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Rail Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Coordinating rail systems designs for complex rail projects. * Stay well-informed and curious about ... Develop and maintain strong client relationships with owners, project sponsors, operators ...

Working knowledge of railroad safety regulations, including FRA, CPUC, OSHA, and railroad operating rules. * Experience coordinating with rail agencies, flagging personnel, subcontractors, suppliers ...

... operators and maintainers, while navigating the transition to low carbon and resilient rail. You would be joining our multidisciplinary team focusing on technical excellence and innovative solutions ...

Be responsible for the safe operation of locomotives, complying with train orders, wayside signals, railroad operating rules, special instructions, Federal, State, and local regulations to transport ...

The basic function of the rail terminal operator is to facilitate the day to day operation of the EEDS facility. These duties include, but are not limited to, preparing rail cars for unload ...

Posted today

Be responsible for the safe operation of locomotives, complying with train orders, wayside signals, railroad operating rules, special instructions, Federal, State, and local regulations to transport ...

Be responsible for the safe operation of locomotives, complying with train orders, wayside signals, railroad operating rules, special instructions, Federal, State, and local regulations to transport ...

Be responsible for the safe operation of locomotives, complying with train orders, wayside signals, railroad operating rules, special instructions, Federal, State, and local regulations to transport ...

Be responsible for the safe operation of locomotives, complying with train orders, wayside signals, railroad operating rules, special instructions, Federal, State, and local regulations to transport ...

Showing results 21-40

Rail Operator information

See California salary details

$5

$22

$34

How much do rail operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for rail operator in California is $22.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.71 and $29.18 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Rail Operator, you need a strong understanding of rail safety protocols, operational procedures, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with train control systems, signaling technology, and sometimes certification in railway operations are important technical requirements. Attention to detail, clear communication, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are standout soft skills in this role. These abilities are crucial to ensure the safe, efficient, and timely operation of trains, minimizing risks and service disruptions.

What are some common challenges faced by rail operators during their shifts?

Rail operators frequently encounter challenges such as managing unexpected delays, ensuring passenger safety during peak hours, and responding to equipment malfunctions or track obstructions. They must stay alert and follow strict protocols to maintain schedules and communicate effectively with control centers and other crew members. Adapting to changing weather conditions and handling emergency situations calmly are also essential aspects of the role.

What is a rail operator?

Rail operators are professionals responsible for operating trains and ensuring the safe and efficient transportation of passengers or freight along railway networks. Their duties typically include monitoring train controls, adhering to schedules, communicating with dispatchers, and following safety protocols. Rail operators play a critical role in maintaining the smooth operation of rail services and must undergo specialized training and certification.

What qualifications do I need to work as a rail operator?

Rail operators typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with specialized training on operating train systems. Certification or licensing from relevant transportation authorities is often required, and good communication, attention to safety, and the ability to work flexible hours are important skills for the role.

Is it hard to be a rail operator?

Being a rail operator involves operating trains safely and efficiently, which requires technical skills, attention to detail, and adherence to safety protocols. The job often involves shift work, including nights and weekends, and may require certification or licensing depending on the region. While it can be demanding, proper training and experience help manage the job's challenges.

What is the difference between Rail Operator vs Train Conductor?

AspectRail OperatorTrain Conductor
CredentialsDriver's license, safety certifications, train operation trainingSafety certifications, customer service training
Work EnvironmentCab of the train, control roomPassenger cars, station platforms
Employer & Industry UsageRail companies, transit authoritiesRail companies, transit agencies
Primary ResponsibilitiesOperate and control train movementAssist passengers, ensure safety, manage tickets

While both roles are essential in rail transportation, the Rail Operator primarily focuses on operating the train and ensuring safe movement, whereas the Train Conductor handles passenger interactions and safety onboard. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and job expectations in the rail industry.

What are popular job titles related to Rail Operator jobs in California? For Rail Operator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Rail Operator jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Rail Operator jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Rail Operator jobs? Cities in California with the most Rail Operator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Rail Operator jobs in CA? For Rail Operator jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Rail Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 49% Full Time, 47% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,297 per year, or $22.3 per hour.

Rail Systems Integration Lead

Arup

Sacramento, CA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

Joining Arup
Arup's purpose, shared values, and collaborative approach have set us apart for over 80 years, guiding how we shape a better world.
We collaborate with public and private sector clients to unlock the transformative potential of railways. We offer a broad range of services spanning planning, design, delivery, systems integration, assurance, safety and security assessments, and optimization of railway operation and maintenance performance to unlock the financial value for investors, asset owners, operators and maintainers, while navigating the transition to low carbon and resilient rail. You would be joining our multidisciplinary team focusing on technical excellence and innovative solutions that shape a better future for people and the planet.
Given our growing business, Arup is looking for an accomplished Rail Systems Design Coordination Lead based in our San Francisco office and working in Sacramento as a key member of Arup's engineering team on the California High Speed Rail, Track and Systems contract. You will be instrumental in developing Arup's business and capability in multidisciplinary rail systems projects in North America.
We are looking for someone with experience in coordinating the rail systems designs for complex railway projects. This person needs to be familiar with all the major rail systems; track, electrification, signaling & train control, communications, SCADA, and how they interface with one another as well as other disciplines such as civils and structures. In-depth design experience in one or more of these rail systems is a major advantage. We are looking for someone who has a real passion to learn, a high level of curiosity, and the versatility to understand and apply different technologies. Additionally, this person must be able to engage with people, and create a positive environment that encourages new engineers to join the team.
The Opportunity
For our North American Business:
  • Coordinating rail systems designs for complex rail projects.
  • Stay well-informed and curious about the industry, in particular the pros and cons of different technologies and products.
  • Growing capability and developing business.
  • Develop and maintain strong client relationships with owners, project sponsors, operators, maintainers, contractors, and other organizations active in the transport sector.
  • Share knowledge, lessons learned, and best practice to strengthen the capability of Arup's rail systems team across the Americas.

For the California High Speed Rail (CHSR) Project:
  • Work collaboratively with other disciplines and partners within our Track and Systems Construction Contract (TSCC) consortium.
  • Responsible for coordinating the rail systems designs ensuring full compliance with the Quality Management process. This includes running Inter Disciplinary Reviews (IDRs).
  • Responsible for reviewing the detailed designs from the rail systems vendors, to ensure that these are coordinated with one another, as well as with other disciplines such as civils and structures.
  • Lead the client engagement in your sub-discipline area(s). As such you need strong communication skills, self-awareness and the ability to articulate technical subject matter clearly and succinctly.
  • Work with project controls and commercial management team members to establish, manage, and monitor design scope, budget, schedule, resources, quality, deliverables, risks, and decision-making processes.

At Arup, you belong to an extraordinary collective - in which we encourage individuality to thrive. Our strength comes from how we respect, share and connect our diverse experiences, perspectives and ideas.
You will have the opportunity to do socially useful work that has meaning - to Arup, to your career, to our members and to the clients and communities we serve.
Is this role right for you?
โ€ข Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience in engineering
โ€ข Experience working directly with clients in a leadership role.
โ€ข 12 years of railway design experience in at least one of the rail systems disciplines.
โ€ข At least one previous rail systems project where the individual has performed the Design Coordination role.
โ€ข At least one previous rail project where the individual has performed the Project Management role.
โ€ข Strong preference for candidates who have been involved in a rail systems project from beginning to end and who have direct experience of the practical issues that arise during installation, testing & commissioning and entry into service.
โ€ข Proven understanding of the application System Safety Certification processes and RAMS
โ€ข Knowledgeable in railway standards such as CENELEC, AREMA, MIL-STD, IEEE and EN
โ€ข Engineering Concepts, including Design, Verification & Validation, and System Integration
โ€ข Professional Engineer designation in California or equivalent is an asset
โ€ข Demonstrable understanding of owner/client capital project drivers and priorities
โ€ข Basic understanding of construction project procurement approaches, project schedule and cost estimate documents is preferred
โ€ข Ability to plan, coordinate and lead design/consulting delivery teams
โ€ข Demonstrated experience working directly with clients, including as a prime consultant manager, lead designer, advisor, or delivery partner
โ€ข Contribute to business development by supporting client positioning, pursuit planning, proposal development, bid strategy, and the preparation of compelling technical and commercial submissions for rail systems opportunities.
Please note that all applicants must apply directly via the job portal.If this role is not quite what you are looking for, but you are interested in other opportunities for a future with purpose, please sign up to ourTalent Communitywhere you will be kept up to date with roles suitable for you to shape a better world.
What we offer you
At Arup, we care about each member's success, so we can grow together.
Guided by our values, we provide an attractive total reward package that recognizes the contribution of each of our members to our shared success. As well as competitive, fair and equitable pay, we offer a career in which all of our members can belong, grow and thrive - through benefits that support health and wellbeing, a wide range of learning opportunities and many possibilities to have an impact through the work they do.
We are owned in trust on behalf of our members, giving us the freedom, with personal responsibility, to set our own direction and choose work that aligns with our purpose and adds to Arup's legacy. Our members collaborate on ambitious projects to deliver remarkable outcomes for our clients and communities. Profit Share is a key part of our reward, enabling members to share in the results of our collective efforts.
Benefits at Work - At Arup, we have a comprehensive and valuable benefits program that works for our employees and their families while keeping costs low. These benefits provide health and welfare security for you as well as paid time off for rest and renewal. As a member of Arup, everyone shares in our success through a global profit share scheme (payments are dependent on the firm's financial performance). Our Global Profit Share Plan (paid bi-annually) provides an opportunity for you to share in the success of the Firm. As a valued employee of Arup, you can also choose to participate in our 401(k) plan with up to 10% company match to help you save for your future
Flexible Working - We believe that flexible arrangements create a more inclusive way of working that supports our diversity and the wellbeing of our people. Options for alternative schedules and the ability to work outside of the office for a portion of your workweek are available
San Fransisco Hiring Range - Hiring Range - The good faith base salary hiring range for this job if performed in San Francisco is $190,000 to $230,000 per year. This range is commensurate with experience, educational background, and skill level. Benefits are not included in the base salary. Please note hiring ranges for candidates performing work outside of San Fransisco will differ.
Different People, Shared Values
Arup is an equal opportunity employer that actively promotes and nurtures a diverse and inclusive workforce. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, regardless of age (within legal limits), gender identity or expression, marital status, disability, neurotype or mental health, race or ethnicity, faith or belief, sexual orientation, socioeconomic background, and whether you're pregnant or on family leave. We are an open environment that embraces diverse experiences, perspectives, and ideas - this drives our excellence.
Guided by our values and alignment with the UN Sustainable Development Goals, we create and contribute to equitable spaces and systems, while cultivating a sense of belonging for all. Our internal employee networks support our inclusive culture: from race, ethnicity and cross-cultural working to gender equity and LGBTQ+ and disability inclusion - we aim to create a space for you to express yourself and make a positive difference. Discover more about life at Arup at www.arup.com/careers/your-life-at-arup.
Our Application Process
We will be reviewing our candidates for this position on a rolling basis. Once you have applied you will be evaluated and potentially moved on to the next round, at which point a member of the talent resourcing team will reach out to you directly.
Arup is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, spouse of a protected veteran, or disability.
Stay safe online. Recruitment fraud is on the rise, and Arup's name, logo, and branding have been used in fraudulent job advertisements. Arup will never ask for bank information as part of our recruitment process.
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