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Trainee Rail Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Electrical Apprentice Signal Trainee

Bellevue, OH · On-site

$37.98/hr

Use of a wide variety of hand tools, on track high-rail equipment, and test instruments Perform ... Electrical Technician, Electronics Engineering or Electrical Engineer Licenses / Certifications:

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Trainee Rail Engineer information

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$23.5K

$77.8K

$139K

How much do trainee rail engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 31, 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 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.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a trainee rail engineer?

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.

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.

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.

Are railroad engineers in demand?

Railroad engineers, including trainee rail engineers, are in steady demand due to ongoing infrastructure projects and the need for skilled workers to operate and maintain rail systems. Employment opportunities often require technical training, certifications, and knowledge of safety protocols, with job stability influenced by transportation industry growth and infrastructure investment.

How much do trainee rail engineers get paid?

Trainee rail engineers typically earn between £15,000 and £25,000 per year, depending on the company and location. As they gain experience and certifications, their salary can increase, and they may progress to higher engineering roles with higher pay. Training programs often include on-the-job learning and technical assessments to develop skills in railway systems and safety procedures.

How to become a trainee rail engineer with no experience?

To become a trainee rail engineer, candidates typically need a relevant qualification such as a Level 3 engineering diploma or equivalent, along with good communication and problem-solving skills. Employers often provide on-the-job training, and having a valid driver's license and a willingness to work flexible hours can improve chances of entry without prior experience.
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Trainee Rail Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Trainee Rail Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $77,836 per year, or $37.4 per hour.

Regional Rail Conductor/Engineer - Trainee (2556)

Philadelphia, PA • On-site

Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA)
Ground Public Transportation • 5 - 10K employees
Learn more about Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA)external

$24.01/hr

Full-time

Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 27 days ago

Job description

Secure your FUTURE with SEPTA today! 

The Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) is the sixth largest transportation system in the United States, with a vast network of fixed route services including bus, subway/elevated, trackless trolley, light rail, and commuter rail serving a 2,200 square mile service region.SEPTA has become an integral force in the economic success of the Philadelphia region, providing an efficient and reliable source of transportation. 

We are seeking candidates for the position of Regional Rail Conductor/Engineer - Trainee (2556) in the Ops/RT-Regional Rail.    

Compensation Data

Pay rate is $24.01 per hour

OVERALL DESCRIPTION

The Trainee position is on a career path to become full time Regional Rail Conductors or Locomotive Engineers. During the training program, Conductor trainees will collect fares on the Commuter trains, and will also be responsible for reconciling, and depositing cash and tickets from riders on our Regional Rail trains.

Within two years of hire, all Conductor trainees will enter a program to become full time Conductors or Locomotive Engineers, depending on the needs of SEPTA

SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILTIES
  • Collects fares on the Commuter trains. 
  • Reconciles and deposits cash, tickets, or processes electronic payments from riders on our Regional Rail trains. 
  • Complies with all Authority and Departmental safety and security policies and procedures, as well as all applicable job safety responsibilities. Reports any safety concerns, compromises, or hazards in the immediate working environment to Supervision and takes initiative to alleviate potential and existing hazards affecting self and other employees. Is responsible for the individual's own safety and is encouraged to promote the safety of others.
     
QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE
  • Must have a high school diploma or equivalent. 
  • Must have a valid PA Driver's License or equivalent and access to a vehicle.
  • Must have paid professional experience working directly with the public, and experience handling cash is preferable. Familiarity with SEPTA Regional Rail train lines, stops, destinations, and fare structure is also preferred. Trainees will be required to work a six-day week, with one day off. 
  • Must be willing and able to work irregular hours and split shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
  • Conductor Trainees must meet personal grooming standards. Must be able to walk on irregular surfaces, climb stairs, and work outdoors when necessary.
  • Must have access to reliable personal transportation to travel to reporting locations, such as West Trenton, Trenton, Doylestown, Thorndale, and Chestnut Hill. 
  • Within two years of hire, all Locomotive/Conductor trainees will be required to enter a program to become full time Conductors or Locomotive Engineers. (SEPTA Regional Rail Managers will determine which class you will enter, based on staffing requirements.)
     

BENEFITS 

SEPTA offers a comprehensive benefits and retirement program for ALL employees, including: 

  • Medical - "Minimal annual premium contribution" 

Benefit plans with "No Employee annual premium contribution": 

  • Prescription 

  • Dental 

  • Vision 

Additional benefits we offer: 

  • Pension Plan/Retirement Savings 

  • Defined Benefit Pension Plan 

  • Voluntary Governmental 457B Deferred Comp Plan 

  • Life Insurance 

  • Tuition Reimbursement 

  • SEPTA Transportation Pass -FREE travel on all SEPTA modes of transportation 

  • SEPTA employees qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program 

SEPTA is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status. 

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