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Railway Conductor Trainee Program

A Tacoma Rail employee in a safety vest standing on the stairs of a red and white locomotive labeled "1521" beside shipping containers, including one marked "ONE."

Get paid to learn a skilled rail career

No previous railroad experience is required. Tacoma Rail’s Railway Conductor Trainee Program provides nine months of full-time, paid classroom and hands-on training. You’ll learn alongside experienced Railway Conductors and build the skills needed to work toward Railway Conductor certification. 

Next program start date: Feb. 15, 2027 

Expected application window: Nov. 2–16, 2026

A paid pathway into rail 

The Railway Conductor Trainee Program is designed for people who may have little to no previous railroad experience. Through structured classroom instruction and hands-on training, you’ll progressively build the skills, knowledge and experience needed for Railway Conductor work. 

The program includes: 

  • Full-time, paid training
  • Classroom and hands-on learning
  • Training alongside experienced Railway Conductors
  • Coaching and feedback throughout the program
  • Wage increases as you successfully advance through training 
  • When you finish the program, you will have a Railway Conductor Certification 

Why Tacoma Rail 

Tacoma Rail employees help keep freight moving safely and reliably while supporting the businesses and communities we serve. As part of Tacoma Public Utilities, our work is grounded in safety, belonging, customer focus, integrity and respect. 

As a Railway Conductor, you’ll work as part of a team where safety, clear communication, accountability and reliable service matter every day. 

How the program works 

The Railway Conductor Trainee Program combines classroom instruction, hands-on experience and progressive skill development. As you move through the program, you’ll take on greater responsibilities and build toward Railway Conductor certification. 

  1. Learn

    Build a foundation in railroad safety, operating rules and Railway Conductor fundamentals through classroom instruction and introductory field training.

    ($32.17) 70% of journey wage  

  2. Practice

    Work alongside experienced Railway Conductors, practice essential skills in the field and receive ongoing coaching and feedback.

    ($34.47) 75% of journey wage 

  3. Build proficiency

    Take on more advanced operational tasks while strengthening communication and crew coordination skills.

    ($36.77) 80% of journey wage  

  4. Qualify

    Complete final assessments, testing and proficiency requirements as you prepare for Railway Conductor certification.

    ($39.07) 85% of journey wage 

After successfully completing the program, trainees will be eligible for promotion to an available permanent Railway Conductor position at 100% of journey wage. 

Railroad work is different from a traditional 9-to-5 job. Railway Conductors work outdoors and as part of a crew to move trains safely and efficiently. The job requires strong communication, attention to safety and the ability to adapt to changing operating conditions. 

Before you apply, make sure you understand the job expectations, including: 

  • Work schedules and 24/7 on-call requirements 
  • Days, swings, and night shift which include weekends and some holidays 
  • Work outdoor in seasonal weather conditions 
  • Physical requirements 
  • Safety-sensitive responsibilities 
  • Transportation/reporting requirements 

You do not need previous railroad experience to apply.  

Applicants must meet the minimum qualifications and employment requirements listed in the official Railway Conductor Trainee job posting. 

  • High school diploma or equivalent 
  • Must be 18 years of age by date of hire 
  • Valid Washington State Driver’s License at time of appointment 
  • Ability to obtain a Transportation Worker Credential Card (TWIC) within 60 days of being hired Recruitment timeline 

Here’s what candidates can expect during the recruitment process:

Application window

Submit your application.

Nov. 2-16, 2026

Application review

Applications are reviewed and qualified candidates move forward in the selection process.

Dec. 2026

Interviews

Qualified candidates will be interviewed and final selections and pre-employment steps are completed.

Jan. 2027

Start date

Railway Conductor Trainee Program begins.

Feb. 15, 2027

Dates are anticipated and may change. 

Frequently asked questions

  • First nine weeks – $32.17 
  • Second nine weeks – $34.47 
  • Third nine weeks – $36.77 
  • Fourth nine weeks – $39.07 
  • Journeyman Wages – $45.97 

Approximately nine months of full-time classroom and hands-on training. 

Medical, Dental, and Vision benefits will start the 1st day of the following month you are hired. 

Day shift start window: 06:00 – 07:59 

Swing shift start window: 14:00 – 15:59 

Night shift start window: 22:00 – 23:59 

Ready to start your rail career?

Interested in the Railway Conductor Trainee Program? Check back for application information or sign up for job notifications, if available. 

You can also explore current job opportunities with Tacoma Public Utilities at MyTPU.org/Careers.