1

Subway Operator Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

Serve as the senior-level relationship owner for multi-unit operators, large-portfolio franchisees, and key accounts, representing Subway with authority at the executive franchisee level. * Act as ...

Director, Franchise Performance

Seattle, WA · On-site

$139 - $173.90/hr

Serve as the senior‑level relationship owner for multi‑unit operators, large‑portfolio franchisees, and key accounts, representing Subway with authority at the executive franchisee level. * Act ...

As part of the Subway ® Team, you as a Multi-Unit Manager will focus on four main things ... Providing leadership to all managers and staff to ensure compliance with operating standards

As part of the Subway ® Team, you as a Multi-Unit Manager will focus on four main things ... Providing leadership to all managers and staff to ensure compliance with operating standards

As part of the Subway ® Team, you as a Multi-Unit Manager will focus on four main things ... Providing leadership to all managers and staff to ensure compliance with operating standards

Subway Operator information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$18

$24

$30

How much do subway operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for subway operator in Seattle, WA is $24.30, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.87 and $27.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a subway operator do?

As a subway operator, you operate a subway train and transport passengers throughout a subway network. In this role, you may coordinate with other operators, help passengers manage the transition from other transportation systems like trains or a city streetcar, and communicate with a central dispatcher to report any problems. You often observe signals along the tracks, make announcements, help passengers with special needs, and oversee evacuations if emergencies occur. Fulfilling the duties and responsibilities of this job requires mental fortitude and the ability to remain professional in upsetting or stressful situations, including dealing with problematic passengers.

What is the difference between Subway Operator vs Bus Driver?

AspectSubway OperatorBus Driver
Required CertificationsCommercial Driver's License (CDL), specialized subway operation trainingCommercial Driver's License (CDL), passenger endorsement
Work EnvironmentUnderground or elevated rail systems, enclosed stationsOn-road, city streets, bus stops
Employer & Industry UsageTransit agencies operating subway systemsPublic transit agencies, private bus companies

Subway Operators and Bus Drivers both require CDL licenses and serve public transit roles. However, Subway Operators work primarily underground or on elevated tracks within rail systems, while Bus Drivers operate on city streets and roads. Their work environments and specific training differ, but both are essential for urban transportation services.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a subway operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Subway Operator, you need a high school diploma or equivalent, strong attention to detail, and knowledge of transit safety regulations. Familiarity with train control systems, signaling technology, and sometimes completion of specialized transit authority training programs are typically required. Excellent communication, calmness under pressure, and situational awareness help operators manage emergencies and interact with passengers effectively. These skills ensure passenger safety, efficient train operation, and reliable transit service in busy urban environments.

What is a subway operator?

Subway operators are professionals responsible for driving and operating subway trains, ensuring the safe and timely transportation of passengers. They control train speed, monitor signals, make station announcements, and respond to emergencies or unusual situations on the tracks. Subway operators also perform safety checks, report any mechanical issues, and follow strict schedules and operational procedures to maintain efficient service. Their role is crucial in keeping public transit systems running smoothly and safely.

What are some common challenges faced by subway operators during their shifts?

Subway Operators often face challenges such as maintaining schedule adherence during peak hours, handling unexpected technical issues or track obstructions, and ensuring passenger safety during emergencies. Additionally, they must stay vigilant and focused in a fast-paced environment, communicate effectively with control centers and other crew members, and manage stress when dealing with large crowds or service disruptions. Adaptability and composure are essential for overcoming these challenges and ensuring a smooth transit experience.
What are popular job titles related to Subway Operator jobs in Seattle, WA? For Subway Operator jobs in Seattle, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Subway Operator jobs in Seattle, WA look for? The top searched job categories for Subway Operator jobs in Seattle, WA are:
Infographic showing various Subway Operator job openings in Seattle, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 48% Full Time, 49% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,551 per year, or $24.3 per hour.

Director, Franchise Performance

Subway

Seattle, WA

$139K - $155K/yr

Full-time

Posted 28 days ago


Subway rating

4.4

Company rating: 4.4 out of 10

Based on 2,048 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

98th of 106 rated fast food restaurants


Job description

Ready to build what's next with one of the world's most iconic brands?

Why Join Subway?

At Subway, we are not standing still. We are building. This is a business focused on what matters most: growing franchisee profitability, strengthening our brand and creating long-term value. The people who thrive here are the ones who want to make a real impact. You will not just do the work. You will shape it.

We move fast. We think like owners. We make decisions that matter. We hold ourselves to a high standard because what we do directly impacts thousands of franchisees around the world. If you bring energy, accountability and a bias for action, you will fit right in. We take the work seriously, but we also know the best results come from teams that support each other, celebrate wins and show up ready to build something better every day. This is your chance to be part of what's next.

About the Role:

The Director, Franchise Performance (DFP) is a senior field leadership role responsible for driving franchise performance, profitability, and brand standards across a multi-territory region. The DFP leads a team of Managers, Franchise Performance (MFPs), sets regional strategy, and serves as the primary escalation point for complex franchisee relationships and performance challenges. The ideal candidate combines strong people leadership with executive-level relationship-building, business acumen, and the ability to translate company strategy into field execution.

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

  • Lead and develop a team of Managers, Franchise Performance (MFPs) across a multi-territory region, including hiring, coaching, performance management, and succession planning.
  • Own overall Average Unit Volume (AUV) growth and franchisee health across the regional portfolio; translate company strategy and KPIs into regional plans and hold MFPs accountable for results.
  • Serve as the senior-level relationship owner for multi-unit operators, large-portfolio franchisees, and key accounts, representing Subway with authority at the executive franchisee level.
  • Act as the primary escalation point for complex franchisee issues, including operational disputes, compliance concerns, ownership challenges, and brand standard violations.
  • Partner with Finance to assess franchisee P&L health across the region and develop improvement plans for underperforming locations.
  • Lead the regional development and growth strategy with Field Development, Real Estate, Construction, and MUO Consolidation teams, including new openings, remodels, ownership transitions, and consolidations.
  • Conduct regular market visits and represent Subway at industry conferences, franchisee forums, and leadership meetings.
  • Champion adoption of company tools, platforms, and training programs (University of Subway, FranConnect, CRM, BAT) across the MFP team.

Qualifications:

    • Bachelors degree in Business, Operations Management, or related field required. MBA or Masters degree strongly preferred, or equivalent experience with 10+ years of progressive leadership in a franchise or multi-unit management environment.
    • 8+ years in Franchise Management or multi-unit field operations, with a track record of driving business growth, profitability, and organizational performance. Prior experience as a Manager, Franchise Performance (or equivalent) strongly preferred. 5+ years of restaurant/QSR operations experience preferred.
    • 3+ years of direct people management experience required, including hiring, coaching, developing, and performance managing exempt-level professionals. Experience managing geographically dispersed teams preferred.
    • Proven ability to lead, coach, develop, and retain a high-performing team of people managers; skilled in performance management and succession planning.
    • Strong strategic and business acumen, including P&L management and the ability to translate company strategy into actionable regional plans.
    • Executive presence and the ability to build and maintain senior-level relationships with franchisees, multi-unit operators, and cross-functional leaders.
    • Strong analytical skills; ability to synthesize regional performance data, identify trends and systemic issues, and develop data-driven solutions.
    • Deep knowledge of franchise regulations, compliance requirements, and QSR/franchise operations.
    • Exceptional written and verbal communication skills; ability to influence senior leadership, franchisees, and cross-functional partners.
    • Proficiency in Microsoft Office (strong Excel, PowerPoint, Smart Sheets) and CRM software (FranConnect).
    • Willingness and ability to travel extensively within the region (40%60%), with flexibility for evenings and weekends based on business needs.
    • Valid drivers license, clean driving record, and reliable transportation in the form of your own vehicle required.

What do we Offer?

  • Insurance Plans (Medical/Dental/Vision/Life)
  • 401k
  • Competitive Bonus
  • Mobility Allowance
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Company Holidays
  • Employee Resource Groups
  • Volunteering time
  • Many More

Actual pay is determined based on a number of job-related factors including skills, education, training, credentials, qualifications, scope and complexity of role responsibilities, geographic location, performance, and working conditions.

The Company is only considering applicants who are currently authorized to work in the country the position is based. AA/EOE/D/V

Subway uses technologyassisted tools to support our recruitment process. These tools strictly help organize and sort applications based on jobrelated qualifications. All decisions are made by people - our recruiting team and hiring managers. If you have questions or would like to request an alternative review process, please let us know.

Job Details

  • Pay Type: Salary
  • Employment Indicator: Regular

What Subway employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom