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Railroad Apprentice Jobs in Oak Ridge, TN (NOW HIRING)

Railroad Apprentice information

See Oak Ridge, TN salary details

$11

$21

$35

How much do railroad apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for railroad apprentice in Oak Ridge, TN is $21.05, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.54 and $22.98 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 Oak Ridge, TN? The most popular types of Railroad jobs in Oak Ridge, TN are:
What job categories do people searching Railroad Apprentice jobs in Oak Ridge, TN look for? The top searched job categories for Railroad Apprentice jobs in Oak Ridge, TN are:
What cities near Oak Ridge, TN are hiring for Railroad Apprentice jobs? Cities near Oak Ridge, TN with the most Railroad Apprentice job openings:
Infographic showing various Railroad Apprentice job openings in Oak Ridge, TN as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $43,792 per year, or $21.1 per hour.

New pay increase - Intermodal truck driver

Schneider National, Inc.

Loudon, TN • On-site

$1.3K - $1.6K/wk

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 days ago


Schneider National rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 102 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

107th of 359 rated logistics


Job description

Overview
  • Haul freight containers secured to company-owned chassis.
  • 99% no-touch freight that is 90% drop-and-hook.
  • Drive within AL, FL, GA, NC, SC and TN.
Pay and bonus potential
  • Mileage pay and load pay, plus hourly pay while on duty, not driving.
  • $10,000 sign-on bonus paid over 12 monthly payments in your first year for experienced drivers.
  • Paid orientation.
  • Paid time off after 6 months, plus 6 days of holiday pay per year.
  • Annual bonus: Earn up to 3% of annual gross pay each year.

Qualifications
  • Valid Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL).
  • Tanker endorsement is strongly preferred.
  • HazMat endorsement required within 90 days of hire - Schneider's self-paced online certification training will help you secure it.
  • Live within 25 miles of Loudon, TN.
  • Minimum 3 months of Class A driving experience.

Need one or more of your endorsements, or unsure if you qualify? Call us at 800-447-7433, and we can talk you through it.
Additional benefits
  • Medical, dental and vision insurance.
  • 401(k) savings plan with company match.
  • Unlimited referral bonuses.
  • Credit for Military Experience and Military Apprenticeship programs, plus more military benefits.
  • Leading equipment and technology specs designed for driver comfort.
  • See full list of driver benefit package.
More reasons to choose Schneider Intermodal driving
  • 35 years of intermodal expertise - Schneider offers the stability, reliability and long-term opportunity only a proven, established network can provide.
  • Less wasted time - 100% company-owned chassis reduce time at the rail yard and increase earning potential.
  • New equipment - Day cabs and sleeper trucks come with automated transmissions and average 3 years of age.
  • Constant support - Leaders and dispatch provide 24/7/365 operational and maintenance support.

Schneider's inclusive culture
Our history has taught us that treating everyone with dignity and respect is vital to our ongoing success. We embrace and seek out diversity that is inclusive of thought, race, ethnicity, national origin, sex, gender, gender expression, age, religion, sexual orientation, ability, medical condition, veteran or military status, experience and background. This diversity and openness ensures all associates have equal access to opportunities and resources to contribute fully to the organization's success, and it fuels innovation, improves strategic thinking and cultivates leadership. Any applicant may request a reasonable accommodation to complete a job application, pre-employment testing, or job interview or to otherwise participate in the hiring process consistent with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) by contacting their Recruiter, Human Resources Business Partner, and/or Human Resources Leave Administration.
Schneider uses E-Verify to confirm the employment eligibility of all newly hired associates. To learn more about E-Verify, including your rights and responsibilities, please visit www.dhs.gov/E-Verify .

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