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

Trainee Train Controller information

See Romeoville, IL salary details

$14

$21

$37

How much do trainee train controller jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for trainee train controller in Romeoville, IL is $21.56, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.67 and $24.76 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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?

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 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 are popular job titles related to Trainee Train Controller jobs in Romeoville, IL? For Trainee Train Controller jobs in Romeoville, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Trainee Train Controller jobs in Romeoville, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Trainee Train Controller jobs in Romeoville, IL are:
What cities near Romeoville, IL are hiring for Trainee Train Controller jobs? Cities near Romeoville, IL with the most Trainee Train Controller job openings:

Sr Res Technologist (Meeks Lab)

Northwestern University

Chicago, IL • On-site

$27.06 - $34.88/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Northwestern University rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 48 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

228th of 616 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Apply for Job Job ID 54159
Location Chicago, Illinois
Add to Favorite Jobs Email this Job

Department: MED-Urology
Salary/Grade: NEX/15

Target hiring range for this position will be between be range is as be $27.06-$34.88 per hour. Offered salary will be determined by the applicant's education, experience, knowledge, skills and abilities, as well as internal equity and alignment with market data.


Job Summary:

Conducts complex experimental research in a research lab, functioning as a specialist or technical expert. May manage one or more phase(s) of a major project(s) or all activities of a small project. May ensure overall lab compliance with all associated rules and regulations.

The Meeks Lab is seeking a Scientist who will oversee the operations of the laboratory, develop and manage foundational research projects in bladder cancer, especially the management of complex molecular biology techniques (single cell RNA-seq and digital spatial profiling), oversight of our mouse colony, and help in collaborations with investigators at NU. Our laboratory is vibrant, collaborative international group, fully supportive of each other to identify cures for bladder cancer. We are seeking to recruit a new laboratory manager that will make will manage daily operations of a research lab.

More specifically, the Scientist will:

  • Help to supervise experiments and infrastructure of the lab, including mouse colony management, molecular biology techniques, cell culture, and genetic and protein analyses.
  • Directly participate in experiments, and assist other laboratory members with cell culture experiments, single-cell RNA-seq and digital spatial profiling
  • Independently plan, perform, and analyze experiments, and collaborate with PI on writing papers and grants;
  • Serve as technical resource to, graduate and post-graduate trainees and provide insight, advice and guidance on experimental technologies for cancer research.
  • Supervise and train lab support staff and oversee day-to-day operations of the laboratory, develops, implements & administers budgets, grant & administrative procedures.
  • Assist in IACUC and laboratory research safety protocols, reviews technical operations ensuring that all processes, protocols & procedures are quality controlled & functioning up to standards

The ideal candidate will also have the following experience and qualifications:

  • Provide administrative and operational leadership within the laboratory.
  • Independently manage research projects and laboratory priorities.
  • Develop and submit research protocols and amendments.
  • Maintain and oversee mouse colonies and conduct mouse-related research.
  • Perform bioinformatic analysis and interpret research data.
  • Communicate scientific findings clearly with investigators, trainees, and collaborators.
  • Demonstrate an interest in long-term growth and continuity within the laboratory.

Specific Responsibilities:

  • Acting as a technical expert or specialist in a particular field within a research lab, establishes and optimizes protocols and coordinates conduct of multiple complex experiments.

Molecular Biology:

  • DNA, RNA, Protein isolation, purification and expression
  • Southern, Northern, Western blotting
  • PCR, RT-PCR
  • Plasmid preparation
  • Cloning, mapping and sequencing of DNA
  • Recombinant virus production and purification

Cellular Biology:

  • Cell culture, cell isolation
  • Functional studies
  • Transfection

Histology:

  • Tissue fixation/processing: embedding, preparation of blocks and sectioning, staining
  • Immunohistochemistry

Immunology:

  • Flow cytometry
  • ELISA, Elispot assay
  • Cytokine assay
  • Antibody production and purification

Animal:

  • Husbandry
  • Breeding and screening transgenic mice
  • Dissections
  • Blood collection
  • Surgical procedures
  • Database management of colony

Administration

  • Oversees and manages lab databases which may include ensuring that experiments are observed and that data is collected and entered correctly.
  • Reviews and analyzes data.
  • Creates computer models, graphs, reports and summaries for use in publications, professional journals, and grant applications.
  • Co-authors scientific papers for presentation and publication.
  • Researches and obtains funding.
  • Creates and maintains lab manuals regarding operating, safety, and etc. procedures.

Finance

  • Creates lab financial plan and budget/audit expenses.
  • Obtains sales quotes for lab equipment and supplies.
  • Reviews and adjusts expenses to decrease costs.
  • Oversees repair and maintenance of all lab equipment.
  • Ensures that lab supplies are ready and available when necessary.

Supervision

  • Trains, directs, assigns duties to and may supervise lab EEs, students, residents and/or fellows.

Miscellaneous

Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

Successful completion of a full 4-year course of study in an accredited college or university leading to a bachelor's or higher degree in a scientific major or related; OR appropriate combination of education and experience and 5 years' lab/bench or other relevant experience required; OR

Successful completion of a full course of study in an accredited college or university leading to a master's or higher degree in a scientific major or related; OR appropriate combination of education and experience and 3 years' lab/bench or other relevant experience.

Benefits

At Northwestern, we are proud to provide meaningful and competitive benefits. The available benefits package for this position will include health, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance; paid vacation and holidays; paid medical/sick and parental leave; tuition benefits for the employee and dependents; pre-tax and flex spending accounts for commuting and dependent care; generous retirement savings options; and wellness programs. For a comprehensive overview of available benefits, including eligibility details, visit us at https://www.northwestern.edu/hr/benefits/index.html to learn more.

Work-Life and Wellness:
Northwestern offers comprehensive programs and services to help you and your family navigate life's challenges and opportunities, and adopt and maintain healthy lifestyles.
We support flexible work arrangements where possible and programs to help you locate and pay for quality, affordable childcare and senior/adult care. Visit us at https://www.northwestern.edu/hr/benefits/work-life/index.html to learn more.

Professional Growth & Development:
Northwestern supports employee career development in all circumstances whether your workspace is on campus or at home. If you're interested in developing your professional potential or continuing your formal education, we offer a variety of tools and resources. Visit us at https://www.northwestern.edu/hr/learning/index.html to learn more.
Northwestern University is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of protected characteristics, including disability and veteran status. View Northwestern's non-discrimination statement. Job applicants who wish to request an accommodation in the application or hiring process should contact the Office of Civil Rights and Title IX Compliance. View additional information on the accommodations process.


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