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Rail Train Driver Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Canadian Pacific Railway

Train Conductor

Mason City, IA · On-site

$110 - $133/hr

Join CPKC, North America's first transnational railroad connecting U.S. Canada and Mexico, where ... Valid driver's license POSITION ACCOUNTABILITIES: * Work in either train or yard service depending ...

Auto Warehousing Company

Rail Loader- Day Shift

Toledo, OH · On-site

$23.09 - $25.43/hr

Train new employees * Able to react to change productively and handle other essential tasks as ... Must have and maintain a valid State Driver's license and a good driving record * Must have a good ...

METRO

LRT Operator Trainee

Houston, TX

$18 - $21/hr

Basic Function Upon certification as a Light Rail Train (LRT) Operator, will operate METRORail ... Valid Texas Driver's License is required. * Must obtain certification as an LRT Operator and ...

METRO

LRT Operator Trainee

Houston, TX · On-site

$18 - $21/hr

Basic Function Upon certification as a Light Rail Train (LRT) Operator, will operate METRORail ... Valid Texas Driver's License is required. * Must obtain certification as an LRT Operator and ...

Jobtailor

Train Conductor

Peru, IL · On-site

$55 - $85/hr

Must hold a valid driver's license and have reliable transportation. * Ability to report to work ... Must pass pre-employment Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) drug and alcohol screening. * Must ...

Energy Transfer Equity Lp

Rail Operator

Epping, ND · On-site

Add/remove railcars as needed to ensure outbound train tenders are met. * Stage and secure railcars ... A High School Diploma or equivalent Current/valid driver's license Communicate (written and verbal ...

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Rail Train Driver information

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How much do rail train driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for rail train driver in the United States is $15.57, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $18.03 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.

What cities are hiring for Rail Train Driver jobs?

Cities with the most Rail Train Driver job openings:

What states have the most Rail Train Driver jobs?

States with the most job openings for Rail Train Driver jobs include:

Rail Train Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various Rail Train Driver job openings in the United States 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 $32,394 per year, or $15.6 per hour.

Rail Track Maintainer

Canadian National Railway Company

Iron Junction, MN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Canadian National Railway rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 49 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

136th of 366 rated logistics

Job description

Rail Track Maintainer

At CN, we are committed to our pursuit of excellence. We take pride in delivering work of the highest standard, continually innovating to shape the railroad of the future. As responsible railroaders, we make the right decisions every time, putting safety first, acting with unwavering integrity, and holding ourselves accountable for our actions. We believe in succeeding together-by fostering inclusivity and collaboration, we sustainably deliver exceptional results for our customers.

If you are a skilled trades person or interested in skilled trades and continuous learning in a safety-focused environment, working at CN could be a great fit for you. You'll be working on all types of equipment and structures designed to support the distribution of freight across North America. Enjoy paid training and evolve your skills. The careers we offer are meaningful because the work we do matters. Join us and get your career moving!  

Job Summary

The Rail Track Maintainer is responsible for inspecting, repairing and replacing rails, ties, switches and ballasts. The role is performed outdoors in various types of weather and environmental conditions and ensures a safe working environment.

Working Conditions
  • Shift work, with overtime when required.
  • Long periods of travel required, including overnight.
  • Primarily work outdoors in all weather conditions.
  • Repetitive physical activity.
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds frequently, and up to 70 pounds occasionally.
Major Responsibilities
  • Maintain CN's train rails, ties, switches and ballasts through inspection, repair, and replacement.
  • Maintain various hand tools for assigned work.
  • Remove and replace defective ties, rails spikes, and anchors.
  • Repair deviations in track surface, alignment, and gauge.
  • Install and repair street and railroad crossings and assist in the replacement or repair of items such as power-operated switches and insulated joints.
  • Unload ballasts and distribute track material.
  • Sort used track material for loading.
  • Ensure railroad right-of-way is clear of brush, vegetation, snow and litter.
  • Ensure a safe working environment, by following CN's safety policies and procedures.
Requirements
  • Relevant work experience in similar working conditions or regulatory and safety environment.
  • Experience operating heavy equipment and machinery.
  • High School Diploma, General Education Diploma (GED), or equivalent.
  • Valid driver's license.
  • Must be at least 18 years of age.
  • Must meet all medical fitness for duty requirements for the position, including requirements for Safety.
  • Ability to work autonomously, adapt to different situations and handle stress.
  • Demonstrate good teamwork and maintain positive interactions with others.
  • Dedicated to getting the job done while meeting established standards of quality, safety, productivity and client satisfaction.
  • Displays common sense and good judgment.
  • Hand-eye coordination.
  • Grasping skills
Assets
  • Welding skills
  • Knowledge of signals or Railroad Operating Rules
What We Offer
  • Competitive Wages, Benefits, and Pension Plan
  • Paid Training and Career Development
  • Medical, vision, and dental insurance
  • 24/7 Telemedicine Service
  • Employee Share Investment Plan
  • Educational Financial Assistance Program
  • Employee Resource Groups (ERGs)
  • Extensive Employee Discount Program
  • Employee & Family Assistance Program (EFAP)
Paid Training

Successful candidates will take part in a paid 5-week training program at a CN Campus (Homewood, IL) with additional on-the-job training to help ensure that they have received the adequate knowledge to operate in accordance with regulatory requirements and CN's safety standards. The training is primarily on health and safety rules as successful completion of the classroom and on-the-job training is required to continue employment as a Track Maintainer at CN.

Successful Candidate Process:

  • Medical assessment (including drug, hearing, and vision).
  • Criminal background check.
  • Offer Letter

Paid Training Structure:

  • 5 weeks at CN Campus (Homewood, IL) 

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