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Light Rail Train Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Manager of Field Operations

San Jose, CA · On-site

$152K - $160K/yr

Hire new employees to fill vacancies; train new employees and provide continuing education for our ... light rail, streetcar, and freight rail projects. We believe our culture is at the heart of our ...

Manager of Field Operations

San Jose, CA · On-site

$152K - $160K/yr

Hire new employees to fill vacancies; train new employees and provide continuing education for our ... light rail, streetcar, and freight rail projects. We believe our culture is at the heart of our ...

... train control devices, and communication facilities located along the railroad system (i.e ... light rail, streetcar, and freight rail projects. We believe our culture is at the heart of our ...

... train control devices, and communication facilities located along the railroad system (i.e ... light rail, streetcar, and freight rail projects. We believe our culture is at the heart of our ...

Head Of Operations

Santa Fe Springs, CA · On-site

$150K - $190K/yr

... light rail vehicles. We proudly serve North American customers with advanced technologies that ... Supervise, train, and develop production supervisors, leads, and employees performing railcar ...

Head Of Operations

Santa Fe Springs, CA · On-site

$150K - $190K/yr

... light rail vehicles. We proudly serve North American customers with advanced technologies that ... Supervise, train, and develop production supervisors, leads, and employees performing railcar ...

... passenger rail cars as required per train schedules. They must adhere to and maintain strict ... Replaces light bulbs. * Follows Drummac guidelines for conduct. * Keeps area around dumpsters clean ...

Showing results 21-40

Light Rail Train information

See California salary details

$20

$25

$29

How much do light rail train jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for light rail train in California is $25.30, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.70 and $27.07 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Light Rail Train vs Bus Driver?

AspectLight Rail TrainBus Driver
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, specialized transit training, possibly a commercial driver's license (CDL) with passenger endorsementHigh school diploma, CDL with passenger endorsement
Work EnvironmentRail stations, tracks, dedicated transit corridorsOn-road, city streets, highways
Industry UsagePublic transit agencies, urban rail systemsPublic transit, private companies, school districts
Job FocusOperating and maintaining light rail vehicles on fixed routesDriving buses safely, managing passenger needs

While both Light Rail Train operators and Bus Drivers work in public transportation, Light Rail Train operators focus on operating rail vehicles on fixed tracks within urban transit systems, requiring specialized training. Bus Drivers operate on roads, navigating city streets, and often require a CDL with passenger endorsement. Each role involves passenger safety and customer service but differs in environment and vehicle operation.

What is a light rail train operator?

A Light Rail Train operator is a professional responsible for operating light rail vehicles that run on tracks, usually within urban areas. They ensure the safe and timely transportation of passengers, monitor train controls, communicate with dispatchers, and respond to emergencies or unexpected situations. Light rail operators also assist passengers with boarding and exiting, make announcements, and check that safety protocols are followed. Their role is crucial for the efficient functioning of public transit systems.

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 generally need a high school diploma or equivalent, a valid driver’s license, and comprehensive knowledge of transit safety regulations and operating procedures. Familiarity with train control systems, signaling technology, and sometimes completion of specialized transit authority certification programs is typical. Strong attention to detail, situational awareness, and excellent communication skills help operators effectively manage routes and interact with passengers. These skills and qualifications are essential to ensure the safe, timely, and efficient operation of light rail services in urban environments.

What are some common challenges faced by light rail train operators, and how can they be managed on the job?

Light Rail Train Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining punctuality during peak hours, handling unexpected technical issues, and ensuring passenger safety under varying conditions. Operators must stay alert and follow protocols for managing delays, communicating with dispatchers, and responding calmly to emergencies or passenger concerns. Continuous training and collaboration with maintenance and station staff help operators effectively address these challenges and maintain smooth operations.
What are popular job titles related to Light Rail Train jobs in California? For Light Rail Train jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Light Rail Train jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Light Rail Train jobs in California are:
Infographic showing various Light Rail Train job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,626 per year, or $25.3 per hour.

Manager of Field Operations

Herzog

San Jose, CA • On-site

$152K - $160K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental

Posted 26 days ago


Herzog rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 27 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

117th of 278 rated repair and maintenance companies


Job description

Overview

TransitAmerica Services, Inc. is currently seeking a Manager of Field Operations in San Jose, CA to join our team.

The range for this position is $152,000.00 - $160,000.00 annually.

Duties and Responsibilities:

*This is a non-exhaustive overview of the job duties for this position.

  • Manage the operational testing program by observing, documenting, and evaluating safe work practices per GCOR, ABTH, and Safety Rules, communicating results and utilizing progressive discipline, if necessary.  Facilitate employee meetings and programs to emphasize safety and address safety issues. 
  • Conduct accident/incident investigations; prepare associated reports for derailments, personal injuries, etc.
  • Meet the strategic and tactical goals of our key measurements by managing equipment and staff, reporting results and recommending solutions.  Metrics include but are not limited to safety, on time performance by segment, customer service, budgetary compliance, “Transit Safe” and staffing.
  • Exercises leadership and supervision over rail operations which are composed of operations managers, and TE&Y.  Provide counsel and guidance of, and render performance appraisal evaluation of, personnel.  Recommend personnel actions such as promotions, demotions and disciplinary action.
  • Assume a leadership role during service disruptions and subsequent recovery in the supervision of crew, and equipment utilization, as well as passenger notifications.
  • Grow strong relationships through daily communication with other departments to achieve budgetary and key performance goals; decrease fuel consumption using fuel conservation methods.
  • Hire new employees to fill vacancies; train new employees and provide continuing education for our existing employees, in accordance with federal regulations and company policies.
  • May serve as a first responder to critical incidents.
  • Work hours may vary in length and schedule.  Work hours may include a nonstandard work week, various shift work, including weekends, and holidays.
  • Work hours may include on call seven days a week, 24 hours per day.
  • Will attend mandatory meetings with the client and other required meetings 
  • Regular and consistent engagement, participation and promotion of Herzog’s Culture and its essential behaviors are a requirement for this position.
  • Regular and predictable attendance and punctuality are a requirement for this position.”
  • Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • A minimum of five years’ work experience in transportation operations or related field, with a minimum of three years of supervisory experience in a rail operational environment is preferred, but not necessary.
  • Railroad industry knowledge.
  • Microsoft Office skills.
  • Financial concepts/procedures.
  • Human resources concepts/procedures.
  • Regulatory and railroad operating rules proficiency.

 

Pre-Employment Requirements:

  • Subject to pre-employment background check and motor vehicle report review.
  • Maintain a valid driver’s license and endorsements as required per position.
  • Subject to pre-employment physical, medical evaluation, and drug screen due to the safety sensitive nature of this position.
  • Successfully complete and maintain any required safety certification and testing on an annual basis.

Physical Requirements:

The physical demands described below must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential job functions of this role. This is a non-exhaustive overview of the physical requirements of this job.

  • Perform light work, occasionally exerting up to 20 pounds of force.
  • Able to walk on uneven surfaces.
  • Occasionally ascend/descend step ladders and/or stairs.
  • Regularly sit and stand for an extended period of time.
  • Regularly kneel, bend, and squat.
  • Must successfully pass color/vision examinations as required by the position.
  • Must be able to hear and distinguish auditory signals.
  • Able to work in conditions with loud noise; work on/around heavy/moving machinery.
  • Able to work outdoors in all weather conditions (hot, cold, rain, snow, and sleet).

Safety:

  • Herzog is nationally recognized for its excellent corporate safety record which results from all employees at all levels, in all positions adhering to established policies and procedures. Reporting any and all safety violations to your immediate supervisor is a prerequisite for continued employment. Safety diligence by all results in a safe work environment for all. 

Benefits:

  • Herzog offers a robust benefits package including medical and dental coverage. The plans are specific to projects and locations.

Why Herzog:

Founded in 1969, Herzog is headquartered in St. Joseph, Missouri, with a satellite office in Fort Worth, Texas.

Over the course of our 50+ year history, Herzog has become a national leader in the construction, operations and maintenance of commuter rail, light rail, streetcar, and freight rail projects. 

We believe our culture is at the heart of our existence. It is that belief which empowers every member of our professional family to act with purpose and passion as they advance their career throughout their personal pursuit of excellence.

Backed by over five decades of experience, Herzog delivers exceptional customer service and elite results. 

Our success is the outcome of our relentless pursuit of excellence, our passion for our customers, safety without compromise, and a deep-rooted belief in the power of team.

We invite you to join us on our journey to excellence as we work to be better today than yesterday and better tomorrow than today.

It is the policy of TransitAmerica Services, Inc. to provide equal opportunity in employment for all qualified individuals regardless of race, color, religion, ethnicity, national origin, ancestry, disability, medical condition, age, citizenship, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, pregnancy, genetic information, military status, veteran status, and any other characteristic protected by law.

Qualifications:UNAVAILABLEEducation:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: UNAVAILABLE

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