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Light Rail Vehicle Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SoundTransit

Light Rail Vehicle Operator

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$29.56/hr

Operating passenger light rail vehicles in accordance with applicable traffic laws. * Safely operating passenger light rail vehicles in accordance with applicable traffic laws. * Performing ...

Sound Transit

Light Rail Vehicle Operator

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$29.56/hr

Operating passenger light rail vehicles in accordance with applicable traffic laws. * Safely operating passenger light rail vehicles in accordance with applicable traffic laws. * Performing ...

Sound Transit

Light Rail Vehicle Operator

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$29.56/hr

Operating passenger light rail vehicles in accordance with applicable traffic laws. * Safely operating passenger light rail vehicles in accordance with applicable traffic laws. * Performing ...

Gohrt

Light Rail Vehicle Operator Trainee

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$23/hr

Ability to learn troubleshooting of HRT's Light Rail Vehicles. * Ability to communicate orally with ... Ability to read and understand training materials, operating manuals and operating and safety rules ...

MSCCN

Light Rail Vehicle Technician

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$37.14 - $46.43/hr

... light rail vehicles (LRVs) to include specialized systems and components as well as related ... owned and operated by the District; troubleshoots emergencies and/or operational problems ...

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Light Rail Vehicle Operator information

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

As of Jul 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for light rail vehicle operator in the United States is $23.91, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.91 and $26.20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Light Rail Vehicle Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Light Rail Vehicle Operator, you need a valid driver’s license, knowledge of transit regulations, and the ability to safely operate rail vehicles, often requiring completion of specialized training or certification programs. Familiarity with train control systems, communication devices, and fare collection equipment is typically essential. Strong attention to detail, calmness under pressure, and effective communication with passengers and dispatch make operators stand out. These skills and qualifications ensure safe, timely, and customer-focused transit service for the public.

What are some common challenges Light Rail Vehicle Operators face during their shifts, and how are they addressed?

Light Rail Vehicle Operators often encounter challenges such as managing unpredictable traffic conditions, maintaining strict adherence to schedules, and ensuring passenger safety during peak travel times. Operators are trained to stay alert, communicate effectively with dispatchers, and follow established safety protocols. Regular refresher training and strong support from supervisors help operators address these issues, ensuring a safe and reliable transit experience for all passengers.

What is the difference between Light Rail Vehicle Operator vs Bus Driver?

AspectLight Rail Vehicle OperatorBus Driver
CredentialsDriver's license, sometimes specialized transit certificationCommercial driver's license (CDL)
Work EnvironmentOperate trains on fixed tracks in urban areasDrive buses on designated routes on roads
Employer & IndustryTransit agencies, rail systemsPublic and private transportation companies
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for transit operation rolesSimilar public transportation jobs

Both roles involve operating vehicles for public transit, requiring specific licenses and working in urban environments. While Light Rail Vehicle Operators focus on trains on fixed tracks, Bus Drivers operate on roads with flexible routes. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find the right transit role based on credentials and work setting.

What are Light Rail Vehicle Operators?

Light Rail Vehicle Operators are professionals responsible for operating light rail trains that transport passengers along predetermined urban routes. They ensure the safe and timely operation of the vehicles, monitor passenger safety, and adhere to traffic regulations and schedules. Their duties also include communicating with dispatchers, assisting passengers as needed, and responding effectively to emergencies or unexpected situations. Light Rail Vehicle Operators must have thorough knowledge of safety protocols and the ability to remain alert and focused throughout their shifts.
More about Light Rail Vehicle Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Light Rail Vehicle Operator jobs? Cities with the most Light Rail Vehicle Operator job openings:
What states have the most Light Rail Vehicle Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Light Rail Vehicle Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Light Rail Vehicle Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Light Rail Vehicle Operator jobs are:
Light Rail Vehicle Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Light Rail Vehicle Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,725 per year, or $23.9 per hour.

Light Rail Vehicle Operator

ACI-Herzog - 244

Jersey City, NJ

$38.63/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

Alternate Concepts, Inc. (ACI) and Herzog Transit Services, Inc. (HTSI), collectively the ACI/Herzog Joint Venture, along with our key subcontractors are seeking applicants for the Hudson Bergen Light Rail operation located in Hudson County, New Jersey. ACI was founded in 1989 with their corporate office located in Boston, MA and Herzog founded in 1969 with corporate offices located in St. Joseph, MO and Fort Worth, TX. Combined our companies provide FRA/FTA compliant transportation, equipment maintenance, dispatching, right-of-way maintenance, facility maintenance and dispatching services for 20 distinct client properties. 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 the CTDOT’s Hartford intercity service in Connecticut.

ACI/Herzog Joint Venture, along with our key subcontractors are currently seeking Light Rail Vehicle Operators to join our team.

The pay rate for this position is $16.15/hour (6-month probationary period) with a full rate of $38.63/hour upon completion of 6-month probationary period.

The Light Rail Vehicle Operator operates Hudson Bergen Light Rail (HBLR) light rail vehicles (LRV) in a safe, dependable, efficient, and on-time manner to provide transportation services for patrons.

Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Safely operates light rail vehicles in revenue and non-revenue service in accordance with established operating rules/procedures, and published schedules; makes all required station stops/customer service announcements and provides assistance to customers as required.
  • Communicates via a two-way radio system in accordance with HBLR rules, practices and policies.
  • Understand rail transit system components (track, switches, signals, etc.)
  • Performs light rail vehicle troubleshooting activities under the direction and guidance of the Operations Control Center or Field/Line Supervision.
  • Coordinate closely with Supervisors and other staff to ensure the safety, comfort and convenience of all passengers
  • Performs required pre-trip inspections of light rail vehicles prior to pulling train out of yard including conducting internal/external visual inspection of train, pre-testing all required control equipment, ensuring all required safety devices are intact/functional.
  • Serves as On-Scene Coordinator as assigned for safety events.
  • In the event of an emergency assist in the evacuation of passengers from an LRV onto the station, platform or right of way
  • Provides Roadway Worker Protection such as flagging protection for personnel working on or about the right-of-way.
  • Prepares written reports and completes accident/incident reports thoroughly, accurately and legibly at the end of shifts as required.
  • Works various shifts and days as required. 24/7 availability. Days, Night and Holidays.
  • Regular and consistent engagement, participation and promotion of ACI-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.

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