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Rail Operator Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

Auto Warehousing

(Vehicle) Rail Loader

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$24.45/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

Auto Warehousing Company

(Vehicle) Rail Loader

Tacoma, WA

$25.36/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

Sound Transit

Light Rail Systems Maintenance Technician

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$64.42/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Light Rail Systems Maintenance Technician will have ability to comprehend the skilled technical ... Skill in AC/DC systems, operating principles of analog and digital electronics, electronic control ...

Sound Transit

Light Rail Systems Maintenance Technician

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$64.42/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Light Rail Systems Maintenance Technician will have ability to comprehend the skilled technical ... Skill in AC/DC systems, operating principles of analog and digital electronics, electronic control ...

RailWorks

CRAFT FOREMAN / TRACK FOREMAN

Tacoma, WA

$35 - $45/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Using specific railway operating rules, instructions and techniques, this position ensures that contractors clear the working zone prior to the approach of a train minimizing any delays to scheduled ...

Shell

Terminal Operator

Seatac, WA

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Experience in terminal operations, pipeline operations, refining, petrochemical, marine, rail ... Ability to interpret operating procedures, technical documents, work instructions, and regulatory ...

D Shell Trading Services Co

Terminal Operator

Seatac, WA

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Experience in terminal operations, pipeline operations, refining, petrochemical, marine, rail ... Ability to interpret operating procedures, technical documents, work instructions, and regulatory ...

Northwest Industrial Staffing, Inc

Be Seen First

Forklift Operator / Heavy Equipment Operator

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$22 - $24/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Minimum 2+ years of experience operating heavy industrial equipment or container handlers in a warehouse, rail yard, or port-adjacent terminal. * Equipment Expertise: Proven, hands-on experience ...

Northwest Industrial Staffing, Inc

Be Seen First

Forklift Operator / Heavy Equipment Operator

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$22 - $24/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Minimum 2+ years of experience operating heavy industrial equipment or container handlers in a warehouse, rail yard, or port-adjacent terminal. * Equipment Expertise: Proven, hands-on experience ...

NewCold

Forklift Operator

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$24/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Forklift Operator Build thefuture of food At NewCold, we're shaping the futureof the food supply ... Load and unload trucks, containers, and rail cars. Stage and organize products in designated areas.

NewCold

Forklift Operator

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$24/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Forklift Operator Build thefuture of food At NewCold, we're shaping the futureof the food supply ... Load and unload trucks, containers, and rail cars. Stage and organize products in designated areas.

Amtrak

Motor Equipment Operator - 90394327 - Seattle

Seattle, WA · On-site

$30.09 - $35.40/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

The safety of our passengers, our employees, the public and our operating environment is our priority, and the success of our railroad is due to our employees. Are you ready to join our team? Our ...

Amtrak

Motor Equipment Operator - 90394327 - Seattle

Seattle, WA · On-site

$30.09 - $35.40/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

The safety of our passengers, our employees, the public and our operating environment is our priority, and the success of our railroad is due to our employees. Are you ready to join our team? Our ...

Sound Transit

Tacoma Link Rail Service Specialist

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$44.23/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... and operating defects. * Check and fill LRV sand boxes to appropriate levels when necessary ... Operate company assigned vehicles and light rail vehicles. * Assist in training other fellow ...

Sound Transit

Tacoma Link Rail Service Specialist

Tacoma, WA

$44.23/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... and operating defects. * Check and fill LRV sand boxes to appropriate levels when necessary ... Operate company assigned vehicles and light rail vehicles. * Assist in training other fellow ...

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Showing results 21-40

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.

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 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.

(Vehicle) Rail Loader

Auto Warehousing

Tacoma, WA • On-site

$24.45/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 22 days ago

Auto Warehousing Company rating

5.7

Company rating: 5.7 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

With AWC you get AMAZING benefits, to work with WONDERFUL people and we PROMOTE from within!
AWC offers a generous benefits package supporting both physical and mental well-being. Benefits include health insurance for associates, spouses, and children; basic life and AD&D insurance; disability insurance; EAP; auto discounts; a 401(k) plan with company contribution; and several voluntary benefits. Associates have paid holidays, floating holidays, vacation and sick accruals, and funeral leave.
Auto Warehousing (AWC) has been family-owned and operated for more than 50 years and is North America's leader in finished vehicle logistics. Our mission is to service customer vehicles safely, efficiently, with quality and pride. Our Associates are the reason for our success, and developing their talent remains critical to our future.
Do you love working with and around vehicles? Do you enjoy working in fast-paced environment? And the transportation industry? Then Auto Warehousing is the place for you!
  • Our Tacoma, WA location is looking to hire Full-Time Rail Loaders!
  • This is a Monday-Friday position with the shift of 6:30 am - 3:00 pm with opportunity of daily and weekend overtime!
Competitive pay is $24.45 per hour with contractual increases!
Benefits:
  • Full Medical, Dental, Health and Prescription benefits with low monthly cost to you!
  • Vacation, Paid Sick Time, and Holiday Benefits
  • Incentives, Discounts, and Bonuses
  • Company-Paid Life Insurance
  • Short-Term Disability Insurance
  • 401k Company Match
No experience? No problem! We will provide you with step-by-step training.
Summary of Position:
Rail Loader is responsible for loading and unloading new vehicles onto railcars in compliance with company quality standards.
Job Requirements:
Valid driver's license.
To join our team as a Rail Loader you are ready and able to:
  • Able to stand, walk, and work outdoors in all weather conditions
  • Must be able to pass a physical and background check.
  • Work at a height approximately 15 feet above the ground
  • Lift up to 50 pounds overhead
  • Good visual ability
  • Good sense of balance

If this sounds like the position for you, please apply on our company website.
Auto Warehousing Company, including its subsidiaries, is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, gender, age, veteran status, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status or disability (in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act) with respect to employment opportunities.

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