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Railway Train Driver Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Railway Train Driver information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$8

$13

$17

How much do railway train driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for railway train driver in Raleigh, NC is $13.61, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.20 and $14.95 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Railway Train Driver vs Bus Driver?

AspectRailway Train DriverBus Driver
Required CredentialsTrain operating license, certification, safety trainingCommercial driver's license (CDL), passenger transport certification
Work EnvironmentRailway stations, train cabins, rail yardsRoadways, bus terminals, urban and rural routes
Employer & IndustryRail companies, transit authoritiesPublic transit agencies, private bus companies

While both Railway Train Drivers and Bus Drivers operate vehicles for passenger transport, Railway Train Drivers typically require specialized train operation licenses and work in rail environments, whereas Bus Drivers hold a CDL and operate on roads. Their work settings and industry employers differ, but both roles focus on safe passenger transportation.

What are some common challenges faced by railway train drivers during their shifts?

Railway train drivers often encounter challenges such as adapting to varying weather conditions, maintaining punctuality despite track or signal disruptions, and staying alert during long periods of repetitive travel. They must also be prepared to respond calmly and efficiently to unexpected situations, such as technical faults or emergencies on the railway. Effective communication with dispatchers, station staff, and onboard crew is essential for ensuring passenger safety and smooth operations.

What qualifications do I need to be a train driver?

To become a railway train driver, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with specialized training and certification from a recognized railway authority. They must pass medical examinations, background checks, and demonstrate good communication and technical skills, often gaining experience through apprenticeships or on-the-job training.

How do you become a railroad driver?

To become a railway train driver, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by specialized training provided by the employer or a technical school. They must obtain a locomotive engineer certification or license, which involves passing written and practical exams, and often requires a certain amount of on-the-job experience and safety training. Good communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to operate complex machinery are essential for this role.

What are railway train drivers?

Railway train drivers, also known as locomotive engineers or train operators, are professionals responsible for operating trains to transport passengers or freight. They ensure the safe and timely movement of trains, follow schedules, and adhere to safety regulations and signaling systems. Their duties also include inspecting trains before journeys, communicating with control centers, and managing emergencies or unexpected situations. Train drivers play a crucial role in the efficient and safe operation of the rail transport system.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Railway Train Driver, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Railway Train Driver, you need a solid understanding of rail operations, safety protocols, and route knowledge, often supported by a high school diploma and completion of a formal train driver training program. Familiarity with train control systems, signaling technology, and safety management systems is typically required. Strong attention to detail, calmness under pressure, and effective communication skills help drivers respond to emergencies and coordinate with rail staff. These competencies are crucial for maintaining passenger safety, adhering to schedules, and ensuring efficient rail operations.

How much money does a train driver make?

A railway train driver typically earns between $50,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the employer. Salaries can increase with seniority, certifications, and working in urban or high-demand areas.

Is 55 too old to become a train driver?

Railway train driver roles typically require good health, vision, and the ability to operate complex equipment, with many companies setting retirement ages around 60 to 65. Age limits vary by employer and country, but individuals aged 55 can often pursue training and certification if they meet health and fitness requirements. Experience, skills, and passing medical exams are key factors in qualifying for the position.
What are popular job titles related to Railway Train Driver jobs in Raleigh, NC? For Railway Train Driver jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Railway Train Driver jobs in Raleigh, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Railway Train Driver jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Railway Train Driver jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Railway Train Driver job openings:
Infographic showing various Railway Train Driver job openings in Raleigh, NC as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $28,299 per year, or $13.6 per hour.
Driver - Raleigh, NC

$15/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago


Professional Transportation Inc. rating

4.3

Company rating: 4.3 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Description:CREW TRANSPORT DRIVERS WANTED – Raleigh, NC
Starting Pay for DYV drivers is $14.00 per hour.Starting Pay for OTR drivers is $15.00 per hour.

Want to get your career moving in the right direction? We are seeking a self-confident, outgoing, dependable team member who wants to join our growing organization. This opportunity is great for anyone looking to work in a unique environment. Come be a part of the nation’s largest rail crew transportation company as our new Driver!


About PTI – Where the RIGHT way is the SAFE way:

Professional Transportation, Inc. has been providing crew transportation services for railroads since 1980 and has an industry reputation for providing quality, dependable, and safe crew transportation services. Much like a shuttle service, PTI receives around-the-clock requests from our railroad customers to pick up and drop off train crews.


Job Summary:

As a PTI Van Driver, you will be responsible for safely transporting railroad crew members wherever the railroad requests. Trip length and times vary depending on railroad customer needs. Safety is always our #1 priority and should be the main focus for our Van Drivers. No prior professional driving experience required!


Benefits of Joining PTI:

  • Starting Pay for DYV drivers is $14.00 per hour.
  • Starting Pay for OTR drivers is $15.00 per hour.
  • Company provided vehicles and fuel during trips
  • Multiple health insurance plan options
  • Paid vacation time
  • 401(K) retirement
  • Safety recognition awards
  • On the job training
  • No heavy lifting or long-distance walking
  • Room for growth and advancement within the company
  • Home every day

Responsibilities:

  • Promoting and practicing safety awareness
  • Prioritize on time performance to meet customer needs
  • Pick up and drop off our customers safely to their destinations
  • Provide excellent customer service
  • Communicate timely with our Dispatch Center
  • Open and close all doors/hatches for the crew members
  • Report any defects, mechanical problems, or missing items found during vehicle inspection to your supervisor
  • Promote and follow all company policies and procedures
  • All other duties as assigned by your supervisor

This does not necessarily list all responsibilities, duties, requirements, or efforts associated with the job. While this list is intended to be an accurate reflection of the job, the company reserves the right to review and modify the functions, duties, and requirements of the job or to require that additional or different tasks be performed as circumstances or business needs require.

Requirements:

Our ideal candidate must:

  • Be at least 21 years old
  • Have a valid driver’s license and clean driving record
  • Have a minimum of 3 years driving experience (personal or work-related)
  • Must be able to pass a post offer drug screening, MVR, and homeland security background check
  • Be able to arrive to the branch location within 30 minutes to ensure on-time performance is achieved

AAP/EEO Statement


Equal Opportunity Employer/Drug-Free Workplace: PTI is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We adhere to a policy of making employment decisions without regard to race, color, age, sex, pregnancy, religion, national origin, ancestry, medical condition, marital status, gender identity citizenship status, veteran status, disability, or veteran status. PTI has a Drug-Free Workplace Policy in effect that is strictly adhered to.


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