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Part Time Rail Train Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Machine Operator

Jackson, SC · On-site

$18.25 - $21.75/hr

Company Description Progress Rail stands at the intersection of legacy and innovation-driving the ... Benefits eligibility varies by job position, full-time/part-time and regular/temporary status. The ...

Press Operator

Atchison, KS · On-site

$15.25 - $20/hr

Company Description Progress Rail stands at the intersection of legacy and innovation-driving the ... Benefits eligibility varies by job position, full-time/part-time and regular/temporary status. The ...

Press Operator

Atchison, KS · On-site

$15.25 - $20/hr

Company Description Progress Rail stands at the intersection of legacy and innovation-driving the ... Benefits eligibility varies by job position, full-time/part-time and regular/temporary status. The ...

MACHINE OPERATOR

Sidney, NE · On-site

$17.25 - $20.75/hr

Company Description Progress Rail stands at the intersection of legacy and innovation-driving the ... Benefits eligibility varies by job position, full-time/part-time and regular/temporary status. The ...

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Part Time Rail Train Operator information

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$12

$24

$35

How much do part time rail train operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for part time rail train operator in the United States is $24.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.43 and $30.05 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a part time rail train operator do?

A Part Time Rail Train Operator is responsible for operating passenger or freight trains on a scheduled or as-needed basis, typically working fewer hours than full-time operators. Their duties include ensuring safe train movement, following assigned routes, adhering to timetables, and managing onboard safety procedures. They may also assist with passenger communication, report issues to dispatch, and perform routine inspections of train equipment. Part time positions offer flexible schedules, which can be ideal for those seeking work-life balance or supplemental income.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a part time rail train operator?

To thrive as a Part Time Rail Train Operator, you need a high school diploma or equivalent, strong attention to safety, and good mechanical aptitude, often supported by completion of operator training programs. Familiarity with train control systems, signaling equipment, and safety protocols is typically required, and some employers may require certifications such as a commercial driver’s license (CDL) or transit operator certification. Excellent communication, situational awareness, and stress management are crucial soft skills for handling passenger interactions and unexpected situations. These skills and qualifications are important to ensure safe, efficient, and reliable train operations while providing excellent service to passengers.

What are some common challenges faced by part time rail train operators, and how can they be managed?

Part-time rail train operators often face challenges such as adjusting to varying shift schedules, staying vigilant during periods of low activity, and maintaining up-to-date knowledge of safety protocols and route changes. Effective time management and strong communication with dispatchers and other crew members can help address these issues. Additionally, many operators find it helpful to review operational updates regularly and participate in ongoing training sessions to stay current with best practices and safety requirements.

What is the difference between Part Time Rail Train Operator vs Part Time Bus Driver?

AspectPart Time Rail Train OperatorPart Time Bus Driver
Required CredentialsCommercial driver's license (CDL), safety certificationsCommercial driver's license (CDL), passenger endorsements
Work EnvironmentRail yards, train cabins, stationsCity streets, bus stops, routes
Employer & Industry UsageRail transit agencies, commuter rail companiesPublic transit agencies, private bus companies

Both roles require a valid CDL and safety training, but Rail Train Operators work primarily in rail yards and stations operating trains, while Bus Drivers navigate city streets and routes. The roles share similar certifications and industry usage, but differ in environment and daily operations.

How long is a part time rail train operator shift?

Part-time rail train operator shifts typically range from 4 to 6 hours, depending on the transit agency's scheduling needs. Shifts may include early mornings, evenings, or weekends, and operators often work multiple shifts per week. The schedule can vary based on operational demands and staffing requirements.

How long is part time rail train operator training?

Part-time rail train operator training typically lasts several weeks to a few months, depending on the transit agency and the complexity of the system. The training includes classroom instruction, safety procedures, and on-the-job practice under supervision to ensure operators are prepared for their responsibilities.

How much money does a part time rail train operator make?

Part-time rail train operators typically earn between $15 and $25 per hour, depending on the employer, location, and experience. They may also receive benefits such as paid training and schedule flexibility, with some positions offering additional compensation for overtime or night shifts.
More about Part Time Rail Train Operator jobs

What cities are hiring for Part Time Rail Train Operator jobs?

Cities with the most Part Time Rail Train Operator job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Rail Train Operator jobs?

The most popular types of Rail Train Operator jobs are:

What job categories do people searching Part Time Rail Train Operator jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Part Time Rail Train Operator jobs are:

Infographic showing various Part Time Rail Train Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,869 per year, or $24.5 per hour.

Conductor/Engineer - Part Time - GETR

Patriot Rail

Gettysburg, PA

Part-time

Re-posted 21 days ago


Patriot Rail rating

5.0

Company rating: 5.0 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

SUMMARY OF POSITION

The primary function of the Locomotive Engineer is to maintain responsibility over the physical operation and safety of the locomotive. All train crew employees are responsible for strict adherence to safety guidelines and for completing their duties with integrity and professionalism. 

This position will also assist in the transloading operations on an as needed basis.  

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

·         To always ensure compliance with all train orders, signals, and railroad rules and regulations for safety, operations, and the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA);

·         To always review instructions from dispatchers and yardmasters, and discuss with locomotive engineer and train crew;

·         To always inspect all equipment on cars prior to departures;

·         To accurately receive and transmit information by radio and telephone;

·         To accurately read and understand bulletins, work orders, and switch lists;

·         To safely assist and instruct train crews to couple and uncouple cars, operate switches, and make minor repairs to railcars, including replacing heavy couplings or air brake hoses;

·         To safely and professionally work with customers to ensure accurate movement and placement of cars;

·         To always safely maintain awareness of surrounding area and suspicious activity to ensure rail safety;

·         To comprehend color and/or hand signals and systems;

·         To safely, quickly, and repeatedly make precise adjustments in moving the controls of a machine or vehicle to exact positions;

·         To accurately and quickly respond (with the hand, finger, or foot) to visual symbols, signals and displays (sound, light, picture, etc.);

·         To safely maintain responsibility for safe and efficient operation of the locomotive;

·         To safely perform manipulation of throttle and brake controls as well as interpreting gauges and controls;

·         To safely manipulate valves and switches both inside and outside of the cab;

·         To safely and efficiently apply and release handbrakes;

·         To safely ascend and descend steps and ladders to get on and off the equipment;

·         To takes directions from conductors and brakemen;

·         To safely line switches;

·         To safely perform maintenance services to the locomotive (brake shoes, oil, sand and fuel);

·         To always comply with all new and outstanding railroad instructions regarding the operation of the train.;

·         To always comply with all federal regulations regarding the operation of the train air brakes; and

·         To perform any additional duties as assigned by operations and/or management.

Conductor Specific Responsibilities to Include:

·         To safely ensure compliance with all train orders, signals, and railroad rules and regulations for safety, operations, and the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA)

·         To effectively understand and review instructions and effectively communicate these instructions with locomotive engineer and train crew

·         To efficiently receive and transmit information by radio and telephone

·         To effectively read and understand bulletins, work orders, and switch lists

·         To safely assist and instruct train crews to couple and uncouple cars, operate switches, and make minor repairs to railcars, including replacing heavy coupler knuckles or air brake hoses

·         To safely and professionally work with customers to ensure accurate movement and placement of cars

·         To always maintain awareness of surrounding area and suspicious activity to ensure rail safety

·         To comprehend color and/or hand signals and systems

·         To quickly and repeatedly make precise adjustments in moving the controls of a machine or vehicle to exact positions

·         To quickly and accurately respond (with the hand, finger, or foot) to visual symbols, signals and displays sound, light, picture, etc.)

·         To always work safely to prevent on the job accidents and injuries

·         Other duties as assigned

·         This position falls under the provisions of the U. S. Railroad Retirement Board

ESSENTIAL JOB REQUIREMENTS:

·         Verifiable High School diploma/GED or 2 years relative experience in lieu of degree;

·         18 years of age or older;

·         Valid Driver's License;

·         2 years verifiable work experience and/or college; railroad industry experience strongly preferred;

·         Must pass all required assessments.

·         Must pass a background screening;

·         Federal regulations require random testing for drugs and/or alcohol;

·         No driving violations involving alcohol or drugs within the past 3 years;

·         Knowledge of and skills in using hand tools, including wrenches, sockets, screwdrivers, measuring tapes, etc. and skills in using power tools and hydraulic equipment, including portable grinders, rail saws, spike pullers, track wrench machines, power drills;

·         Prefer experience reading and comprehending safety manuals, operating and maintenance instructions, test materials, drawings, schematics, and procedure manuals;

·         Must be able to meet physical requirements of the position;

·         Position requires flexible work schedule and the need to work overtime on occasion; and

·         Must report to work as called on a 24-hour schedule.

CORE COMPETENCIES 

Verbal Comprehension – Understands oral and written communications (both general and technical).

Communication Skills – Provides clear instructions/directions.  Listens and adheres to operations and management guidance.

Reasoning Skills – Demonstrates high level of skill to effectively use his/her problem solving and troubleshooting skills.

Time Management – Values and manages time effectively.  Effectively prioritizes, manages, and organizes workload and broad range of activities.

Excellent Interpersonal Skills – Ability to communicate and collaborate with diverse personalities.

Exceptional Organizational Skills – Demonstrates high level of organization.

Resourcefulness – Ability to find innovate ways to overcome obstacles, problems, and unforeseen/challenging situations.

ESSENTIAL PHYSICAL DEMANDS/WORK ENVIRONMENT

Locomotive Engineers must meet and maintain the following physical requirements:

Must meet and maintain color vision requirements as described in the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) Regulations; and

Must meet and maintain all hearing requirements as described in the FRA Regulations.

The physical nature of the work will vary from day to day based on operational needs; however, the job requires that the incumbent be able to perform the following non-exhaustive list:  climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, bending, crouching, crawling, reaching, standing, walking, pushing, pulling, lifting, typing, grasping, handling, feeling, talking, hearing, seeing, and repetitive motion. Employees in this position may work in cramped, confined, enclosed, or awkward places. Employees will walk long distances over uneven terrain. Heavy work requires occasional lifting, carrying, frequent pushing and pulling of up to or greater than 80 lbs.  A wide range of motion is required for throwing ground and waist-level switches. Outdoor position requiring a tolerance to extreme heat, cold and wet conditions. Employees in this position must be able to work outside in all weather conditions. Perform activities in the proximity of moving equipment. Good auditory and visual acuity/tracking/inspection, accommodation, field of vision and depth perception to successfully perform duties and for general safety. Color vision is necessary for perceiving signals. Employees must wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) including but not limited to hearing protection, safety-toe boots, and safety glasses. Must be able to work outside in all weather conditions.

This is a Safety Sensitive Position

Safety is the cornerstone value in our Company. Our employees are expected to live our values on the job in how we work, how we act, and how we create value. Safety is a personal responsibility.  We are professionals and our activities must reflect that professionalism. Each team member must demonstrate safety advocacy every day – regardless of their role in the Company.  Compliance with safety and operating rules is required and essential to our own safety and that of others.

  

“The Patriot Way.”

At Patriot, we value our relationships – with our customers, employees, shareholders, communities and other stakeholders. We know that safety, integrity, reliability, ethical behavior and exceptional customer service are critical to building and maintaining strong, mutually beneficial relationships. Everyone at Patriot – from the mailroom to the boardroom – embraces those values. More importantly, as a team, we make it our business to demonstrate them in everything we do. It’s “The Patriot Way.”


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