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Metro Rail Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Rail Operations Controller

Houston, TX · On-site

$70K - $92K/yr

Basic Function Responsible for overseeing safe, efficient, and reliable rail operation along the ... Disseminates information to METRO management, Operations personnel, MPD, Supervisors, LRT Operators ...

Basic Function Responsible for overseeing safe, efficient, and reliable rail operation along the ... Disseminates information to METRO management, Operations personnel, MPD, Supervisors, LRT Operators ...

Rail Laborer

Seattle, WA

$28.39 - $43.59/hr

Summary King County Metro Transit's Rail Division is looking for dependable, detail-oriented Rail ... Skill in operating various types of powered equipment, especially 2 cycle mix gas and diesel ...

Basic Function The Light Rail Train Operator Trainee is required to complete the training class to ... Provides excellent customer service to METRO internal and external customers. * Promotes safety ...

Basic Function The Light Rail Train Operator Trainee is required to complete the training class to ... Provides excellent customer service to METRO internal and external customers. * Promotes safety ...

Track Maintainer

Saint Paul, MN · On-site

$82K - $91K/yr

Metro Transit Department: Track - Mpls RSF Opening Date: 02/02/2026 WHO WE ARE This posting is open ... operating hi-rail equipment. Licensure Requirement: * Valid driver's license with acceptable ...

Metro Transit helps people get to where they're going, reduces regional traffic congestion and ... experience operating hi-rail equipment. Licensure Requirement: Valid driver's license with ...

Train Operator

Saint Paul, MN · On-site

$61K - $77K/yr

These individuals are responsible for operating Metro Transit Light Rail vehicles in a safe ... dependable, efficient and on-time manner. Train Operators follow rules, procedures, policies and ...

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Metro Rail Operator information

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$5

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$35

How much do metro rail operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for metro rail operator in the United States is $22.55, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.90 and $29.57 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to become a rail operator?

To become a metro rail operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, a valid driver's license, and completion of specialized training provided by the transit agency. This training covers safety procedures, operational protocols, and sometimes includes certification in train operation or safety standards. Prior experience in driving or transportation can be beneficial, and a clean driving record is often required.

What is the difference between Metro Rail Operator vs Bus Driver?

AspectMetro Rail OperatorBus Driver
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some certifications may be requiredHigh school diploma or equivalent; commercial driver's license (CDL) often required
Work EnvironmentOperate trains in rail stations and tunnels, often in urban transit systemsDrive buses on designated routes, often in city streets and highways
Employer & IndustryPublic transit agencies, rail companiesPublic transit agencies, private bus companies

While both roles involve operating vehicles for public transportation, Metro Rail Operators focus on train systems within urban transit networks, requiring specific certifications and working in rail environments. Bus Drivers operate on roadways, often with different licensing requirements. Both are essential for urban mobility but differ in vehicle type and work setting.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Metro Rail Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Metro Rail Operator, you need a high school diploma or equivalent, a valid driver's license, strong attention to detail, and knowledge of transit safety regulations. Familiarity with train control systems, signaling equipment, and radio communication devices is typically required, and some positions may prefer certifications in rail operations or safety. Excellent situational awareness, decision-making skills, and the ability to remain calm under pressure distinguish top performers in this role. These competencies are crucial for ensuring passenger safety, adhering to schedules, and responding effectively to emergencies or operational challenges.

How much do LA Metro train operators make?

Metro Rail Operators typically earn an average salary of around $60,000 to $70,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and union agreements. They often work in shifts and require specialized training and certifications to operate trains safely and efficiently.

How can I apply for Metro jobs?

To apply for a Metro Rail Operator position, visit the official transit agency's careers website or job portal, where you can find current openings and submit an online application. Candidates typically need a valid driver's license, a clean driving record, and may be required to pass written and practical skills tests, as well as background checks. It is also helpful to review the job requirements and prepare for interviews related to safety and customer service skills.

What are some common challenges faced by Metro Rail Operators and how are they typically addressed?

Metro Rail Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining strict adherence to schedules, managing unexpected service disruptions, and ensuring passenger safety during peak hours. Operators are trained to handle these situations through rigorous protocols and continuous communication with control centers and station staff. Collaboration with maintenance teams and clear public announcements help address technical issues and keep passengers informed. Supportive team environments and regular training sessions further enable operators to effectively manage these challenges.

How much does a DC Metro train operator make?

A metro rail operator typically earns an average salary of around $50,000 to $70,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and union agreements. They are responsible for operating trains safely and may require certification and adherence to strict safety protocols.

What are Metro Rail Operators?

Metro Rail Operators are professionals responsible for operating trains on urban rail transit systems, such as subways or light rail. Their main duties include driving the train safely, following schedules, monitoring equipment, and ensuring passenger safety. They also communicate with control centers, respond to emergencies, and provide customer service when needed. Metro Rail Operators play a vital role in keeping public transportation systems running smoothly and efficiently.
More about Metro Rail Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Metro Rail Operator jobs? Cities with the most Metro Rail Operator job openings:
What states have the most Metro Rail Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Metro Rail Operator jobs include:
Infographic showing various Metro Rail Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,912 per year, or $22.6 per hour.

Rail Building Operating Engineer Lead

King County

Seattle, WA

$61.01 - $65.59/hr

Other

Posted 2 days ago

New


King County (Washington) rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 38 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

195th of 839 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Summary King County Metro Transit's Rail Division is seeking a Career Service (CS) Rail Building Operating Engineer Lead (Transit Building Operating Engineer - Lead) in the Rail Facilities Management team. The responsibilities of this classification include assigning and coordinating the work of operating engineers in the Rail division and performing the full range of responsibilities of the Building Operating Engineer classification. About Metro Transit's Expanding Rail Division King County Metro's Rail Division manages and maintains Sound Transit's Link Light Rail, a growing network spanning 60 miles and serving 38 stations across the Puget Sound region.

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 movement. As Puget Sound transit agencies work together to build a seamless, connected system, our light rail system plays a central role in expanding access, reducing barriers, and ensuring that everyone across our region can get where they need to go. Joining Metro's Rail Division means joining an organization that is shaping the future of public transportation in the Pacific Northwest and setting the standard for modern rail operations nationwide.

This is a division that values strategic thinking, collaborative leadership, and a deep commitment to the people we serve, both our riders and our teams. Whatever your role, your work here contributes to something that matters, a light rail system that thousands of people count on every day. Who May Apply: This position is open to all King County employees and the general public.

First consideration will be given to Career Service employees with a minimum of two years' experience in Metro's Rail division, as a Building Operating Engineer. This recruitment may be used to establish a list to fill future Career Service and/or temporary vacancies that may occur over the next twelve months. Wage Information Day shift: $61.01 per hour | Swing shift: $64.06 per hour | Graveyard shift: $65.59 per hour Work Schedule: This position is overtime eligible and employees must be available to work one of three shifts (day, swing or graveyard)

Management reserves the right to assign any shift in order to meet the needs of the work unit. Employees are subject to 24-hour call-out in response to emergencies. Work Environment Work requires reporting for duty during adverse weather events and other emergencies.

Willingness and availability to work different shifts on weekdays, nights, weekends and holidays are required. For more information regarding this recruitment, please contact: Jacky Lu, Talent Advisor at jacky.lu@kingcounty.gov Job Duties Applying equity and social justice principles is a daily responsibility and a foundational expectation for all King County employees. In this role you will apply equity and social justice principles that exemplify shared values, behaviors, and practices to all aspects of the work

In addition to performing the full range of responsibilities in the Rail division of the Building Operating Engineer classification, an incumbent in this classification performs the following: Coordinate the work of and provide technical assistance to operating engineers engaged in varied maintenance, repair and overhaul of HVAC systems and equipment. Assign work in accordance with work operating requirements and workload demands; control and monitor workflow. Respond to questions and provide advice on project requirements, specifications and material requirements.

Provide feedback to higher-level staff on employee and teamwork performance as well as any behavioral and attendance issues. Monitor work assignments to ensure work has been completed in a quality manner and within established timeframes; ensure equipment is maintained and in proper working order. Train new and current personnel in required facility maintenance operations and safety procedures.

Advise operating engineers when their work is deficient or in violation of established regulations and procedures; recommend corrective actions to higher-level staff when required. Maintain varied records including work performed, time spent, materials used, operating logs and related information; enter and extract data using automated systems; maintain manual records as required. Perform predictive maintenance, preventative maintenance, and repairs on HVAC, refrigeration equipment, and systems.

Troubleshoot and repair all air conditioning units, fluid coolers, split systems, direct and indirect gas-fired rooftop units, boilers, chillers, heat pumps, and mixing boxes. Troubleshoot building, waterside, and airside systems through performance analysis. Troubleshoot, repair, adjust pneumatic, electronic, and line voltage controls.

Troubleshoot and repair electrical control circuits for all types of HVAC equipment. Maintain and repair air handlers including adjustments to airflow and temperatures to achieve maximum energy efficiency and comfort level. Conduct water tests and chemically treat boiler, condenser, and chilled water systems.

Use Building Automation & Controls System (BAS/BMS) to locate system problems and take corrective action. Perform other duties as assigned. Experience, Qualifications, Knowledge, Skills Knowledge and skills for the Rail division detailed in the Building Operating Engineer classification and the following: Knowledge of workload planning and scheduling.

Three (3) or more years of journey-level work experience in the HVAC/R and/or building engineer trade(s), participation in or completion of a recognized apprenticeship program related to the trade, completion of other trade-related training courses or programs, or some combination thereof that demonstrates the ability to perform the duties required of the position. This should include experience and/or education/training with refrigeration and air conditioning equipment, boilers, gas burners, chillers, heat pumps, direct digital controls (DDC) and line voltage controls, control circuits, hydronic, balancing systems, and variable frequency drives. Knowledge and skill in maintenance and repair of refrigeration equipment.

This should include soft soldering, brazing, electrical schematic reading, equipment installation, electrical troubleshooting, calibration techniques, and an understanding of the pressure/temperature characteristics of various refrigerants and how these apply to refrigeration troubleshooting and efficient equipment operation. Knowledge and skill in maintenance and repair of gas burners. This should include calibration and tuning techniques and the function/repair/diagnosis of the various elements in the gas train.

Knowledge and skill with Direct Digital Controls (DDC) and line voltage controls. This should include the ability to read and interpret wiring diagrams, general troubleshooting techniques, and the proper use of a multimeter to diagnose problems. Knowledge and skill with preventive and predictive equipment maintenance tasks and schedules Skill in training and providing technical assistance.

Ability to work independently and with minimal supervision. Demonstrated knowledge and skill to perform energy management functions and write equipment run programs and schedules. Demonstrate behaviors that include fairness, respect, inclusiveness, integrity, and ethical conduct.

Ability to work well and respectfully with a diverse group of individuals from a variety of different positions and backgrounds. Necessary Special Requirements Current valid Washington State Driver's license and an acceptable driving record. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) CFC Certification (Chlorofluorocarbon).

City of Seattle Steam Operating Engineer Grade 3 License. City of Seattle Refrigerating Operating Engineer License. Verified completion of a recognized HVAC, operating engineer or similar apprenticeship program or equivalent hands-on experience Physical Requirements This position is required to frequently lift and carry objects up to 50 pounds and occasionally lift objects up to 100 pounds with assistance.

Frequent walking, reaching, climbing, kneeling, stooping, and safe operation of power tools are also required. Work is often performed in cramped and awkward positions. Supplemental Information Forms and Materials Required: An online King County application and completion of the supplemental questionnaire are required.

Candidates are also required to attach a copy of the following valid certifications or licenses to their applications: Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) CFC Certification (Chlorofluorocarbon) City of Seattle Steam Operating Engineer Grade 3 License City of Seattle Refrigerating Operating Engineer License Selection Process Applications will be screened for completeness and qualifications. The most competitive candidates may be invited to participate a panel interview process. Employment offers will be finalized after candidates have successfully completed a physical examination, drug screens and a drug and alcohol background check as needed.

Reference checks and reviews of driving records will also be conducted prior to any final offer of employment. Safety Responsibility: Employees Responsible for understanding this policy and their role in safety Report all safety concerns Follow safety practices and procedures as necessary to maintain a safe work environment and in conformance with applicable regulations, policies, and training Report safety and security concerns and ideas to supervisors or anonymously through data collection system Union Membership This position is represented by Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU), Local 587. Class Code: 8122200 Forbes recently named King County as one of Washington State's best employers.

Together, with leadership and our employees, we're changing the way government delivers service and winning national recognition as a model of excellence. Are you ready to make a difference. Come join the team dedicated to serving one of the nation's best places to live, work and play.

King County's Vision, Mission, and ACTIVATE Values unite us. King County serves residents with a relentless sense of urgency, delivering on commitments with transparency and accountability. We are action-oriented, creative problem solvers who collaborate across roles, engage directly with communities, and challenge the status quo to achieve meaningful impact.

As a unified team, we uphold high ethical and stewardship standards, embrace change, stay curious, and continuously improve. Across all interactions, we listen first, act quickly, and stay aligned as a team to earn and sustain public trust. Learn more about our Vision, Mission, and ACTIVATE Values here and visit our Why work at King County page here.

King County is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Employer No person is unlawfully excluded from employment opportunities based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex (including gender identity, sexual orientation and pregnancy), age, genetic information, disability, veteran status, or other protected class. Our EEO policy applies to all employment actions, including but not limited to recruitment, hiring, selection for training, promotion, transfer, demotion, layoff, termination, rates of pay or other forms of compensation. To Apply If you are interested in pursuing this position, please follow the application instructions carefully.

If you need this announcement in an alternate language or format, would like to request accommodation or assistance in the application or assessment process or if you have questions, please contact the recruiter listed on this job announcement. #RailCareers#RailJobs #Tradesjobs. For more information about careers with Rail, please visit: kingcounty.gov/metro/RailCareers, or with this QR Code:


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About King County

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Forbes recently named King County as one of Washington State's best employers. Together, with leadership and our employees, we're changing the way government delivers service and winning national recognition as a model of excellence. Are you ready to make a difference? Come join the team dedicated to serving one of the nation's best places to live, work and play. Guided by our "True North", we are making King County a welcoming community where every person can thrive. We value diversity, inclusion and belonging in our workplace and workforce.

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Seattle, WA, US

Year founded

1852

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