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Rail Train Driver Jobs in Atlanta, GA (NOW HIRING)

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

Fairburn, GA · On-site

$15/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

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$15 - $16/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

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$16/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

Fairburn, GA · On-site

$14 - $15/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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Rail Train Driver information

See Atlanta, GA salary details

$5

$14

$18

How much do rail train driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for rail train driver in Atlanta, GA is $14.98, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.85 and $17.36 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 Atlanta, GA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $31,152 per year, or $15 per hour.

$24/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago


Genesee & Wyoming rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 31 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

267th of 366 rated logistics


Job description

* This position DOES NOT pay into Railroad Retirement

Are you ready to build a rewarding career in the railroad industry? Join the Genesee & Wyoming Inc. (G&W) team — part of a legacy that is over 125 years old. With a network of 100+ individual freight railroads and 4,000 employees across North America, we provide transportation and logistics services to more than 2,000 customers.

At G&W, we live by our Core Values: Safety, Service, Integrity, Respect, Transparency, Accountability, Innovation and Excellence. We offer competitive pay, a comprehensive benefits package, and paid training to help you succeed. Check out some of our great benefits below:

  • Medical, Dental, Vision & Telehealth
  • Life Insurance
  • Optional benefit coverages for Accident, Critical Illness, Hospital, ID Theft & Life Insurance
  • Flexible Spending & Health Savings account plans
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan
  • On the Job Training
  • Paid Time Off
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • And more!

* Benefits are subject to change and may vary by labor agreement

Explore your future with G&W today and learn more about the opportunities to grow across our organization!

 

Pay details :  $24/hour

*This position does not pay into the Railroad Retirement Board 

Job Summary:

As a Conductor, you’ll play a key role on the ground, safely operating rail equipment in our customer’s industrial or intermodal yard.  We will provide you with hands-on and classroom training to set a strong foundation for a long-term career. You’ll work outdoors in all weather conditions, tackling new challenges each day while ensuring we meet our customers’ needs. This is a physically active position with real opportunities for growth and advancement in a complex and dynamic environment.

Responsibilities:

  • Comply with all federal, state, and other applicable railroad safety and operational regulations
  • Follow instructions when working with a certified trainer, mentor, or supervisor
  • Communicate with team members using oral, written, hand signals, lantern signals or radio instructions to coordinate train or railcar movement
  • Operate track switches to determine the route of the train or rail equipment
  • Evaluate, plan, and complete all assigned work safely and efficiently
  • Climb on and off equipment and walk the length of the train or rail yard to support train operations
  • Apply or release hand brakes on railcars multiple times a day to control movement
  • Read and understand the rule books and other written or printed material
  • Inspect the condition of the train and equipment in movement and while stationary for safety compliance
  • Connect air hoses and electrical components between locomotives or railcars
  • Utilize basic computer skills proficiently for electronic reporting and train documentation
  • Perform other duties as assigned

Working Conditions / Physical Requirements:

  • Full-time (40 plus hours weekly)
  • Varying schedule in a 24/7 work environment that includes nights, holidays, weekends, and on-call as needed
  • Outdoor work in all weather conditions working up to a 12-hour shift
  • Walking long distances on uneven surfaces and climbing ladders and equipment always ensuring three points of contact in varying environmental conditions 
  • Able to lift up to 75 pounds from floor to waist and carry short distances
  • Able to squat, bend and lift overhead
  • Have good balance and coordination
  • Must meet vision requirements (including color)

Skills and Experience:

  • 2+ years of related or relevant work experience is a plus
  • Effective communication skills both written and verbal
  • Experience working in a safety-sensitive environment is a plus
  • Possess situational awareness and decision-making abilities to respond effectively in a safety sensitive environment

Required Education and Credentials:

  • High school diploma or GED; or an equivalent combination of education and/or work experience
  • Valid driver’s license
  • At least eighteen years of age

Employment Requirements:

  • Pre-employment physical, hearing, and vision medical review
  •  Subject to federally mandated drug and alcohol testing including pre-employment drug screening
  • Background screening including criminal and motor vehicle driving history

Relocation:

Must live within 50 miles of assigned location or be willing to relocate. Relocation assistance is not offered for this position. 

This position is employed by a specific entity set forth in the job posting.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Genesee & Wyoming Inc. and its subsidiary companies are Equal Opportunity Employers. All qualified applicants receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or any other protected status protected under federal, state or local laws.


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