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Rail Train Driver Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Previous railroad experience is not required as we provide all necessary training. As you progress ... Valid driver's license * Clean driving record in the past 36 months, without any suspension ...

Previous railroad experience is not required as we provide all necessary training. As you progress ... Valid driver's license * Clean driving record in the past 36 months, without any suspension ...

Previous railroad experience is not required as we provide all necessary training. As you progress ... Valid driver's license * Clean driving record in the past 36 months, without any suspension ...

Previous railroad experience is not required as we provide all necessary training. As you progress ... Valid driver's license * Clean driving record in the past 36 months, without any suspension ...

Driver

La Grande, OR · On-site

$15.35/hr

Much like a shuttle service, PTI receives around-the-clock requests from our railroad customers to pick up and drop off train crews. Job Summary: As a PTI Van Driver, you will be responsible for ...

Driver

Eugene, OR · On-site

$15.05/hr

Much like a shuttle service, PTI receives around-the-clock requests from our railroad customers to pick up and drop off train crews. Job Summary: As a PTI Van Driver, you will be responsible for ...

Driver

Hermiston, OR · On-site

$15.35/hr

Much like a shuttle service, PTI receives around-the-clock requests from our railroad customers to pick up and drop off train crews. Job Summary: As a PTI Van Driver, you will be responsible for ...

Driver

Portland, OR · On-site

$16.30 - $17.35/hr

Much like a shuttle service, PTI receives around-the-clock requests from our railroad customers to pick up and drop off train crews. Job Summary: As a PTI Van Driver, you will be responsible for ...

Driver

Klamath Falls, OR · On-site

$14.35/hr

Much like a shuttle service, PTI receives around-the-clock requests from our railroad customers to pick up and drop off train crews. Job Summary: As a PTI Van Driver, you will be responsible for ...

Driver

Hermiston, OR · On-site

$15.35/hr

Much like a shuttle service, PTI receives around-the-clock requests from our railroad customers to pick up and drop off train crews. Job Summary: As a PTI Van Driver, you will be responsible for ...

Driver

La Grande, OR · On-site

$14.35 - $15.35/hr

Much like a shuttle service, PTI receives around-the-clock requests from our railroad customers to pick up and drop off train crews. Job Summary: As a PTI Van Driver, you will be responsible for ...

Much like a shuttle service, PTI receives around-the-clock requests from our railroad customers to pick up and drop off train crews. Job Summary: As a PTI Van Driver, you will be responsible for ...

Driver

Hermiston, OR · On-site

$14.35 - $15.35/hr

Much like a shuttle service, PTI receives around-the-clock requests from our railroad customers to pick up and drop off train crews. Job Summary: As a PTI Van Driver, you will be responsible for ...

Driver

Hermiston, OR · On-site

$15.35/hr

Much like a shuttle service, PTI receives around-the-clock requests from our railroad customers to pick up and drop off train crews. Job Summary: As a PTI Van Driver, you will be responsible for ...

Driver

Hermiston, OR · On-site

$15.35/hr

Much like a shuttle service, PTI receives around-the-clock requests from our railroad customers to pick up and drop off train crews. Job Summary: As a PTI Van Driver, you will be responsible for ...

Driver

Portland, OR · On-site

$17.35/hr

Much like a shuttle service, PTI receives around-the-clock requests from our railroad customers to pick up and drop off train crews. Job Summary: As a PTI Van Driver, you will be responsible for ...

Driver

Portland, OR · On-site

$17.35/hr

Much like a shuttle service, PTI receives around-the-clock requests from our railroad customers to pick up and drop off train crews. Job Summary: As a PTI Van Driver, you will be responsible for ...

Driver

Klamath Falls, OR · On-site

$14.35/hr

Much like a shuttle service, PTI receives around-the-clock requests from our railroad customers to pick up and drop off train crews. Job Summary: As a PTI Van Driver, you will be responsible for ...

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Showing results 1-20

Rail Train Driver information

See Oregon salary details

$5

$16

$20

How much do rail train driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for rail train driver in Oregon is $16.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.24 and $19.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a rail train driver?

Rail Train Drivers are professionals responsible for operating trains that transport passengers or freight across various distances. They ensure the safe and timely running of the train, monitor controls and instruments, and adhere to railway signals and schedules. Their duties also include communicating with station staff, responding to emergency situations, and ensuring passenger safety. Rail Train Drivers must undergo specialized training and certification to operate trains safely and efficiently.

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

Rail Train Drivers often encounter challenges such as maintaining strict adherence to schedules while ensuring passenger safety, especially in adverse weather or during unexpected delays. They must stay highly alert for long periods, monitor signals, and respond quickly to any track or equipment issues. Effective communication with control centers and other rail staff is essential, as is managing the stress that can come with operating a train in high-traffic or emergency situations.

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

To thrive as a Rail Train Driver, you need strong attention to detail, understanding of railway operations, and typically a high school diploma along with specialized rail operator training and certification. Proficiency with train control systems, signaling technology, and safety protocols is essential. Excellent communication, situational awareness, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are crucial soft skills. These capabilities ensure safe, efficient train operations and help manage unexpected situations on the railway network.

What is the difference between Rail Train Driver vs Rail Conductor?

AspectRail Train DriverRail Conductor
CredentialsDriver's license, train operation certificationConductor certification, safety training
Work EnvironmentCab of the train, operating controlsPassenger cars, station platforms
Employer & IndustryRail companies, freight/passenger servicesRail companies, passenger services
Job FocusOperating and controlling the trainPassenger safety, ticketing, and customer service

While both Rail Train Drivers and Rail Conductors work in the rail industry, their roles differ significantly. Rail Train Drivers focus on operating the train safely and efficiently, requiring specific driving certifications. Rail Conductors handle passenger interactions, safety checks, and ticketing. Understanding these differences helps job seekers identify the right career path in the rail industry.

How do I become a rail train driver?

To become a rail train driver, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by specialized training provided by the employer or a training school. They must obtain a train driver certification or license, which involves passing written exams, practical assessments, and medical evaluations, and often requires prior experience in rail operations or related roles.

How much do rail train drivers get paid?

Rail train drivers typically earn an average salary ranging from $50,000 to $80,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and the employer. Many train drivers also receive benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans, and the job often requires certification and adherence to safety protocols.

How much does a rail train driver make?

A rail train driver typically earns between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the employer. Experienced drivers with certifications and specialized skills can earn higher salaries, and many work irregular hours or shifts.

How to become a rail train driver?

To become a rail train driver, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by specialized training provided by the employer or a technical school. They must obtain a train driver certification or license, which involves passing written exams, practical assessments, and medical examinations, and often requires prior experience in rail operations or related roles.
Infographic showing various Rail Train Driver job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 30% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,250 per year, or $16.5 per hour.

Train Crew - Portland, OR

Union Pacific Railroad

Portland, OR • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 21 days ago


Union Pacific rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 95 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

30th of 64 rated delivery companies


Job description

Reference Number: 5105
Department: Transportation
Closing Date: Apply early as this job may be filled at any time.
Most communications will be done electronically. Please check email, including spam folders, daily.
If you wish to solicit an employee referral for this position, please ensure the employee submits the referral prior to submitting your application.
Description
At Union Pacific, success is driven by our talented workforce. If you are passionate about contributing to a dynamic team and being at the heart of the railroad industry, we invite you to join us on this exciting journey. We are powered by our people, will you join our Train Crew team?
Train Crew employees are responsible for providing the safe and timely movement of customers' freight. Previous railroad experience is not required as we provide all necessary training.
As you progress in your career, you may have the opportunity to apply for engine service (fireman's class) and become a Class 1 Locomotive Engineer.
In your initial year of service, you can expect earnings of around $80,000. As you advance in your career there is potential for higher earnings, with the median annual wages of an employee with five years of service reaching over $100,000. Each employee is entitled to medical insurance that also covers prescriptions. In addition, the company provides vision, dental, life, and disability insurance.
What Should You Know
  • If hired, know that changing seniority locations and/or crafts (moving from train crew to mechanical or engineering) are approved based on business demands and may not be granted. Plan to commit to your craft and work location for a minimum of 2 years.
  • The training class is 14 weeks and includes classroom and on-the-job training. Attendance for the full 14 weeks and successful completion of all exams during the training period is a requirement for continued employment.
  • After training, you will work either road or yard service based on the territory you hold seniority and seniority date.
  • Road service crews may be required to work between two locations requiring them to stay away from their home terminal point. Lodging is provided by Union Pacific.
  • Yard and local service crews work with an engineer, or by remote control. They classify (sort) the cars from inbound trains and build outbound trains.
  • This is a seniority-based position, and you may be required to cover locations within the area you hold seniority other than the location hired. These locations could be a long distance from the location you were hired or from where you live. Lodging may or may not be provided depending on the collective bargaining agreement you are working under.
  • You may be required to work an assignment that is on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
  • You will likely not be eligible for compensated time off during your first year of employment aside from paid sick days.
  • Temporary furloughs are possible depending on fluctuations in business volumes. Furloughs and subsequent recalls to work are based on seniority dates.
  • Union Pacific does not tolerate the use of drugs and alcohol (even for medicinal purposes). You will be subject to random drug and alcohol testing, mandatory testing for reasonable suspicion, and post-accident testing when applicable.
  • Refer to Train Crew FAQs for more information.

Accountabilities
  • Inspect equipment, locomotives, and rail cars to ensure they are safe to use or move in a train.
  • Perform tasks such as: Coupling (connecting) equipment, aligning drawbars, operating remote control locomotives, applying, and releasing hand brakes, riding rail cars, replacing couplers/knuckles and effectively communicating information to crews, yard controllers, and dispatchers via radio and/or hand signals.
  • Maintain accurate written and electronic documentation and prepare necessary materials as required.
  • Observe and comply with all railroad rules and regulations pertaining to safety, operations, and the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA).
  • Perform additional duties as assigned by a supervisor.

Qualifications - Required
  • Applicants must have reached the age of 18 or above.
  • Valid driver's license
  • Clean driving record in the past 36 months, without any suspension, revocation, cancellation, or denial of your driver's license resulting from a drug or alcohol-related incident.
  • Must not have been involved in diversion or probation or pleaded guilty to a drug or alcohol-related driving incident.
  • Must not have refused to undergo a drug or alcohol test related to the operation of a motor vehicle.
  • Successfully complete an assessment in English before proceeding to the interview stage. For more information go to FAQs on UP.jobs.

Qualifications - Preferred
  • Experience working on 2nd and/or 3rd shifts.
  • Experience working outdoors in diverse weather conditions (considering professional, personal, and volunteer experiences)
  • Experience working with, on, and around heavy equipment in motion (considering professional, personal, and volunteer experiences)
  • Experience working in confined spaces and at different heights.

Physical and Mental Job Requirements
  • Candidates are required to successfully pass a Physical Ability Test (PAT) before being considered for employment. This is separate from the medical exam and will assess your ability to handle the demands of the job. For more information go to the FAQs on UP.jobs.
  • Normal color vision, enabling the detection and interpretation of various visual color signals and displays, as well as the ability to determine the speed of moving objects at both close and distant ranges.
  • Adequate depth perception to accurately assess the speed and distance of locomotives being moved in the service area.
  • The strength to push, pull, lift, and carry objects weighing up to 85 lbs.
  • The ability to frequently perform coordinated hand movements for grasping, placing, or moving objects.
  • The capacity to engage in physically demanding tasks, including occasional bending, stooping, and kneeling.
  • The capacity to bend, stoop, line a switch from one track to another, climb a rail car side ladder, maintain balance while riding a rail car at varying distances, walk up to 5 miles per shift on uneven terrain and occasionally work at heights of 12' or more.
  • The capability to detect unusual sounds and smells during inspections and testing, and promptly respond.

Work Conditions
  • You may travel with our trains, sometimes spending a day or more away from your home terminal.
  • Work outdoors in all weather conditions, including snow, ice, rain, cold and heat.
  • Instead of working a standard 40-hour week, there are variable work hours and irregularly scheduled days off. Train Crew employees are on call, even on nights, weekends, and holidays.
  • Must be legally authorized to work in the United States without requiring company sponsorship.

Union Pacific strives to attract all available talent. We are committed to creating an environment where all people can be their best, personally and professionally, as we remain a merit and performance-based company.
What we offer:
  • A strengths-based, engagement-focused, and performance-oriented culture
  • Ongoing learning, development, and Educational Assistance (including little to no out-of-pocket cost for online and in-person courses at the University of Nebraska at Omaha and Metropolitan Community College)
  • 401(k) retirement plan
  • Employee Stock Purchase Plan with 20% match up to 5%
  • Medical, dental and vision insurance, which are collectively bargained for through union membership
    Wellness and Employee Assistance Programs

Background Check Investigation
* State & Federal criminal history
* Last 7 years of employment history to include military service
* Education
* Prior drug history
* Professional license or certification, if applicable to role
* Driving history, if applicable to role
Please click here to review Union Pacific's policy regarding background investigations.
Medical Review
* Medical Evaluation
* Drug Screen
* Fitness-for-duty assessment to ensure that candidates can safely perform essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation
* Color vision exam, if applicable to role
Equal Employment Opportunity and Reasonable Accommodation
Union Pacific is an equal opportunity employer here . All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status. Union Pacific is committed to providing access and reasonable accommodation in its employment of individuals with disabilities. To request a disability accommodation in the application process, please use this link here to submit a request.
Culture
Union Pacific strives to attract all available talent. We are committed to creating an environment where all people can be their best, personally and professionally, as we remain a merit and performance-based company.

What Union Pacific employees say

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