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Light Rail Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Senior Transit Engineer - Project Manager

Nashville, TN · On-site

$95K - $124K/yr

This role offers the opportunity to shape the future of transit infrastructure in the region while working on high-profile projects including light rail, Bus Rapid Transit (BRT), commuter rail, and ...

The ideal candidate will have experience as a Project Manager or Deputy Project Manager for FTA/FRA funded projects involving Bus Facilities, Bus Rapid Transit, Light Rail, Heavy Rail Rapid Transit ...

The ideal candidate will have experience as a Project Manager or Deputy Project Manager for FTA/FRA funded projects involving Bus Facilities, Bus Rapid Transit, Light Rail, Heavy Rail Rapid Transit ...

Senior Transit Engineer - Project Manager

Nashville, TN · On-site

$95K - $124K/yr

This role offers the opportunity to shape the future of transit infrastructure in the region while working on high-profile projects including light rail, Bus Rapid Transit (BRT), commuter rail, and ...

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Light Rail information

See Tennessee salary details

$18

$23

$27

How much do light rail jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for light rail in Tennessee is $23.27, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.83 and $24.86 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 Tennessee?

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

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

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

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Light Rail jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Light Rail job openings:

Infographic showing various Light Rail job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,398 per year, or $23.3 per hour.

Senior Transit Engineer - Project Manager

Nashville, TN • On-site


AECOM
Construction • 10K+ employees

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 69 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

21st of 80 rated construction

Great coworkers

People enjoy working here

Good employer


$95K - $124K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 22 days ago


Job description

Company Description

Work with Us. Change the World.

At AECOM, we're delivering a better world. Whether improving your commute, keeping the lights on, providing access to clean water, or transforming skylines, our work helps people and communities thrive. We are the world's trusted infrastructure consulting firm, partnering with clients to solve the world’s most complex challenges and build legacies for future generations.

There has never been a better time to be at AECOM. With accelerating infrastructure investment worldwide, our services are in great demand. We invite you to bring your bold ideas and big dreams and become part of a global team of over 50,000 planners, designers, engineers, scientists, digital innovators, program and construction managers and other professionals delivering projects that create a positive and tangible impact around the world.

We're one global team driven by our common purpose to deliver a better world. Join us.

Job Description

AECOM is seeking a Senior Transportation/Transit Engineer – Project Manager to be based in Charlotte, North Carolina, Raleigh, North Carolina, or Nashville Tennessee

JOB SUMMARY:

The Senior Transit Engineer – Project Manager is a senior-level position responsible for supporting the engineering team in the Tennessee, Alabama, North Carolina, and South Carolina Region. This individual will oversee the delivery of multi-disciplinary transit engineering projects, serve as technical lead and project manager, and drive business development efforts across the region. This role offers the opportunity to shape the future of transit infrastructure in the region while working on high-profile projects including light rail, Bus Rapid Transit (BRT), commuter rail, and multimodal corridors throughout the country. The successful candidate will bring strong leadership, technical expertise, and a collaborative spirit to support the growth of AECOM’s Transit-Rail practice.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Serve as Project Manager and Technical Lead on complex, multi-disciplinary, multi-modal transportation projects.
  • Oversee the planning, design, and delivery of multimodal/transit infrastructure including streetcars, LRT, BRT, commuter rail, and related facilities.
  • Coordinate and collaborate with internal teams and external stakeholders to ensure successful project execution.
  • Provide quality assurance and ensure compliance with applicable standards, codes, and client requirements.
  • Support the development of engineering budgets, schedules, and resource plans.
  • Will write scope and estimate projects
  • Foster a collaborative and inclusive team culture that promotes innovation, accountability, and continuous improvement.
  • Coordinate and collaborate with other Transit market Sectors
  • Mentor and support the professional development of engineering staff across disciplines.
  • Represent AECOM at industry events, client meetings, and public forums as a subject matter expert in transit engineering.
  • Supporting business development efforts for all engineering disciplines in the region, including client engagement, proposal development, and pursuit strategy.
  • Participate in client pre-positioning efforts, including attending industry events, supporting capture planning, and contributing to client engagement strategies.
  • Assist in identifying new opportunities and supporting go/no-go decisions through market research and client intelligence.
    Qualifications

    MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

    • BA/BS in Engineering discipline + 10 years of relevant experience or demonstrated equivalency of experience and/or education.
    • Professional Engineer (PE or P.Eng.) license required

    PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

    • Experience with transit infrastructure design, including LRT, BRT, and/or commuter rail.
    • Familiarity with transit agencies within the southeast and regional transportation priorities.
    • Experience in engineering project delivery, including design and construction phases.
    • Strong understanding of engineering standards, permitting, and regulatory processes.
    • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
    • Proven experience supporting multi-disciplinary engineering teams and delivering complex infrastructure projects.
    • Strong leadership, communication, and client relationship skills.

    Additional Information

    Additional Information

    • Sponsorship is not available for this role at this time.
    • May have to travel depending on project needs.
    • Relocation assistance may be available for this position.

    At AECOM, we are committed to maintaining a secure and trustworthy recruitment process and take any fraudulent hiring activity seriously. To support this commitment, all newly hired employees are required to attend an in-person Day 1 onboarding at an AECOM office location as a condition of employment.

    About AECOM 

    AECOM is proud to offer comprehensive benefits to meet the diverse needs of our employees. Depending on your employment status, AECOM benefits may include medical, dental, vision, life, AD&D, disability benefits, paid time off, leaves of absences, voluntary benefits, perks, flexible work options, well-being resources, employee assistance program, business travel insurance, service recognition awards, retirement savings plan, and employee stock purchase plan. 

    AECOM is the global infrastructure leader, committed to delivering a better world. As a trusted professional services firm powered by deep technical abilities, we solve our clients’ complex challenges in water, environment, energy, transportation and buildings. Our teams partner with public- and private-sector clients to create innovative, sustainable and resilient solutions throughout the project lifecycle – from advisory, planning, design and engineering to program and construction management. AECOM is a Fortune 500 firm that had revenue of $16.1 billion in fiscal year 2025. Learn more at aecom.com. 

    What makes AECOM a great place to work 

    You will be part of a global team that champions your growth and career ambitions. Work on groundbreaking projects - both in your local community and on a global scale - that are transforming our industry and shaping the future. With cutting-edge technology and a network of experts, you’ll have the resources to make a real impact. Our award-winning training and development programs are designed to expand your technical expertise and leadership skills, helping you build the career you’ve always envisioned. Here, you’ll find a welcoming workplace built on respect, collaboration and community—where you have the freedom to grow in a world of opportunity. 

    As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we believe in your potential and are here to help you achieve it. All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines. 



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