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Railroad Apprenticeship Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Railroad Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$17 - $18/hr

You must have advanced knowledge of the railroad industry from vocational education, apprenticeship, on-the-job training, or similar experience. * You must be able to pass a vision and hearing test.

Train Conductor

Ennis, TX · On-site

$30K - $45K/yr

You must have advanced knowledge of the railroad industry from vocational education, apprenticeship, on-the-job training, or similar experience. * You must be able to pass a vision and hearing test.

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Railroad Apprenticeship information

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How much do railroad apprenticeship jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for railroad apprenticeship in the United States is $20.67, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.95 and $21.39 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Railroad Apprenticeship position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Railroad Apprenticeship, you need a solid understanding of mechanical skills, basic mathematics, physical fitness, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with tools such as rail grinders, track inspection devices, and occasionally required certifications like OSHA safety training are important. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and eagerness to learn are valuable soft skills for this position. These abilities are essential for ensuring safety, efficiency, and successful completion of hands-on training in a demanding environment.

What can I expect from the day-to-day responsibilities in a Railroad Apprenticeship?

As a Railroad Apprentice, you'll spend much of your day learning job-specific skills under the guidance of experienced mentors, performing tasks like inspecting and maintaining tracks, operating specialized equipment, and following strict safety protocols. This role often involves working outdoors in different weather conditions and requires flexibility for shifts that may include nights, weekends, or holidays. You'll work closely with a team and gradually take on more responsibilities as you gain experience. Over time, apprenticeships provide a pathway to advancement into specialized or supervisory positions in the railroad industry.

What is a Railroad Apprenticeship job?

A Railroad Apprenticeship is a hands-on training program that prepares individuals for a career in the railroad industry. It combines classroom instruction with on-the-job training to teach skills such as track maintenance, train operations, and safety procedures. Apprentices usually work under experienced professionals while earning a wage and gaining industry certifications. These programs can last from several months to a few years, depending on the position and railroad company.

More about Railroad Apprenticeship jobs
What cities are hiring for Railroad Apprenticeship jobs? Cities with the most Railroad Apprenticeship job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Railroad Apprenticeship jobs? The most popular types of Railroad Apprenticeship jobs are:
What states have the most Railroad Apprenticeship jobs? States with the most job openings for Railroad Apprenticeship jobs include:
Infographic showing various Railroad Apprenticeship job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,999 per year, or $20.7 per hour.
Locomotive Mechanic Apprentice - Janesville, WI

Locomotive Mechanic Apprentice - Janesville, WI

Watco

Janesville, WI • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago


Watco rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 52 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

253rd of 356 rated logistics


Job description

Locomotive Mechanic Apprentice - Janesville, WI
Job Location: Janesville-WI Depot-53548
Office Location: Onsite
Employment Type: Hourly
Job Type: Full Time
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 Locomotive Mechanic inspects, repairs, and maintains locomotives consistent with company policies and FRA regulations, and perform mechanical related maintenance as required.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
• Locomotive Mechanics provide a level of customer service consistent with company expectations
• Obtain working knowledge and proper use of gauges and testing equipment
• Complete written documents for any necessary FRA reports pertaining to mechanist job duties
• Locomotive Mechanics are able to become qualified service engineer certificate related to FRA inspections and regulations
• Interpret instructions in written, oral, diagram, or schedule form
• Locomotive Mechanics observe mechanical devices in operation to identify issues
• Dismantle devices using hoists, cranes, hand tools, and power tools to remove, repair or replace defective parts
• Record hour meter readings for inspections and preventative maintenance repair
• Check locomotives for air-fuel, oil, water, exhaust leaks, etc. Clean as needed
• Inspect safety equipment, securing bolts and pins as required
• Clean and lube screens, strainers and traps
• Locomotive Mechanics check locomotives for defects, damage, leaks, etc, in accordance with company standards
• Perform main bearing checks and air brake tests according to specifications
• Perform emergency repairs and re-railing of railroad rolling stock
• Inspect wheels according to wheel inspection report
• Basic knowledge of welders, torches, hammers, jacks, pneumatic, hand tools, forklifts and cranes
Qualifications
Must be able to pass and or obtain all reporting, testing, and certifications required for this position, such as troubleshooting and repair of motors, generators, and transformers.
Must possess valid driver's license and be insurable by company insurance provider
Have or be able to obtain Class B CDL
Have the ability to become a qualified Service Engineer according to FRA regulations Able to complete a three-year Railroad Apprenticeship, if required.
Education
High School or GED equivalent

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