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Light Rail Train Operator Jobs in Elizabeth, NJ (NOW HIRING)

HDR

Senior Rail Systems Manager

New York, NY · On-site

Project work will include overhead contact wire distribution design for Streetcar, Electrified Bus, Light Rail, Heavy Rail, Commuter Rail and High Speed Rail Projects operating on Overhead Contact ...

HDR

Senior Rail Systems Manager

New York, NY · On-site

Project work will include overhead contact wire distribution design for Streetcar, Electrified Bus, Light Rail, Heavy Rail, Commuter Rail and High Speed Rail Projects operating on Overhead Contact ...

ACI-Herzog - 244

Track Supervisor

Jersey City, NJ

$100K - $115K/yr

In addition to the Joint Venture being the upcoming operator/maintainer of the Hudson Bergen Light Rail, we currently jointly operate the Tren Urbano heavy rail service in San Juan, Puerto Rico and ...

ACI-Herzog - 244

IT Manager

Jersey City, NJ

$100K/yr

... operator/maintainer of the Hudson Bergen Light Rail, we currently jointly operate the Tren Urbano ... Participate in hiring; establish expectations; coach, train, and evaluate personnel; address ...

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All JobsLight Rail Train Operator JobsLight Rail Train Operator Jobs in Elizabeth, NJ

Light Rail Train Operator information

See Elizabeth, NJ salary details

$8

$28

$69

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

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for light rail train operator in Elizabeth, NJ is $28.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.47 and $34.15 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 job categories do people searching Light Rail Train Operator jobs in Elizabeth, NJ look for?

The top searched job categories for Light Rail Train Operator jobs in Elizabeth, NJ are:

What cities near Elizabeth, NJ are hiring for Light Rail Train Operator jobs?

Cities near Elizabeth, NJ 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 Elizabeth, NJ as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,917 per year, or $28.3 per hour.

Rail Operator (Night Shift)

Interstate Waste Services

Kearny, NJ • On-site

$20 - $23/hr

Other

Posted 8 days ago

Interstate Waste Services rating

5.5

Company rating: 5.5 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

78th of 91 rated recycling and waste

Job description

Interstate Waste Services is the most progressive and innovative provider of solid waste and recycling services in the greater New York, New Jersey and Connecticut markets with a rail-served landfill in Ohio!  IWS is committed to delivering high-quality waste, recycling and environmental services, while prioritizing the safety of our employees, customers and communities. We cater to a diverse range of industrial, medical and commercial/residential customers. 

Founded in 1998, IWS has grown over the years through acquisitions, many of which were family-owned businesses that remain a part of our team today. We’re proud to combine the resources of a large company with the values and care of a family-run business. 


  • Conduct railcar and train movements; signal crew members for movement of the engine or train using lantern, hand, and/or flag signals or radio to indicate when to start, stop, back up, or set or release air brakes
  • Observe, interpret, and relay arm, lantern or radio signals and all other indications affecting movement of a train
  • Operate track switches (visually check switch condition and direction) to change the direction of the engine or cars within yard limits or on the main railroad; apply or release hand brakes to switch or perform other duties
  • Inspect the condition of the train and equipment in movement and while stationary
  • Couple air connections between railcars and railcar movers when making up trains
  • Assist with other projects and perform other duties as assigned
  • Ensure compliance with all train orders, signals, and railroad rules and regulations for safety, operations, and the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA)
  • Monitor track conditions and report any issues
  • Perform ER checks utilizing technology in the form of a tablet and/or computer for all arriving and departing trains
  • Follow OSHA safety standards and wear required PPE

  • Applicants must be at least 18 years of age and legally eligible to work in the United States.
  • Ability to utilize technology in the form of a tablet and/or computer
  • High school/GED education completed, higher education is a plus
  • Must be able to lift/push/pull at least 50 pounds
  • Minimum 1 year of rail conducting experience
  • Able to work in an outdoor environment on a constant basis while being exposed to variable weather conditions, temperatures, chemicals, dust, fumes, smells, and loud noises.

This job description is intended to be an accurate representation of the general functions of the job, rather than exhaustive list of duties, responsibilities, or experience. Other duties may be assigned, requested, or required. Aspects of the job may be altered without notice.

 

Interstate Waste Services provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.


USD $20.00/Hr.
USD $23.00/Hr.

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