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Trainee Train Controller Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Store Manager In Training

Decatur, IL · On-site

$19.13 - $22.50/hr

... controlling inventory, product ordering and pricing, cash handling, store security and resolve ... manage direct coworkers and train for exceptional customer service What are the minimum ...

Store Manager In Training

Rockford, IL · On-site

$19.13 - $22.50/hr

... controlling inventory, product ordering and pricing, cash handling, store security and resolve ... manage direct coworkers and train for exceptional customer service What are the minimum ...

Showing results 21-24

Trainee Train Controller information

See Illinois salary details

$13

$20

$35

How much do trainee train controller jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for trainee train controller in Illinois is $20.49, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.90 and $23.51 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a trainee train controller do?

A Trainee Train Controller is responsible for learning how to safely and efficiently manage train movements across the rail network. They monitor train positions, communicate with train drivers and station staff, and respond to incidents or delays. Their work is essential for maintaining schedules, preventing accidents, and ensuring passenger and staff safety. The trainee period involves supervised training, assessments, and gradually taking on more responsibility as skills develop.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a trainee train controller?

To thrive as a Trainee Train Controller, you need strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and a good understanding of rail operations, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with rail traffic management systems, signalling software, and safety protocols is typically required, and some organizations may provide specialized training or certifications. Excellent communication, calmness under pressure, and effective teamwork are standout soft skills in this role. These skills ensure safe, efficient train movements and help maintain smooth rail operations in high-stakes, time-sensitive environments.

What are some common challenges faced by trainee train controllers during their initial training period?

Trainee train controllers often find the high-pressure environment and the need to make quick, accurate decisions challenging at first. Adapting to shift work schedules, learning complex signaling systems, and maintaining clear communication with multiple teams are also common hurdles. However, most organizations provide structured training programs, mentorship, and gradual responsibility increases to help trainees build confidence and competence. With dedication, trainees can overcome these challenges and develop strong situational awareness essential for the role.

What is the difference between Trainee Train Controller vs Train Controller?

AspectTrainee Train ControllerTrain Controller
QualificationsRelevant certifications, training programsCertifications, experience, advanced training
Work EnvironmentSupervised, training setting in control centersOperational control centers, real-time decision making
ResponsibilitiesLearning scheduling, safety protocols, assisting controllersManaging train movements, ensuring safety and punctuality

The main difference between a Trainee Train Controller and a Train Controller is experience and responsibility level. Trainee Train Controllers are in training, focusing on learning procedures under supervision, while Train Controllers are fully responsible for managing train operations independently. The transition from trainee to full controller involves gaining experience, certifications, and demonstrating competence in real-time decision-making.

How to become a trainee train controller?

To become a trainee train controller, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, strong communication and problem-solving skills, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment. Some employers may require relevant coursework or certifications in transportation or logistics, and on-the-job training is provided to develop specific operational knowledge and tools used in train control centers.

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Trainee Train Controller jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Trainee Train Controller job openings:

Infographic showing various Trainee Train Controller job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,628 per year, or $20.5 per hour.

Store Manager In Training

Rent-A-Center

Decatur, IL • On-site

$19.13 - $22.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Rent A Center
Ready to do your best work?
Interested in a minimum starting hourly rate of $19.13 per hour - $22.50 per hour ?
Why should I apply in just a few clicks?
  • Paid Time Off and Sundays Off -- We are Closed!
  • Full-Time Employment and a Consistent Schedule
  • Weekly Pay (companywide)
  • Award Winning Culture with the Opportunity to Advance
  • Great Benefits (health insurance, 401(k) with company match, etc.)

What will you do?
Provide underserved customers access to high-quality goods that enhance their quality of life. You will do meaningful work and make a difference in our customers' lives!
A day in the life of a Store Manager in Training:
  • Sales: Set daily and weekly goals related to the store's sales activities, oversee and direct coworkers' sales activities, approval rental agreements, monitor planned results for sales as measured by revenue and growth
  • Account Management: Oversee direct coworker's collection activities, follow-up on accounts that require manager interventions, approve customer commitments and provide leadership and training to ensure all coworkers comply with established procedures and practices for collections
  • Leadership: Monitor and achieve planned results for profits for the store by effectively managing and directing store resources, ensure compliance with company policies, protect company assets through expense management, overseeing and controlling inventory, product ordering and pricing, cash handling, store security and resolve problems and complaints quickly
  • Coworker Management: Oversee and provide effective training & development for all coworkers, schedule and organize daily activities and goals, staff, recruit and hire for assigned store, maximize retention of coworkers and reduce turnover and manage direct coworkers and train for exceptional customer service

What are the minimum requirements?
  • 3 -- 5 years of retail/management experience
  • Completion of RAC's Store Manager Development Program during training period
  • Computer literacy/proficiency in store operation applications
  • Valid state driver's license and good driving record -- You WILL be driving the company vehicles

What are some additional helpful traits?
  • Seeking more than just a job, but a CAREER
  • A desire to improve our customer's lives
  • A dynamic personality that will drive business
  • Grit and determination

This is an excerpt from the full job description and is not intended to be all-inclusive. Other related duties may be required to meet the ongoing needs of the business. Rent-A-Center is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive work environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer.
Full job description provided in Onboarding