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Rail Apprentice Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Hulcher Services Inc

Apprentice Operator II

Sauget, IL · On-site

$26.84 - $28.52/hr

Description Hulcher Services is seeking a motivated and success-driven Apprentice Operator II. You ... Climbing and crawling on and under derailed railroad cars. * Maintenance, cleaning and setup of ...

Hulcher Services, Inc.

Apprentice Operator I

Galesburg, IL · On-site

$26.84 - $28.52/hr

Hulcher Services is seeking a motivated and success-driven Apprentice Operator I. You will play a ... Climbing and crawling on and under derailed railroad cars. * Maintenance, cleaning and setup of ...

Hulcher Services, Inc.

Apprentice Operator I

Walbridge, OH · On-site

$26.84 - $28.52/hr

Hulcher Services is seeking a motivated and success-driven Apprentice Operator I. You will play a ... Climbing and crawling on and under derailed railroad cars. * Maintenance, cleaning and setup of ...

Hulcher Services Inc

Apprentice Operator I

Kansas City, MO · On-site

$26.84 - $28.52/hr

Description Hulcher Services is seeking a motivated and success-driven Apprentice Operator I. You ... Climbing and crawling on and under derailed railroad cars. * Maintenance, cleaning and setup of ...

Hulcher Services, Inc.

Apprentice Operator I

Houston, TX · On-site

$26.84/hr

Hulcher Services is seeking a motivated and success-driven Apprentice Operator I. You will play a ... Climbing and crawling on and under derailed railroad cars. * Maintenance, cleaning and setup of ...

Hulcher Services Inc

Apprentice Operator I

Walbridge, OH · On-site

$26.84 - $28.52/hr

Description Hulcher Services is seeking a motivated and success-driven Apprentice Operator I. You ... Climbing and crawling on and under derailed railroad cars. * Maintenance, cleaning and setup of ...

Hulcher Services Inc

Apprentice Operator I

Belen, NM

$26.84 - $28.52/hr

Description Hulcher Services is seeking a motivated and success-driven Apprentice Operator I. You ... Climbing and crawling on and under derailed railroad cars. * Maintenance, cleaning and setup of ...

Hulcher Services, Inc.

Apprentice Operator I

Bondurant, IA · On-site

$26.84 - $28.52/hr

Hulcher Services is seeking a motivated and success-driven Apprentice Operator I. You will play a ... Climbing and crawling on and under derailed railroad cars. * Maintenance, cleaning and setup of ...

Hulcher Services, Inc.

Apprentice Operator I

Belen, NM · On-site

$26.84 - $28.52/hr

Hulcher Services is seeking a motivated and success-driven Apprentice Operator I. You will play a ... Climbing and crawling on and under derailed railroad cars. * Maintenance, cleaning and setup of ...

Hulcher Services Inc

Apprentice Operator I

Hudson, WI · On-site

$26.84 - $28.52/hr

Description Hulcher Services is seeking a motivated and success-driven Apprentice Operator I. You ... Climbing and crawling on and under derailed railroad cars. * Maintenance, cleaning and setup of ...

Hulcher Services, Inc.

Apprentice Operator I

Hudson, WI · On-site

$26.84 - $28.52/hr

Hulcher Services is seeking a motivated and success-driven Apprentice Operator I. You will play a ... Climbing and crawling on and under derailed railroad cars. * Maintenance, cleaning and setup of ...

Hulcher Services, Inc.

Apprentice Operator I

Fort Worth, TX · On-site

$26.84 - $28.52/hr

Hulcher Services is seeking a motivated and success-driven Apprentice Operator I. You will play a ... Climbing and crawling on and under derailed railroad cars. * Maintenance, cleaning and setup of ...

Hulcher Services, Inc.

Apprentice Operator I

Lincoln, NE · On-site

$26.84 - $28.52/hr

Hulcher Services is seeking a motivated and success-driven Apprentice Operator I. You will play a ... Climbing and crawling on and under derailed railroad cars. * Maintenance, cleaning and setup of ...

Hulcher Services Inc

Apprentice Operator I

Houston, TX · On-site

$26.84/hr

Description Hulcher Services is seeking a motivated and success-driven Apprentice Operator I. You ... Climbing and crawling on and under derailed railroad cars. * Maintenance, cleaning and setup of ...

Hulcher Services Inc

Apprentice Operator I

San Antonio, TX · On-site

$26.84 - $28.52/hr

Description Hulcher Services is seeking a motivated and success-driven Apprentice Operator I. You ... Climbing and crawling on and under derailed railroad cars. * Maintenance, cleaning and setup of ...

Hulcher Services, Inc.

Apprentice Operator I

Walbridge, OH · On-site

$26.84 - $28.52/hr

Hulcher Services is seeking a motivated and success-driven Apprentice Operator I. You will play a ... Climbing and crawling on and under derailed railroad cars. * Maintenance, cleaning and setup of ...

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Rail Apprentice information

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$12

$22

$37

How much do rail apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for rail apprentice in the United States is $22.02, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $24.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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.

More about Rail Apprentice jobs
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What are the most commonly searched types of Rail jobs? The most popular types of Rail jobs are:
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What job categories do people searching Rail Apprentice jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Rail Apprentice jobs are:
Rail Apprentice jobs near you
Electro-Mechanical Technician Apprentice - Maintenance of Wayside

Electro-Mechanical Technician Apprentice - Maintenance of Wayside

San Diego Metropolitan Transit System

San Diego, CA • On-site

$46.33/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

Summary
San Diego Trolley, Inc. ("MTS") offers a 4-year apprenticeship program, leading to a rewarding career working on the light rail system for America's finest city. MTS offers competitive wages, exceptional benefits, career advancement, tools and uniforms. Learn the skills necessary to move up the career ladder as an Assistant Lineman, Lineman and Electromechanic responsible for the highly skilled repair and maintenance of the MTS Rail System.
Application Review: Applications will be accepted and reviewed on an ongoing basis.
Interviews are typically conducted on a weekly basis.
What is an Apprentice Responsible for?
Maintenance and inspection of the following:
  • Wayside Railroad Signal System
  • Railroad Grade Crossings
  • Railroad Track Switches
  • Traction Power Generation and Distribution
  • Operation of overhead bucket trucks and cranes
  • Various lighting systems
  • Ventilation systems
  • Pumps and pump controls

Paid Training and Education
The Apprenticeship Program is divided into two (2) main segments: Assistant Lineman and Lineman. Each segment is approximately two years in duration and consists of on-the-job training and formal classroom training. The formal classroom training is conducted on the employee's own time and may consist of attending classes at San Diego City College, or other approved local junior colleges, as well as formal classes held on MTS premises. MTS pays for the cost of the tuition and books. Apprentices attend classes while working full-time.
At the conclusion of the Assistant Lineman Apprenticeship Program, the State of California awards the employee a Journeyman's Certificate as an Assistant Lineman. The employee is then enrolled in the Apprentice Lineman Program. At the conclusion of the Lineman Program, the employee is awarded a Journeyman's Certificate as a Lineman. The employee is then eligible for promotion to Electromechanic.
Competitive Wages
Starting rate of pay is $25.47 per hour. After a six-month probationary period, the employee is eligible for a pay raise to $27.78 per hour and eligible for wage increases every six months thereafter. Top rate of pay for an Assistant Lineman is $34.81 per hour. Top rate of pay for a Lineman is $40.12 per hour. Top rate of pay for an Electromechanic (after approximately six years from hire date) is $46.33 per hour.
Here are some of the additional perks and benefits!
  • Retirement Plan through California Public Employees Retirement System (CalPERS).
  • Medical, dental & life insurance plans, upon completion of 180 day probationary period.
  • Two (2) weeks of vacation, after one year of service.
  • Holidays.
  • Free travel on most local public transit systems.
  • Sick leave, after six months of service.

What we are Looking For
Requirements:
  • High school diploma or GED equivalent.
  • Must have passed Algebra in high school or college with a passing grade of C or better.
  • An aptitude test will be required following interview.
  • To be considered for the role, you must submit your California driving record from the DMV to MTS. MTS will accept either the online printout or a certified copy of your driving record.

DISCLAIMER: The above described job elements are intended to indicate the general nature and levels of work being performed by employees assigned to the job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of duties, responsibilities and skills required of employees so classified. Management retains the discretion to add to or change the duties of the position at any time.
EEO is The Law - Equal Employer Opportunity Employer Minorities/Women/Protected Veterans/Disabled
MTS is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer with an ongoing commitment to treat all people, including customers, co-workers and the public at large, with dignity and respect. As a public transportation agency, MTS is committed to providing an inclusive workplace that reflects the diverse communities in which we work and live.
MTS supports and promotes an environment that is free of discrimination and harassment. MTS recruits, hires, trains and promotes individuals without regard to race, such as hair texture and hairstyles), color, religion, ancestry, national origin, age (40 years or older), sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, medical condition (cured or rehabilitated cancer), physical disability, mental disability, reproductive health decision-making, genetic information (including family medical history), military or veteran status, or any other protected class.
MTS encourages veterans, military spouses and people from different backgrounds to apply for open positions for which they are interested. Additionally, MTS employees are encouraged to refer qualified candidates from all backgrounds and age groups. At MTS, we are committed to a fair and equitable workplace where everyone is a respected and valued member of the team.

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