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Rail Train Operator Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

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Switchman II

Williams, AZ · On-site

$20.25/hr

Complies with General Code of Operating Rules (GCOR), train movement and switching instructions, train signals, and railroad rules and regulations to make-up and move railroad equipment. * Provides ...

Freeport McMoRan

Locomotive Operator II

Claypool, AZ · On-site

$27 - $36/hr

You train and mentor coworkers and may perform brakeman and switchman duties, including handling ... Railroad Transportation experience * Familiar with GCOR rules * Familiar with the FRA-DOT

Freeport McMoRan

Locomotive Operator II

Claypool, AZ

$27 - $36/hr

You may load, unload, and cut bands from railroad tie bundles, transport materials, recognize and ... You train and mentor coworkers and may perform brakeman and switchman duties, including handling ...

Freeport McMoRan

Locomotive Operator II

Claypool, AZ · On-site

$27 - $36/hr

... a train to the other, Blue Stake procedures, reading blueprints for proper building of switches ... You may load, unload, and cut bands from railroad tie bundles, transport materials, recognize and ...

Freeport-McMoRan, Inc.

Locomotive Operator I

Claypool, AZ · On-site

$24 - $32/hr

As the Locomotive Operator I, you perform track inspections, general track work, flagging trains, opening and closing boxcars, and re-railing cars after train derailments, and may perform minor track ...

Freeport McMoRan

Locomotive Operator I

Claypool, AZ · On-site

$24 - $32/hr

... a train to the other, Blue Stake procedures, reading blueprints for proper building of switches ... You are responsible for the safe movement of freight trains and railcar switching in rail yards ...

Freeport McMoRan

Locomotive Operator I

Claypool, AZ

$24 - $32/hr

... a train to the other, Blue Stake procedures, reading blueprints for proper building of switches ... You are responsible for the safe movement of freight trains and railcar switching in rail yards ...

Freeport McMoRan

Locomotive Operator I

Claypool, AZ · On-site

$24 - $32/hr

... a train to the other, Blue Stake procedures, reading blueprints for proper building of switches ... You are responsible for the safe movement of freight trains and railcar switching in rail yards ...

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Rail Train Operator information

See Arizona salary details

$4

$21

$32

How much do rail train operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for rail train operator in Arizona is $21.02, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.89 and $27.55 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a rail train operator?

A Rail Train Operator is responsible for operating trains safely and efficiently, following schedules and rail regulations. They control train speed, monitor track conditions, and communicate with dispatchers and station personnel. Operators must be attentive to signals, ensure passenger or cargo safety, and respond to emergencies if needed. The role requires specialized training and knowledge of railroad procedures, as well as strong focus and attention to detail.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a rail train operator?

To thrive as a Rail Train Operator, you need a solid understanding of railway operations, safety procedures, and mechanical systems, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent and on-the-job training. Familiarity with train control systems, communication devices, and sometimes specific licensure or certification (such as a conductor's license) is important. Attention to detail, strong communication, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are standout soft skills in this field. These capabilities ensure the safe, efficient, and timely movement of trains while maintaining high safety standards and reliable service.

What is the typical work environment for a rail train operator?

Rail Train Operators usually work in a fast-paced environment that involves operating trains on set schedules, often during nights, weekends, or holidays. The role requires spending extended periods in locomotive cabs, maintaining constant communication with dispatchers, signal operators, and other railway personnel to ensure safe and efficient train movement. Operators may face varying weather conditions and must remain vigilant throughout their shifts. Working as part of a larger team, Rail Train Operators play a critical role in upholding safety procedures and synchronizing efforts with maintenance and support staff. This collaborative, safety-focused environment provides ample opportunities for skill development and career growth within the rail industry.

How do I get into a rail train operator?

To become a rail train operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, a valid driver's license, and completion of specialized training provided by the employer or a certified training program. Certification or licensing from relevant transportation authorities is often required, along with a clean driving record and good communication skills. Prior experience with operating heavy machinery or vehicles can be beneficial.

How much do rail train operators make?

Rail train operators typically earn a median annual salary of around $60,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, location, and employer. They often require certification and operate trains in various environments, working shifts that may include nights and weekends.

What are popular job titles related to Rail Train Operator jobs in Arizona?

For Rail Train Operator jobs in Arizona, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Rail Train Operator jobs in Arizona look for?

The top searched job categories for Rail Train Operator jobs in Arizona are:

Rail Train Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Rail Train Operator job openings in Arizona as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,716 per year, or $21 per hour.

Light Rail Operator

Alternate Concepts Inc

Phoenix, AZ

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Light Rail Operator
Department: Operations
Reports To: Transportation Superintendents & Transportation/Dispatch Coordinators
Salary Range: Wage rate based on ATU Local 1433
Hours: Full Time

SUMMARY:
Responsible for safe operation and transportation of rail vehicles and passengers

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include, but are not limited to the following:
• Complete and maintain certification to operate light rail vehicle
• Follow and comply with of all rules, regulations and signals governing day to day operations
• Assure that all train operations occur within safe limits of speed, route, dwell, and other characteristics of train operations
• Coordinate with and respond to the direction of local supervision and OCC in all aspects of revenue service operations
• Respond to passenger calls on the train intercom (POIC)
• Assist passengers in all situations and keep them informed of current conditions through announcements over PA system or personal contact
• In the event of an emergency assist in the evacuation of passengers form the train onto the station, platform or right of way
• Monitor all on-board conditions to ensure vehicles are operating as designed
• Troubleshoot the vehicle as directed by Supervision in the event of any abnormal situations and file a completed Defect Report with Maintenance
• File unusual occurrences reports (UOR) for any incident as directed by end of the current shift
• Coordinate closely with Supervisors and other staff to ensure the safety, comfort and convenience of all passengers
• Be able to multitask and communicate effectively.
• Perform other duties as assigned

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES
None

QUALIFICATIONS
Education and/or Experience
Minimum of high school diploma or general education degree (GED), two years related work experience and successfully complete training program
Certificates, Licenses, Registrations
21 years or older with valid driver’s license and valid DOT certification and any other certificates, licenses and registrations as required by law to perform the specified functions.

Physical Demands
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.
The employee must be able to distinguish between colors.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand, walk, and sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; and talk or hear. The employee must lift and/or move up to 20 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and ability to adjust focus.

Work Environment
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.
The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.
ACI reserves the right to revise this job description from time to time.

NOTE:
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by employees assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of employees assigned to this job.


ACI is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer. We recruit, hire, train and promote persons in all job classifications and ensure that all other personnel actions are administered without regard to race, color, religion, creed, national origin, ancestry, gender, physical or mental disability, pregnancy, sexual orientation, genetic information, veteran or military status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

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