Groups (ERGs)
  • Extensive Employee Discount Program
  • Employee & Family Assistance Program (EFAP)
Paid Training

Successful candidates will take part in a paid 5-week training program at a CN Campus (Homewood, IL) with additional on-the-job training to help ensure that they have received the adequate knowledge to operate in accordance with regulatory requirements and CN's safety standards. The training is primarily on health and safety rules as successful completion of the classroom and on-the-job training is required to continue employment as a Track Maintainer at CN.

Successful Candidate Process:

  • Medical assessment (including drug, hearing, and vision).
  • Criminal background check.
  • Offer Letter

Paid Training Structure:

  • 5 weeks at CN Campus (Homewood, IL) 

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