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Trainee Rail Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Laborer Rail Crew

Ocala, FL · On-site

$14.50 - $19.25/hr

... trainee is eligible for promotion to the Rail Specialist position. With experience, Rail Specialists are eligible to apply for the CNYX Locomotive Engineer Training Program. Essential Duties and ...

Laborer - Rail Crew

Panama City, FL · On-site

$14.25 - $18.75/hr

... trainee is eligible for promotion to the Rail Specialist position. With experience, Rail Specialists are eligible to apply for the CNYX Locomotive Engineer Training Program. Essential Duties and ...

Laborer Rail Crew

Miami, FL · On-site

$14.75 - $19.50/hr

... trainee is eligible for promotion to the Rail Specialist position. With experience, Rail Specialists are eligible to apply for the CNYX Locomotive Engineer Training Program. Essential Duties and ...

Laborer Rail Crew

Ocala, FL

$15.50 - $20.50/hr

... trainee is eligible for promotion to the Rail Specialist position. With experience, Rail Specialists are eligible to apply for the CNYX Locomotive Engineer Training Program. Essential Duties and ...

Laborer - Rail Crew

Tampa, FL · On-site

$15.25 - $20/hr

... trainee is eligible for promotion to the Rail Specialist position. With experience, Rail Specialists are eligible to apply for the CNYX Locomotive Engineer Training Program. Essential Duties and ...

Laborer Rail Crew

Miami, FL

$16 - $21/hr

... trainee is eligible for promotion to the Rail Specialist position. With experience, Rail Specialists are eligible to apply for the CNYX Locomotive Engineer Training Program. Essential Duties and ...

Laborer - Rail Crew

Tampa, FL

$15.75 - $20.75/hr

... trainee is eligible for promotion to the Rail Specialist position. With experience, Rail Specialists are eligible to apply for the CNYX Locomotive Engineer Training Program. Essential Duties and ...

Laborer - Rail Crew

Panama City, FL

$15 - $19.75/hr

... trainee is eligible for promotion to the Rail Specialist position. With experience, Rail Specialists are eligible to apply for the CNYX Locomotive Engineer Training Program. Essential Duties and ...

Clewiston Railroad Ops Job Responsibilities * Operate switches in any area of track * Safely ... Engineers and Conductors * Check switch points for proper alignment * Ability to read, speak and ...

Laborer Rail Crew - Largo, FL

Palmetto, FL

$14.50 - $18/hr

... trainee is eligible for promotion to the Rail Specialist position. With experience, Rail Specialists are eligible to apply for the CNYX Locomotive Engineer Training Program. Essential Duties and ...

Laborer Rail Crew - Largo, FL

Palmetto, FL · On-site

$14.50 - $18/hr

... trainee is eligible for promotion to the Rail Specialist position. With experience, Rail Specialists are eligible to apply for the CNYX Locomotive Engineer Training Program. Essential Duties and ...

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Showing results 1-20

Trainee Rail Engineer information

See salary details

$23.5K

$77.8K

$139K

How much do trainee rail engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for trainee rail engineer in the United States is $77,836.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,000.00 and $97,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What types of projects and hands-on experience can a Trainee Rail Engineer expect during their early career?

As a Trainee Rail Engineer, you will typically be involved in a variety of projects ranging from track maintenance and upgrades to the design of new rail infrastructure. Early in your career, you can expect to work closely with experienced engineers on site surveys, data collection, and safety assessments. Many organizations also provide rotational programs, allowing you to gain exposure to different aspects of rail engineering such as signaling, civil works, and project management. This hands-on experience is invaluable for building technical skills and understanding the operational challenges unique to the rail industry.

How much do rail engineers get paid?

Rail engineers typically earn between £25,000 and £45,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and specialization. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced engineers or those with specialized skills can earn higher salaries, often supplemented by overtime and allowances for working in challenging environments.

What does a Trainee Rail Engineer do?

A Trainee Rail Engineer is an entry-level professional who assists in the design, construction, and maintenance of railway systems and infrastructure. Their responsibilities often include supporting experienced engineers in surveying sites, preparing technical drawings, conducting safety checks, and learning about railway standards and regulations. Trainee Rail Engineers gain practical experience on-site and may also participate in classroom or online training as part of their development. The goal is to develop the skills and knowledge required to progress to a fully qualified Rail Engineer role.

How to become a railroad engineer with no experience?

To become a trainee rail engineer with no experience, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, and must complete on-the-job training or an apprenticeship program provided by railway companies. Relevant skills include good communication, technical understanding, and the ability to work in a safety-critical environment; obtaining certifications such as a railway safety card can also be beneficial.

What is the difference between Trainee Rail Engineer vs Rail Signaller?

AspectTrainee Rail EngineerRail Signaller
Required credentialsBasic engineering qualifications, training programsSignalling certifications, safety training
Work environmentConstruction sites, maintenance areas, rail yardsControl rooms, signal boxes, operational centers
Employer and industry usageRail companies, engineering firmsRail operators, signalling companies

While both roles are essential in the rail industry, a Trainee Rail Engineer focuses on infrastructure, maintenance, and engineering tasks, often working outdoors or on-site. In contrast, a Rail Signaller manages train movements from control centers, ensuring safety and efficiency. The roles require different certifications but share a common industry environment and safety standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Trainee Rail Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Trainee Rail Engineer, you generally need a degree or diploma in civil, mechanical, or electrical engineering, along with strong analytical and problem-solving abilities. Familiarity with CAD software, railway design tools, and safety regulations is typically required, and some employers may prefer candidates with relevant internships or industry certifications. Excellent teamwork, communication, and adaptability help trainees collaborate effectively on multidisciplinary projects and respond to challenges in dynamic environments. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and innovative rail infrastructure development.

Are railroad engineers in demand?

Railroad engineers, including trainee rail engineers, are in steady demand due to ongoing infrastructure projects and the need for maintenance of rail networks. The industry values skills in safety protocols, technical knowledge, and certifications, which can lead to stable employment opportunities.

How much does a locomotive engineer trainee make?

A locomotive engineer trainee typically earns between $40,000 and $60,000 annually, depending on the company, location, and level of experience. Trainees often receive on-the-job training and may start with a lower salary that increases as they gain certifications and experience in operating trains and safety procedures.
More about Trainee Rail Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Trainee Rail Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Trainee Rail Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Rail Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Rail Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Trainee Rail Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Trainee Rail Engineer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Trainee Rail Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $77,836 per year, or $37.4 per hour.

$82K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 28 days ago


Job description

 

Job Posting

JOB TITLE:

Engineer Trainee (Summer 2026)

AGENCY:

Construction & Development

DEPT/DIV:

Delivery/Various

REPORTS TO:

Various Managers

WORK LOCATION:

2 Broadway

HOURS OF WORK:

8:30 AM to 5:00 PM or as required (7.5 HR/ DAY)

JOB FAMILY: ENG

GRADE: 001

SALARY RANGE:

$82,853

DEADLINE:

Open Until Filled

May need to work outside of normal work hours (i.e., evenings and weekends)

Travel may be required to other MTA locations or other external sites.

MTA Construction & Development reserves the right to remove this posting before the application deadline.

Agency Mission
 

MTA Construction & Development (C&D) is responsible for the planning, development, and execution of all capital construction projects across the MTA region. Through centralized oversight and management of the MTA’s $64 billion Capital Program, C&D ensures the efficient delivery of critical infrastructure projects that support the region’s vast transportation network. As part of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority, the largest transportation network in North America, C&D plays a key role in modernizing and expanding services that support 15.3 million residents across New York City, Long Island, southeastern New York State, and Connecticut. C&D is committed to delivering safe, innovative, and cost-effective capital projects that enhance the customer experience and strengthen the reliability and resilience of the MTA system.

Telework

This position is eligible for telework, which is currently one day per week. New hires are eligible to apply 30 days after their effective date of hire.

Job Summary

Engineering graduates interested in capital projects that rehabilitate, improve, and expand the MTA's extensive network of subway, bus, commuter rail, bridge, and tunnel infrastructure.

We offer opportunities for trainees to develop management and technical skills through on-the-job training involving several challenging assignments and projects.

This multi-year program requires successful trainees who earn a satisfactory performance evaluation and pass the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam to graduate from Engineer Trainee to Assistant Engineer 1 in 18 Months.

Successful Trainees who progress to an Assistant Engineer 1 position will remain in this title at the agency's discretion until they receive their Professional Engineering license from the New York State Department of Education and obtain an Engineer 1 position.

The Engineer Trainee Program may change based on the New York State Department of Education requirements.

C&D Delivery is recruiting engineering college graduates who have obtained their degree within the past eighteen (18) months or graduating by June 30, 2026.

Selected candidates should be prepared for a September 10, 2026 start date.

Responsibilities

The Engineering Trainee shall work under the direction of a Manager or Engineer.

Perform elementary engineering work in scope development, design, request for contract development proposals, or capital construction oversight and/or inspection. Trainees may perform related support functions for capital projects, such as project controls, environmental engineering, or various engineering/technical functions.

Trainees will also receive training in engineering, construction, project management, and/or capital project support work of moderate difficulty and responsibility.

Participate in site visits and fieldwork at various facilities and infrastructure of the MTA operating agencies, including active construction sites.

Manage and contribute to a variety of challenging projects.

Depending upon assignment, various shifts/days may encompass full participation in all aspects of the organization.

Apply academic learning to engineering principles, critical thinking, and analysis.

Perform other duties as required.

Education and Experience

Bachelor's Degree in Engineering.

Relevant disciplines include Civil/Structural Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Communications Engineering, Computer Control Systems, or comparable Engineering.

Basic understanding of engineering principles.

Strong presentation, written, and verbal communication skills.

Possess quantitative, analytical, and problem-solving skills.

Demonstrated organizational skills with attention to detail.

Ability to interact with multiple stakeholders.

Must have the ability to work both independently and within a team effectively.

Must be willing to adhere to the agency's policies, rules, and regulations.

Proficient in MS Office Suite and/or other comparable PC applications.

Comprehensive Benefits & Total Rewards Package:

Transportation & Financial Benefits

Commuting Made Easy – Enjoy a complimentary MTA transportation pass, plus access to tax-advantaged commuter benefits to maximize your savings.

Premium Health Coverage at Low Cost – Access high-quality individual, family, and domestic partner healthcare, dental, vision, and life insurance plans.

Secure Your Future – Build long-term financial security through pension plans and retirement savings accounts designed for eligible employees.

Time Off & Work-Life Balance

Generous Time Away – Recharge with substantial paid time off and comprehensive holiday schedules that support your personal and family commitments.

Holistic Support Services – Access our dedicated Work Life Services team and Office of the Chaplains unit for personal guidance and support when you need it most.

Professional Growth & Development

Learning & Development Program – Advance your career through structured professional development opportunities, skills training, and leadership programs tailored to support your growth within the organization.

Educational Investment – Pursue your career goals with in-house training and professional development, tuition reimbursement support, and partnerships with educational institutions.

Employee Experience & Community

Employee Assistance Programs – Comprehensive support services to help you navigate life's challenges with confidence and resources.

Discounts & Perks – Take advantage of MTA employee discount programs offering savings on products and services.

Connect & Belong – Join our vibrant Employee Resource Groups to build meaningful connections, share experiences, and contribute to an inclusive workplace culture.

How to Apply

For Internal Applicants: Log in to the My MTA Portal, click on the My Job Search tile, select the Careers link, search for the desired position, click Apply, and follow the on-screen instructions.

For External Applicants: Visit www.mta.info, click the “Careers” link located in the footer under the "The MTA" section, then click on “See All Open MTA Positions”. Search for the desired position, click Apply, and follow the instructions.

Additional Information:

Final salary is determined by experience, skill set, and alignment with compensation practices. The posted range reflects expected compensation and may be updated as market or business needs evolve.

To be eligible for consideration for a new role, current MTA employees must complete at least one year of service in their current role prior to applying. Additionally, eligibility to interview is contingent upon maintaining a satisfactory record of job performance, attendance, and disciplinary conduct.

Pursuant to the New York State Public Officers Law & the MTA Code of Ethics, all employees who hold a policymaking position must file an Annual Statement of Financial Disclosure (FDS) with the NYS Commission on Ethics and Lobbying in Government (the “Commission”).

Equal Employment Opportunity

MTA and its subsidiary and affiliated agencies are equal opportunity employers, including those with respect to veteran status and individuals with disabilities.

The MTA encourages qualified applicants from diverse backgrounds, experiences, and abilities, including military service members, to apply.