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Rail Apprentice Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Operating Engineer

Nashville, TN · On-site

$67K - $90K/yr

... hand railings, and floors and other general repairs, adjustments and installations about the ... apprentice program or trade school preferred IMPORTANT EXPERIENCE 5+ years of related work ...

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Rail Apprentice information

See Tennessee salary details

$11

$19

$33

How much do rail apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for rail apprentice in Tennessee is $19.99, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.72 and $21.83 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a rail apprentice?

Rail apprentices are individuals who are undergoing structured training programs to learn the skills and knowledge required for various roles within the rail industry, such as train operations, track maintenance, signaling, or engineering. These apprenticeships combine on-the-job training with classroom-based learning, allowing participants to earn while they learn. Rail apprenticeships are designed to provide a clear pathway into a rewarding career in the rail sector, often leading to full-time employment upon successful completion. Programs typically last between one and four years, depending on the specialization and level.

What types of hands-on projects or tasks can I expect as a rail apprentice?

As a Rail Apprentice, you will be involved in a variety of hands-on tasks such as inspecting and maintaining railway tracks, assisting with the installation and repair of signaling equipment, and working alongside experienced rail engineers on real-world projects. You'll often participate in routine safety checks, help with equipment setup, and support general track maintenance. This practical, team-based work environment provides valuable exposure to different aspects of the rail industry and offers a strong foundation for future specialization or advancement.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a rail apprentice, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Rail Apprentice, you need a foundational understanding of engineering principles, basic math skills, and usually a relevant high school diploma or vocational qualification. Familiarity with rail-specific safety standards, hand and power tools, and sometimes certifications like Personal Track Safety (PTS) are typically required. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and a willingness to learn are crucial soft skills in this role. These abilities ensure safe, effective operations and support professional development within the rail industry.

What is the difference between Rail Apprentice vs Rail Technician?

AspectRail ApprenticeRail Technician
Required CredentialsTypically a high school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job training; some programs require technical coursesVocational training or technical certification; experience in maintenance or repair
Work EnvironmentTraining sites, rail yards, on-site construction areasRailway facilities, maintenance depots, on-site repair locations
Employer & Industry UsageRail companies, construction firms, transit authoritiesRail companies, maintenance providers, transit agencies

The main difference is that a Rail Apprentice is in training to become a Rail Technician, focusing on learning skills on the job, while a Rail Technician is a skilled worker responsible for maintaining and repairing railway systems. Apprenticeship programs prepare individuals for a career in rail maintenance, whereas technicians are already qualified professionals performing technical tasks.

What are the most commonly searched types of Rail jobs in Tennessee?

The most popular types of Rail jobs in Tennessee are:

What are popular job titles related to Rail Apprentice jobs in Tennessee?

For Rail Apprentice jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Rail Apprentice jobs in Tennessee look for?

The top searched job categories for Rail Apprentice jobs in Tennessee are:

Infographic showing various Rail Apprentice job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, and 3% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,574 per year, or $20 per hour.

Operating Engineer

Cushman & Wakefield

Nashville, TN • On-site

$67K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 24 days ago


Cushman & Wakefield rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 159 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

112th of 204 rated real estate companies


Job description

Job Title

Operating Engineer

Job Description Summary

Responsible to ensure the efficient operation and maintenance of mechanical, electrical and plumbing equipment and systems for the assigned property(s). Responsibilities include (but are not limited to) maintaining a clean and safe working environment, performing rounds, conducting routine assessments, performance of day-to-day preventive and corrective maintenance, painting, and housekeeping for assigned properties

Job Description

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Perform all plumbing, electrical, or HVAC requirements of the building(s)
Maintain heating equipment, chillers (air and/ or water cooled), DX units, pumps, cooling towers, fan coil units, VAV, and air distribution systems, etc.
Monitor and adjust all mechanical/pneumatic equipment, steam stations, control gauges, distributor panels, valves, thermostats, diffusers, and other equipment necessary to provide a comfortable environment for the buildings
Verify field conditions and perform any necessary repairs or adjustments
Monitor Energy Management
Repair doors, ceilings, hand railings, and floors and other general repairs, adjustments and installations about the property
Perform repairs to plumbing fixtures (water closets, urinals, flush valve assemblies, lavatories, etc.)
Perform preventive maintenance duties in accordance with C&W standards, building protocol, manufacturer recommendations and industry best practices. including changing filters, cleaning coils, flushing condensers, punching tubes, greasing fan, pump and motor bearings as required, inspecting and adjusting belts, replacing motor bearings, aligning pulleys and shafts, monitor condenser, chilled, heating and secondary water chemical treatment and its associated feed equipment, clean and maintain cooling towers, and perform annual inspections and other scheduled routines as directed.
Inspect engine room equipment, fan room equipment, cooling tower, all motors, house pumps, electric rooms, back-up generator, fire pump(s), sump pump(s), and ejector pumps. Replace lamps, light fixtures, reinstall or replace signage, verify rooms are clean and clear of obstructions and debris
Check for properly operating emergency exit signs and lights and ensure free and clear access to emergency stairs and exits. Perform additional fire and life safety inspections as per NFPA and local jurisdiction, C&W standards, building protocol and as directed by superiors and property management
Document and report activities to supervisor
Respond immediately to emergency situations (fire, evacuation, equipment failure, etc.) and customer concerns
Comply with all applicable codes, regulations, governmental agency, and company directives as relates to building operations and practice safe work habits
Complete all required C&W Safety Training as scheduled annually
Comply with C&W Uniform Dress Code while working and maintain a neat and clean appearance while on the property at times other than working hours
KEY COMPETENCIES
Technical Proficiency
Initiative
Flexibility
Multi-Tasking
Sense of Urgency
IMPORTANT EDUCATION
High School Diploma of GED Equivalent
Graduate of apprentice program or trade school preferred
IMPORTANT EXPERIENCE
5+ years of related work experience in operating mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems in a commercial property setting
ADDITIONAL ELIGIBILITY QUALIFICATIONS
Appropriate license/permit for trade as may be required, i.e. Journeyman or Master Electrician License or City Licenses, such as Refrigeration Certificate of Fitness, High Pressure Boiler License, High Pressure Steam Operator, etc.)
May be required to have certification as a Universal Technician for CFC's depending on market licensure requirements
Possess and maintain a valid driver's license and good driving record with periodic checks (where applicable)
Basic Computing Skills in Outlook, Excel & Word
Experience in operation, maintenance and basic repair of HVAC, boilers, heaters, pumps, refrigerant systems, compressors, water systems, etc.
Knowledgeable in energy management systems, techniques and operations.
Thorough knowledge in all building systems operations, maintenance and repair.
May be only maintenance staff member on duty during certain shifts; may be required to work extended periods of time without relief when responding to priority/emergency situations (including overtime type assignments); may require shift work and/or on call duties
WORK ENVIRONMENT
This job operates in a professional office environment. This role routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, filing cabinets and fax machines. Regularly required to travel outside between properties in varying weather conditions.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.
Must have ability to stoop, stand, climb, frequently lift a minimum of 50 lbs. of equipment (pumps, tools, ladders) and safely install rigging/lifting devices
Regularly required to crouch and reach to install/move equipment by bending forward at the waist or by bending legs and spine
Involves movement between departments, floors, and properties to facilitate work
Ability to speak clearly so others can understand you
Ability to read and understand information presented orally and in writing
Regularly required to utilize vision abilities, allowing reading of printed material, drawings, and schematics
OTHER DUTIES
This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive list of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Other duties, responsibilities and activities may change or be assigned at any time with or without notice.


Cushman & Wakefield also provides eligible employees with an opportunity to enroll in a variety of benefit programs, generally including health, vision, and dental insurance, flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life, and disability insurance programs, and paid and unpaid time away from work. In addition to a comprehensive benefits package, Cushman and Wakefield provide eligible employees with competitive pay, which may vary depending on eligibility factors such as geographic location, date of hire, total hours worked, job type, business line, and applicability of collective bargaining agreements.
The compensation that will be offered to the successful candidate will depend on factors such as whether the position is covered by a collective bargaining agreement, the geographic area in which the work will be performed, market pay rates in that area, and the candidate's experience and qualifications.
The company will not pay less than minimum wage for this role.
The compensation for the position is: $26.56 - $31.25Cushman & Wakefield is an Equal Opportunity employer to all protected groups, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. Discrimination of any type will not be tolerated.

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act (ADAAA), if you have a disability and would like to request an accommodation in order to apply for a position at Cushman & Wakefield, please call the ADA line at 1-888-365-5406 or emailAccommodations@cushwake.com. Please refer to the job title and job location when you contact us.

INCO: "Cushman & Wakefield"

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