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Light Rail Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

In this position, you will be the technical lead for major Light Rail Transit (LRT), commuter rail, and conventional train control projects, serving as the Systems Engineering Lead, Systems ...

Senior Rail Track Design Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$99K - $137K/yr

Minimum of 8 years of experience in rail track design, including light rail, heavy rail, commuter rail, intercity passenger rail, or freight rail projects. * Licensed Professional Engineer (PE) in at ...

Senior Rail Track Design Engineer

Dallas, TX · On-site

$103K - $142K/yr

Minimum of 8 years of experience in rail track design, including light rail, heavy rail, commuter rail, intercity passenger rail, or freight rail projects. * Licensed Professional Engineer (PE) in at ...

Senior Transit Engineer/ Project Manager

Houston, TX · On-site

$94K - $123K/yr

As a Senior Transit Engineer or Project Manager you will work on a variety of projects including heavy rail, light rail, and bus rapid transit design, as well as station area layout and design of ...

Senior Transit Engineer/ Project Manager

Dallas, TX · On-site

$97K - $127K/yr

As a Senior Transit Engineer or Project Manager you will work on a variety of projects including heavy rail, light rail, and bus rapid transit design, as well as station area layout and 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 ...

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 ...

LRV Technician (External Posting)

Houston, TX · On-site

$35K - $45K/yr

T2 LRV TECHNICIAN CONSIDERATION Must have at least two (2) years of electrical/electronic and mechanical repair experience working on Light Rail Vehicle. Must score at least 55% or higher on the ...

LRV Technician (External Posting)

Houston, TX · On-site

$35K - $45K/yr

T2 LRV TECHNICIAN CONSIDERATION Must have at least two (2) years of electrical/electronic and mechanical repair experience working on Light Rail Vehicle. Must score at least 55% or higher on the ...

LRV Technician (External Posting)

Houston, TX · On-site

$35K - $45K/yr

T2 LRV TECHNICIAN CONSIDERATION Must have at least two (2) years of electrical/electronic and mechanical repair experience working on Light Rail Vehicle. Must score at least 55% or higher on the ...

LRV Technician (External Posting)

Houston, TX · On-site

$35K - $45K/yr

T2 LRV TECHNICIAN CONSIDERATION Must have at least two (2) years of electrical/electronic and mechanical repair experience working on Light Rail Vehicle. Must score at least 55% or higher on the ...

AVP Chief Engineer

Dallas, TX · On-site

$122K - $201K/yr

Provides executive leadership over engineering, design, construction, and maintenance activities for DART Light Rail, TRE, and other DART-owned corridors, ensuring safety, quality, and regulatory ...

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Light Rail information

See Texas salary details

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How much do light rail jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for light rail in Texas is $23.88, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.40 and $25.53 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 Texas?

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

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

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

What cities in Texas are hiring for Light Rail jobs?

Cities in Texas with the most Light Rail job openings:

Infographic showing various Light Rail job openings in Texas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,680 per year, or $23.9 per hour.

Light Rail Train Operator Trainee

METRO

Houston, TX

Full-time, Part-time

Re-posted 8 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.