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Railroad Apprentice information

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How much do railroad apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for railroad apprentice in California is $21.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $23.70 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 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.

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 the most commonly searched types of Railroad jobs in California? The most popular types of Railroad jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Railroad Apprentice jobs in California? For Railroad Apprentice jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Railroad Apprentice jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Railroad Apprentice jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Railroad Apprentice jobs? Cities in California with the most Railroad Apprentice job openings:
Railroad Apprentice jobs near you
Infographic showing various Railroad Apprentice job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $45,206 per year, or $21.7 per hour.

Passenger Rail Mechanic Apprentice

Drummac, Inc.

San Luis Obispo, CA • On-site

$25 - $27/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

COMPANY DESCRIPTION:

Drummac, Inc. is an integrated railroad services company that specializes in providing mechanical and janitorial services to the transportation industry. With operations located across the United States, the services we perform range in scope from routine mechanical maintenance, inspections, repairs, audits, cleaning, and specialty railroad services to providing equipment and supplies for the transportation industry with a niche in passenger rail. We provide these services using in-house resources, which enables us to provided best-in-class quality control.

JOB SUMMARY:

A Mechanical Apprentice, known at Drummac as Qualified Person (QP) must be able to work in compliance while maintaining and repairing passenger rail cars and locomotives while working under the supervision of our Passenger Rail Mechanic. They must adhere to and maintain strict compliance with corporate/office policies and procedures, established health and safety protocols, and all applicable local, state, and federal regulations.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Performs air brake inspection of passenger cars, private cars and have knowledge of air brake systems
  • Performs locomotive daily inspection; able to troubleshoot and handle repair/replacement of parts
  • Troubleshoots passenger cars including but not limited to toilet systems, air conditioning systems, doors, panels, lights, electrical systems and brake systems along with making any necessary repairs
  • Ability to fill out regulatory, client and Company-required paperwork
  • Performs necessary electrical tests, removes, disassembles, replaces, repairs, modifies, rebuilds, assembles, adjusts, and maintains batteries and all electrical equipment or components on locomotives
  • Communicates written and/or verbal findings of inspections to Supervisor
  • Ability to work overtime, weekends, holidays, and on-call is required
  • Flexible schedule to accommodate dynamic train schedules
  • Ability to work outdoors in inclement work conditions is required
  • Wears and uses required protective equipment while working
  • Takes responsibility for own safety while on the job
  • Performs other related duties as required or assigned
QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Requires High School Diploma or GED (or equivalent reading, writing and reasoning skills
  • Valid driver's license is required.
  • Trade school or formal railroad locomotive or diesel mechanical maintenance training required.
  • Knowledge of locomotive mechanical or locomotive electrical or industrial heavy equipment mechanical experience is required.
  • Successful completion of a pre-employment screening process.

Hourly rate range for Passenger Rail Mechanic Apprentice candidates in San Luis Obispo, California: $25-$27. Actual hourly rate offered will be determined based on multiple factors which include relevant skills and experience. In addition to hourly wage, full-time employees will be offered the following benefits:

  • Medical
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • Life Insurance
  • Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
  • Long-Term Disability coverage
  • Short-Term Disability coverage
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • 401(k) with employer matching
  • Newly hired employees will accrue PTO at a rate of 1 hour for every 30 worked

Drummac is committed to providing equal employment opportunities in a drug free work environment to all employees and applicants without regard to race, religion, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, uniform service member status, marital status, pregnancy, age, protected medical condition, genetic information, disability or any other protected status in accordance with all applicable federal, state and local laws.

Drummac is an Equal Opportunity Employer.