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Railroad Apprentice Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Machinist

Petersburg, VA · On-site

$21.25 - $29.25/hr

Adhere to plant-wide safety, ergonomics and environmental requirements defined by Amsted Rail ... Completion of the Machinist Apprenticeship Program or equivalent years of Machinist experience

Carpenter

Lorton, VA · On-site

$28 - $34/hr

From highways to hotels and residential housing to railways, we rely on the leadership, talents ... Apprentice certificates are required for apprentices. * Alignment to Clark Standards of Excellence:

Carpenter

Louisa, VA · On-site

$19.75 - $26.75/hr

From highways to hotels and residential housing to railways, we rely on the leadership, talents ... Apprentice certificate required for apprentices. * Alignment to Clark Standards of Excellence: Self ...

Carpenter

Louisa, VA

$19.75 - $26.75/hr

From highways to hotels and residential housing to railways, we rely on the leadership, talents ... Apprentice certificate required for apprentices. * Alignment to Clark Standards of Excellence: Self ...

From highways to hotels and residential housing to railways, we rely on the leadership, talents ... Apprentice certificates are required for apprentices. * Alignment to Clark Standards of Excellence:

Production -Labor Pool

Lynchburg, VA · On-site

$13.75 - $16.25/hr

Labor pool employees are eligible to enter the maintenance apprenticeship program. * Labor pool ... Must be able to manually roll pipe on rails. * Responsible for completing clean-up tasks involving ...

Operating Engineer

Falls Church, VA · On-site

$74K - $100K/yr

... hand railings, and floors and other general repairs, adjustments and installations about the ... apprentice program or trade school preferred IMPORTANT EXPERIENCE • 5+ years of related work ...

Carpenter 2

Chesapeake, VA · On-site

$21 - $28.75/hr

Installation of safety railings, floor openings and general safety items. * Erects temporary ... Apprentice and/or Vocational/Technical/Trade training (Preferred) * In lieu of the above ...

Operating Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$79K - $107K/yr

Repair doors, ceilings, hand railings, and floors and other general repairs, adjustments and ... Graduate of apprentice program or trade school preferred IMPORTANT EXPERIENCE * 5+ years of related ...

Showing results 21-40

Railroad Apprentice information

See Virginia salary details

$12

$21

$36

How much do railroad apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for railroad apprentice in Virginia is $21.83, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.16 and $23.85 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 Virginia? The most popular types of Railroad jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Railroad Apprentice jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Railroad Apprentice job openings:
Infographic showing various Railroad Apprentice job openings in Virginia 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 $45,413 per year, or $21.8 per hour.

Mechanic - Apprentice Manassas, VA

Keolis America

Manassas, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 20 days ago


Job description

Location:  Manassas, VA or Fredericksburg, VA

 Responsibilities:

  • Aids all mechanical personnel with any servicing and inspection needs
  • Primary nightly duties include refilling of water, sand, and oil to all in-service passenger equipment
  • Restocking all emergency tooling/supplies
  • Fills out service requests within Keolis’s proprietary tracking system specifying parts and labor
  • All other duties assigned
  • OJT will be provided once all required training is completed

What we offer:

  • Paid holidays
  • Annual cost of living increases
  • Eligibility for attendance bonuses
  • Paid new-hire training
  • Comprehensive benefit package (Medical, Dental, Vision)
  • 401K w/ percentage match
  • Railroad retirement
  • Career advancement opportunities
  • Boot allowance
  • Clothing allowance
  • Prescription safety glasses allowance
  • Friendly diverse workplace environment
  • Work/Life Balance

Knowledge and Experience

  • Knowledge and use of proper safety equipment at all times
  • High School diploma or GED
  • Driver’s license required
  • Must be able to work amid constant interruptions, have ability to prioritize and be detail oriented
  • Must be able to perform physical activities including lifting up to seventy-five (75) pounds
  • Must be able to work in all weather conditions

Skills

  • Safety first attitude
  • Basic hand tools
  • Additional mechanical/electrical/HVAC training desired
  • Detail-oriented, resourceful, diligent, and able to operate independently with limited supervision
  • Strong time management and organizational skills
  • Sound judgement: Good problem-solving and analytical skills (troubleshoot technical issues, communicate, and document solutions to non-technical parties)
  • Must have good communication skills, ability to both verbally and in written format document questions and diagnostic information to management personnel

Additional Statements

  • Employment contingent upon passing pre-employment drug and alcohol screen and a favorable background check.
  • Safety commitment: Safety is a way of life at Keolis. By placing safety first, we ensure the wellbeing of our employees, customers, and communities.
  • Disclaimer and closing statement: The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by employees assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of employees assigned to this job. Keolis is committed to offering our employees competitive compensation and benefits, opportunities for development and growth throughout an exciting and rewarding career, and the safest work environment possible.

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