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Trainee Train Driver Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Tractor Supply Company

Store Manager

Stuart, VA · On-site

Overall Job Summary The Manager Trainee is responsible for learning the duties of the Store Manager ... Train to do periodic sales forecasting, payroll analysis and budget review. * Train on ...

Tractor Supply Company

Store Manager

Wytheville, VA · On-site

Overall Job Summary The Manager Trainee is responsible for learning the duties of the Store Manager ... Train to do periodic sales forecasting, payroll analysis and budget review. * Train on ...

Tractor Supply Company

Store Manager

Wytheville, VA · On-site

Overall Job Summary The Manager Trainee is responsible for learning the duties of the Store Manager ... Train to do periodic sales forecasting, payroll analysis and budget review. * Train on ...

Tractor Supply Company

Store Manager

Rockville, VA · On-site

Overall Job Summary The Manager Trainee is responsible for learning the duties of the Store Manager ... Train to do periodic sales forecasting, payroll analysis and budget review. * Train on ...

Tractor Supply Company

Store Manager

Leesburg, VA · On-site

Overall Job Summary The Manager Trainee is responsible for learning the duties of the Store Manager ... Train to do periodic sales forecasting, payroll analysis and budget review. * Train on ...

Tractor Supply Company

Store Manager

Staunton, VA · On-site

Overall Job Summary The Manager Trainee is responsible for learning the duties of the Store Manager ... Train to do periodic sales forecasting, payroll analysis and budget review. * Train on ...

Tractor Supply Company

Store Manager

Rockville, VA

Overall Job Summary The Manager Trainee is responsible for learning the duties of the Store Manager ... Train to do periodic sales forecasting, payroll analysis and budget review. * Train on ...

Tractor Supply Company

Store Manager

Staunton, VA · On-site

Overall Job Summary The Manager Trainee is responsible for learning the duties of the Store Manager ... Train to do periodic sales forecasting, payroll analysis and budget review. * Train on ...

Tractor Supply Company

Store Manager

Leesburg, VA · On-site

Overall Job Summary The Manager Trainee is responsible for learning the duties of the Store Manager ... Train to do periodic sales forecasting, payroll analysis and budget review. * Train on ...

Tractor Supply Company

Store Manager

Stuart, VA · On-site

Overall Job Summary The Manager Trainee is responsible for learning the duties of the Store Manager ... Train to do periodic sales forecasting, payroll analysis and budget review. * Train on ...

Tractor Supply Company

Store Manager

Woodbridge, VA · On-site

Overall Job Summary The Manager Trainee is responsible for learning the duties of the Store Manager ... Train to do periodic sales forecasting, payroll analysis and budget review. * Train on ...

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All JobsTrain Driver JobsTrainee Train Driver JobsTrainee Train Driver Jobs in Virginia

Trainee Train Driver information

See Virginia salary details

$24.8K

$49.5K

$65.9K

How much do trainee train driver jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for trainee train driver in Virginia is $49,525.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,700.00 and $57,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Trainee Train Driver, you need strong attention to detail, safety awareness, and the ability to follow strict operational procedures, typically requiring a minimum level of education such as GCSEs and passing medical and aptitude assessments. Familiarity with train control systems, signaling equipment, and route learning tools is essential, often gained through structured training programs. Excellent communication, calmness under pressure, and reliability are key soft skills that help in managing unexpected situations and interacting with passengers or control centers. These skills and qualities are vital for ensuring passenger safety, punctuality, and the smooth operation of train services.

What does a Trainee Train Driver do?

A Trainee Train Driver learns how to operate trains safely and efficiently under the supervision of experienced drivers. Their training covers everything from train controls and safety protocols to signaling systems and customer service. Trainees spend time both in classroom settings and on the job, gradually taking on more responsibility as they progress. The goal is to prepare them to become fully qualified train drivers, ensuring they can handle real-world scenarios and respond to emergencies. The training period can last several months to over a year, depending on the rail operator.

What are some common challenges trainee train drivers face during their initial training period?

Trainee train drivers often encounter challenges such as mastering complex safety procedures, adapting to irregular shift patterns, and maintaining high levels of concentration over long periods. The learning curve can be steep, especially when it comes to understanding signal systems and responding quickly to unexpected situations. Training programs are comprehensive and supportive, but persistence and a willingness to continuously learn are key to success in this role.

How do I become a trainee train driver?

To become a trainee train driver, candidates typically need to have a good standard of education, often including GCSEs or equivalent, and complete a train driver training program provided by a railway company. This training includes classroom learning, practical driving experience, and assessments on safety procedures and operational skills, often requiring a valid train driving license or certification upon completion.

How hard is it to get a job driving a train?

Securing a trainee train driver position typically requires completing specific training programs, obtaining relevant certifications, and passing assessments. Candidates often need a clean driving record, good communication skills, and the ability to work flexible hours in a safety-critical environment.

How long does a trainee train driver take?

The training period for a trainee train driver typically lasts between 6 months to 2 years, depending on the country, railway company, and the individual's prior experience. It includes classroom learning, practical on-the-job training, and assessments to ensure safety and operational competence before certification. Additional ongoing training may be required to maintain licensure and stay updated on safety protocols.

How much does a trainee train driver get paid?

A trainee train driver typically earns between £20,000 and £30,000 annually, depending on the company and location. During training, they may receive a lower salary, which increases as they gain experience and pass certification requirements. The role often involves shift work, including nights and weekends.

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

AspectTrainee Train DriverTrain Driver
QualificationsBasic train operating license, training programFull train operating license, extensive experience
Work EnvironmentSupervised training on trains, classroom learningOperating trains independently, on scheduled routes
Employer & Industry UsageRail companies during training phaseFull-time employment as a qualified driver

The main difference is that a Trainee Train Driver is in training and supervised, while a Train Driver operates trains independently with full certification. Trainees focus on learning and gaining experience, whereas qualified Train Drivers handle daily operations and safety responsibilities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Train Driver jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Train Driver jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Trainee Train Driver jobs in Virginia? For Trainee Train Driver jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Trainee Train Driver jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Trainee Train Driver jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Trainee Train Driver jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Trainee Train Driver job openings:
Trainee Train Driver jobs near you
Roanoke, VA Train Conductor

Roanoke, VA Train Conductor

Norfolk Southern Corp.

Roanoke, VA • On-site

$84K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 days ago

Job description

Description
At Norfolk Southern, we believe that our people power progress. Our culture is built on our SPIRIT values-Safety, Performance, Integrity, Respect, Innovation, and Teamwork-which guide how we work, lead, and grow together. If you're ready to be part of a dynamic team and contribute to one of the nation's premier transportation companies, we invite you to explore the conductor role.
Conductors are responsible for the safe and efficient movement of freight trains. This includes building trains by coupling railcars, delivering railcars to customers, transporting trains across long distances, and managing electronic documentation and inspections. You'll be trained to troubleshoot train issues, report incidents, and ensure compliance with safety procedures. No prior railroad experience is required-we provide all the training you need to succeed.
What You Should Know
  • This is a seniority-based job. You'll start out on the extra board, filling in where needed, until you build enough seniority to bid on a regular assignment.
  • You must be available to work on-call, 24/7, with as little as 90 minutes' notice.
  • Expect to spend 2-3 days away from home weekly.
  • You will be required to join a union within 60 days after completing training.

Training
On the job training lasts about 20 weeks, depending on the complexity of your assigned location, this training can go beyond 20 weeks. Training includes classroom instruction, field training, and on-the-job experience. The first 5 weeks take place at the Norfolk Southern Training Center in McDonough, GA. During this time, the company provides hotel accommodations, weekly meal stipends, and travel reimbursement from your hire location. The remaining weeks of training will be completed at your assigned location.
To successfully complete the program and earn your promotion and certification, you must pass all classroom, field, and on-the-job requirements. This includes written exams and field evaluations covering physical characteristics, operating rules, safety, hazmat, and signal rules.
Job Responsibilities
  • Build and inspect trains, railcars, and equipment for safe operation.
  • Operate remote control locomotives and perform tasks such as coupling, aligning drawbars, applying hand brakes, and riding railcars.
  • Communicate effectively with crews, dispatchers, and yard controllers.
  • Maintain accurate documentation and comply with all FRA and company safety regulations.
  • Perform additional duties as assigned.
  • Additional information about roles and responsibilities are detailed in this video: https://vimeo.com/reviews/e66af4a7-0a87-4a01-91d4-55810ce8a147/videos/1199770035

Qualifications - Required
  • Must be 18 years or older.
  • Must hold a valid driver's license and have reliable transportation.
  • Ability to report to work within 90 minutes.
  • Clean driving record in the past 36 months, without any suspension, revocation, cancellation, or denial of your driver's license resulting from a drug or alcohol-related incident.
  • Must not have been involved in diversion or probation or pleaded guilty to a drug or alcohol-related driving incident.
  • Must not have refused to undergo a drug or alcohol test related to the operation of a motor vehicle.
  • Must pass pre-employment Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) drug and alcohol screening.
  • Must be legally authorized to work in the U.S.

Qualifications - Preferred
  • Experience working outdoors in various weather conditions.
  • Experience with heavy equipment or in physically demanding roles.
  • Experience working non-traditional shifts, on call, and/or 12+ hour shifts.

Physical and Mental Job Requirements
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 85 lbs.
  • Must pass physical standards which may include but are not limited to:
  • Hang Test
  • Ability to hang from a rail car ladder with 3 points of contact (2 feet & 1 hand) for 1 minute 15 seconds per side.
  • Ability to walk up to several miles per shift on uneven terrain.
  • Ability to meet FRA medical requirements:
  • Visual acuity (at least 20/40 in each eye separately and both together with or without corrective lenses).
  • Color vision-ability to pass specific FRA color vision tests (lenses used to improve color vision are not permitted).
  • Hearing-no hearing loss greater than 40B average, at 500, 1000, and 2000 in better ear (can be met with hearing aid).

Work Conditions
  • Work outdoors in all weather conditions.
  • Irregular schedules, including on-call, nights, weekends, and holidays.
  • Must be available for call 24/7.
  • This is a safety-sensitive position requiring constant alertness while working around heavy, moving, potentially hazardous locomotive engines.

Compensation and Benefits
  • Conductor Trainees earn a minimum of $240 per shift during on-the-job training, with overtime at $30/hour.
  • First-year conductors average $70,000 annually; experienced conductors average $84,000.
  • Locomotive engineers earn a guaranteed minimum of $94,000, with potential to exceed $100,000.
  • Medical insurance for employees and eligible dependents begins the second calendar month of employment.
  • After one year: dental, life insurance, and 401(k) eligibility.
  • Covered under Railroad Retirement benefits and taxes.

Vacation Eligibility
  • Years of Service / Weeks of Vacation *
  • 1 year - 1 week.
  • 2 years - 2 weeks.
  • 8 years - 3 weeks.
  • 17 years - 4 weeks.
  • 25 years - 5 weeks.

*must meet qualifying days minimum
Company Overview
Norfolk Southern Corporation (NYSE: NSC) is a Fortune 300 organization and one of the nation's premier transportation companies. Its Norfolk Southern Railway Company subsidiary operates approximately 19,500 route miles in 22 states and the District of Columbia, serves every major container port in the eastern United States, and provides efficient connections to other rail carriers. Norfolk Southern is a major transporter of industrial products, including chemicals, agriculture, and metals and construction materials. In addition, the railroad operates the most extensive intermodal network in the East and is a principal carrier of coal, automobiles, and automotive parts.
At Norfolk Southern, we believe in celebrating our individuality. By leveraging the unique backgrounds and viewpoints of our employees, we can create a culture of innovation, respect, and inclusion. We know that employees thrive in a workplace where differing viewpoints, ideas, and experiences are freely shared and valued. As such, we encourage all employees to contribute their distinctive skills and capabilities to our organization.
Equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants regardless of race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetic information, veteran status, sexual orientation, and gender identity. Together, we power progress.

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