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Light Rail Vehicle Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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Streetcar Operator

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$20.57/hr

Streetcar Operators operate light rail vehicles safely and in accordance with a designated schedule and observe all laws, regulations and procedures. The responsibilities include performing the safe ...

Rail Electro-Mechanic

Seattle, WA · On-site

$38.82 - $55.46/hr

Ability to obtain a Light Rail Vehicle or Streetcar "Yard Operator" Certification within six (6) months of hire (training will be provided). Additional qualifications include: Skill in the ...

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 ...

Rail Electro-Mechanic

Seattle, WA · On-site

$38.82 - $55.46/hr

Ability to obtain a Light Rail Vehicle or Streetcar "Yard Operator" Certification within six (6) months of hire (training will be provided). Additional qualifications include: * Skill in the ...

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 as required for ...

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 ...

LRT Operator Trainee

Houston, TX · On-site

$18 - $21/hr

Basic Function Upon certification as a Light Rail Train (LRT) Operator, will operate METRORail Light Rail Vehicles (LRVs) in accordance with METRORail established policies and procedures. Must ...

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Light Rail Vehicle Operator information

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$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.
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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 67% Full Time, 32% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,725 per year, or $23.9 per hour.

LRV Maintenance Supervisor

Phoenix, AZ

$38.45 - $57.67/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 23 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Supervise the daily operations and activities of the light rail vehicle maintenance team, including managing schedules, work priorities, and staff performance.

  • Oversee and coordinate repairs, create and resolve work orders, and allocate staff and resources for maintenance tasks.

  • Respond to emergency calls, troubleshoot issues remotely, and ensure compliance with maintenance and reporting procedures.


Job description

Summary First review of applications, September 8, 2026; weekly thereafter until filled. Shift differential offered for 2nd and 3rd shifts Purpose of Role: Ensure Light Rail Vehicle (LRV) fleet readiness by supervising light rail vehicle maintenance staff, coordinating repairs, auditing work, overseeing contractor work, and emergency response activities. The anticipated starting pay rate is between ($38.45) and midpoint ($48.06) 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. This position is designated as safety-sensitive and is subject to the Valley Metro RPTA's Drug and Alcohol Program. Minimum Qualifications & Requirements Education and/or Experience High school diploma or GED.

Five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in light rail, heavy rail, or transit vehicle maintenance, including: Mechanical and electrical repair; Preventive and corrective maintenance; Emergency troubleshooting; and Contractor oversight. One (1) year of lead or supervisory experience in transit vehicle repair or maintenance. Or an equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to successfully perform the essential duties of the position may be considered.

Human Resources reserves the right to call only the most qualified candidates to the selection process Medical Examination: Employment is contingent upon successfully passing a pre-employment physical examination. Drug Testing: Employment is contingent upon successfully passing a pre-employment drug test. This safety-sensitive position is subject to the Valley Metro RPTA's Drug and Alcohol Program, including drug and alcohol testing as required by program policy.

Background Investigation: Employment is contingent upon successfully passing a background investigation. Licenses and Certifications: Valid Arizona Driver's License and the ability to maintain insurability under Valley Metro's Vehicle Insurance Policy. Position requires the incumbent to successfully qualify to operate light rail vehicles.

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. Supervise the daily operations and activities of an assigned unit within a department, including managing schedules and work priorities, monitoring and evaluating staff performance, facilitating access to resources and training, providing guidance, addressing issues, conducting interviews, making hiring decisions, and enforcing policies. Serve as a liaison between the team and upper management, conveying information and feedback in both directions.

Oversee and manage contractors. Identify needed repairs and maintenance; and prioritize corrective actions, create and resolve work orders and allocate staff, equipment and resources. Conduct audits; maintain records, including shift documentation; and review and ensure accurate reporting.

Respond to emergent calls from the Operations and Communications Center to troubleshoot issues over the phone with operators. Performs other duties of a similar nature and level as assigned. Required Knowledge & Skills: Knowledge of: Extensive understanding of supervisory practices and performance evaluation.

Advanced application of daily transit maintenance operations supervision. Comprehensive knowledge of contractor management and coordination processes. Fundamental understanding of work order prioritization methodologies.

Introductory awareness of audit and shift recordkeeping procedures. Essential understanding of phone-based technical troubleshooting coordination. Basic understanding of reporting accuracy and documentation compliance.

Using a computer and related software. Skill in: Supervising LRV maintenance staff, providing training and performance evaluation. Overseeing contractor performance and compliance monitoring.

Identifying maintenance needs and initiating work orders. Prioritizing corrective actions and resource allocation. Conducting audits and ensuring accurate maintenance reporting.

Responding to emergency calls and troubleshooting remotely. Liaising between operators and maintenance teams. 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 settings with routine use of standard office and specialty equipment. This role requires heavy physical exertion; exerting 50-100 lbs. occasionally, 10-25 lbs.

frequently, or up to 10-20 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 situations, 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, physical hazards, and communicable diseases; monthly exposure to fire hazards; and seasonal exposure to wetness/humidity. Valley Metro is a Drug-Free Workplace and an Equal Opportunity Employer