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Railroad Apprentice Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

The safety of our passengers, our employees, the public and our operating environment is our priority, and the success of our railroad is due to our employees. Are you ready to join our team? Our ...

The safety of our passengers, our employees, the public and our operating environment is our priority, and the success of our railroad is due to our employees. Are you ready to join our team? Our ...

Experience in the maintenance of railroad equipment * Completion of technical school or apprenticeship program Communications and Interpersonal Skills * Must have excellent verbal and written ...

Experience in the maintenance of railroad equipment * Completion of technical school or apprenticeship program Communications and Interpersonal Skills * Must have excellent verbal and written ...

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

Fort George G Meade, MD · On-site

$24 - $32.75/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:

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Railroad Apprentice information

See Washington salary details

$13

$24

$42

How much do railroad apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for railroad apprentice in Washington is $24.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.62 and $27.21 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the salary of a railway apprentice?

The salary of a railway apprentice typically ranges from $20,000 to $40,000 annually, depending on the region, experience, and the specific railway company. Apprentices often receive on-the-job training and may earn wages that increase with skill development and certification progress.

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 jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Railroad apprentices typically do not earn $4,000 per week without experience or advanced skills. High-paying jobs that can reach this level without a degree are rare and often require specialized skills, certifications, or experience, such as certain trades, sales roles, or entrepreneurial ventures. Most positions offering such high weekly pay involve significant training, licensing, or on-the-job experience.

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.

Is it hard to get hired on the railroad?

Getting hired as a railroad apprentice can be competitive due to the specialized skills and physical demands involved. Candidates often need a high school diploma or equivalent, a valid driver's license, and sometimes prior experience or certifications. The hiring process may include written tests, physical exams, and interviews, and job availability can vary based on industry needs and location.

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.

Is 27 too old for an apprenticeship?

Railroad apprenticeships are open to individuals of various ages, including those in their late 20s. Age is generally not a barrier as long as applicants meet the physical requirements, have a high school diploma or equivalent, and are willing to learn technical skills such as operating machinery and safety procedures.
What are the most commonly searched types of Railroad jobs in Washington? The most popular types of Railroad jobs in Washington are:
What job categories do people searching Railroad Apprentice jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Railroad Apprentice jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Railroad Apprentice jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Railroad Apprentice job openings:
Infographic showing various Railroad Apprentice job openings in Washington as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, and 10% Part Time. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $51,880 per year, or $24.9 per hour.

Trailer Repair Technician, Apprentice

THERMO KING

Elkridge, MD

$18 - $26/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago


Job description

Leader in the Industry

Thermo King West, Chesapeake & Central Carolinas are now Force TK. Force TK has almost 300 employees across its 13 locations in 9 states. It has been very successful in diversifying its equipment portfolio that it sells and supports. Today, the Company and its subsidiaries are market leaders in Thermo King transport refrigeration, Versalift aerial buckets, TICO terminal tractors, Club Car commercial vehicles, Knapheide truck bodies, trailer repair, and consumer golf carts. Force TK is one of North America’s largest and most respected dealerships in the critical transport refrigeration space.

Trailer Repair Technician (Apprentice, Journeyman or Expert)

Work setting: In-person

Job Type: This is an hourly, full-time, non-exempt position with an expected work schedule of 40 hours per week with occasional overtime

Schedule: Monday - Friday, 8:00 - 5:00 p.m.

Key Responsibilities

Trailer Repair Technician, Apprentice (0-2 years of experience):

  • Demonstrated mechanical aptitude.
  • Participate in a one-year Apprenticeship Program.
  • If no welding experience, be trained to weld steel, aluminum and stainless.
  • Operate power tools and repair damaged trailers.
  • Able to work overtime when needed in order to ensure our customers’ satisfaction.
  • Abide by company attendance, punctuality, and safety policies.
  • Willing to work hard in a fast-paced environment.
  • Must be willing to learn and follow directions.
  • Handle other duties as assigned.
  • Advancement is typically from Apprentice to Journeyman to Expert or to other areas within the business.

Trailer Technician, Journeyman (2+ years of experience, including above requirements):

  • Perform PMs, BIT, and DOT Inspections.
  • Lighting and Electrical System: Diagnose, isolate, and repair lighting systems such as shorts and open circuits.
  • Must be able to perform Air Brake Inspections and Repairs: Air brake overhauls, measure brake lining thickness, drums, and s-cams, adjust brakes, replace s-cams and bushings, slack adjusters, and replace relay values, air tanks. Brake Mechanics Certificate a plus.
  • Rail Gate Experience: adjust lift-gate platform and its controls, replace rail cables and/or cylinders, motors, pumps, and relays.
  • Diagnose mechanical problems; mobile operations, quote jobs accurately; train new technicians.
  • Able to replace suspension components and landing legs; perform axle alignments
  • Perform MIG-weld steel, aluminum and stainless.

Trailer Technician, Expert (3+ years of experience, including above requirements):

  • Performs other functions or duties as directed by management in line with management objectives. Be safety-minded and follow all safety rules.
  • Experience in Collision Repair, Dry and Refrigerated Van, Structure, Roll & Swing Doors, Interiors, Exteriors, Ceilings, and Roof repairs is a plus.

This job description is intended to provide a general overview of the position.  This is not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, qualifications, or working conditions associated with the job.

Job Requirements

Advancement is typically from Apprentice to Journeyman to Expert or to other areas within the business. This position is designated as safety sensitive and regulated by the Department of Transportation. Safety shoes are required to work in this position. Uniforms and safety shoe allowance are provided. The ability to work in an alert and safe manner is always required.

  • Deliver superior customer satisfaction through high quality and efficient service
  • Problem solving and strong decision-making skills
  • Effective and proactive communication and relationship-building skills
  • Demonstrate good judgment
  • Ability to work at times with little or no supervision
  • Desire to learn and continuously improve self and surroundings
  • Drive to meet and exceed productivity standards
  • High School Diploma or GED not required, but desired.
  • Must have a valid driver’s license.

Position includes stooping, bending, kneeling, sitting, standing, climbing into trailer, ladder usage, lifting up to 70 pounds, use of provided ear protection in a sometimes-noisy environment and safety glasses. Safety shoes are required to work in this position. A shoe allowance is provided for safety shoes. The work environment is open to the outdoor environment. 

This position requires a drug screen, background check and where needed meet requirements to drive. Utility Equipment and Supply and Thermo King West, Inc. are an Equal Opportunity Employer and provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws

Benefits

Health benefits begin first of the month following hire. We offer the following benefits:

  • Medical/Rx (PPO or High Deductible Health Plan with HSA)
  • Dental
  • Vision  
  • Life Insurance and Short & Long-Term Disability (no cost to employee)
  • Voluntary Life Insurance (Employee, Spouse/Partner, Child/ren)
  • Legal and Identity Theft Protection
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Payroll is weekly, every Friday. We offer paid vacation, holiday, and sick leave.