1

Rail Train Driver Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Monitors train movement on the mainline, including revenue trains, test trains, student training ... A valid Texas Driver's License is required for the job and must meet METRO's requirements regarding ...

Rail Loader 1st Shift

Raymond, OH

$17.50 - $20.25/hr

Train new employees and temporary workers * Maintain a positive behavior and conduct in the ... Possess and maintain a valid State Driver's license * Possess good sense of balance and maintain 3 ...

... Radios, Automatic Train Protection (ATP), Automatic Train Operation (ATO), Automatic Train ... Valid Driver's license * Able to pass a criminal background check, and must be fully vaccinated ...

Rail Operations Controller

Houston, TX · On-site

$70K - $92K/yr

Monitors train movement on the mainline, including revenue trains, test trains, student training ... A valid Texas Driver's License is required for the job and must meet METRO's requirements regarding ...

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 ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Rail Train Driver information

See salary details

$5

$15

$19

How much do rail train driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 20, 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 are Rail Train Drivers?

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 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 much do train drivers get paid?

Train drivers typically earn an average salary ranging from $50,000 to $80,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and the employer. In some regions, experienced drivers or those working for major transit agencies can earn higher wages, often supplemented by overtime and benefits.

What qualifications do I need to be a train driver?

To become a rail train driver, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with specialized training and certification from a recognized railway authority. They must pass medical and background checks, have good vision and hearing, and often require experience operating trains or similar machinery. Licensing requirements vary by country and railway company but generally include passing written and practical exams.

How do you become a railroad driver?

To become a rail train driver, you typically need to complete a high school diploma or equivalent, obtain a commercial driver's license (CDL) with a passenger or freight endorsement, and complete specialized training provided by the employer or a training program. Experience operating trains or heavy machinery, along with passing medical and background checks, is also required before certification and employment.

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.

Is 55 too old to become a train driver?

Rail train driver roles typically have age limits set by employers or licensing authorities, often around 60 to 65 years old, depending on the country. Age may affect eligibility for training or certification, but many employers value experience and skills over age. Candidates should check specific age requirements and health standards for their region and employer.

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.
More about Rail Train Driver jobs
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:
Infographic showing various Rail Train Driver job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,394 per year, or $15.6 per hour.
Rail Bike Guide/Car Host Seasonal

Rail Bike Guide/Car Host Seasonal

Patriot Rail

Lincoln, NH

$18.50/hr

Part-time

Posted 15 days ago


Patriot Rail rating

4.3

Company rating: 4.3 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

SUMMARY OF POSITION:

This position represents Granite State Scenic Railroad as a tour guide and ensures that passengers receive a safe and pleasant journey by interfacing with passengers in a friendly and informed manner. This is a part-time/seasonal position with a variable work schedule. This position is employed by an affiliated company of Patriot Rail.

Dress Code:

Appropriate work attire. Safety clothing such as safety vest, gloves, safety glasses and any other special attire required to perform the job

Prior Experience/Skills Needed

  • Must have valid driver’s license
  • Capable of pedaling a bike with light exertion during the scheduled rail bike excursions

 

Overall Rail Bike Guide Job Responsibilities

  • Must attend daily job briefings as scheduled
  • Guided tour while pedaling rail bike
  • Lift rail bikes when required, to change direction or storage
  • Perform track inspections
  • Maintain safe environment for guests and employees
  • Maintain rail bike equipment
  • Perform safety speech at beginning of each tour
  • Sanitize bikes between trips
  • Flag crossings when necessary
  • Perform other duties as requested
  • Valid Driver’s License
  • Maintain a current working knowledge of all events, services, and procedures by reviewing event information sheets and posted or verbal communication.
  • Provide First Aid/CPR/AED in the event of emergencies.
  • Provide information and offer additional services to guests to enhance their experience with Rail Bike Adventures.
  • Deal professionally, courteously, and tactfully with the public and coworkers.

Overall Car Host Job Responsibilities

  • Attend safety briefings (pre-trip).
  • Verify assigned car is prepared and ready.
  • Assist in loading and unloading of passengers.
  • Maintain safety rules.
  • Be knowledgeable about the train, individual cars and scenic highlights.
  • Respond to any customer inquiries with accurate up-to-date information.
  • Provide superior customer service.
  • Maintain a current working knowledge of all events, services, and procedures by reviewing event information sheets and posted or verbal communication.
  • Provide First Aid/CPR/AED in the event of emergencies.
  • Strong customer service skills with the ability to resolve customer conflicts, should they arise.
  • Read, write and communicate effectively with co-workers and the general public.
  • Deal professionally, courteously and tactfully with the public and coworkers.
  • Flexibility to work nights, weekends and/or holidays when needed, particularly during the Fall peak season.   
  • Additional duties as assigned.

Dress Code – Appropriate work attire, including comfortable shoes, company provided shirt and dark pants, shorts or shirt. No tight pants or exceedingly baggy pants. No short shorts or mini skirts. Other safety attire may be necessary when working with hand tools.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS/WORK ENVIRONMENT:

Frequently required to sit, stand, walk, climb steps, handle objects, reach with hands and arms, write, talk, type and hear. Associate is occasionally required to sit, stoop, bend and/or kneel and lift and/or move up to 35 lbs. 

SAFETY:

Safety is the cornerstone value in our Company. Our employees are expected to live our values on the job in how we work, how we act, and how we create value. Safety is a personal responsibility.  We are professionals and our activities must reflect that professionalism. Each team member must demonstrate safety advocacy every day – regardless of their role in the Company.  Compliance with safety and operating rules is required and essential to our own safety and that of others.

“The Patriot Way.”

At Patriot, we value our relationships – with our customers, employees, shareholders, communities and other stakeholders. We know that safety, integrity, reliability, ethical behavior and exceptional customer service are critical to building and maintaining strong, mutually beneficial relationships. Everyone at Patriot – from the mailroom to the boardroom – embraces those values. More importantly, as a team, we make it our business to demonstrate them in everything we do. It’s “The Patriot Way.”