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Railroad Apprentice Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Hulcher Services, Inc

Apprentice Operator I

Chicago, IL · On-site

$26.84 - $28.52/hr

Our teams help restore rail service safely and efficiently using specialized equipment and highly trained personnel. What You'll Do As a CDL A Heavy Equipment Operator Apprentice I, you'll train ...

Hulcher Services, Inc

Apprentice Operator I

Amarillo, TX · On-site

$26.84 - $28.52/hr

Our teams help restore rail service safely and efficiently using specialized equipment and highly trained personnel. What You'll Do As a CDL A Heavy Equipment Operator Apprentice I, you'll train ...

Hulcher Services, Inc.

Apprentice Operator I

Houston, TX · On-site

$26.84 - $28.52/hr

Our teams help restore rail service safely and efficiently using specialized equipment and highly trained personnel. What You'll Do As a CDL A Heavy Equipment Operator Apprentice I, you'll train ...

Hulcher Services Inc

Apprentice Operator I

Sauget, IL · On-site

$26.84 - $28.52/hr

Our teams help restore rail service safely and efficiently using specialized equipment and highly trained personnel. What You'll Do As a CDL A Heavy Equipment Operator Apprentice I, you'll train ...

Hulcher Services, Inc.

Apprentice Operator I

Amarillo, TX · On-site

$26.84 - $28.52/hr

Our teams help restore rail service safely and efficiently using specialized equipment and highly trained personnel. What You'll Do As a CDL A Heavy Equipment Operator Apprentice I, you'll train ...

Hulcher Services Inc

Apprentice Operator I

Port Allen, LA · On-site

$26.84 - $28.52/hr

Our teams help restore rail service safely and efficiently using specialized equipment and highly trained personnel. What You'll Do As a CDL A Heavy Equipment Operator Apprentice I, you'll train ...

Hulcher Services, Inc

Apprentice Operator I

Pasco, WA · On-site

$26.84 - $28.52/hr

Our teams help restore rail service safely and efficiently using specialized equipment and highly trained personnel. What You'll Do As a CDL A Heavy Equipment Operator Apprentice I, you'll train ...

Hulcher Services, Inc

Apprentice Operator I

Amarillo, TX · On-site

$26.84 - $28.52/hr

Our teams help restore rail service safely and efficiently using specialized equipment and highly trained personnel. What You'll Do As a CDL A Heavy Equipment Operator Apprentice I, you'll train ...

Kaufman Stairs Inc

Be Seen First

Wood work apprentice

Rahway, NJ · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Woodworking apprentice for stair manufacturing company that works in the residential housing market ... Work will entail either assembling rail system and/or wood stair builder. Will train. Company ...

Miller Glass Co.

Glazier Apprentice

Tallahassee, FL · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

Glazier Apprentice Location: Tallahassee, FL Job Type: Full-Time, In-Person, Hourly Reports To ... railings, and other glass systems alongside experienced installers. The right person may have ...

Hulcher Services, Inc

Apprentice Operator I

Port Allen, LA · On-site

$26.84 - $28.52/hr

Our teams help restore rail service safely and efficiently using specialized equipment and highly trained personnel. What You'll Do As a CDL A Heavy Equipment Operator Apprentice I, you'll train ...

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Railroad Apprentice information

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$12

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How much do railroad apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for railroad apprentice in the United States is $22.02, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $24.04 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.

More about Railroad Apprentice jobs

What cities are hiring for Railroad Apprentice jobs?

Cities with the most Railroad Apprentice job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Railroad jobs?

The most popular types of Railroad jobs are:

What states have the most Railroad Apprentice jobs?

States with the most job openings for Railroad Apprentice jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Railroad Apprentice jobs?

For Railroad Apprentice jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Railroad Apprentice jobs near you
Infographic showing various Railroad Apprentice job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 91% Full Time, and 8% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,806 per year, or $22 per hour.

Apprentice Operator I

Chicago, IL • On-site

Hulcher Services, Inc
Construction • 501 - 1,000 employees
Learn more about Hulcher Services, Incexternal

$26.84 - $28.52/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
CDL A Heavy Equipment Operator Apprentice I
$26.84 - $28.52/Hour + Overtime Company Paid Benefits Paid Training Build a Career in Railroad Emergency Response
Full-Time Travel Up to 50% 24/7 Emergency Response Operations
Turn Your CDL Into a Career
Hulcher Services is looking for motivated individuals with a Class A CDL who are ready to build a career operating specialized heavy equipment used in railroad derailment response and recovery.
This isn't a typical driving job. You'll receive hands-on training while working alongside experienced operators to learn how to safely recover derailed railcars and locomotives using cranes, hydraulic equipment, and other specialized machinery.
If you enjoy challenging work, operating equipment, traveling, and being part of a team that responds when others can't, this is an opportunity unlike any other.
Compensation & Benefits
  • $26.84 - $28.52 Per Hour
  • Overtime Opportunities
  • Weekly Pay
  • Company paid benefits
  • Paid Training
  • Career Advancement Opportunities
  • Full-Time, Year-Round Employment

About Hulcher Services
Hulcher Services is a nationwide leader in railroad derailment response, engineering, track maintenance, environmental services, and disaster recovery. With more than 500 employees operating from over 25 divisions throughout the United States and Mexico, we respond to critical incidents 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
Our teams help restore rail service safely and efficiently using specialized equipment and highly trained personnel.
What You'll Do
As a CDL A Heavy Equipment Operator Apprentice I, you'll train alongside experienced crews while supporting emergency railroad operations throughout your assigned region.
Responsibilities include:
  • Transport specialized heavy equipment using tractor-trailers and escort vehicles.
  • Assist with railroad derailment recovery operations.
  • Learn to operate heavy recovery equipment under the guidance of experienced operators.
  • Handle heavy steel chains, wire rope, rigging equipment, lifting blocks, and recovery tools.
  • Climb on and beneath railcars and locomotives during recovery operations.
  • Perform equipment setup, maintenance, cleaning, and inspections.
  • Use hand tools, power tools, cutting torches, and welding equipment.
  • Perform physically demanding work, including digging, lifting, rigging, and equipment setup.
  • Work safely around heavy equipment, active railroads, bridges, waterways, and industrial environments.
  • Follow all company safety procedures and operational standards.

Requirements
What We're Looking For
We're looking for dependable individuals who enjoy hands-on work and are ready to build a long-term career in heavy equipment and railroad operations.
  • Valid Class A CDL with no restrictions
  • Valid driver's license
  • Ability to travel up to 50%
  • Willingness to work in a 24/7 emergency response environment
  • Ability to pass required background screenings and pre-employment requirements
  • Ability to perform physically demanding work, including lifting up to 100 pounds occasionally and 50 pounds frequently
  • Comfortable working outdoors in all weather conditions
  • Comfortable working at heights exceeding 25 feet and around water when required

Experience in any of the following is a plus:
  • Heavy Equipment Operation
  • Construction
  • Truck Driving
  • Rigging
  • Railroad
  • Crane Operations
  • Welding
  • Diesel Mechanics
  • Oil & Gas
  • Utilities
  • Military
  • Agriculture
  • Work Schedule

This position supports emergency railroad operations, which means flexibility is essential.
  • Standard work schedule Monday through Friday
  • 24/7 on-call rotation for emergency derailment response
  • Travel required throughout the assigned territory
  • Overtime available during emergency response operations

Why Join Hulcher Services?
Few careers offer the opportunity to operate specialized heavy equipment while helping restore critical railroad infrastructure across North America.
At Hulcher Services, you'll receive hands-on training, work alongside experienced professionals, earn excellent company paid benefits, and build a career in a unique industry where your skills make an immediate impact.
If you're looking for more than just another CDL driving job and want a career with challenge, stability, and advancement opportunities, apply today and become part of the Hulcher Services team.
Salary Description
$26.84 - $28.52

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