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Rail Train Operator Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

City of Bowie, Maryland

Solid Waste Collector

Bowie, MD · On-site

$20.55/hr

... as operating mechanisms for loading, compacting, sorting and dumping refuse and recyclables. This ... The town was first called Huntington City, though its train station was named in honor of local ...

New

Amtrak

Principal Software Engineer - 90402969

Washington, DC · On-site

$152K - $204K/yr

Your success is a train ride away! As we move America's workforce toward the future, Amtrak ... and our operating environment is our priority, and the success of our railroad is due to our ...

Amtrak

Principal Software Engineer - 90402969

Washington, DC · On-site

$152K - $204K/yr

Your success is a train ride away! As we move America's workforce toward the future, Amtrak ... and our operating environment is our priority, and the success of our railroad is due to our ...

Amtrak

Principal Software Engineer - 90402969

Washington, DC · On-site

$152K - $204K/yr

Your success is a train ride away! As we move America's workforce toward the future, Amtrak ... and our operating environment is our priority, and the success of our railroad is due to our ...

Amtrak

Principal Software Engineer - 90402969

Washington, DC · On-site

$152K - $205K/yr

Your success is a train ride away! As we move America's workforce toward the future, Amtrak ... and our operating environment is our priority, and the success of our railroad is due to our ...

Amtrak

Red Cap - 90345095 - Washington

Washington, DC · On-site

$20.23 - $26.97/hr

Your success is a train ride away! As we move America's workforce toward the future, Amtrak ... and our operating environment is our priority, and the success of our railroad is due to our ...

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Rail Train Operator information

See Washington, DC salary details

$5

$25

$40

How much do rail train operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for rail train operator in Washington, DC is $25.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.88 and $33.51 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 the most commonly searched types of Rail Train Operator jobs in Washington, DC?

The most popular types of Rail Train Operator jobs in Washington, DC are:

What are popular job titles related to Rail Train Operator jobs in Washington, DC?

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

What job categories do people searching Rail Train Operator jobs in Washington, DC look for?

The top searched job categories for Rail Train Operator jobs in Washington, DC are:

Rail Train Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Rail Train Operator job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,132 per year, or $25.5 per hour.

HSR Sheetmetal Worker Technician - 90382295 - Washington

Amtrak

Washington, DC

$37.91 - $44.60/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 18 days ago

Amtrak rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 148 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

40th of 101 rated public transport

Job description

Your success is a train ride away!

As we move America’s workforce toward the future, Amtrak connects businesses and communities across the country. We employ more than 20,000 diverse, energetic professionals in a variety of career fields throughout the United States. The safety of our passengers, our employees, the public and our operating environment is our priority, and the success of our railroad is due to our employees.

Are you ready to join our team?

Our values of ‘Do the Right Thing, Excel Together and Put Customers First’ are at the heart of what matters most to us, and our Core Capabilities, ‘Building Trust, Accountability, Effective Communication, Customer Focus, and Proactive Safety & Security’ are what every employee needs to know and do to be most impactful at Amtrak. By living the Amtrak values, focusing on our capabilities, and actively embracing and fostering diverse ideas, backgrounds, and perspectives, together we will honor our past and make Amtrak a company of the future.

Job Summary

Responsible for inspection, testing and maintenance of plumbing, hydraulic and pneumatic systems, in accordance with FRA and Amtrak Tier II standards and guidelines for High Speed Trainsets.

Essential Functions
  • Performs inspection, testing and maintenance in accordance with 49CFR regulations and Amtrak Tier II standards on High Speed Trainset equipment
  • Troubleshoots equipment to determine corrective actions and causes of equipment failures
  • Installs, maintains, and repairs hydraulic and pneumatic circuits and systems
  • Repairs tilting system, brake, water heating and sanitation systems
  • Installs, maintains and repairs heating and cooling equipment and related piping
  • Maintains proper care and use of materials, test equipment, machines and hand tools normally associated with assigned job
Minimum Qualifications
  • High school diploma or GED
  • Completion of technical school or apprenticeship program preferred
  • Experience in troubleshooting, repair, replacement and rebuilding of mechanic equipment and systems
  • Experience testing equipment and repairs to water and sanitation systems
  • Experience in the maintenance of railroad equipment preferred
  • Must successfully complete training and attain/retain certification applicable to assigned job
Preferred Qualifications
  • Knowledge of mechanical, hydraulic, and pneumatic systems
  • Ability to read mechanical drawings
  • Knowledge and skill in the use of electrical tools, equipment and the measurements necessary to meet established standards
  • Ability to train others in attaining higher skill levels in inspections and repairs
  • Demonstrated computer skills
  • Ability to read, write and communicate proficiently
Communications and Interpersonal Skills
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills
Physical Requirements/Environmental Conditions

The hourly range is $37.91 – $44.60 (with opportunity for increases, as per the applicable collective bargaining agreement, after beginning employment). 

Health and WellbeingFinancial and RetirementWork and Family Life SupportHealth, Dental, and Vision Insurance401K Rail Pass PrivilegesWellness ProgramsRailroad Retirement BenefitsEmployee Assistance ProgramMedical Plan Opt-out CreditLife InsuranceCommuter and Flexible Spending AccountsNo-cost Personal Health AdvocateNo-cost Financial Advisor SessionFertility and Family Building Benefits

Some benefits are subject to the collective bargaining agreement. Learn more about our benefits offerings here.

Requisition ID:166893
Posting Location(s):District of Columbia

Relocation Offered:No
Travel Requirements:Up to 25%
You power our progress through your performance.

We want your work at Amtrak to be more than a job. We want your career at Amtrak to be a fulfilling experience where you find challenging work, rewarding opportunities, respect among colleagues, and attractive compensation. Amtrak maintains a culture that values high performance and recognizes individual employee contributions.


Amtrak is committed to a safe workplace free of drugs and alcohol. All Amtrak positions requires a pre-employment background check that includes prior employment verification, a criminal history check and a pre-employment drug screen.

Candidates who test positive for marijuana will be disqualified, regardless of any state or local statute, ordinance, regulation, or other law that legalizes or decriminalizes the use or possession of marijuana, whether for medical, recreational, or other use. Amtrak's pre-employment drug testing program is administered in accordance with DOT regulations and applicable law.


In accordance with DOT regulations (49 CFR § 40.25), Amtrak is required to obtain prior drug and alcohol testing records for applicants/employees intending to perform safety-sensitive duties for covered Department of Transportation positions. If an applicant/employee refuses to provide written consent for Amtrak to obtain these records, the individual will not be permitted to perform safety-sensitive functions.

In accordance with federal law governing security checks of covered individuals for providers of public transportation (Title 6 U.S.C. §1143), Amtrak is required to screen applicants for any permanent or interim disqualifying criminal offenses.


Note that any education requirement listed above may be deemed satisfied if you have an equivalent combination of education, training and experience.

Amtrak is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race/color, to include traits historically associated with race, including but not limited to, hair texture and hairstyles such as braids, locks and twists, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth and related conditions, such as lactation), national origin/ethnicity, disability (intellectual, mental and physical), veteran status, marital status, ancestry, sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression, genetic information, citizenship or any other personal characteristics protected by law.

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About Amtrak

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

As we move America's workforce toward the future, Amtrak connects businesses and communities across the country. We employ more than 20,000 diverse, energetic professionals in a variety of career fields throughout the United States. The safety of our passengers, our employees, the public and our operating environment is our priority, and the success of our railroad is due to our employees.

Industry

Travel arrangement services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Washington, DC, US

Year founded

1971

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