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Light Rail Jobs (NOW HIRING)

METRO

Light Rail Train Operator Trainee

Houston, TX · On-site

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 ...

King County

Rail Electrical Worker

Seattle, WA

$67.70 - $71.76/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 Technical Trainer II

Seattle, WA · On-site

$92K - $131K/yr

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 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 ...

Gohrt

Light Rail Vehicle Operator Trainee

Norfolk, VA

$23/hr

Maintains knowledge of HRT 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 ...

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 ...

King County

Rail Supervisor - Trainee

Seattle, WA · On-site

$49.96 - $52.90/hr

Summary Join Metro Link Light Rail Operations Team - A Career That Takes You Places King County Metro is seeking motivated individuals to join our Link Light Rail team through the Rail Supervisor-in ...

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How much do light rail jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 22, 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, and why are they important?

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 light rail operators?

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 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 July 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 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,325 per year, or $25.6 per hour.
Master Carpenter MTA Light Rail Facilities

Master Carpenter MTA Light Rail Facilities

OTA

Baltimore, MD • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

Salary:

We are seeking an experienced and highly skilled Master Carpenter to support the maintenance, repair, and improvement of MTA Light Rail facilities throughout the Baltimore region. The ideal candidate will possess advanced carpentry knowledge and the ability to independently perform complex repairs and installations across stations, maintenance facilities, passenger shelters, and other transit properties.

This position is scheduled Monday through Friday from 6:00 AM to 2:30 PM and includes participation in an on-call rotation with frequent overtime opportunities to support critical transit infrastructure, emergency repairs, and facility maintenance needs.

Key Responsibilities

  • Perform advanced carpentry and masonry repairs on walls, ceilings, doors, stairs, handrails, trim, baseboards, platforms, sidewalks, and other structural components
  • Construct, repair, and install benches, seating, cabinetry, partitions, and other facility fixtures
  • Repair, replace, and install plexiglass panels, safety barriers, shelters, and protective enclosures
  • Repair and replace windows, flooring, roofing components, gutters, and building finishes
  • Install, remove, and maintain facility, safety, and wayfinding signage
  • Perform painting, finishing, and graffiti abatement as required
  • Conduct minor repairs to furniture, fixtures, and facility equipment
  • Interpret blueprints, sketches, specifications, and work orders to complete projects
  • Operate forklifts and other material-handling equipment to transport, receive, and store materials
  • Conduct facility inspections and identify maintenance and repair needs
  • Participate in preventive maintenance activities and corrective repairs
  • Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work environment
  • Ensure all work complies with MTA standards, OSHA requirements, and applicable building codes

Required Certifications & Training

  • OSHA 10 Certification (Required)
  • Forklift Operator Certification (Required)
  • Ability to successfully complete:
    • Railroad Worker Protection (RWP) Training
    • On-Site Coordinator (OSC) Training

Qualifications

  • Minimum five (5) years of experience as a journeyman or master carpenter in commercial, industrial, transportation, or facility maintenance environments
  • Extensive knowledge of carpentry methods, materials, tools, and safety practices
  • Experience performing facility repairs, renovations, and preventative maintenance
  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
  • Ability to read and interpret blueprints, drawings, and technical specifications
  • Strong troubleshooting, problem-solving, and organizational skills
  • Ability to safely operate hand tools, power tools, and material-handling equipment
  • Ability to perform physically demanding work in indoor and outdoor environments
  • Valid driver's license preferred

Schedule & Overtime

  • Regular work schedule: Monday through Friday, 6:00 AM 2:30 PM
  • Participation in an on-call rotation is required
  • Must be available to respond to emergency repairs, service disruptions, and urgent facility maintenance needs outside normal business hours
  • Significant overtime opportunities are available and expected, including evenings, weekends, holidays, and emergency call-outs as needed to support Light Rail operations

Work Environment

Work is performed at Light Rail stations, maintenance facilities, storage buildings, passenger platforms, and other transit-related properties throughout the Baltimore region. Employees may be required to work in varying weather conditions and around active transit operations while adhering to all safety protocols.

Application Information

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until all positions are filled.