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Light Rail Vehicle Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Rail Vehicle Mechanic

Phoenix, AZ Β· On-site

$27.49 - $34.36/hr

Light Rail Vehicle Maintenance Technician Purpose of Role: Ensure vehicle safety, reliability and readiness through Light Rail Vehicle (LRV) mechanical systems maintenance and repair, expert service ...

Rail Vehicle Mechanic

Phoenix, AZ Β· On-site

$27.49 - $34.36/hr

Light Rail Vehicle (LRV) Mechanic Purpose of Role: Ensure vehicle safety, reliability and readiness through Light Rail Vehicle (LRV) mechanical systems maintenance and repair, expert service and ...

Salary: $72,000 This position is responsible for the day-to-day supervision and direction of all light rail vehicles and track maintenance vehicles. Also, the completion of operating forms/documents ...

Rail Hostler

Norfolk, VA Β· On-site

$23.67/hr

Operates Light Rail Vehicles within the confines of the storage yard and maintenance building. Operates a variety of non-revenue equipment in varying operating situations as required. * Performs ...

Rail Hostler

Norfolk, VA Β· On-site

$23.67/hr

Operates Light Rail Vehicles within the confines of the storage yard and maintenance building. Operates a variety of non-revenue equipment in varying operating situations as required. * Performs ...

LRV Maintenance Supervisor

Phoenix, AZ Β· On-site

$38.45 - $48.06/hr

Light Rail Vehicle Maintenance Supervisor Purpose of Role: Ensure Light Rail Vehicle (LRV) fleet ... Liaising between operators and maintenance teams. * Communication and interpersonal skills to ...

Rail Vehicle Mechanic

Phoenix, AZ Β· On-site

$27.49 - $41.23/hr

Ensure vehicle safety, reliability and readiness through Light Rail Vehicle (LRV) mechanical systems maintenance and repair, expert service and emergency responsiveness. This position is designated ...

Rail Vehicle Mechanic

Phoenix, AZ Β· On-site

$27.49 - $41.23/hr

Ensure vehicle safety, reliability and readiness through Light Rail Vehicle (LRV) mechanical systems maintenance and repair, expert service and emergency responsiveness. This position is designated ...

LRV Maintenance Supervisor

Phoenix, AZ Β· On-site

$38.45 - $57.67/hr

Ensure Light Rail Vehicle (LRV) fleet readiness by supervising light rail vehicle maintenance staff ... Liaising between operators and maintenance teams. * Communication and interpersonal skills to ...

Rail Vehicle Mechanic

Phoenix, AZ Β· On-site

$27.49 - $41.23/hr

Ensure vehicle safety, reliability and readiness through Light Rail Vehicle (LRV) mechanical systems maintenance and repair, expert service and emergency responsiveness. This position is designated ...

Showing results 21-40

Light Rail Vehicle Operator information

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$13

$23

$31

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

As of Sep 13, 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 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.
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 are popular job titles related to Light Rail Vehicle Operator jobs?

For Light Rail Vehicle Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Light Rail Vehicle Operator job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 65% Full Time, 34% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,725 per year, or $23.9 per hour.

Rail Vehicle Mechanic

Phoenix, AZ β€’ On-site

$27.49 - $34.36/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 7 hours ago


Job description

Light Rail Vehicle Maintenance Technician

Purpose of Role: Ensure vehicle safety, reliability and readiness through Light Rail Vehicle (LRV) mechanical systems maintenance and repair, expert service and emergency responsiveness. This position is designated as safety-sensitive and is subject to the Valley Metro RPTA's Drug and Alcohol Program. The anticipated starting pay rate is between ($27.49) and midpoint ($34.36) of the range. It's essential to note that the actual hourly rate offered will be determined based on several factors, including skills, qualifications, experience, education, certifications, training and internal equity considerations.

Minimum Qualifications & Requirements

High School Diploma or GED and one (1) year of experience in:

  • Transit vehicle mechanical repair
  • HVAC and wheel maintenance
  • Troubleshooting and repair of mechanical, hydraulic and pneumatic systems
  • Or an equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to successfully perform the essential duties of the job
  • Additional education cannot be substituted for experience

Licensing, Certification and Other Requirements: Employment is contingent upon successfully completing all pre-employment requirements, including:

  • Background investigation
  • Job-related medical examination.
  • Pre-employment drug test. This safety-sensitive position is subject to Valley Metro RPTA's Drug and Alcohol Program in accordance with applicable federal regulations and agency policy
  • Valid Arizona driver's license and the ability to maintain insurability under Valley Metro's Vehicle Insurance Policy
Examples of Duties / Knowledge & Skills

The following functions are intended to provide a representative summary of the primary duties and responsibilities of this position and are not an exhaustive list of all duties that may be performed.

  • Inspect, maintain, troubleshoot, repair and replace LRV mechanical components above, below and throughout LRVs
  • Work with Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems and wheel truing equipment
  • Identify and gather necessary parts, safely use and maintain special tools and equipment and maintain records, parts and repair logs
  • Rebuild and overhaul LRV parts and equipment, including working with glass/windshields, HVAC, wheels, etc
  • Cross-train and assist other employees
  • Maintain standby LRVs, move vehicles as necessary, respond to emergencies to perform onsite repairs and re-railment of vehicles
  • Complete special projects and staff special events as assigned
  • Performs other duties of a similar nature and level as assigned

Required Knowledge & Skills: Knowledge of:

  • Understanding of mechanical prev entative maintenance processes and methodologies
  • Knowledge and experience of electrical, pneumatic and hydraulic repair theories
  • Knowledge of parts identification and log maintenance processes
  • Fundamental comprehension of emergency repair protocols
  • Basic understanding of equipment rebuild and overhaul procedures
  • Using a computer and related software
  • Fundamental knowledge of preventative maintenance and inspection processes
  • Detailed understanding of safe work practices

Skill in:

  • Inspecting and troubleshooting mechanical systems
  • Repairing hydraulic and pneumatic equipment
  • Rebuilding and overhauling mechanical components
  • Maintaining repair logs and parts inventories
  • Assisting peers across maintenance disciplines
  • Responding to emergency repair situations
  • Communication and interpersonal skills to exchange information and receive work direction
Physical Demands / Work Environment

Work is performed in a combination of office/vehicle/outdoor setting with routine use of standard office and specialty equipment. This role requires medium physical exertion; exerting 20-50 lbs. occasionally, 10-25 lbs. frequently, or up to 10 lbs. constantly. This role typically requires sitting, handling, fine dexterity, visual acuity, hearing, speaking, walking, standing, lifting, carrying, pushing/pulling, kneeling, bending, climbing, reaching, twisting, crouching, balancing, crawling, noisy/distracting environment, foot controls, time pressure, tedious or exacting work, changing of tasks, multi-tasking, emergency situation, irregular work schedule/overtime, noisy/distracting environment and working with others on a team. This role also experiences daily exposure to mechanical hazards, respiratory hazards, chemical hazards, extreme temperatures, electrical hazards, noise and vibration, fire hazards, wetness/humidity, physical hazards, communicable diseases and physical danger or abuse. Valley Metro is a Drug-Free Workplace and an Equal Opportunity Employer

Benefits

Health Care Benefits

Effective on the first of the month following date of hire, benefited employees will be eligible for health coverage.

β€’Medical/Vision/Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Insurance

β€’Dental Insurance

β€’Life/AD&D Insurance

β€’Short Term Disability Insurance

Retirement Plans

β€’Arizona State Retirement System (ASRS)

β€’457 Deferred Compensation Plan (Optional)

Holiday Pay

β€’Paid Holidays

Optional/Additional Benefits

β€’Voluntary Life Insurance

β€’Flexible Spending Account

β€’Tuition Assistance

β€’Free Employee Bus/Light Rail Card