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Railway Train Driver Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Saint Louis Zoo

Railroad Engineer

Saint Louis, MO

$15.50/hr

Duties include light maintenance, cleaning and driving the train and shuttles, serving as conductor ... class E driver's license, and pass a yearly physical. Abilities required Applicants must be ...

Saint Louis Zoo

Railroad Engineer

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$15.50/hr

Duties include light maintenance, cleaning and driving the train and shuttles, serving as conductor ... class E driver's license, and pass a yearly physical. Abilities required Applicants must be ...

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Railway Train Driver information

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How much do railway train driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for railway train driver in the United States is $14.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.54 and $15.38 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 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 to become a railroad train driver?

To become a railway train driver, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by specialized training and certification from a recognized railway authority. They must pass medical and background checks, obtain a locomotive engineer license, and gain experience operating trains, often starting as a conductor or assistant before advancing to a driver role.

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 have age limits set by employers or regulatory bodies, often around 60 to 65 years old, depending on the country. Candidates usually need good health, a clean medical exam, and relevant training or certifications, but age alone is not a strict barrier if health requirements are met.

How do you become a railway driver?

To become a railway train driver, candidates typically need to complete relevant training programs, obtain a train driving license or certification, and pass medical and safety assessments. Experience operating trains and knowledge of safety protocols are also essential for this role.
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Railway Train Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various Railway Train Driver job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $29,114 per year, or $14 per hour.
Railroad Laborer/Hostler Driver

Railroad Laborer/Hostler Driver

Pacific Rail Services

Bethlehem, PA • On-site

$40K - $60K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 13 days ago

Pacific Rail Services rating

5.9

Company rating: 5.9 out of 10

Based on 30 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

322nd of 356 rated logistics

Job description

Pacific Rail Services.
Bethlehem, PA 18015, USA.

Job Position: Railroad Laborer (Full-Time Position).
We are looking to hire a Hostler Driver/Ground person in Bethlehem, PA.

Job Details:
  • No experience is necessary.
  • On-the-Job Training Available.
  • Hours: Days, Nights & Weekends.
  • Location: Pacific Rail Services. 2400 Commerce Center Blvd., Bethlehem, PA 18015.
  • Employment Type: Full-Time.

Job Summary:
  • The successful candidate for this position will operate a hostler to move trailers and/or containers to/from parking areas to the tracks for loading, as well as chassis to the track for container unloading.
  • The driver may also be required to transport units to/from storage areas for later movement or loading.

Job Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Spot units next to assigned rail cars for loading of outbound train departures.
  • Pull the derailed loads away from the track and place them in an appropriate parking lot. This requires backing containers/trailers of 20' to 53' into tight spaces.
  • Spot chassis next to rail cars for container unloading.
  • Perform all necessary computer functions to maintain accurate inventory.
  • Assist outside drivers as needed to retrieve trailers and containers.
  • Lock and unlock containers to the chassis for TOFC or COFC movement.
  • Perform the duties of the ground person as needed, along with any other duties assigned by the supervisor.
  • Will be required to raise hitches on rail cars as needed.

Minimum Qualifications:
  • General Education.
  • A CDL is not required, but trailer backing experience is preferred.
  • You must apply common sense understanding to carry out detailed written or oral instructions.
  • You must be able to see well enough to read operating and maintenance instructions, gauges, and dials on precision measuring tools.
  • You must be able to read and comprehend safety manuals, operating and maintenance instructions, test materials, drawings, schematics, and procedure manuals.
  • You must be able to acquire and maintain a valid driver's license to operate company vehicles.
  • You must be able to hear and talk well enough to communicate with co-workers, supervisors, yard workers, and section leaders 100% of the time.

Additional Physical Requirements:
  • You must be in a physical condition that allows for walking on uneven surfaces, climbing ladders or steps into and out of the hostler cab, and performing other tasks successfully. Maneuvering the hostler's controls to safely move containers, trailers, and chassis.
  • You must be able to walk one (1) mile continuously.
  • You must be able to step up two steps, leading with both the left and right legs.
  • You must be able to walk on a catwalk in a forward motion and be able to turn around.
  • You must be able to walk side-step on a catwalk to place an IBC on top of a container using both your right and left hands.
  • You must be able to use 34.2 pounds of force to lock and unlock a kingpin.
  • You must be able to reach upper levels and perform this activity on a continuous and sustained basis, 95% of the time.
  • You must be able to stoop and reach and perform this activity on a continuous and sustained basis, 95% of the time.

Compensation & Benefits:
  • Full benefits are available and are contingent upon your hours worked.
  • Vision.
  • Medical.
  • Life Insurance.
  • 401(k).
  • Dental.

We are an EEO/AA Employer and consider applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or veteran status.

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