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Railroad Apprentice information

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How much do railroad apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 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 is a railroad apprentice?

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a railroad apprentice?

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 is the difference between Railroad Apprentice vs Railroad Laborer?

AspectRailroad ApprenticeRailroad Laborer
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma or equivalent; minimal formal training
Work EnvironmentTraining alongside experienced workers, learning technical skillsPhysical, outdoor work often involving manual labor
Industry UsageEntry-level position in railroad construction and maintenanceGeneral 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:

Infographic showing various Railroad Apprentice job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, and 4% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,806 per year, or $22 per hour.

Railroad ConductorEngineer

Terminal Switching Services

La Mesa, NM • On-site

$50K - $75K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Full Job Description

Terminal Switching Services is looking for a Railroad Conductor with NO EXPERIENCE REQUIRED to join our team at the Union Pacific Marion, AR Terminal.

We are looking for ambitious, capable, and skilled team members to join our nationwide crew. We offer a team-oriented atmosphere with quality employee benefits, and room to grow your career! We have multiple shifts available both day and night.

Apply Online or in Person at the work location:

TSS Union Pacific Intermodal Terminal

.

APPLICANTS MUST currently live within a 1-hour commute of business location. OUT OF AREA candidates and/or those requiring a relocation will NOT be considered.

Job Summary

The Conductor is responsible for the movement of rail equipment to ensure the accurate placement of rail cars that will facilitate the loading and unloading of trains in the rail yard.

Starting Rate of Pay:

$50,000 -$75,000 a year with overtime included.

Various shifts available both day and night (Typically 12 hr shifts depending on workload)

Job Responsibilities:

Responsible for assisting the Train Engineer with the movement of rail equipment (locomotives, rail cars, tracks, etc.) within the rail yard in a safe and efficient manner.

Maintain an efficient and orderly rail yard by moving rail cars and freeing rail tracks for incoming rail traffic.

Manage rail track switches to direct rail cars to appropriate tracks.

Ability to connect and disconnect rail air hoses as needed to consolidate rail cars efficiently.

Lead job briefings with the Supervisors and crew prior to work beginning.

Ensures compliance is met under HAZMAT and OSHA Regulations. This includes reporting any incidents to the supervisory immediately.

The conductor is required to wear Personal Protection Equipment (PPE), such as a safety vest, safety glasses, hearing protection, and safety toe boots.

Responsible for maintaining clear communication with Train Engineer/Operator and other crew members while moving locomotives with either verbal, hand, or radio signals.

Participates in daily safety briefings.

Inspects all rail equipment to ensure there is no damage and notify the operator and supervisor immediately if there is.

Handles all rail equipment in a safe and efficient manner.

Maintain awareness and organization within the rail yard, including attention to the ground surface (potholes, debris, and/or slippery conditions).

Minimum Qualifications:

You must have a valid driver's license.

Knowledge of the railroad industry from vocational education, apprenticeship, on-the-job training, or similar experience isn't necessary, but helpful.

You must be able to pass a vision and hearing test.

You must have excellent written and verbal communication skills to coordinate with a variety of individuals.

Work Environment Requirements:

Job duties are performed in an ambient outdoor environment, which would include varying conditions (rain, snow, ice, heat, wind, cold, etc).

This position requires that you travel throughout the yard and the transfer station either by walking and/or driving.

The noise level in the work environment is loud and this noise is continuous.

You must have the ability to work in an environment which can be hazardous at times.

You must have the physical ability to see and hear fast-moving equipment and be able to move so that you can remain safe always.

Benefits:

Medical | Dental | Vision Insurance.

Paid Vacation, Holidays, and Personal Days.

Life Insurance.

401k.

This job would be suitable for persons looking for jobs in a warehouse, as a delivery driver, working outdoors, doing landscaping, and working in a railyard

Terminal Switching Services is a subsidiary of RMS that provides FRA certified switching services throughout the United States.
Switching is a complex operation involving many people, facilities, and vehicles in a narrow time frame. TSS expertise can be your key to unlocking more profit. Ship your products safely and meet your commitments consistently. Whether your business is small or large, we have the resources that can handle it.