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Rail Operator Jobs in Boston, MA (NOW HIRING)

This position is associated with Bay State Rail's proposal to operate the MBTA Commuter Rail ... As an operator and global integrator of mobility, we are driven by our purpose. Transdev - the ...

Operating in a highly regulated, safety-sensitive, 24/7 railroad environment, the Head of Fleet Maintenance is accountable for maintaining fleet availability and state of good repair while advancing ...

Head of Fleet Maintenance

Boston, MA · On-site

$180K - $240K/yr

Operating in a highly regulated, safety-sensitive, 24/7 railroad environment, the Head of Fleet Maintenance is accountable for maintaining fleet availability and state of good repair while advancing ...

Chief of Operations

Boston, MA · On-site

$200K - $280K/yr

The ideal candidate will bring deep commuter rail operating experience, strong regulatory knowledge, and proven leadership in large-scale passenger transportation systems. We're proud to offer:

Lead the development of technical plans and standard operating procedures (SOPs) * Participates in ... Manages Rail Operations and Maintenance SME * Collaborates with Pricing, and other support ...

The company has been operating for more than 50 years and delivers complex rail/transit, bridge, highway, marine, utility, and heavy civil infrastructure projects throughout New England and the ...

New

Knowledge of various rail modes such as Commuter Rail, Light Rail, and / or Streetcar preferred ... Develops operations plans and standard operating procedures (SOPs)Participates in technical reviews ...

Knowledge of various rail modes such as Commuter Rail, Light Rail, and / or Streetcar preferred ... Develops maintenance plans and standard operating procedures (SOPs)Participates in technical ...

Experience managing infrastructure in compliance with governance frameworks and railroad operating requirements. * Direct experience working in a unionized labor environment. * Strong knowledge of:

Experience managing infrastructure in compliance with governance frameworks and railroad operating requirements. * Direct experience working in a unionized labor environment. * Strong knowledge of:

Ruby on Rails Developer

Boston, MA · On-site +1

$111K - $152K/yr

The right individual will have experience using Ruby on Rails extensively, have an excellent ... Jetsonify is currently operating in "stealth mode" for the time being, but feel free to get in ...

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Rail Operator information

See Boston, MA salary details

$5

$24

$38

How much do rail operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for rail operator in Boston, MA is $24.50, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.20 and $32.12 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 Boston, MA?

For Rail Operator jobs in Boston, MA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Rail Operator jobs in Boston, MA look for?

The top searched job categories for Rail Operator jobs in Boston, MA are:

Infographic showing various Rail Operator job openings in Boston, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 46% Full Time, 50% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,965 per year, or $24.5 per hour.

Program Manager Supplemental Work

Keolis Transit America

Somerville, MA • On-site

$100K - $135K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 2 days ago


Job description

Salary Range: $100,000 - $135,000

Driven by Purpose. Powered by People.

At Keolis, a leader in public transportation and proudly headquartered in Boston, our mission — We Imagine, We Care, We Commit — is more than words. It’s how we support our communities and how we support each other. As part of our team, you'll have access to a comprehensive benefits package designed with your wellbeing in mind. We offer a competitive benefits package that supports your health, wellbeing, and peace of mind. This includes medical, dental, and vision coverage, along with life and disability insurance. You’ll also have access to a variety of voluntary benefits such as hospital indemnity, accident, and critical illness coverage, as well as home, auto, and pet insurance.  To help secure your financial future, we also provide a 401(k)-retirement plan with a company match. At Keolis, you're not just building a career — your part of something bigger.

Minimum Knowledge and Experience:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Construction Management, Transportation, or a related technical field, or equivalent relevant experience.
  • Minimum of ten (10) years of experience managing transportation or transit-related infrastructure projects or programs.
  • Demonstrated experience managing complex, multi-site or program-level initiatives in a public-sector environment.
  • Knowledge of project delivery processes, including permitting, procurement, design development, construction oversight, cost control, and schedule management.
  • Familiarity with rail operating environments, safety requirements, regulatory compliance, and multi-stakeholder coordination.

Skills:

  • Strong program and project management skills, including scheduling, budgeting, and risk and issue management.
  • Ability to coordinate effectively with diverse stakeholders, including agency staff, operating partners, consultants, contractors, and vendors.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills, including preparation of clear project documentation and executive-level briefings.
  • Ability to manage multiple concurrent workstreams and prioritize tasks in a dynamic project delivery environment.
  • Working knowledge of ADA and regulatory requirements applicable to transit facilities, with demonstrated problem-solving ability.

Key Accountabilities (Essential Job Duties):

  • Adhere to KCS principles of Employee Engagement, Operational Excellence, Safety & Security, and Economic Performance.
  • Manage assigned MBTA Commuter Rail programs from planning through construction, testing, and final acceptance.
  • Develop and track program schedules, milestones, and cost forecasts in alignment with MBTA Capital Investment Plan requirements.
  • Coordinate design, construction, testing, and commissioning activities with MBTA departments, the Commuter Rail Operator, and external partners.
  • Support procurement activities, contractor oversight, and vendor performance to ensure compliance with MBTA standards, contracts, and safety requirements.
  • Coordinate construction phasing and work windows to minimize impacts to rail operations and customers.
  • Identify and manage program risks and issues; provide regular status reporting and executive-level updates to MBTA leadership.
  • Support operational readiness, including training coordination, system testing, and transition to revenue service.

Working Conditions (including Physical Demands)

  • Combination of office-based work and field visits at active MBTA Commuter Rail stations and facilities.
  • Work conducted in active railroad environments requiring compliance with MBTA safety policies, railroad operating rules, and site access protocols.
  • Coordination with construction activities that may occur during overnight, weekend, or off-peak service windows.

Additional Statements

Drug and alcohol screening: Employment contingent upon passing pre-employment drug and alcohol screen. Also, contingent upon receiving a favorable background check. Must pass a physical examination.

Safety commitment: Safety is a way of life at Keolis. By placing safety first, we ensure the wellbeing of our employees, customers, and communities. Together we can become the most successful transportation company in the world.

Environmental commitment: Keolis is committed to protecting the environment by minimizing the impact of operations to our people and the communities in which we operate.

EEO statement: Our policy is to afford Equal Employment Opportunity to qualified individuals regardless of their race, color, sex, religion, age, creed, marital status, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation, or gender identification. We maintain a drug-free workplace and perform pre-employment substance abuse testing.

ADA Reasonable Accommodation:  Keolis CS is committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals. As part of this commitment, Keolis CS will ensure that persons with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodations.

Disclaimer and closing statement: The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by employees assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of employees assigned to this job. Keolis is committed to offering our employees competitive compensation and benefits, opportunities for development and growth throughout an exciting and rewarding career, and the safest work environment possible.