1

Light Rail Vehicle Operator Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Basic Function The Light Rail Train Operator Trainee is required to complete the training class to ... Operates vehicle in the storage yard and into and out of the maintenance building. * Interacts with ...

Basic Function The Light Rail Train Operator Trainee is required to complete the training class to ... Operates vehicle in the storage yard and into and out of the maintenance building. * Interacts with ...

... operating and maintenance procedures. * Operates METRORail non-revenue vehicles to include rail car ... Light Rail Vehicle. Must score at least 55% or higher on the technical competency test. T3 LRV ...

LRV Technician (External Posting)

Houston, TX · On-site

$35K - $45K/yr

... operating and maintenance procedures. * Operates METRORail non-revenue vehicles to include rail car ... Light Rail Vehicle. Must score at least 55% or higher on the technical competency test. T3 LRV ...

LRV Technician (External Posting)

Houston, TX · On-site

$35K - $45K/yr

... operating and maintenance procedures. * Operates METRORail non-revenue vehicles to include rail car ... Light Rail Vehicle. Must score at least 55% or higher on the technical competency test. T3 LRV ...

... operating and maintenance procedures. * Operates METRORail non-revenue vehicles to include rail car ... Light Rail Vehicle. Must score at least 55% or higher on the technical competency test. T3 LRV ...

Mechanic

Austin, TX · On-site

$24.75 - $32.75/hr

... rail vehicle mechanical, electrical, electronic, pneumatic, and hydraulic systems. Duties and ... Comply with all safety, operating and maintenance procedures. * Must demonstrate ability to work in ...

Mechanic

Austin, TX

$24.75 - $32.75/hr

... rail vehicle mechanical, electrical, electronic, pneumatic, and hydraulic systems. Duties and ... Comply with all safety, operating and maintenance procedures. * Must demonstrate ability to work in ...

Previous experience operating rail carts or similar industrial vehicles preferred. * Strong understanding of safety procedures and protocols. * Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and handle ...

Previous experience operating rail carts or similar industrial vehicles preferred. * Strong understanding of safety procedures and protocols. * Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and handle ...

Position Summary The Light Equipment Operator position performs duties in conjunction with the ... Environmental and Physical Working Conditions Driving a District vehicle for business will be ...

Conducts daily inspections of vehicles and equipment prior to use each day. Operates a variety of ... operating light equipment; OR an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.

Light Equipment Operator

Victoria, TX · On-site

$17.24 - $20.39/hr

... vehicles and equipment prior to use each day. • Operates a variety of equipment to assist with ... operating light equipment; OR an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.

An Overhead Contact Systems use an overhead wire to supply electricity to mass transit vehicles such as light rail trains and streetcars. As a junior team member, you will contribute to the design of ...

An Overhead Contact Systems use an overhead wire to supply electricity to mass transit vehicles such as light rail trains and streetcars. As a junior team member, you will contribute to the design of ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Light Rail Vehicle Operator information

See Texas salary details

$12

$22

$29

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

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for light rail vehicle operator in Texas is $22.27, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.47 and $24.42 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a light rail vehicle operator?

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.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a light rail vehicle operator?

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 challenges do light rail vehicle operators face during their shifts?

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.

How much do light rail vehicle operators make?

Light rail vehicle operators typically earn an average annual salary of around $50,000 to $60,000, depending on experience, location, and union agreements. They often require a commercial driver's license and safety training, and may work flexible hours including weekends and holidays.

What cities in Texas are hiring for Light Rail Vehicle Operator jobs?

Cities in Texas with the most Light Rail Vehicle Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Light Rail Vehicle Operator job openings in Texas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 61% Full Time, 36% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,326 per year, or $22.3 per hour.

Light Rail Train Operator Trainee

Houston, TX

Full-time, Part-time

Re-posted 12 days ago


Job description

Basic Function

The Light Rail Train Operator Trainee is required to complete the training class to be become a full-time LRT Operator.  Upon successful completion of training, the LRT Operator Trainee will become certified and reclassified to the position of LRT Operator.  Training includes classroom and on-the-job environment and requires working outside and in inclement weather conditions.  Reporting and shift times, as well as days off may vary during the training process.  LRT Operators are required to clearly understand the requirements and responsibilities for the position of LRT Operator as stated on the job description and become knowledgeable with METRORail policies and procedures, Labor Agreement, Employee Performance Codes and Work Rules.  Performs duties in a safe, efficient manner and in compliance with all applicable rules and safety procedures.

Responsibilities and Specific Duties
  • Must pass all safety and training standards and obtain certification as an LRT Operator.
  • Upon completion of training the new full-time LRT Operator will report to assigned rail operating facility (ROC or S&I) based upon staffing needs of the facilities at the time of graduation.  
  • Full-Time LRT Operators will remain at the assigned facility for up to six (6) months unless there is a general sign-up, or whichever occurs first.  Full-Time LRT Operators shifts vary and may work holidays or weekends.
  • Operates LRV's in accordance with METRORail policies, procedures and rulebook.
  • Maintains METRORail schedules and running times.
  • Operates vehicle in the storage yard and into and out of the maintenance building.
  • Interacts with passengers in a professional manner, answers questions, provides information and addresses concerns of riders.
  • Operates radio system in accordance with set radio protocols and FCC regulations, notifying Train Control Center of appropriate information regarding emergency situations and other operational situations.
  • Troubleshoots mechanical and electrical failures of vehicle using on board diagnostic equipment.  Utilizes circuit breakers, brake cutouts and bypass switches under the direction of Rail Supervisors and TCC as appropriate.
  • Announces station stops in event of service interruption or failure of automated announcement equipment.
  • Performs LRV safety checks and inspections in accordance with set procedures.
  • Operates electric and manual track switches as required.
  • Works flagging duties as assigned.
  • Assists in the acceptance and commissioning of new light rail vehicles and test operations.
  • Requires successful completion of Vehicle Familiarization Course for all light rail vehicles.
  • Successfully completes vendor-training courses for vehicle and wayside equipment as required.
  • Completes all accident/incident forms, logs and completes associated required paperwork.
  • Maintains a safe clean work environment.
  • Safely operates METRORail non-revenue vehicles.
  • Provides excellent customer service to METRO internal and external customers.
  • Promotes safety awareness and follows safety procedures to reduce or eliminate accidents.
  • Performs other job-related duties as assigned.
Education Requirement

High school diploma or equivalent is required.

Years & Experience Required

INTERNAL APPLICANTS
Minimum six (6) months as part time or full time METRO Bus Operator or one (1) year as METRO employee.  Acceptable work record to include but not limited to: No suspensions, no more than one (1) reprimand, three (3) misses or less and no preventable vehicular accidents within the preceding twelve (12) months of application. 
EXTERNAL APPLICANTS
Must have current driving record with no tickets or accidents within three (3) years of application. Transportation experience desirable. Must have a minimum of three (3) years of consistent work history. Customer service experience, working with the public; ability to work independently as well as part of a team; willing to work all shifts and split shifts, weekends and holiday.  Must pass a pre-employment background investigation and a drug and alcohol screen.  No job related felony/misdemeanors.  Criminal convictions are reviewed on a case-by-case basis and the job relatedness is determined by METRO.

 
ALL APPLICANTS
Must be 21 years or older
Pass all pre-selection testing
Meet all physical requirements to include medical examinations and pre-selection physical assessment
Valid Texas drivers' license required and must be able to maintain

Disqualifying Criteria:  Two or more DUI or DWI convictions with no time limit; any DUI or DWI convictions within the preceding three (3) years; invalid, suspended, or revoked drivers' license and no more than two (2) moving violations in the past 3 years.

Knowledge & Skills Required
  • Valid Texas Driver's License is required.
  • Must obtain certification as an LRT Operator and maintain annual certification
  • Ability to pass all safety and training courses.
  • Must know or become knowledgeable of METRORail policies and procedures and the METRORail rulebook.
  • Ability to communicate proficiently both verbally and written.
  • Ability to accurately complete written reports, records and forms.
  • Bilingual ability is a plus.
Additional Information

The Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County, Texas has a zero tolerance drug and alcohol policy for all employees. All internal and external applicants will be required to undergo drug testing before employment and will be subject to further drug and/or alcohol testing throughout their employment.

Further, employees who perform safety-sensitive functions will submit to drug and/or alcohol testing in accordance to the Department of Transportation (DOT) and the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) regulatory requirements.

We provide equal opportunity to all qualified individuals regardless of race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, veteran status, genetic information or disability.