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Railroad Apprentice Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

The Apprentice Pipeliner role is responsible for maintaining, troubleshooting and repairing ... rail equipment, petroleum product or other chemical fumes, airborne particles like dust or other ...

The Apprentice Pipeliner role is responsible for maintaining, troubleshooting and repairing ... rail equipment, petroleum product or other chemical fumes, airborne particles like dust or other ...

Buckeye Partners is currently seeking an Apprentice Terminal Operator 283 with 2+ years' related ... Learn the overall operation and maintenance of the terminal, pipeline, marine, and rail assets as ...

Unload rail cars and stockpile in correct material piles * Load trucks with the correct materials ... and apprenticeship. The Levy Group of Companies makes hiring decisions based solely on ...

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Railroad Apprentice information

See Michigan salary details

$10

$19

$32

How much do railroad apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for railroad apprentice in Michigan is $19.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.10 and $20.96 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Railroad jobs in Michigan?

The most popular types of Railroad jobs in Michigan are:

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Railroad Apprentice jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Railroad Apprentice job openings:

Infographic showing various Railroad Apprentice job openings in Michigan 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 $39,924 per year, or $19.2 per hour.

Chief Mechanical Officer - Owosso, MI

Owosso, MI • On-site


Watco Companies L.L.C.

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 56 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

306th of 366 rated logistics

People enjoy working here

Paid breaks

Good training


Other

Re-posted 19 days ago


Job description

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 Chief Mechanical Officer (forthwith called the CMO), reports directly to the General Manager of the Railroad and is responsible for daily reports, parts inventory and ordering, locomotive maintenance, scheduling, compliance with company policies and procedures, governmental regulations and working within a planned budget.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

•Implementation of and compliance with the company safety plan, including drug and alcohol •Coordinate daily locomotive needs with the dispatcher or local management•Inspect, test, and maintain locomotives and its components according to FRA guidelines and compile records to comply with FRA and company rules and regulations•Maintain a reliable inventory of material for the proper maintenance of locomotives •Possess working knowledge of the proper use of various wear limit gauges and testing equipment •Possess the ability to complete written forms and reports as well as necessary Federal Railroad Administration reports pertaining to CMO position responsibilities•Must become familiar with state and federal regulations as it relates to the railroad industry•Able to perform emergency repairs and re-railing of railroad rolling stock•Able to solve practical problems where only limited standardization exists. Able to interpret and delegate instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram, or schedule form•Must have a working knowledge of and be familiar with various types of tools and equipment such as, but not limited to, welders, torches, hammers, jacks, and various types of other mechanical, air, and hand tools pertaining to the construction and maintenance of rolling stock•Develop the skills of subordinate team member(s) to assure highly qualified successors are in place•Accountable for the preparation and administration of performance appraisals for direct reporting team members •Review and approve all performance appraisals prepared and administered by subordinates

Qualifications

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily and be able to pass and/or obtain all reporting, testing, and certifications as required for this position and location. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.

•Must have completed a three-year Railroad Apprenticeship or equivalent related railroad experience, or experience in some other mechanical field and have working knowledge of FRA, AAR and OSHA regulations as it pertains to locomotives and repair facilities•Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals. Ability to write routine reports and correspondence. Ability to speak effectively before groups of customers or Team Members•Ability to calculate figures and amounts such as discounts, interest, commissions, proportions, percentages, area, circumference, and volume. Ability to apply concepts of basic algebra and geometry•Must possess valid driver’s license and be insurable by company insurance provider to drive and operate company vehicles and equipment as necessary•Must have or must be able to obtain a Class B CDL driver’s license•Must have the ability to become a qualified Service Engineer according to Federal Railroad Administration regulations and may be required to perform electrical duties

Education

Must be 18years of age or older

High School or GED equivalent


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