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Rail Apprentice Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Hulcher Services Inc

Apprentice Operator II

Hudson, WI · On-site

$28.52 - $30.20/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

Stockton, CA · On-site

$29.54 - $31.28/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 ...

New

Hulcher Services, Inc.

Apprentice Operator I

Hammond, IN · 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

Sauget, IL

$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

Sauget, IL · 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

Bondurant, IA

$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 II

Walbridge, OH · 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

Lincoln, NE · 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

Sauget, IL · 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

Saginaw, 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

Chicago, IL

$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

Amarillo, 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

Chicago, 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

Hammond, IN

$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 ...

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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 Jul 8, 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 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.
More about Rail Apprentice jobs
What cities are hiring for Rail Apprentice jobs? Cities with the most Rail Apprentice job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Rail jobs? The most popular types of Rail jobs are:
What states have the most Rail Apprentice jobs? States with the most job openings for Rail Apprentice jobs include:
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
Infographic showing various Rail Apprentice job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $45,806 per year, or $22 per hour.
Apprentice Operator II

Apprentice Operator II

Hulcher Services Inc

Kansas City, MO • On-site

$25.07/hr

Other

Medical, Retirement

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Description

Hulcher Services is seeking a motivated and success-driven Apprentice Operator II. You will play a vital role in transporting, operating and the servicing of assigned heavy equipment used in clearing railroad derailments by lifting and moving derailed railway cars and locomotives.  

About Us:

Hulcher Service is an industry leader with more than 500 employees and over 25 divisions located in the United States and Mexico assisting customers with derailments as well as engineering work, track maintenance, disaster response, and environmental projects.

What You'll Do:

  • Drive tractor-trailer or escort vehicles.
  • Material handling of heavy steel chains, blocks and steel cables, and other devices.
  • Climbing and crawling on and under derailed railroad cars.
  • Maintenance, cleaning and setup of equipment requiring use of small and large tools including cutting torch and welding.
  • Digging, hammering, and other physical types of work with various tools
  • Lifting 100 lbs. maximum with frequent lifting and/or carrying objects up to 50 lbs.
  • Work at heights over 25 feet on railroad cars; may be on bridges, over water, or in water.

Why Join Us:

  • Room for growth 
  • Union benefits including, but not limited to medical insurance and pension plan

Requirements

What You Bring:

  • Must have 1+ years of experience in the rail or similar industry.
  • Must have a valid Class A CDL with NO restrictions. 
  • Must have a valid driver's license.
  • Ability to work on-call 24/7 365 days a year in an emergency response environment.
  • Ability to travel up to 50% of the time.
  • Ability to conduct maintenance inspections on equipment.

Work Schedule:

  •  Monday through Sunday on the job or possibly at division.
  •  On call for 24 hours for derailments requiring immediate response.
  •  8-hours/day Monday through Friday; on call at other times for derailments requiring immediate response.
  •  The Response Team is to be available at all times and all hours of the day.

Take your career to the next level and join our mission-driven team! At Hulcher you can apply with confidence in knowing you will be a valued asset to our team and be a part of a stable thriving industry! 

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