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Rail Driver Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Professional Transportation Inc.

Driver

Lincoln Park, MI · On-site

$17/hr

Come be a part of the nation's largest rail crew transportation company as our new Driver! About PTI - Where the RIGHT way is the SAFE way: Professional Transportation, Inc. has been providing crew ...

PROFESSIONAL TRANSPORTATION INC

Driver

Lincoln Park, MI · On-site

$17/hr

Come be a part of the nation's largest rail crew transportation company as our new Driver! About PTI - Where the RIGHT way is the SAFE way: Professional Transportation, Inc. has been providing crew ...

CDL Electric

Railroad Signal Maintainer

Alma, MI

Employee referral bonuses Summary A Railroad Signal Maintainer for CDL is responsible for testing, maintaining and improving signal systems at grade crossings and way-side signal locations in ...

Road & Rail Services

Railcar Mechanic

Kalamazoo, MI

$18.50 - $20/hr

... driver's license may be required when operating company vehicles or equipment. What We Offer Road & Rail Services values dependable employees and provides opportunities to build a long-term career ...

AWCT

Casual - Part-Time

Flint, MI · On-site

$18.40/hr

Ability to pass Driver's Safety Test, Rail Safety Test and Buck Ramp quiz with 80% or higherAbility to read and match numbers quickly and accuratelyAbility to differentiate between colors for vehicle ...

AWCT

Casual - Part-Time

Flint, MI · On-site

$18.40/hr

Ability to pass Driver's Safety Test, Rail Safety Test and Buck Ramp quiz with 80% or higher * Ability to read and match numbers quickly and accurately * Ability to differentiate between colors for ...

Road & Rail Services

Railcar Mechanic

Kalamazoo, MI · On-site

$18.50 - $20/hr

... driver's license may be required when operating company vehicles or equipment. What We Offer Road & Rail Services values dependable employees and provides opportunities to build a long-term career ...

Auto Warehousing Company

Casual - Part-Time

Flint, MI · On-site

$15.25 - $17.75/hr

Ability to pass Driver's Safety Test, Rail Safety Test and Buck Ramp quiz with 80% or higher * Ability to read and match numbers quickly and accurately * Ability to differentiate between colors for ...

hallcon

Van Driver

Moline, MI · On-site

$14/hr

Our primary mission is to provide safe, dependable transportation to members of railroad crews ... No CDL necessary * No high-pressure delivery quotas, loading/unloading packages, or prolonged ...

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All JobsRail Driver JobsRail Driver Jobs in Michigan

Rail Driver information

See Michigan salary details

$4

$13

$16

How much do rail driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for rail driver in Michigan is $13.57, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.55 and $15.72 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a rail driver?

Rail drivers, also known as train drivers or locomotive engineers, are professionals responsible for operating trains that carry passengers or freight. They control the speed, handling, and safety of trains, ensuring they follow schedules and comply with all safety regulations. Rail drivers must remain alert to signals, communicate with dispatchers, and respond appropriately to any emergencies or unexpected situations. Their role is critical in maintaining the efficiency and safety of rail transportation systems.

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

To thrive as a Rail Driver, you need a solid understanding of railway operations, safety procedures, and typically a high school diploma along with completion of operator training and certification. Familiarity with train control systems, signaling technology, and locomotive operation is essential. Attention to detail, strong communication, and the ability to stay calm under pressure are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills ensure safe, efficient train operations and the well-being of passengers, crew, and cargo.

How do you become a rail driver?

To become a rail driver, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by specialized training provided by the railway company. They must obtain a train driver certification or license, which involves passing written exams, practical assessments, and medical tests, and often gaining experience through apprenticeships or entry-level positions in rail operations.

What is the difference between Rail Driver vs Train Conductor?

AspectRail DriverTrain Conductor
Required CredentialsDriver's license, train operation certificationPassenger service certification, safety training
Work EnvironmentLocomotive cab, train yardPassenger cars, station platforms
Employer & Industry UsageRail companies, freight/passenger trainsPassenger rail services, commuter trains
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between a Rail Driver and a Train Conductor lies in their roles and responsibilities. Rail Drivers operate the train, focusing on driving and safety, requiring specific certifications and licenses. Train Conductors primarily handle passenger services, ticketing, and safety procedures. Both roles are essential in the rail industry but serve different functions within train operations.

What are some common challenges faced by rail drivers during their shifts, and how can they be managed?

Rail drivers often encounter challenges such as maintaining strict adherence to schedules, managing fatigue during long or irregular shifts, and responding to unexpected events like signal failures or track obstructions. Effective time management, clear communication with dispatchers and other crew members, and staying updated with safety protocols help mitigate these challenges. Many rail operators also provide ongoing training and support to ensure drivers can handle stressful situations calmly and efficiently, contributing to a safer and smoother operation.

How much can you get paid to drive a train?

Rail drivers, also known as train operators, typically earn between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the type of train operated. Some positions with seniority or in certain regions can pay higher, and additional benefits may be included in compensation packages.

How to become a rail driver?

To become a rail driver, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by specialized training provided by the railway company. They must obtain relevant certifications, such as a locomotive engineer license, and pass medical and background checks. Experience operating trains and knowledge of safety protocols are also essential for this role.
Rail Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various Rail Driver job openings in Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $28,235 per year, or $13.6 per hour.

Driver

Professional Transportation Inc.

Lincoln Park, MI • On-site

$17/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago

Professional Transportation Inc. rating

4.5

Company rating: 4.5 out of 10

Based on 22 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

358th of 360 rated logistics

Job description

Description:CREW TRANSPORT DRIVERS WANTED – Detroit, MI
Starting Pay for drivers is $17.00 per hour.

Want to get your career moving in the right direction? We are seeking a self-confident, outgoing, dependable team member who wants to join our growing organization. This opportunity is great for anyone looking to work in a unique environment. Come be a part of the nation’s largest rail crew transportation company as our new Driver!


About PTI – Where the RIGHT way is the SAFE way:

Professional Transportation, Inc. has been providing crew transportation services for railroads since 1980 and has an industry reputation for providing quality, dependable, and safe crew transportation services. Much like a shuttle service, PTI receives around-the-clock requests from our railroad customers to pick up and drop off train crews.


Job Summary:

As a PTI Van Driver, you will be responsible for safely transporting railroad crew members wherever the railroad requests. Trip length and times vary depending on railroad customer needs. Safety is always our #1 priority and should be the main focus for our Van Drivers. No prior professional driving experience required!


Benefits of Joining PTI:

  • Starting Pay for drivers is $17.00 per hour.
  • Company provided vehicles and fuel during trips
  • Multiple health insurance plan options
  • Paid vacation time
  • 401(K) retirement
  • Safety recognition awards
  • On the job training
  • No heavy lifting or long-distance walking
  • Room for growth and advancement within the company
  • Home every day

Responsibilities:

  • Promoting and practicing safety awareness
  • Prioritize on time performance to meet customer needs
  • Pick up and drop off our customers safely to their destinations
  • Provide excellent customer service
  • Communicate timely with our Dispatch Center
  • Open and close all doors/hatches for the crew members
  • Report any defects, mechanical problems, or missing items found during vehicle inspection to your supervisor
  • Promote and follow all company policies and procedures
  • All other duties as assigned by your supervisor

This does not necessarily list all responsibilities, duties, requirements, or efforts associated with the job. While this list is intended to be an accurate reflection of the job, the company reserves the right to review and modify the functions, duties, and requirements of the job or to require that additional or different tasks be performed as circumstances or business needs require.

Requirements:

Our ideal candidate must:

  • Be at least 21 years old
  • Have a valid driver’s license and clean driving record
  • Have a minimum of 3 years driving experience (personal or work-related)
  • Must be able to pass a post offer drug screening, MVR, and homeland security background check
  • Be able to arrive to the branch location within 30 minutes to ensure on-time performance is achieved

AAP/EEO Statement


Equal Opportunity Employer/Drug-Free Workplace: PTI is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We adhere to a policy of making employment decisions without regard to race, color, age, sex, pregnancy, religion, national origin, ancestry, medical condition, marital status, gender identity citizenship status, veteran status, disability, or veteran status. PTI has a Drug-Free Workplace Policy in effect that is strictly adhered to.

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