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Trainee Train Controller Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Trainee Train Controller information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$14

$21

$37

How much do trainee train controller jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for trainee train controller in Chicago, IL is $21.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.87 and $25.00 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How hard is it to get a trainee train driver job?

Securing a trainee train driver position typically requires a good understanding of safety procedures, relevant qualifications, and sometimes prior experience or training. Candidates often need to pass aptitude tests, medical examinations, and background checks before starting training programs. Competition can be high, and employers look for strong communication skills and the ability to work under pressure.

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.

How much do railroad controllers make?

Railroad controllers, also known as train controllers or train dispatchers, typically earn a median annual salary of around $70,000 to $80,000. Salaries can vary based on experience, location, and the size of the railroad company, with some earning over $100,000 with seniority and additional certifications.

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Trainee Train Controller, and why are they important?

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.

How do you become a train controller?

To become a train controller, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with training provided by the employer. Relevant skills include good communication, problem-solving, and the ability to work under pressure; some positions may require certification or experience with railway signaling systems. On-the-job training is common, and familiarity with scheduling software and safety protocols is important.

What does a trainee train conductor do?

A trainee train conductor assists with the operation and safety of train services under supervision. They learn to handle ticketing, customer service, safety procedures, and communication with the control center as part of their training process.

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.

What job categories do people searching Trainee Train Controller jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Trainee Train Controller jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Trainee Train Controller jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Trainee Train Controller job openings:

PASSENGER ENGINEER TRAINEE - 90267361 - Chicago

Amtrak

Chicago, IL • On-site

$34.42 - $35.62/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 19 days ago


Amtrak rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 144 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

39th of 97 rated public transport


Job description

Your success is a train ride away!

As we move America's workforce toward the future, Amtrak connects businesses and communities across the country. We employ more than 20,000 diverse, energetic professionals in a variety of career fields throughout the United States. The safety of our passengers, our employees, the public and our operating environment is our priority, and the success of our railroad is due to our employees.

Are you ready to join our team?

Our values of 'Do the Right Thing, Excel Together and Put Customers First' are at the heart of what matters most to us, and our Core Capabilities, 'Building Trust, Accountability, Effective Communication, Customer Focus, and Proactive Safety & Security' are what every employee needs to know and do to be most impactful at Amtrak. By living the Amtrak values, focusing on our capabilities, and actively embracing and fostering diverse ideas, backgrounds, and perspectives, together we will honor our past and make Amtrak a company of the future.

Job Summary

Consistently and safely operate locomotives and trains in compliance with federal regulations and corporate policies. Operates equipment during varying work hours within a 24/7 transportation environment maintaining alertness, situational awareness and vigilance. Thinks and functions independently and utilizes clear and effective verbal communication skills in interaction with fellow crew members and other personnel responsible for safe and efficient train movement.

Minimum Qualifications
  • H.S. Diploma or GED Required.
  • Some work experience demonstrates the ability to maintain alertness, awareness and vigilance, as well as clear, effective verbal communication skills in the performance of work. Satisfactory attendance and safe work record. Prior railroad operating experience and work history that demonstrates the ability to adapt to variable and often changing work hours preferred.
  • Although a driver's license is not required, applicants with a driver's license must provide a certified copy of motor vehicle driving record from the chief of the state driver's licensing agency in which the applicant was last issued a license and any license(s) issued or reissued from other state(s) within the preceding 60 months. Motor vehicle records must be void of any drug and alcohol violations within the previous 36 months. 2. Must have a motor vehicle driving record void of any convictions or state action canceling, revoking, suspending or denying a driver's license for operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of or impaired by alcohol or a controlled substance within the last 36 months or a record of refusal to undergo such testing as required by state law within the last 36 months. 3. Must sign a release of records authorizing all previous railroad employees to provide Amtrak with background information, if applicable. In accordance with FRA regulations, previous railroad service records must be void of any drug and alcohol violations within the previous 60 months.
  • If selected, incumbent will be required to successfully complete Engineer Training as follows: 8-10 weeks classroom and field work while headquartered at Amtrak's Training Center in Wilmington, DE; followed by extensive qualifying and on-the-job training associated with the Crew Base for which hired; paid at the student training rate until incumbent achieves certification as a Class 1 Train Service Engineer.
  • Individuals currently certified as Class 1 Train Service Engineers are paid at the rate determined by the agreement schedule. 
  • Incumbents are subject to periodic medical examinations including random drug and alcohol screenings.
  • Applicants for this position will be expected to meet the criteria for vision, color vision, and hearing set forth by the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) in 49 CFR 240.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Some college or vocational training.
Communications and Interpersonal Skills

Must have excellent verbal and written communication skills.

The hourly range is $34.42 - $35.62 (with opportunity for increases, as per the applicable collective bargaining agreement, after beginning employment). 

Health and Wellbeing Financial and Retirement Work and Family Life Support Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance 401K  Rail Pass Privileges Wellness Programs Railroad Retirement Benefits Employee Assistance Program Medical Plan Opt-out Credit Life Insurance Commuter and Flexible Spending Accounts No-cost Personal Health Advocate No-cost Financial Advisor Session Fertility and Family Building Benefits

Some benefits are subject to the collective bargaining agreement. Learn more about our benefits offerings here.

Requisition ID:166665
Posting Location(s):Illinois

Relocation Offered:No
Travel Requirements:Up to 100%
You power our progress through your performance.

We want your work at Amtrak to be more than a job. We want your career at Amtrak to be a fulfilling experience where you find challenging work, rewarding opportunities, respect among colleagues, and attractive compensation. Amtrak maintains a culture that values high performance and recognizes individual employee contributions.


Amtrak is committed to a safe workplace free of drugs and alcohol. All Amtrak positions requires a pre-employment background check that includes prior employment verification, a criminal history check and a pre-employment drug screen.

Candidates who test positive for marijuana will be disqualified, regardless of any state or local statute, ordinance, regulation, or other law that legalizes or decriminalizes the use or possession of marijuana, whether for medical, recreational, or other use. Amtrak's pre-employment drug testing program is administered in accordance with DOT regulations and applicable law.


In accordance with DOT regulations (49 CFR 40.25), Amtrak is required to obtain prior drug and alcohol testing records for applicants/employees intending to perform safety-sensitive duties for covered Department of Transportation positions. If an applicant/employee refuses to provide written consent for Amtrak to obtain these records, the individual will not be permitted to perform safety-sensitive functions.

In accordance with federal law governing security checks of covered individuals for providers of public transportation (Title 6 U.S.C. 1143), Amtrak is required to screen applicants for any permanent or interim disqualifying criminal offenses.


Note that any education requirement listed above may be deemed satisfied if you have an equivalent combination of education, training and experience.

Amtrak is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race/color, to include traits historically associated with race, including but not limited to, hair texture and hairstyles such as braids, locks and twists, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth and related conditions, such as lactation), national origin/ethnicity, disability (intellectual, mental and physical), veteran status, marital status, ancestry, sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression, genetic information, citizenship or any other personal characteristics protected by law.


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About Amtrak

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

As we move America's workforce toward the future, Amtrak connects businesses and communities across the country. We employ more than 20,000 diverse, energetic professionals in a variety of career fields throughout the United States. The safety of our passengers, our employees, the public and our operating environment is our priority, and the success of our railroad is due to our employees.

Industry

Travel arrangement services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Washington, DC, US

Year founded

1971