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Light Rail Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

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Light Rail information

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$20

$25

$29

How much do light rail jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for light rail in Minnesota is $25.11, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.56 and $26.83 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a light rail operator?

Light rail operators are trained professionals who drive and manage the operation of light rail transit vehicles, which run on tracks typically in urban areas. Their responsibilities include safely transporting passengers, adhering to schedules, operating controls, monitoring track signals, and assisting passengers as needed. They also perform pre-trip inspections and handle emergency situations if they arise. Light rail operators play a crucial role in providing efficient and reliable public transportation in many cities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a light rail operator?

To thrive as a Light Rail Operator, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, a valid driver’s license, and strong knowledge of transportation safety regulations. Familiarity with train control systems, signaling equipment, and fare collection technology is important, and some positions may require completion of specialized transit operator training or certification. Excellent communication skills, situational awareness, and the ability to remain calm under pressure help operators stand out. These skills and qualifications are essential to ensure passenger safety, maintain efficient operations, and provide reliable public transit service.

What are some common challenges faced by light rail operators, and how can new hires prepare for them?

Light Rail Operators often encounter challenges such as adhering to strict schedules, maintaining passenger safety during peak hours, and managing unexpected delays or technical issues. New hires can prepare by familiarizing themselves with the transit system’s safety protocols, practicing effective communication with both passengers and dispatchers, and staying calm under pressure. Additionally, being attentive to signals and learning to troubleshoot minor issues quickly can help operators handle daily responsibilities more confidently and efficiently.

What is the difference between Light Rail vs Bus Operator?

AspectLight RailBus Operator
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, valid driver's license, sometimes specialized certificationsHigh school diploma, valid driver's license, commercial driver's license (CDL) often preferred
Work EnvironmentOperate on fixed rail tracks, often in urban areas, with scheduled routesOperate on roads and streets, flexible routes, often in various traffic conditions
Industry UsagePublic transit agencies, urban transportation systemsPublic transit, private transportation companies, school districts

Both Light Rail and Bus Operators work in public transportation, requiring similar licensing and safety certifications. Light Rail operators typically work on fixed tracks within urban transit systems, offering a more predictable environment. Bus Operators drive on roads with variable traffic, providing flexible routes. Understanding these differences helps job seekers choose the right career path in public transit.

How do you become a light rail driver?

To become a light rail driver, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, a valid driver's license, and a clean driving record. They must complete specialized training on operating light rail vehicles, which includes safety procedures, operational skills, and sometimes obtaining a transit operator certification. Prior experience in driving or public transportation can be beneficial, and a background check is usually required.

What are popular job titles related to Light Rail jobs in Minnesota?

For Light Rail jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Light Rail jobs in Minnesota look for?

The top searched job categories for Light Rail jobs in Minnesota are:

What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Light Rail jobs?

Cities in Minnesota with the most Light Rail job openings:

Infographic showing various Light Rail job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,227 per year, or $25.1 per hour.

Community Service Officer

Metropolitan Council

Saint Paul, MN • On-site

$29.39 - $47.67/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, PTO

Re-posted yesterday


Metropolitan Council rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

485th of 854 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

WHO WE ARE We offer tuition reimbursement of $4,500 every 6 months, up to a total of $18,000!!. The Metro Transit Police Department is currently hiring* part-time, benefits eligible, Community Service Officers to provide varied support services to the department by performing duties that do not require a licensed peace officer. This is a uniformed non-sworn position that provides police visibility and customer relations to the public, with a focus on the transit riding community.

*This posting is to fill current vacancies, as well as create an eligible list for future vacancies for up to 6 months. Being placed on an eligible list does not ensure you will be hired. To find out more about the Metro Transit Police Department, please click here.

We are committed to supporting a diverse workforce that reflects the communities we serve. Nearly half of our department is made up of women and people of color. The Metro Transit Police Department is one of the fastest growing agencies in the state due to the expansion of light rail and Rapid Transit Bus systems.

We are a licensed police force committed to the safety of our customers and employees, serving eight counties and approximately 85 cities in the region. There is an authorized strength of 171 full-time officers, 55 community service offers, and 40 administrative staff dedicated to one thing: public safety on and near our transit system. Our mission statement is: Safeguarding the transit community with integrity and professionalism while building trust through community partnerships.

We strive to provide excellent police service each and every day. Our core values of honesty, service, and respect are how we will fulfill our mission. The part-time CSO positions are eligible for benefits, including, but not limited to, medical, dental, and paid time off, and tuition reimbursement.

Tuition reimbursement is offered up to $4,500 every 6 months, up to a total of $18,000.* The starting pay is $29.39 hourly. *Time commitment will apply. What you would do in this job As a Metro Transit Community Service Officer you will: Perform pedestrian/crowd control at large events such as Twins, Gophers and Vikings games

Provide pedestrian control at light rail stations. May use handcuffs, chemical irritants to control volatile situations. Assist sworn officers with fare inspections by checking fare tickets, writing citations on the light rail and conduct bus security, and parking enforcement.

Perform clerical and maintenance support as needed. May transport evidence or paperwork to a Crime Lab, BCA, court, prosecutor 's office, etc. May complete police reports that don't require a sworn officer to complete.

Performs other duties as assigned. What education and experience are required for this job (minimum qualifications) A High school diploma or general education degree (GED) and Must currently be enrolled in an accredited college or university program seeking a degree in a Law Enforcement related field Must be able to perform duties in the work environment and physical requirements sections listed below License/Certifications: Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record What knowledge, skills and abilities you should have within the first six months on the job: Ability to regularly work a minimum of 20-25 hours per week Able to solve practical problems, interpret instructions, complete simple addition and subtraction, copy, count and record information Understand and follow verbal, written and/or demonstrated instructions, read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions and procedure manuals Accurately copy data from one source to another Requires the skill to provide basic client services and basic directions to the public and other agencies within the organization Communicate effectively verbally and/or in writing with customers or staff, to complete time report, to coordinate schedule to meet hourly limits and meet department needs Knowledge of basic business software, Microsoft Office (i.e. word, excel, email, etc.) Ability to write routine reports and correspondence Ability to work independently with little supervision and self-motivate Ability to remain free from any physical, emotional or mental condition that might adversely affect the CSO duties Ability to administer first aid and assist medical personnel if called upon Ability to drive a car/SUV at normal speed and at all times of the day/night

Physical requirements of the position: Ability to sit, stand, walk and twist on a frequent basis Ability to lift up to 125 pounds when assisting in carrying and lifting a stretcher with a person Ability to possess cardiovascular fitness for rapid stair climbing and other situational needs Ability to balance self while handling weighted equipment Ability to lift up to 50 pounds from floor to waist Ability to lift up to 20 pounds from waist to overhead Ability to carry up to 50 pounds Ability to kneel, crouch balanced without support Ability to push/pull people/objects up to 185 pounds using total body movements Ability to walk long distances (e.g., up to one mile at 3 mph minimum in under 20 minutes) Ability to hear within normal hearing range and good comprehension skills to follow directions The physical requirements will be tested during the Medical and Work Performance exams. What you can expect from us: We offer the opportunity to make a difference and positively influence the Twin Cities metropolitan area. We encourage our employees to develop their skills through on-site training and tuition reimbursement

We provide a competitive salary and benefits for this part-time position. More about why you should join us. Additional information Union/Grade: Non Represented / Grade C FLSA Status: Non-exempt Safety Sensitive: Yes, subject to Non-DOT random drug tests.

Starting hourly rate is $29.39. SELECTION PROCESS: The MTPD is committed to selecting individuals who are in alignment our mission and the values of honesty, respect, and service. Therefore, candidates will be referred to the hiring supervisor for consideration based on the evidence collected in the following assessment process: What steps the recruitment process involves: Minimum Qualification Review - Review by Human Resources to ensure minimum qualifications are met Panel Interview - Scored structured panel interview Background Check - Candidates must pass a thorough background investigation and credit check conducted by the Metro Transit Police Department

After passing the background check, a conditional offer of employment may be extended. Psychological Evaluation - All candidates must be recommended for hire based on the psychological evaluation. Medical Examination / Work Performance Test / Drug Test - Candidates must successfully pass the medical examination, work performance test, and non-DOT drug test.

Criminal Background Checks: Convictions are not an automatic disqualification from the selection process and must fall within Minnesota State Statute 6700.0700. IMPORTANT: A lack of demonstrated adherence to our core values of honesty, respect, and service-or the submission of false or withheld information-may result in disqualification from employment consideration. Candidates will be notified of their application status through email only

The Metropolitan Council is an Equal Opportunity, Affirmative Action, and veteran-friendly employer. The Council is committed to a workforce that reflects the diversity of the region and strongly encourages persons of color, members of the LGBTQ community, individuals with disabilities, women, and veterans to apply. If you have a disability that requires an accommodation during the selection process, please email HR-OCCHealth@metc.state.mn.us.


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