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Rail Apprentice Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

The safety of our passengers, our employees, the public and our operating environment is our priority, and the success of our railroad is due to our employees. Are you ready to join our team? Our ...

The safety of our passengers, our employees, the public and our operating environment is our priority, and the success of our railroad is due to our employees. Are you ready to join our team? Our ...

Experience in the maintenance of railroad equipment * Completion of technical school or apprenticeship program Communications and Interpersonal Skills * Must have excellent verbal and written ...

Experience in the maintenance of railroad equipment * Completion of technical school or apprenticeship program Communications and Interpersonal Skills * Must have excellent verbal and written ...

Carpenter

Lorton, VA · On-site

$28 - $34/hr

From highways to hotels and residential housing to railways, we rely on the leadership, talents ... Apprentice certificates are required for apprentices. * Alignment to Clark Standards of Excellence:

Carpenter

Fort George G Meade, MD

$24 - $32.75/hr

From highways to hotels and residential housing to railways, we rely on the leadership, talents ... Apprentice certificates are required for apprentices. * Alignment to Clark Standards of Excellence:

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Rail Apprentice information

See Washington salary details

$13

$24

$42

How much do rail apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for rail apprentice in Washington is $24.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.62 and $27.21 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

Do train companies do apprenticeships?

Yes, many train companies offer apprenticeships for roles such as Rail Apprentices, providing on-the-job training and classroom learning in areas like engineering, signaling, and operations. These programs typically include structured schedules, skill development, and may lead to full-time employment in the railway industry.

Is 27 too old for an apprenticeship?

Rail apprenticeships are open to individuals of various ages, including those in their late 20s. Age is generally not a barrier, and employers often value maturity and life experience alongside skills and commitment. Candidates should focus on meeting the program's requirements and demonstrating enthusiasm for the role.

What is the salary of a railway apprentice?

The salary of a railway apprentice typically ranges from $15,000 to $30,000 per year, depending on the country, railway company, and level of experience. Apprentices often receive a stipend or hourly wage during their training period, which may increase as they gain skills and certifications in railway maintenance and operations.

What does a railway apprentice do?

A railway apprentice learns to perform various tasks related to railway operations, including maintenance, repair, and inspection of trains and tracks. They typically work under supervision to gain skills in safety procedures, equipment handling, and technical systems used in the railway 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 rail apprentices?

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 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 are the most commonly searched types of Rail jobs in Washington? The most popular types of Rail jobs in Washington are:
What are popular job titles related to Rail Apprentice jobs in Washington? For Rail Apprentice jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Rail Apprentice jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Rail Apprentice jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Rail Apprentice jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Rail Apprentice job openings:
Infographic showing various Rail Apprentice job openings in Washington as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, and 10% Part Time. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $51,880 per year, or $24.9 per hour.

Trailer Repair Technician, Apprentice

THERMO KING

Elkridge, MD

$18 - $26/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

Leader in the Industry

Thermo King West, Chesapeake & Central Carolinas are now Force TK. Force TK has almost 300 employees across its 13 locations in 9 states. It has been very successful in diversifying its equipment portfolio that it sells and supports. Today, the Company and its subsidiaries are market leaders in Thermo King transport refrigeration, Versalift aerial buckets, TICO terminal tractors, Club Car commercial vehicles, Knapheide truck bodies, trailer repair, and consumer golf carts. Force TK is one of North America’s largest and most respected dealerships in the critical transport refrigeration space.

Trailer Repair Technician (Apprentice, Journeyman or Expert)

Work setting: In-person

Job Type: This is an hourly, full-time, non-exempt position with an expected work schedule of 40 hours per week with occasional overtime

Schedule: Monday - Friday, 8:00 - 5:00 p.m.

Key Responsibilities

Trailer Repair Technician, Apprentice (0-2 years of experience):

  • Demonstrated mechanical aptitude.
  • Participate in a one-year Apprenticeship Program.
  • If no welding experience, be trained to weld steel, aluminum and stainless.
  • Operate power tools and repair damaged trailers.
  • Able to work overtime when needed in order to ensure our customers’ satisfaction.
  • Abide by company attendance, punctuality, and safety policies.
  • Willing to work hard in a fast-paced environment.
  • Must be willing to learn and follow directions.
  • Handle other duties as assigned.
  • Advancement is typically from Apprentice to Journeyman to Expert or to other areas within the business.

Trailer Technician, Journeyman (2+ years of experience, including above requirements):

  • Perform PMs, BIT, and DOT Inspections.
  • Lighting and Electrical System: Diagnose, isolate, and repair lighting systems such as shorts and open circuits.
  • Must be able to perform Air Brake Inspections and Repairs: Air brake overhauls, measure brake lining thickness, drums, and s-cams, adjust brakes, replace s-cams and bushings, slack adjusters, and replace relay values, air tanks. Brake Mechanics Certificate a plus.
  • Rail Gate Experience: adjust lift-gate platform and its controls, replace rail cables and/or cylinders, motors, pumps, and relays.
  • Diagnose mechanical problems; mobile operations, quote jobs accurately; train new technicians.
  • Able to replace suspension components and landing legs; perform axle alignments
  • Perform MIG-weld steel, aluminum and stainless.

Trailer Technician, Expert (3+ years of experience, including above requirements):

  • Performs other functions or duties as directed by management in line with management objectives. Be safety-minded and follow all safety rules.
  • Experience in Collision Repair, Dry and Refrigerated Van, Structure, Roll & Swing Doors, Interiors, Exteriors, Ceilings, and Roof repairs is a plus.

This job description is intended to provide a general overview of the position.  This is not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, qualifications, or working conditions associated with the job.

Job Requirements

Advancement is typically from Apprentice to Journeyman to Expert or to other areas within the business. This position is designated as safety sensitive and regulated by the Department of Transportation. Safety shoes are required to work in this position. Uniforms and safety shoe allowance are provided. The ability to work in an alert and safe manner is always required.

  • Deliver superior customer satisfaction through high quality and efficient service
  • Problem solving and strong decision-making skills
  • Effective and proactive communication and relationship-building skills
  • Demonstrate good judgment
  • Ability to work at times with little or no supervision
  • Desire to learn and continuously improve self and surroundings
  • Drive to meet and exceed productivity standards
  • High School Diploma or GED not required, but desired.
  • Must have a valid driver’s license.

Position includes stooping, bending, kneeling, sitting, standing, climbing into trailer, ladder usage, lifting up to 70 pounds, use of provided ear protection in a sometimes-noisy environment and safety glasses. Safety shoes are required to work in this position. A shoe allowance is provided for safety shoes. The work environment is open to the outdoor environment. 

This position requires a drug screen, background check and where needed meet requirements to drive. Utility Equipment and Supply and Thermo King West, Inc. are an Equal Opportunity Employer and provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws

Benefits

Health benefits begin first of the month following hire. We offer the following benefits:

  • Medical/Rx (PPO or High Deductible Health Plan with HSA)
  • Dental
  • Vision  
  • Life Insurance and Short & Long-Term Disability (no cost to employee)
  • Voluntary Life Insurance (Employee, Spouse/Partner, Child/ren)
  • Legal and Identity Theft Protection
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Payroll is weekly, every Friday. We offer paid vacation, holiday, and sick leave.