... Railroad Apprenticeship, if required. Education High School or GED equivalent
... Railroad Apprenticeship, if required. Education High School or GED equivalent
... Railroad Apprenticeship, if required. Education High School or GED equivalent
... Railroad Apprenticeship, if required. Education High School or GED equivalent
Railroad Engineer
$17 - $18/hr
You must have advanced knowledge of the railroad industry from vocational education, apprenticeship, on-the-job training, or similar experience. * You must be able to pass a vision and hearing test.
Quick apply
Railroad Engineer
$17 - $18/hr
You must have advanced knowledge of the railroad industry from vocational education, apprenticeship, on-the-job training, or similar experience. * You must be able to pass a vision and hearing test.
Railroad Engineer
Houston, TX · On-site
$17 - $18/hr
You must have advanced knowledge of the railroad industry from vocational education, apprenticeship, on-the-job training, or similar experience. * You must be able to pass a vision and hearing test.
Quick apply
Railroad Engineer
Houston, TX · On-site
$17 - $18/hr
You must have advanced knowledge of the railroad industry from vocational education, apprenticeship, on-the-job training, or similar experience. * You must be able to pass a vision and hearing test.
Signals & Communications Apprentice
Libertyville, IL · On-site
$36.01/hr
In addition, CN employees are also eligible to an employee share investment plan (ESIP), Pension, Benefits, Railroad Retirement Benefits (RRB) and other perks. Signals & Communications Apprentice At ...
New
Signals & Communications Apprentice
Libertyville, IL · On-site
$36.01/hr
In addition, CN employees are also eligible to an employee share investment plan (ESIP), Pension, Benefits, Railroad Retirement Benefits (RRB) and other perks. Signals & Communications Apprentice At ...
New
Signals & Communications Apprentice At CN, we are committed to our pursuit of excellence. We take ... Use a wide variety of hand tools, bonding rail, and testing signal plans, including on track high ...
New
Signals & Communications Apprentice At CN, we are committed to our pursuit of excellence. We take ... Use a wide variety of hand tools, bonding rail, and testing signal plans, including on track high ...
New
Signals & Communications Apprentice At CN, we are committed to our pursuit of excellence. We take ... Use a wide variety of hand tools, bonding rail, and testing signal plans, including on track high ...
New
Signals & Communications Apprentice At CN, we are committed to our pursuit of excellence. We take ... Use a wide variety of hand tools, bonding rail, and testing signal plans, including on track high ...
New
Passenger Rail Mechanic Apprentice
Sacramento, CA · On-site
$23 - $25/hr
Drummac, Inc. is an integrated railroad services company that specializes in providing mechanical ... A Mechanical Apprentice, known at Drummac as Qualified Person must be able to work in compliance ...
Quick apply
Passenger Rail Mechanic Apprentice
Sacramento, CA · On-site
$23 - $25/hr
Drummac, Inc. is an integrated railroad services company that specializes in providing mechanical ... A Mechanical Apprentice, known at Drummac as Qualified Person must be able to work in compliance ...
Rail Yard Conductor
Walkertown, NC · On-site
$16/hr
You must have advanced knowledge of the railroad industry from vocational education, apprenticeship, on-the-job training, or similar experience. * You must be able to pass a vision and hearing test.
Quick apply
Rail Yard Conductor
Walkertown, NC · On-site
$16/hr
You must have advanced knowledge of the railroad industry from vocational education, apprenticeship, on-the-job training, or similar experience. * You must be able to pass a vision and hearing test.
Rail Terminal Conductor
$45K - $65K/yr
You must have advanced knowledge of the railroad industry from vocational education, apprenticeship, on-the-job training, or similar experience. * You must be able to pass a vision and hearing test.
Rail Terminal Conductor
$45K - $65K/yr
You must have advanced knowledge of the railroad industry from vocational education, apprenticeship, on-the-job training, or similar experience. * You must be able to pass a vision and hearing test.
You must have advanced knowledge of the railroad industry from vocational education, apprenticeship, on-the-job training, or similar experience. * You must be able to pass a vision and hearing test.
Quick apply
You must have advanced knowledge of the railroad industry from vocational education, apprenticeship, on-the-job training, or similar experience. * You must be able to pass a vision and hearing test.
Rail Train Conductor Engineer
Houston, TX · On-site
$17 - $18/hr
You must have advanced knowledge of the railroad industry from vocational education, apprenticeship, on-the-job training, or similar experience. * You must be able to pass a vision and hearing test.
Quick apply
Rail Train Conductor Engineer
Houston, TX · On-site
$17 - $18/hr
You must have advanced knowledge of the railroad industry from vocational education, apprenticeship, on-the-job training, or similar experience. * You must be able to pass a vision and hearing test.
... along the railroad track. This role identifies safety hazards and helps perform basic maintenance to ensure equipment is within working order to support business needs. Essential Job Duties:
... along the railroad track. This role identifies safety hazards and helps perform basic maintenance to ensure equipment is within working order to support business needs. Essential Job Duties:
Hi Rail Apprentice I
Des Moines, IA · On-site
... along the railroad track. This role identifies safety hazards and helps perform basic maintenance to ensure equipment is within working order to support business needs. Essential Job Duties:
Hi Rail Apprentice I
Des Moines, IA · On-site
... along the railroad track. This role identifies safety hazards and helps perform basic maintenance to ensure equipment is within working order to support business needs. Essential Job Duties:
Drummac, Inc. is an integrated railroad services company that specializes in providing mechanical ... A Mechanical Apprentice, known at Drummac as Qualified Person (QP) must be able to work in ...
Quick apply
Drummac, Inc. is an integrated railroad services company that specializes in providing mechanical ... A Mechanical Apprentice, known at Drummac as Qualified Person (QP) must be able to work in ...
Rail Train Conductor Engineer
$17 - $18/hr
You must have advanced knowledge of the railroad industry from vocational education, apprenticeship, on-the-job training, or similar experience. * You must be able to pass a vision and hearing test.
Quick apply
Rail Train Conductor Engineer
$17 - $18/hr
You must have advanced knowledge of the railroad industry from vocational education, apprenticeship, on-the-job training, or similar experience. * You must be able to pass a vision and hearing test.
Carpenter Apprentice
$18.50 - $24.50/hr
We specialize in highway and rail transportation projects and are known for our strong workforce ... Apprentices will gain hands-on experience working alongside skilled carpenters on heavy civil ...
Carpenter Apprentice
$18.50 - $24.50/hr
We specialize in highway and rail transportation projects and are known for our strong workforce ... Apprentices will gain hands-on experience working alongside skilled carpenters on heavy civil ...
... railroad locomotive or diesel mechanical maintenance training required. • Knowledge of locomotive mechanical or locomotive electrical or industrial heavy equipment mechanical experience is required ...
Quick apply
... railroad locomotive or diesel mechanical maintenance training required. • Knowledge of locomotive mechanical or locomotive electrical or industrial heavy equipment mechanical experience is required ...
Signal Apprentice - Minneapolis, MN
Minneapolis, MN · On-site
$36.44/hr
Embark on a fulfilling career at BNSF Railway, where joining our Engineering Department means contributing to the backbone of our nation's rail infrastructure. The Signal Apprentice is an ...
Signal Apprentice - Minneapolis, MN
Minneapolis, MN · On-site
$36.44/hr
Embark on a fulfilling career at BNSF Railway, where joining our Engineering Department means contributing to the backbone of our nation's rail infrastructure. The Signal Apprentice is an ...
Summary San Diego Trolley, Inc. (MTS) offers a 4-year apprenticeship program, leading to a rewarding career working on the light rail system for America's finest city. MTS offers competitive wages ...
Summary San Diego Trolley, Inc. (MTS) offers a 4-year apprenticeship program, leading to a rewarding career working on the light rail system for America's finest city. MTS offers competitive wages ...
Railroad Apprentice information
See salary details
$12.26 - $14.53
6% of jobs
$14.53 - $16.81
14% of jobs
$17.25 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$16.81 - $19.08
25% of jobs
The median wage is $19.72 / hr.
$19.08 - $21.35
17% of jobs
$23.34 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$21.35 - $23.62
15% of jobs
$23.62 - $25.90
7% of jobs
$25.90 - $28.17
6% of jobs
$28.17 - $30.44
4% of jobs
$30.44 - $32.71
2% of jobs
$32.71 - $34.99
1% of jobs
$34.99 - $37.26
2% of jobs
$12
$22
$37
How much do railroad apprentice jobs pay per hour?
As of May 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for railroad apprentice in the United States is $22.02, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $24.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Railroad Apprentice, and why are they important?
To thrive as a Railroad Apprentice, you need a high school diploma or equivalent, basic mechanical aptitude, and a willingness to learn railroad operations and safety standards. Familiarity with hand tools, heavy machinery, and railroad-specific safety certifications such as FRA (Federal Railroad Administration) training are typically required. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and communication skills help apprentices adapt quickly and work safely with experienced crews. These competencies ensure apprentices can learn effectively, prioritize safety, and contribute to efficient railroad operations.
What are some of the typical challenges a Railroad Apprentice might face during their training period?
As a Railroad Apprentice, you may encounter challenges such as adapting to irregular work hours, working outdoors in varying weather conditions, and learning to operate heavy machinery safely. The role often requires quick problem-solving skills and the ability to communicate effectively with experienced team members. Balancing hands-on tasks with ongoing technical training can also be demanding, but it provides a strong foundation for career advancement within the railroad industry.
What are Railroad Apprentices?
Railroad Apprentices are entry-level workers who undergo on-the-job training to learn the skills necessary for various positions within the railroad industry, such as conductor, engineer, or maintenance worker. They work under the supervision of experienced railroad employees, gaining practical experience in operating trains, maintaining tracks and equipment, and following safety procedures. The apprenticeship typically combines classroom instruction with hands-on training to prepare apprentices for a full-time career in railroads. Completion of an apprenticeship can lead to certification and advancement opportunities within the industry.
What is the difference between Railroad Apprentice vs Railroad Laborer?
| Aspect | Railroad Apprentice | Railroad Laborer |
|---|---|---|
| Required Credentials | High school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job training | High school diploma or equivalent; minimal formal training |
| Work Environment | Training alongside experienced workers, learning technical skills | Physical, outdoor work often involving manual labor |
| Industry Usage | Entry-level position in railroad construction and maintenance | General manual labor in railroad projects |
Railroad Apprentices typically undergo structured training to develop technical skills, whereas Railroad Laborers focus on manual tasks. Both roles are essential in railroad construction and maintenance, but apprentices are in a learning phase with potential for career advancement.
More about Railroad Apprentice jobs
What cities are hiring for Railroad Apprentice jobs? Cities with the most Railroad Apprentice job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Railroad jobs? The most popular types of Railroad jobs are:
What states have the most Railroad Apprentice jobs? States with the most job openings for Railroad Apprentice jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Railroad Apprentice jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Railroad Apprentice jobs are:
Full-time
Posted 17 days ago
Watco rating
6.9
Based on 51 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
210th of 335 rated logistics
Job description
Locomotive Mechanic Apprentice - Plankinton, SD
Job Location: RWRR - Chamberlain Depot-Plankinton-57368
Office Location: Onsite
Employment Type: Hourly
Job Type: Full Time
Start a Watco Career and Discover the Difference
Keep the world's supply chain moving. That's what the Watco team does every day at our short line railroads, switching sites, terminals, ports, and logistics hubs. Whether you're at one of these locations or in a support-services role, there's one thread that ties everyone together. We're all or the same team. One Watco.
Here's what you can expect from Watco:
• Outstanding culture recognized by Forbes and Newsweek
• Competitive compensation and benefits
• Paid on-the-job training with peer trainers
• Training for conductors, engineers, mechanics, and MOW Team Members at Watco's Safe Performance Center
• Leadership and development programs offered through Watco University
• Career advancement opportunities
Job Summary
The Locomotive Mechanic Apprentice inspects, repairs, and maintains locomotives consistent with company policies and FRA regulations, and perform mechanical related maintenance as required.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
• Provide a level of customer service consistent with company expectations
• Obtain working knowledge and proper use of gauges and testing equipment
• Complete written documents for any necessary FRA reports pertaining to mechanist job duties
• Able to become qualified service engineer certificate related to FRA inspections and regulations
• Interpret instructions in written, oral, diagram, or schedule form
• Observe mechanical devices in operation to identify issues
• Dismantle devices using hoists, cranes, hand tools, and power tools to remove, repair or replace defective parts
• Record hour meter readings for inspections and preventative maintenance repair
• Check locomotives for air-fuel, oil, water, exhaust leaks, etc. Clean as needed
• Inspect safety equipment, securing bolts and pins as required
• Clean and lube screens, strainers and traps
• Check locomotives for defects, damage, leaks, etc, in accordance with company standards
• Perform main bearing checks and air brake tests according to specifications
• Perform emergency repairs and re-railing of railroad rolling stock
• Inspect wheels according to wheel inspection report
• Basic knowledge of welders, torches, hammers, jacks, pneumatic, hand tools, forklifts and cranes
Qualifications
Must be able to pass and or obtain all reporting, testing, and certifications required for this position, such as troubleshooting and repair of motors, generators, and transformers.
Must possess valid driver's license and be insurable by company insurance provider
Have or be able to obtain Class B CDL
Have the ability to become a qualified Service Engineer according to FRA regulations Able to complete a three-year Railroad Apprenticeship, if required.
Education
High School or GED equivalent
Job Location: RWRR - Chamberlain Depot-Plankinton-57368
Office Location: Onsite
Employment Type: Hourly
Job Type: Full Time
Start a Watco Career and Discover the Difference
Keep the world's supply chain moving. That's what the Watco team does every day at our short line railroads, switching sites, terminals, ports, and logistics hubs. Whether you're at one of these locations or in a support-services role, there's one thread that ties everyone together. We're all or the same team. One Watco.
Here's what you can expect from Watco:
• Outstanding culture recognized by Forbes and Newsweek
• Competitive compensation and benefits
• Paid on-the-job training with peer trainers
• Training for conductors, engineers, mechanics, and MOW Team Members at Watco's Safe Performance Center
• Leadership and development programs offered through Watco University
• Career advancement opportunities
Job Summary
The Locomotive Mechanic Apprentice inspects, repairs, and maintains locomotives consistent with company policies and FRA regulations, and perform mechanical related maintenance as required.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
• Provide a level of customer service consistent with company expectations
• Obtain working knowledge and proper use of gauges and testing equipment
• Complete written documents for any necessary FRA reports pertaining to mechanist job duties
• Able to become qualified service engineer certificate related to FRA inspections and regulations
• Interpret instructions in written, oral, diagram, or schedule form
• Observe mechanical devices in operation to identify issues
• Dismantle devices using hoists, cranes, hand tools, and power tools to remove, repair or replace defective parts
• Record hour meter readings for inspections and preventative maintenance repair
• Check locomotives for air-fuel, oil, water, exhaust leaks, etc. Clean as needed
• Inspect safety equipment, securing bolts and pins as required
• Clean and lube screens, strainers and traps
• Check locomotives for defects, damage, leaks, etc, in accordance with company standards
• Perform main bearing checks and air brake tests according to specifications
• Perform emergency repairs and re-railing of railroad rolling stock
• Inspect wheels according to wheel inspection report
• Basic knowledge of welders, torches, hammers, jacks, pneumatic, hand tools, forklifts and cranes
Qualifications
Must be able to pass and or obtain all reporting, testing, and certifications required for this position, such as troubleshooting and repair of motors, generators, and transformers.
Must possess valid driver's license and be insurable by company insurance provider
Have or be able to obtain Class B CDL
Have the ability to become a qualified Service Engineer according to FRA regulations Able to complete a three-year Railroad Apprenticeship, if required.
Education
High School or GED equivalent