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Rail Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Arup

Rail Systems Integration Lead

Sacramento, CA · On-site

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 ...

Transdev

Chief Estimator - Project Engineer

San Dimas, CA · On-site

$136K - $169K/yr

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

Los Angeles Metro

RAIL TRACK SUPERVISOR

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$54.91 - $73.21/hr

Standard safety operating procedures for entering and working on track systems * Principles of ... rail track functions * Analyzing situations, identifying problems, and recommending solutions

Arup

Rail Systems Engineering Lead

Sacramento, CA · On-site

... 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 ...

RailWorks

TAMPER OPERATOR

Stockton, CA · On-site

$18.25 - $24/hr

TAMPER OPERATOR Position Summary: Operates Tamper in a safe manner to perform maintenance and ... Inspects and maintains trucks and attached apparatuses such as hi-rail gear, tools, etc. * Operates ...

Herzog

Safety and Compliance Supervisor

Oakland, CA · On-site

$120K - $140K/yr

The ideal candidate for this job will be a safety professional with knowledge of railroad operating practices and commuter rail experience. The pay range for this position is $120,000.00 - $140,000 ...

Herzog

Safety and Compliance Supervisor

Oakland, CA · On-site

$120K - $140K/yr

The ideal candidate for this job will be a safety professional with knowledge of railroad operating practices and commuter rail experience. The pay range for this position is $120,000.00 - $140,000 ...

Eco-Energy

Terminal Operator

Stockton, CA · On-site

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 ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsRail Operator JobsRail Operator Jobs in California

Rail Operator information

See California salary details

$5

$22

$34

How much do rail operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 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 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 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 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.

How much money does a rail operator make?

A rail operator's average salary varies by location and experience but typically ranges from $40,000 to $70,000 annually. Factors such as certifications, shift schedules, and the type of rail system can influence earnings.

What do you need to be a rail operator?

To become a rail operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, a valid driver's license, and specialized training or certification in train operations. Good communication skills, the ability to operate train controls, and a clean safety record are also important requirements.

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:

Rail Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Rail Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 46% Full Time, 52% Part Time, 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.

Chief Operator - Rail Flaw Detection

Succession Planning for Railroads Investing in the Next Generation LLC

Oakdale, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 19 hours ago

Job description

The Chief Operator's responsibility is for the overall execution of service operations in Rail Flaw Detection provided to the customers. Provide the highest quality performance to exceed the competitions service in every possible way, ensuring customer requirements are met as it may be stated on the contracts or agreements and build customer relationships based on respect, transparency and confidence. Chief Operator represents the company image as much as any other Team members. Chief Operator is also responsible for the safety of his Operator at all time, guiding proper attitude, behavior and communication skills to create an environment of trust and respect.
Responsibilities
Chief Operator reports directly to the Field Manager. In his absence, will report directly to other Field Manager in place or Manager of UT RFD Services as a last resort.
Will remain well versed with a professional attitude towards colleagues, customers and general public reflecting a positive image for the company;
Shall ensure that all railroad and highway safety as well as operating procedures are maintained and applied to the best of his capacity;
Shall be accountable, professional, drive safety and quality as the number one priority;
Shall be open to changes in the workplace and apply directives according to set standards established;
Shall perform a high-quality test for all customers and consistently improve operation where indicated by subordinates;
Adhere and execute instructions in reference books and customer playbooks;
Shall partner with Operator maintains a high standard of maintenance, including cleanliness and 5S on trucks and high precision calibration of equipment at all times;
Produce all necessary paperwork including but not limited to, daily reports, maintenance reports, trip reports, etc.
Is the overall responsible of the vehicle and it's maintenance;
Display his experience in Rail Flaw Detection testing;
Improves fleet uptime to meet goals plans set by upper management;
Ensures Logbooks, DOT papers including Timesheets are maintained;
Ensure compliance with all DOT regulations including hours of serviced regulation.
Will coach, train, protect and assist new employees, Training Chief Operators and Operators, in the wanted work environment established;
Complete weekly expense reports, timesheets, inventory and general truck condition (repairs needed current and preventive);
Chief Operator is responsible for the lodging location chosen and ensures truck is parked at same location.
Experience
a. Experience:
Have at least 5 years of service in the RFD Industry, service management, or related leadership experience;
3 to 5 years' experience on class I railroads;
Knowledge of Rail Flaw Detection testing practices;
Excellent safety record within All class railroads, class I without exception;
Knowledge in computer programs, RFD truck functionality, electrical and mechanical is a plus;
Valid driver's license Class A or B preferred
Respected from peers.
 
b. Special Education:
ASNT-1A Ultrasonic Levels I and II training successfully completed and valid;
Excellent written and verbal communication skills with high level of attention to detail
Minimum of a High school diploma or GED. Mechanical, electrical, troubleshooting knowledge preferred. c. Computer and Other Skills:
Microsoft Office skills, including and not limited to Excel, Word, Microsoft Teams, Concur, and more;
Ability to manage cost & adjust where necessary; d. Personal Attributes:
Must be a Team Player and willing to do whatever it takes to make the customer happy in a safe and ethical way;
Capable of driving quality performance;
Ability to develop excellent customer relationships;
High level of maturity and able to lead in taking initiatives based on company needs;
Punctuality;
Drive safety, accountable, professional image and attitude;
Must be self -motivated;
Integrity;
Adaptable and drives change;
Able to focus on multiple tasks and perform troubleshooting tasks;
Shall have an outgoing, patient and highly respective personality;
General Requirements
Extended travel capability
Punctual
Have all safety training valid for customers and eRail Safe
Being able to travel to customers anywhere in North America (Valid Passport)
No Criminal Records
Communicate in English (written & spoken, French for Eastern Canada)
Conditions
While performing the duties of this job, the employee frequently works near moving mechanical parts and is frequently exposed to dust, oil, grease, fumes or airborne particles. Although work is primarily done inside a testing vehicle the employee might frequently be required to be outside in any weather conditions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools or controls and talk or hear. The employee is frequently required to stand, climb, walk unassisted, sit and reach with hands and arms. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, peripheral vision, and depth perception. This position may require extensive travel away from home primarily throughout the United States but possibly Canada. The above statements reflect the general details necessary to describe the principle functions of the occupation described and shall not be construed as a detailed description of all the work requirements that may be inherited in the occupation.
$71,000 - $81,000 a year
Travel expenses are reimbursed, including lodging, truck maintenance, daily operational supplies, and transportation costs.
Comprehensive medical benefits.
Dental benefits.
401(k) retirement plan.
Per diem paid for eligible days spent away from home on company business.
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
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