Are you looking for a career with America’s Railroad? Working at Amtrak offers more than just a job—it’s a chance to be part of the nation’s premier passenger rail service while enjoying excellent benefits, competitive pay, and genuine opportunities for advancement.
With over 20,000 employees across the United States, Amtrak runs more than 300 trains daily, serving 31 million passengers each year. Whether you’re interested in becoming a train conductor, engineer, customer service representative, or pursuing corporate roles, this guide covers everything you need to know about building a career at Amtrak.
Key Takeaways
✅ Amtrak employs over 20,000 people across various departments including operations, engineering, customer service, IT, and corporate roles
✅ Competitive salaries: Train conductors earn $24-44 per hour ($50,000-$92,000 annually), depending on location and experience
✅ Outstanding benefits package: Free and discounted rail travel, comprehensive health insurance, Railroad Retirement benefits, 7% 401(k) match, and paid vacation
✅ Career advancement opportunities: Entry-level positions can lead to management and specialized technical roles
✅ Structured hiring process: Online application, assessment tests, interviews, background checks, and comprehensive training programs
✅ No application fees ever: Beware of scams—Amtrak never charges application fees
What is Amtrak? Understanding America’s Railroad
Amtrak (officially the National Railroad Passenger Corporation) has connected communities across America since 1971. Operating in 46 states and nine Canadian cities, the company provides intercity passenger rail service along more than 21,000 miles of track.
Every day, Amtrak trains carry approximately 89,000 passengers to over 500 destinations, making it one of the nation’s most vital transportation services. From the Northeast Corridor’s high-speed Acela to long-distance routes like the California Zephyr, Amtrak employs diverse professionals to keep America moving.
Types of Amtrak Careers: Finding Your Perfect Fit
Railroad Operations Careers
Train Conductors As the backbone of Amtrak’s operations, conductors ensure passenger safety and coordinate train operations. They collect tickets, assist passengers, make announcements, and ensure regulatory compliance.
Requirements:
- High school diploma or GED
- Pass physical agility tests
- Availability for irregular schedules (nights, weekends, holidays)
- Willingness to work away from home
- Complete comprehensive training program
What conductors earn: $24-44 per hour ($50,000-$92,000 annually) depending on location and seniority
Locomotive Engineers Engineers operate trains safely at speeds up to 150 mph. This specialized position requires extensive training and certification.
Customer Service Positions
Customer Service Representatives These employees are the face of Amtrak at stations, helping passengers with tickets, answering questions, and ensuring smooth boarding processes.
Train Attendants Working onboard trains, attendants assist passengers, serve food and beverages, maintain cleanliness, and handle special accommodation requests.
Station Agents Managing ticket counters and station operations, agents handle reservations, provide travel information, and coordinate with operations teams.
Engineering & Mechanical Careers
Photo: Mechanical and engineering teams keep Amtrak’s fleet running safely and efficiently
Amtrak’s engineering teams maintain tracks, bridges, tunnels, and signals. Mechanical teams keep locomotives and passenger cars running safely and efficiently.
Roles include:
- Civil Engineers
- Mechanical Engineers
- Electricians
- Carpenters
- Welders
- Signal Maintainers
- Car Technicians
Information Technology Jobs
From cybersecurity to software development, IT professionals keep Amtrak’s digital infrastructure running smoothly. Positions include network engineers, developers, data analysts, and cybersecurity specialists.
Corporate & Administrative Positions
Headquarters and regional offices offer careers in:
- Human Resources
- Finance & Accounting
- Marketing & Communications
- Legal Services
- Procurement
- Project Management
- Strategic Planning
Amtrak Police Department
Sworn law enforcement officers protect passengers, employees, and Amtrak property. The Amtrak Police Department operates across the entire rail network.
Entry-Level & Trainee Programs
Amtrak offers various entry-level positions and trainee programs, including:
- Conductor trainees
- Assistant conductor programs
- Mechanical apprenticeships
- Internships and co-ops (for students)
How Much Does Amtrak Pay? Salary Guide by Position
Train Conductor Salaries
| Location | Hourly Rate | Annual Salary Range |
| National Average | $24-$28 | $50,000-$58,000 |
| California | $26-$31 | $54,000-$64,000 |
| New York | $30-$36 | $62,000-$75,000 |
| Philadelphia | $31+ | $64,000+ |
| Chicago | $25-$30 | $52,000-$62,000 |
Salary data based on recent 2024-2025 industry reports and employee submissions
Other Position Salary Ranges
Entry-Level Positions: $35,000-$45,000 annually
Customer Service Representatives: $38,000-$52,000 annually
Mechanical Positions: $45,000-$75,000 annually
Engineering Roles: $60,000-$95,000 annually
IT Professionals: $65,000-$110,000 annually
Management Positions: $70,000-$130,000+ annually
Important salary factors:
- Geographic location significantly impacts pay
- Union vs. non-agreement (management) positions have different structures
- Overtime opportunities are plentiful in many roles
- Seniority and performance affect advancement and raises
Amtrak Employee Benefits: Why People Love Working Here
Photo: Amtrak’s comprehensive benefits package is consistently praised by employees
Free & Discounted Rail Travel
One of the most celebrated perks! Employees and their eligible dependents receive unlimited free and reduced-rate rail transportation on Amtrak. The Companion Pass Program allows you to bring a guest while traveling on personal trips.
Service Award Trips: After 10 years of service, employees can take one complimentary trip anywhere on the Amtrak system with family or guests—repeated every five years thereafter.
Comprehensive Health Insurance
Amtrak offers robust medical, dental, and vision plans:
- Medical insurance: Approximately $204/month for employee and family
- Doctor visits: $20 copay
- Specialist visits: $35 copay
- Emergency room: $75 copay (waived if admitted)
- Vision and dental coverage included
Retirement Benefits
Railroad Retirement Benefits: Instead of Social Security, railroad employees participate in the Railroad Retirement Tax Act (RRTA), which typically provides higher retirement benefits.
401(k) Plan: Amtrak offers a generous 7% employer match, one of the best in the industry. Various investment options help you build long-term wealth.
Paid Time Off
- Vacation days: 10-20 days annually (varies by position and seniority)
- Holiday pay: Paid holidays throughout the year
- Sick leave: Generous sick day allocation
- Family Medical Leave: Up to 12 weeks for serious health conditions (after one year of service)
Additional Benefits
- Life Insurance: Coverage provided through Amtrak
- Disability Insurance: Short-term and long-term options
- Educational Assistance: Financial reimbursement for approved coursework after six months of service
- Health Savings Accounts (HSA) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
- Wellness Programs: Gym discounts and wellness initiatives
- Employee Discounts: Reduced rates on insurance, entertainment, and local attractions
Performance-Based Incentives (Non-Agreement Employees)
Management employees may be eligible for Short-Term Incentive (STI) and Long-Term Incentive (LTI) programs tied to company performance metrics.
How to Apply for Amtrak Jobs: Step-by-Step Application Guide
The Amtrak application process is straightforward when you follow these steps
Step 1: Visit the Official Careers Website
Go to: careers.amtrak.com
⚠️ Scam Alert: Always apply through Amtrak’s official website. Recruiters will NEVER ask for application fees or money in any form. All legitimate offers require confirmation through careers.amtrak.com.
Step 2: Search for Available Positions
You can search by:
- Keyword (job title, skills)
- Location (city, state)
- Category (Operations, Engineering, Customer Service, etc.)
Pro tip: If you don’t see openings in your area, set up email job alerts to be notified when new positions match your criteria.
Step 3: Create Your Candidate Profile
First-time applicants must create an account with:
- Full name
- Email address
- Phone number
- Password
- Basic personal information
Step 4: Complete Your Application
Fill out all required sections:
Professional Experience:
- Employment history (start with most recent)
- Job titles and dates
- Company names and industries
- Responsibilities and achievements
- Include military experience if applicable
Education:
- Degrees earned
- Certificates and licenses
- Training programs completed
- Relevant coursework
Skills & Qualifications:
- Technical skills
- Certifications
- Language proficiency
- Specialized training
Be honest and thorough—Amtrak verifies information with previous employers.
Step 5: Submit Your Application
Review everything carefully before submitting. You’ll receive an email confirmation—if you don’t get one, your application wasn’t received successfully.
Step 6: Complete the Assessment Test
Many positions require an online assessment (typically 1+ hour):
- Personality evaluation
- Situational judgment questions
- Customer service scenarios (for service roles)
- Technical knowledge (for specialized positions)
What they’re evaluating:
- Alignment with Amtrak’s values
- Problem-solving abilities
- Customer service orientation
- Safety consciousness
- Ability to work under pressure
Step 7: Interview Process
If selected, you’ll be contacted for interviews:
Phone Screening: Initial conversation about your background and interest In-Person or Virtual Interview: Detailed discussion with hiring managers Panel Interview: For some positions, multiple interviewers assess your fit
Timeline: Response times vary from days to several weeks depending on the position and location. High application volumes mean you’ll only hear back if selected to advance.
Step 8: Background Check & Drug Testing
After a conditional offer:
- Background investigation: Previous employment verification, criminal history check
- Pre-employment drug screening: Mandatory for all positions (DOT regulations apply)
- Physical examination: Required for safety-sensitive positions
⚠️ Important: Positive marijuana tests result in disqualification regardless of state legalization laws.
Step 9: Training & Onboarding
Once hired, you’ll enter Amtrak’s comprehensive training program:
- Position-specific training (may be weeks to months for conductors/engineers)
- Safety protocols and procedures
- Customer service standards (where applicable)
- Equipment operation training
- Regulatory compliance education
For conductor trainees: Training includes classroom instruction, on-the-job training, and certification requirements. Accommodation and daily stipends are often provided during training.
Common Amtrak Interview Questions (With Answer Tips)
Preparing for common interview questions increases your chances of success
Customer Service Focused Questions
Q: How would you handle an upset passenger? Tip: Emphasize empathy, active listening, problem-solving, and maintaining professionalism. Give specific examples from past experience.
Q: Describe a time you went above and beyond for a customer. Tip: Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your response.
Safety & Operations Questions
Q: Why is safety important in railroad operations? Tip: Discuss passenger safety, employee safety, regulatory compliance, and the consequences of safety failures.
Q: How do you handle working irregular hours, including nights and holidays? Tip: Be honest about your availability and flexibility. Highlight any previous experience with shift work.
Behavioral Questions
Q: Tell me about a time you worked as part of a team to solve a problem. Tip: Highlight collaboration, communication, and your specific contributions.
Q: How do you handle stress or pressure in demanding situations? Tip: Provide concrete examples and coping strategies you use.
Company Knowledge Questions
Q: Why do you want to work for Amtrak? Tip: Research Amtrak’s mission, values, and recent initiatives. Connect your personal goals to the company’s objectives.
Q: What do you know about this position? Tip: Reference the job description and explain how your skills match the requirements.
Logistics Questions
Q: Are you willing to relocate or work away from home? Tip: Be truthful about your flexibility. Many conductor positions require overnight stays.
Q: Do you have a valid driver’s license? Tip: Some positions require driving for inspection duties or station transfers.
What Are the Basic Requirements to Work at Amtrak?
General Requirements (All Positions)
✓ Be at least 18 years old (some positions require 21+)
✓ Legal authorization to work in the United States
✓ High school diploma or GED (minimum for most positions)
✓ Pass pre- and post-hire qualification assessments
✓ Complete background check successfully
✓ Pass drug screening (including marijuana)
✓ Ability to work flexible schedules (for operations roles)
Physical Requirements (Operations/Mechanical Roles)
Many positions require:
- Physical agility to board/exit trains safely
- Ability to lift 50+ pounds
- Balance and coordination
- Manual dexterity
- Ability to work in various weather conditions
- Standing/walking for extended periods
- Visual and hearing acuity (may require testing)
Specialized Requirements
Conductors/Engineers:
- Railroad operating rules certification
- Federal regulations training
- Physical examination by railroad medical examiner
- Ability to work on-call 24/7 in some locations
Police Officers:
- Law enforcement certification
- Firearms qualification
- Physical fitness standards
Technical/Engineering Roles:
- Relevant degrees or certifications
- Professional licenses (PE, electrician’s license, etc.)
- Specialized technical training
Career Advancement at Amtrak: Growing Your Railroad Career
Amtrak offers clear paths for advancement from entry-level to management positions
From Entry-Level to Leadership
Amtrak is committed to employee development. Many senior leaders and managers started in entry-level positions. The company’s philosophy emphasizes promoting from within.
Typical advancement paths:
Operations Track: Assistant Conductor → Conductor → Senior Conductor → Supervisor → Manager → Director
Mechanical Track: Mechanical Helper → Mechanic → Foreman → Supervisor → Maintenance Manager
Engineering Track: Junior Engineer → Engineer → Senior Engineer → Principal Engineer → Engineering Manager
Corporate Track: Analyst → Senior Analyst → Manager → Senior Manager → Director → Vice President
Training & Development Programs
Educational Assistance: After six months, Amtrak may provide financial reimbursement for courses that enhance your professional skills.
Internal Training: Job-specific training, leadership development, technical certifications, and safety courses are regularly offered.
Cross-Training Opportunities: Employees can learn skills from different departments to expand their capabilities.
Mentorship Programs: Veteran employees often mentor newer staff, sharing decades of railroad experience.
Transfer Opportunities
After completing a probationary period (typically 120 days), employees may request transfers to different locations or departments—helpful for those seeking relocation or career changes.
Working at Amtrak: What Employees Say
The Good
“Great benefits package” – Employees consistently praise the health insurance, retirement match, and free rail travel.
“Opportunity for overtime” – Many roles offer plentiful overtime, allowing employees to significantly boost their income.
“Sense of pride” – Working for America’s Railroad gives many employees a strong sense of purpose and contribution to national infrastructure.
“Travel benefits are amazing” – The ability to travel free across the country is repeatedly mentioned as a top perk.
“Stable career” – Railroad jobs offer long-term security with clear advancement paths.
The Challenges
“Work-life balance can be tough initially” – Especially for conductors and operations staff, irregular schedules and time away from home are difficult, particularly in the first decade.
“On-call requirements” – Being available 24/7 with short notice can be demanding for operations employees.
“Management varies by location” – Like any large organization, leadership quality differs between departments and locations.
“Seniority-based system” – Veteran employees get scheduling preferences, meaning newer hires often work less desirable shifts initially.
Frequently Asked Questions About Amtrak Careers
Is Amtrak currently hiring?
Yes. Amtrak continuously recruits for positions across the country. Visit careers.amtrak.com to see current openings and set up job alerts.
How long does the hiring process take?
The timeline varies widely—from a few weeks to several months depending on the position, location, and application volume. Some candidates report hearing back within days, while others wait 4-6 weeks.
Do I need railroad experience to work at Amtrak?
No. While experience helps for specialized roles, Amtrak offers comprehensive training for most positions. Entry-level trainee programs are specifically designed for those new to railroading.
Can I work part-time at Amtrak?
Most operations positions are full-time. However, some station agent and customer service roles may offer part-time opportunities depending on location.
What is the probationary period?
Most positions have a probationary period (usually 6-12 months) during which performance is evaluated. Assistant conductors typically transition to full conductor status within a year.
Are Amtrak employees federal workers?
No. Despite receiving federal funding, Amtrak employees are not federal government employees. They don’t receive federal employee benefits but instead have railroad-specific benefits through the Railroad Retirement Board.
Does Amtrak hire people with criminal records?
Amtrak conducts background checks, and certain convictions may disqualify candidates, especially for safety-sensitive positions. Each case is evaluated individually.
What should I wear to an Amtrak interview?
Business professional or business casual attire is recommended. For operations roles, neat, clean business casual is appropriate. Corporate positions typically call for more formal business attire.
How often do Amtrak employees get raises?
Most employees receive annual raises. Union positions have negotiated wage increases outlined in collective bargaining agreements. Performance-based increases are also possible.
Can I transfer to a different city after being hired?
Yes, after completing your initial probationary period (typically 120 days), you can request transfers. The process usually takes about 45 days.
What is the dress code at Amtrak?
Uniforms are provided for most operations and customer-facing positions. Corporate and office roles typically follow business casual standards.
Does Amtrak provide relocation assistance?
For some positions, particularly conductor trainee roles, Amtrak may offer relocation assistance or indicate “relocation assisted” in the job posting.
Tips for Landing Your Amtrak Job
Before You Apply
- Research thoroughly – Understand Amtrak’s mission, values, routes, and recent news
- Review requirements carefully – Only apply for positions where you meet qualifications
- Prepare your documents – Have your resume, employment history, and references ready
- Check your background – Know what will appear on background checks
During the Application
- Be complete and honest – Fill out every section thoroughly and truthfully
- Highlight relevant experience – Emphasize customer service, safety consciousness, and teamwork
- Proofread everything – Typos and errors create poor first impressions
- Follow instructions exactly – Complete all required fields and submit all requested documents
For the Interview
- Practice common questions – Prepare STAR method responses for behavioral questions
- Dress professionally – First impressions matter
- Show enthusiasm – Genuine interest in rail transportation resonates with interviewers
- Ask thoughtful questions – Inquire about training, advancement, and daily responsibilities
- Be honest about availability – Don’t overcommit if you can’t handle irregular schedules
After Applying
- Be patient – High volumes mean longer response times
- Keep job alerts active – Continue monitoring for other openings
- Don’t repeatedly contact HR – This can be viewed negatively
- Prepare for assessments – If invited to test, review customer service and safety scenarios
Amtrak’s Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion
Photo: Amtrak is committed to building an inclusive workplace for all backgrounds
Amtrak is an equal opportunity employer committed to building a diverse workforce. The company values employees of all backgrounds and actively seeks to create an inclusive environment.
Amtrak does not discriminate based on:
- Race or color
- Religion
- Sex (including pregnancy and related conditions)
- National origin or ethnicity
- Age
- Disability (intellectual, mental, physical)
- Veteran status
- Marital status
- Sexual orientation
- Gender identity or expression
- Genetic information
- Citizenship status
The company also provides reasonable accommodations for candidates with disabilities during the application and hiring process.
Amtrak Career Resources
Official Links
- Main Careers Page: careers.amtrak.com
- Job Search: careers.amtrak.com/content/Search-Jobs
- Applicant Information: careers.amtrak.com/content/Applicant-Information
- Working at Amtrak: careers.amtrak.com/content/Working-at-Amtrak
Job Categories to Explore
- Railroad Operations
- Customer Service
- Engineering & Mechanical
- Information Technology
- Corporate & Administrative
- Amtrak Police Department
- Entry-Level Programs
- Internships & Co-ops
External Job Boards
While you must apply through Amtrak’s official site, you can also find listings on:
- Indeed.com
- ZipRecruiter
- Glassdoor
Ready to Start Your Amtrak Career?
Working at Amtrak means joining over 20,000 dedicated professionals who keep America moving. Whether you’re drawn to the adventure of conductor life, the technical challenges of engineering, or the satisfaction of helping passengers, there’s a place for you at America’s Railroad.
The combination of competitive pay, outstanding benefits (especially that free travel!), and genuine advancement opportunities makes Amtrak an excellent career choice for those passionate about transportation, customer service, and public service.
Next Steps:
- Visit careers.amtrak.com today
- Create your candidate profile
- Search for positions matching your skills and interests
- Set up job alerts for your preferred locations
- Apply for positions where you meet the requirements
- Prepare for assessments and interviews
Remember: Your success is just a train ride away!
Final Thoughts
The railroad industry offers something unique—a blend of tradition and innovation, physical work and technical expertise, individual responsibility and teamwork. Amtrak careers aren’t just jobs; they’re opportunities to be part of America’s transportation heritage and future.
Whether you’re a recent graduate, career changer, or experienced professional, Amtrak’s diverse opportunities can match your skills and aspirations. The journey starts with a single application.
Have questions about Amtrak careers? Drop a comment below, and we’ll do our best to help!
Last Updated: December 2026
Disclaimer: Salary figures and benefits information are based on publicly available data from 2024-2026 and may vary by location, position, and bargaining agreements. Always verify current information with Amtrak’s official recruitment team.
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