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Light Rail Jobs (NOW HIRING)

King County

Rail Electrical Worker

Seattle, WA

$78.19 - $82.88/hr

Work safely to maintain Light Rail Overhead Contact Systems (OCS); and associated components such as messenger wire, contact wire, section insulators, pole and enclosure mounted switches, air gaps ...

King County

Rail Electro-Mechanic

Seattle, WA

$38.82 - $55.46/hr

This position is primarily responsible for the maintenance and repair of light rail vehicles and their electronic equipment and systems, communication systems, surveillance equipment, and other ...

King County

Rail Laborer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$28.39 - $43.59/hr

Together with Metro's extensive fixed-route bus system and mobility services, the Link Light Rail system is the backbone of an integrated regional transit network that gives people real freedom of ...

King County

Rail Station Custodian

Seattle, WA

$25.66 - $36.66/hr

Together with Metro's extensive fixed-route bus system and mobility services, the Link Light Rail system is the backbone of an integrated regional transit network that gives people real freedom of ...

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How much do light rail jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for light rail in the United States is $25.64, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.04 and $27.40 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

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 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.

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.
More about Light Rail jobs
What cities are hiring for Light Rail jobs? Cities with the most Light Rail job openings:
What states have the most Light Rail jobs? States with the most job openings for Light Rail jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Light Rail jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Light Rail jobs are:
Light Rail jobs near you
Infographic showing various Light Rail job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,325 per year, or $25.6 per hour.

Light Rail Vehicle Operator Training

Metro Transit

East Saint Louis, IL • On-site

$20.50 - $25.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago

Metro Transit rating

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 31 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

121st of 844 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

Light Rail Vehicle Operator Training
Saint Clair Yards And Shops (Ill) Full Time 23.60 - 23.60 (Annually)
Benefits
  • Join a company committed to making a positive impact in the community
  • Receive a competitive salary
  • Enjoy comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision coverage starting on your first day
  • Earn 4 weeks of paid time off (PTO) each year
  • Take advantage of 10 paid holidays annually - plus a floating holiday to celebrate your birthday
  • Contribute to our company-sponsored 401(k) retirement plan
  • Access supplemental benefits through Unum, including off-the-job accident, critical illness, whole life, and hospital indemnity insurance
  • Participate in our wellness program, which includes free health screenings
  • Use our Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for confidential support and resources
  • Bi-State Development is an eligible employer for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program
  • Get exclusive gym discounts at Club Fitness, The Edge Fitness Clubs, and OneLife Fitness at Ballpark Village
  • Work out anytime at one of our nine onsite gyms, available 24/7
  • Enjoy free MetroLink and MetroBus access
  • Save with discounted cell phone plans

Let us support your well-being and professional growth while making a difference!
Job Summary
Operates Agency trains consisting of light rail vehicles (LRV's), assuming responsibility for the safety of Agency customers and equipment; performs routine vehicle inspections to ensure proper operation (such as a pre-trip radio check, lamp test, cycling of doors, mirror adjustment and check of destination signs, etc.). Communicates appropriate information to customers, TSM and others designated to receive such information. Answers inquiries from customers and others. Activates switches to ensure proper routing. Works following Agency transportation guidelines, operating rules and procedures.
Job Responsibilities
  • Inspects, prepares for operation and/or reports vehicle defects found during routine vehicle inspection, to ensure safe and serviceable conditions. Reports these problems or defects to the appropriate authority.
  • Operates LRV in revenue service in a safe manner in accordance with operating rules and procedures, maintaining appropriate speed and distance from preceding vehicles, boards and deboards passengers. Makes and brakes up train consists; operates trains in non-revenue service on line and in yards and shops, through car washer and during maintenance, testing and inspections. Operates switches through controls or manually; performs operations necessary to restore movement by trouble-shooting problem conditions. Trains other employees in LRV operations.
  • Answers customer inquiries and maintains a courteous and friendly demeanor with all customers. Announces all special and station stops; provides proper information to customers requesting same; makes special announcements as requested.
  • Notifies Central Control of any emergency situations on or near right-of-way (ROW) or of service disruption, requesting appropriate additional instruction or assistance as required.
  • Communicates to customers and the Operations Control Center appropriate information in the event of a need to evacuate an LRV or train and then oversees the safe and orderly evacuation of the vehicle(s). Endeavors to control such an evacuation and safeguard customers in accordance with prescribed emergency procedures.
  • Issues emergency transfers and guides/assists customers to alternate bus service in the event of a service disruption. Performs flagging duties during emergency situations such as collisions, derailments or vehicle breakdowns.
  • Activates switches, electrically or manually, as circumstances may warrant, ensuring correct routing.
  • May oversee or verify proper payment of fares. If fareboxes are utilized, operates and monitors registering farebox equipment and records any or all passengers and revenue information relative to the farebox.
  • Maintains knowledge of Bi-State bus and light rail system in order to provide routine information and direction to our customers.
  • Produces written reports of witnessed incidents as well as accidents, incidents and unusual conditions in which there has been direct or indirect involvement or that affect the movement of trains or the condition of Agency property.
  • Operates LRV's through vehicle washing machinery and to proper location in the yard; closes windows prior to entering wash area; opens and closes vehicle windows as required for customer comfort.
  • Notifies and turns in to proper authority all lost articles found on the LRV.
  • Reports observed defects and unsafe conditionsregarding tracks, switches and related equipment while operating LRV's, andother conditions that may affect the safe movement of trains.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
  • Ability to communicate orally with customers and supervisor; ability to read and understand training materials, operating manuals and operating and safety rules directives; ability to prepare clear written reports of incidents and accidents.
  • Maintain good customer relations.
  • No more than one (1) preventable accident in the twenty-four (24) months immediately preceding bid on LRV Operator.
  • Possession of a current valid Commercial Drivers' License. (Class A or B w/ Passenger endorsement and no Airbrake Restrictions)
  • Ability to perform the physical requirements of job.
    Successful completion of training program andpost-training qualification period.

To comply with Section 64 of theCollective Bargaining Agreement, selected employees will not be able towithdraw after 10 workdays following the start of training. Any LRV operator who voluntarily withdrawsfrom LRV Operator training will not be eligible for LRV Operator training for aperiod of two (2) years. Any LRVOperator who voluntarily withdraws from LRV Training for a second or subsequenttimes will not be allowed to bid on LRV positions for a period of five (5)years following each withdrawal. Employees who successfully pass the training will be awarded LRVOperator jobs in the order of their seniority as vacancies occur.
The top rate of an LRV Operator is thetop rate of a Bus Operator, plus $.75. During the training, employees will retain their current hourly rate ofpay.
This position will be filled internally subject to therequirements and procedures established for acceptance of bids on particularjobs as set out in the collective bargaining agreement.
Compensation
23.60 - 23.60 (Annually)
Employment Type
Full Time
Location
Saint Clair Yards And Shops (Ill)
Experience
Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO)
Bi-State Development is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Compensation Disclosure
Bi-State Development is committed to ensuring all employees are compensated fairly. The salary range provided reflects our current expectations for this position.

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