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Rail Operator Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

Horrocks

Regional Lead - Rail Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$140K - $200K/yr

Build and strengthen relationships with clients, railroad operators, public agencies, and industry partners across the region. * Support business development activities including client engagement ...

Trilon Group

Regional Lead - Rail Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site +1

$140K - $200K/yr

Build and strengthen relationships with clients, railroad operators, public agencies, and industry partners across the region. * Support business development activities including client engagement ...

Wallenius Wilhelmsen

Rail Loader

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$31.75/hr

Rail Loader Preparing railcars for shipment. driving, loading, and securing vehicles for shipment ... operating procedure to avoid damage or defects. * Move vehicles as needed and work safely around ...

Trilon

Regional Lead - Rail Engineer

Seattle, WA

Build and strengthen relationships with clients, railroad operators, public agencies, and industry partners across the region. * Support business development activities including client engagement ...

Trilon Group

Regional Lead - Rail Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$140K - $200K/yr

Build and strengthen relationships with clients, railroad operators, public agencies, and industry partners across the region. * Support business development activities including client engagement ...

Parsons

Project Manager - Rail and Transit

Seattle, WA · On-site

$148K - $266K/yr

Develop and maintain strong relationships with transit agencies, rail operators, contractors, technology providers, and industry partners. * Serve as a senior leader for major rail and transit ...

King County

Rail Laborer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$28.39 - $43.59/hr

Skill in operating various types of powered equipment, especially 2 cycle mix gas and diesel ... Training will be provided by Rail. Obtain and maintain other certifications or requirements ...

Arup

Rail Systems Engineer (Requirements)

Seattle, WA · 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 ...

Hatch

Senior Rail Systems Project Manager

Seattle, WA · On-site

... operating performance targets. * Manage project production, changes, client relations, and ... Familiarity with rail operations, stations, track, and other civil aspects of the railway. * ...

Hatch

Senior Rail Systems Project Manager

Seattle, WA · On-site

... operating performance targets. * Manage project production, changes, client relations, and ... Familiarity with rail operations, stations, track, and other civil aspects of the railway. * ...

Hatch

Senior Rail Systems Project Manager

Seattle, WA · On-site

... operating performance targets. * Manage project production, changes, client relations, and ... Familiarity with rail operations, stations, track, and other civil aspects of the railway. * ...

Americas Region

Senior Design Manager - Rail

Seattle, WA · 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 ...

Arup

Senior Design Manager - Rail

Seattle, WA · 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 ...

Auto Warehousing Company

(Vehicle) Rail Loader

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$25.36 - $29.84/hr

Auto Warehousing (AWC) has been family-owned and operated for more than 50 years and is North ... Our Tacoma, WA location is looking to hire Full-Time Rail Loaders! This is a Monday-Friday position ...

Auto Warehousing Company

(Vehicle) Rail Loader

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$25.36 - $29.84/hr

Auto Warehousing (AWC) has been family-owned and operated for more than 50 years and is North ... Our Tacoma, WA location is looking to hire Full-Time Rail Loaders! * This is a Monday-Friday ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsRail Operator JobsRail Operator Jobs in Seattle, WA

Rail Operator information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$6

$25

$40

How much do rail operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for rail operator in Seattle, WA is $25.67, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.97 and $33.65 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.

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 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.

What are popular job titles related to Rail Operator jobs in Seattle, WA?

For Rail Operator jobs in Seattle, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Rail Operator jobs in Seattle, WA look for?

The top searched job categories for Rail Operator jobs in Seattle, WA are:

Rail Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Rail Operator job openings in Seattle, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 73% Full Time, and 27% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $53,386 per year, or $25.7 per hour.

Regional Lead - Rail Engineer

Horrocks

Seattle, WA • On-site

$140K - $200K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 20 days ago

Job description

Description
At Horrocks, we believe the best work comes from companies with values, that our people are our greatest resource, and that we have a responsibility to the communities where we live and work. We are seeking an experienced and strategic Regional Lead – Rail Engineer to help lead and grow our rail practice across multiple regions throughout the United States. This role is responsible for providing technical leadership, supporting business development efforts, managing key client relationships, and overseeing successful delivery of rail projects across a regional portfolio.

The ideal candidate will bring strong technical expertise in railroad engineering and project delivery, along with demonstrated leadership and experience managing teams, mentoring staff, developing business, and supporting regional growth initiatives. This position will play a key role in expanding Horrocks’ rail presence, strengthening partnerships, and ensuring consistent project execution and quality across the region.

What are the core responsibilities for the role?
  • Provide regional leadership for railroad projects and support strategic growth initiatives within the assigned region.
  • Lead the planning, design, coordination, and delivery of a variety of rail projects including industry track, terminals, spurs, mainlines, yards, and sidings.
  • Coordinate with railroad companies for the delivery of a variety of DOT and municipal public agency projects involving railroad interface for at-grade crossings, grade-separated structures, and utility crossings.
  • Serve as a senior technical resource and advisor for rail design (geometry, material, etc.), grading, drainage, and related infrastructure.
  • Build and strengthen relationships with clients, railroad operators, public agencies, and industry partners across the region.
  • Support business development activities including client engagement, proposal development, project pursuits, and participation in industry organizations and conferences.
  • Provide mentorship, leadership, and technical guidance to engineers, designers, and junior staff across multiple offices and project teams.
  • Collaborate with Project Managers and regional leadership to support staffing strategies, resource planning, and operational efficiency.
  • Coordinate with federal, state, and local agencies across multiple states to ensure compliance with applicable regulations and railroad standards.
  • Lead implementation and enforcement of quality assurance and quality control (QA/QC) procedures throughout project development and delivery.
  • Support the continued development and standardization of rail engineering and coordination practices, design procedures, and project delivery processes across the company.
  • Travel periodically for client meetings, project site visits, regional coordination, and industry events.
  • Perform other duties as needed.

Qualifications, Skills, and Competencies:
  • Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering or related engineering field.
  • Minimum of 10 years of relevant experience in rail, transit, railroad infrastructure, and transportation / land development engineering projects.
  • Professional Engineer (PE) license required.
  • Demonstrated experience leading multidisciplinary rail engineering projects and managing client relationships.
  • Strong understanding of design standards for track, at-grade railroad crossings, grade-separated structures, and utility crossings.
  • Experience mentoring technical staff and leading engineering teams across multiple projects or offices preferred.
  • Understanding of CAD platforms and standard engineering software applications.
  • Strong business development, communication, leadership, and organizational skills.
  • Ability to effectively collaborate with railroad staff, clients, agencies, contractors, and internal teams.
  • Ability to work independently while contributing to a collaborative and team culture.
  • Willingness to travel regionally as needed to support project delivery and client engagement.

Why would a candidate want this job?
At Horrocks, you can expect a competitive base salary and award-winning benefits. Including, but not limited to:
  • Medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance
  • Generous paid time off
  • 401(k): 50% match of contribution up to 6%
  • Professional development opportunities including in-house training
  • Paid professional organization membership and professional licensure
For more information, visit our website at www.horrocks.com
Equal Opportunity Employer including disability and protected veteran status
EEO — All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected characteristic.
We provide fair and equal treatment to all candidates, including reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals. If you require an accommodation during the application process, please email us at Recruiting@horrock.com and include your name, the job title, and the location of the position you are applying for. Our team will respond as promptly as possible.