If you are looking for Metra careers and jobs, Metra offers employment opportunities across railroad operations, engineering, transportation, skilled trades, customer service, administration, technology, finance, human resources, law, safety, and other professional areas.
Metra is the commuter rail agency serving the Chicago metropolitan area, and its workforce includes both railroad operating employees and professionals who support rail transportation and infrastructure. Metra has advertised opportunities ranging from apprenticeships and skilled-trade positions to engineering, finance, technology, customer service, and transportation roles.
Whether you are a recent graduate, experienced professional, skilled tradesperson, or someone interested in starting a railroad career, understanding Metra jobs, salaries, requirements, benefits, and the application process can help you prepare for the right opportunity.
What Is Metra?
Metra is a major commuter railroad serving the Chicago region. Its employees work in many areas that keep passenger rail service operating safely and efficiently.
A career with Metra can involve much more than working directly on trains. The organization recruits for areas such as:
- Transportation
- Engineering
- Skilled trades
- Customer service
- Apprenticeships
- Police
- Safety
- Human resources
- Labor relations
- Finance and budget
- Audit
- Procurement
- Marketing
- Law
- Information technology and technical positions
Metra has specifically promoted employment opportunities in these areas through its recruitment materials.
Metra Careers and Job Opportunities
Metra careers cover a wide range of positions. The qualifications, responsibilities, work schedules, and salary can vary considerably depending on the job.
Some positions are directly related to railroad operations, while others involve maintaining equipment, managing infrastructure, supporting employees, or providing administrative and professional services.
Major Metra Job Categories
| Career Area | Examples of Jobs |
|---|---|
| Transportation | Conductor, Locomotive Engineer, Operations Trainer |
| Engineering | Electrical Engineer, Mechanical Engineer, Engineering Clerk |
| Skilled Trades | Electrician, Mechanic, Machinist, Trackman |
| Mechanical | Carman, B&B Mechanic, Work Equipment Mechanic |
| Customer Service | Ticket Agent, Customer Service positions |
| Technology | Programmer Analyst, Systems Analyst, Software-related roles |
| Finance | Financial Analyst, Budget and Finance positions |
| Human Resources | HR, Organizational Development, Labor Relations |
| Administration | Document Control, Administrative and Clerical positions |
| Safety & Security | Police, Safety, Crime Surveillance positions |
| Legal | Legal and compliance positions |
| Apprenticeships | Mechanical and skilled-trade apprenticeships |
The exact positions available change as Metra posts and fills vacancies, so applicants should check the current careers page before applying.
Metra Jobs for Different Types of Applicants
One of the advantages of the Metra careers program is the variety of career paths available. Applicants do not necessarily need to pursue a train-related position.
1. Metra Railroad Jobs
Railroad jobs are among the most recognizable career opportunities at Metra.
Examples include:
- Railroad Conductor
- Train Conductor
- Locomotive Engineer
- Train Dispatcher
- Transportation-related positions
- Operations Trainer
These positions can involve passenger service, train operations, safety procedures, scheduling, communication, and compliance with railroad operating rules.
For example, Indeed currently reports an estimated average Metra conductor pay of $32.18 per hour, based on 13 past and present job postings; this is a third-party estimate rather than an official Metra salary schedule.
2. Metra Engineering Jobs
Engineering is another important area of Metra employment.
Potential positions may involve:
- Electrical engineering
- Mechanical engineering
- Signal engineering
- Systems engineering
- Rail infrastructure
- Asset management
- Engineering administration
Recent third-party job listings have included Metra positions such as Electrical Engineer 2, with a listed salary range of $78,627–$117,941 per year, and Programmer Analyst 2, listed at $81,000–$121,000 per year.
Engineering applicants generally need education and experience appropriate to the specific position.
3. Metra Skilled Trade Jobs
Metra also offers career opportunities for people with hands-on mechanical, electrical, construction, and maintenance skills.
Possible positions include:
- Electrician
- Trackman
- Machinist
- Carman
- B&B Mechanic
- Work Equipment Mechanic
- Signal Maintainer
- Mechanical Apprentice
These jobs can be particularly relevant for applicants interested in practical, hands-on railroad careers.
Metra has also operated a three-year Mechanical Apprentice Program designed to provide classroom and on-the-job training for people pursuing skilled crafts such as carman, electrician, machinist, or sheet metal worker.
4. Metra Technology Jobs
Metra also hires professionals in technology and information systems.
Technology-related opportunities can include:
- Programmer Analyst
- Systems Analyst
- Software Engineer
- Security Engineer
- Applications Development
- Asset Systems
- Business Systems
Recent third-party listings have included a Programmer Analyst 2 position at approximately $81,000–$121,000 annually, while Glassdoor’s submitted salary data lists Software Engineer compensation in an hourly range of approximately $52–$74 per hour.
Actual compensation depends on the position, qualifications, experience, and applicable employment terms.
5. Metra Administrative and Professional Jobs
Not every Metra employee works in transportation or maintenance.
The organization also recruits for professional and administrative functions such as:
- Human Resources
- Finance
- Accounting
- Marketing
- Procurement
- Communications
- Legal
- Audit
- Labor Relations
- Document Control
- Organizational Development
This creates career options for applicants with degrees or professional experience in business, finance, HR, communications, law, technology, and related disciplines.
Metra Salary: How Much Do Metra Employees Make?
Metra salaries vary significantly by position, so there is no single salary that applies to all Metra employees.
Current third-party salary information shows a broad range across occupations. Glassdoor’s 2026 salary data includes approximately 185 Metra job titles and reports different ranges for individual occupations.
Metra Salary Details
| Metra Job | Reported Salary / Pay Range* |
|---|---|
| Coach Cleaner | $34K–$48K/year |
| Dispatcher | $45K–$64K/year |
| Railroad Conductor | $56K–$74K/year |
| Electrician | $51K–$76K/year |
| Financial Analyst | $73K–$103K/year |
| Human Resources | $64K–$111K/year |
| Mechanical Engineer | $87K–$129K/year |
| Technical Communications Specialist | $70K–$106K/year |
| Train Dispatcher | $60K–$84K/year |
| Communications Maintainer | $66K–$101K/year |
| B&B Mechanic | $66K–$90K/year |
| Organizational Development Manager | $101K–$147K/year |
*These figures are based on third-party salary submissions and should be treated as estimates rather than guaranteed Metra pay rates.
Metra Hourly Pay
Many railroad and skilled-trade positions are paid on an hourly basis.
Current third-party data includes the following examples:
| Position | Approximate Reported Hourly Range |
|---|---|
| Coach Cleaner | $16–$23/hour |
| Dispatcher | $22–$31/hour |
| Electrician | $24–$36/hour |
| Railroad Conductor | $27–$35/hour |
| Technical Communications Specialist | $33–$50/hour |
| Mechanical Engineer | $41–$61/hour |
| Financial Analyst | $35–$49/hour |
| Human Resources | $31–$53/hour |
These figures come from Glassdoor salary submissions and can differ from an employee’s actual compensation.
For example, Indeed’s August 2026 estimate puts Metra conductor pay at $32.18 per hour, with a reported range of $16.20–$48.65 per hour based on its available postings and submissions.
Examples of Current Metra Job Pay
Recent job listings provide another way to understand the range of compensation available across Metra careers.
| Job Position | Example Listed Pay |
|---|---|
| Document Control Specialist 2 | $60,846–$91,268/year |
| Electrical Engineer 2 | $78,627–$117,941/year |
| Trackman | $34.27/hour |
| Project Manager 2 | $89,287–$133,931/year |
| Locomotive Engineer | $31.38–$46.87/hour |
| Operations Trainer-ASLE | $80,986–$121,479/year |
| Chief Engineering Clerk | $33.36–$41.70/hour |
| B&B Mechanic Assistant | $36.92/hour |
These are examples from recent third-party job listings and can change as vacancies are updated.
What Determines Metra Salary?
Several factors can affect compensation for a Metra position.
1. Job Position
A locomotive engineer, mechanic, analyst, and administrative employee can have very different compensation structures.
2. Experience
Education, previous railroad experience, professional experience, certifications, and specialized skills may affect eligibility and starting compensation.
3. Union or Employment Classification
Certain railroad and operational positions may be covered by collective bargaining agreements, while other positions may fall under non-contract employment arrangements.
4. Job Location
Many Metra positions are located in and around Chicago, while certain opportunities can be associated with specific facilities or service areas.
5. Overtime and Work Schedule
For eligible hourly or railroad positions, actual annual earnings may depend on scheduled hours, overtime, differentials, and applicable employment rules.
Metra Employee Benefits
Salary is only one part of total compensation.
Metra’s published benefits materials describe benefits for eligible employees that can include healthcare, retirement programs, paid time off, tuition reimbursement, transportation benefits, and other programs.
Some benefits include:
- Medical insurance
- Dental insurance
- Vision benefits
- Paid holidays
- Vacation
- Personal time off
- Tuition reimbursement
- Retirement benefits
- 401(k)
- 457(b)
- Railroad Retirement benefits
- Regional transit benefits
- Voluntary insurance programs
- Employee discounts
Eligibility and specific benefits depend on employment classification and applicable plan rules.
Metra Health Insurance and Retirement Benefits
Metra’s 2025 contract benefits information states that Metra pays, on average, 87% of monthly medical premium costs for contract employees, with the specific contribution depending on the plan and coverage.
The benefits information also describes railroad retirement arrangements, which differ from the Social Security system used by many other workers.
Metra’s published materials also list 401(k) and 457(b) retirement savings options for eligible employees.
Free Regional Transit Benefits
Another notable benefit is regional transportation access.
Metra’s 2025 non-contract benefits information states that full-time employees and active interns may ride for free on Chicago’s regional transit providers, including Metra, CTA, and Pace, subject to the applicable program terms.
For employees who commute using public transportation, this can be an important part of the overall employment package.
Metra Tuition Reimbursement
Metra also provides tuition reimbursement opportunities for eligible employees.
According to Metra’s published benefits information, regular full-time contract and non-contract employees become eligible for tuition reimbursement on the first day of the month following 12 months of service, subject to the applicable policy.
This can help employees develop skills related to their current positions or prepare for potential career advancement.
Metra Careers for Interns
Metra also provides opportunities for interns.
Third-party salary information currently lists Metra internships at approximately $49,000–$82,000 annually in submitted salary data, while hourly internship submissions are listed at approximately $48,000–$87,000 annually when converted to annualized figures. These figures should be treated cautiously because internship schedules and classifications can vary.
Applicants should always review the specific internship announcement for the actual compensation and eligibility requirements.
Metra Mechanical Apprenticeship Program
For people interested in skilled trades, the Mechanical Apprentice Program can provide a structured pathway into railroad maintenance careers.
Metra has described its program as a three-year hands-on training opportunity, combining classroom learning with on-the-job experience. Apprentices can prepare for careers such as:
- Carman
- Electrician
- Machinist
- Sheet Metal Worker
The program is designed to develop practical skills while providing mentorship and experience.
Applicants interested in apprenticeships should monitor Metra’s career postings because apprentice openings are posted when positions become available.
Metra Job Requirements
Requirements vary according to the position.
Depending on the job, applicants may need:
- High school diploma or equivalent
- College degree
- Technical certification
- Professional license
- Railroad experience
- Mechanical experience
- Electrical knowledge
- Computer skills
- Relevant work experience
- Ability to pass required employment checks
- Ability to meet job-specific physical requirements
- Valid driver’s license for certain positions
For railroad and safety-sensitive positions, additional requirements may apply.
The job announcement should always be considered the primary source for the specific qualifications.
How to Apply for Metra Jobs
If you want to apply for a Metra job, the process generally begins by reviewing available openings through Metra’s careers and employment resources.
Metra’s own recruitment materials direct applicants to its careers and employment page for current opportunities.
Step 1: Visit the Metra Careers Page
Start with the official Metra careers and employment section.
Metra Careers & Employment
Step 2: Search Available Jobs
Review available positions based on:
- Job title
- Department
- Location
- Career level
- Required qualifications
- Employment type
Step 3: Review the Job Description
Before applying, carefully check:
- Required education
- Required experience
- Certifications
- Physical requirements
- Work schedule
- Location
- Salary or pay range
- Application deadlines, if provided
Step 4: Prepare Your Resume
Your resume should highlight experience that directly matches the position.
For example, a skilled-trade applicant should emphasize mechanical, electrical, maintenance, equipment, safety, or related experience.
An administrative applicant should emphasize relevant software, communication, organizational, analytical, and professional experience.
Step 5: Submit Your Application
Follow the instructions in the specific Metra job announcement and provide all required information.
Step 6: Prepare for the Hiring Process
Depending on the position, the hiring process may include interviews, assessments, background checks, employment verification, medical requirements, or other position-specific steps.
Tips for Getting a Metra Job
Match Your Resume to the Position
Avoid submitting the same generic resume for every job. Highlight the skills that directly correspond to the position.
Emphasize Safety
Safety is particularly important in railroad, transportation, engineering, mechanical, and maintenance positions.
Mention relevant:
- Safety training
- Certifications
- Procedures
- Equipment experience
- Compliance experience
- Accident-prevention experience
Highlight Technical Skills
For skilled-trade and engineering positions, clearly identify your technical capabilities and certifications.
Demonstrate Reliability
Rail transportation depends on employees following schedules, procedures, communication protocols, and safety requirements. Relevant work history can help demonstrate reliability and responsibility.
Prepare for Behavioral Questions
Be prepared to discuss situations involving:
- Teamwork
- Customer service
- Safety
- Problem-solving
- Conflict resolution
- Working under pressure
- Following procedures
- Handling unexpected situations
Metra Careers: Salary vs. Job Type
The following table provides a simplified view of the different career categories and examples of reported compensation.
| Career Category | Example Positions | Example Pay Information |
|---|---|---|
| Railroad Operations | Conductor, Dispatcher | Conductor: about $32.18/hour average on Indeed |
| Locomotive Operations | Locomotive Engineer | About $31.38–$46.87/hour in a recent listing |
| Skilled Trades | Electrician, Trackman | Electrician: about $51K–$76K/year in Glassdoor data |
| Engineering | Electrical/Mechanical Engineer | Mechanical Engineer: about $87K–$129K/year in Glassdoor data |
| Technology | Programmer Analyst, Software Engineer | Programmer Analyst 2: $81K–$121K in a recent listing |
| Finance | Financial Analyst | About $73K–$103K/year in Glassdoor data |
| HR | Human Resources | About $64K–$111K/year in Glassdoor data |
| Communications | Technical Communications Specialist | About $70K–$106K/year in Glassdoor data |
| Maintenance | B&B Mechanic | About $66K–$90K/year in Glassdoor data |
| Apprenticeship | Mechanical Apprentice | Compensation varies by specific posting/program |
Why Consider a Career at Metra?
A Metra career can provide opportunities to work in an organization where transportation, engineering, skilled trades, technology, customer service, and business functions come together.
Depending on the position and eligibility, employees may have access to:
- Competitive position-specific compensation
- Health benefits
- Retirement programs
- Paid time off
- Tuition reimbursement
- Regional transportation benefits
- Career development opportunities
- Apprenticeship and training opportunities
- Opportunities for advancement
Metra’s own recruitment materials emphasize career opportunities across numerous professional and skilled-trade areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply for a job at Metra?
You can review current opportunities through Metra’s official Careers & Employment page and apply according to the instructions provided in the individual job posting.
What jobs are available at Metra?
Metra offers positions across transportation, engineering, skilled trades, customer service, technology, finance, HR, law, safety, procurement, marketing, apprenticeships, and other areas.
How much does Metra pay?
Metra compensation depends on the position. Current third-party data shows salaries ranging from hourly-paid entry and skilled-trade roles to six-figure professional and management positions. For example, Glassdoor reports submitted ranges of $56K–$74K for railroad conductors and $87K–$129K for mechanical engineers.
How much does a Metra conductor make?
Indeed currently estimates average Metra conductor pay at $32.18 per hour, based on 13 past and present job postings. Glassdoor’s submitted salary data reports a $56K–$74K annual total-pay range for railroad conductors. Because these are third-party estimates, actual pay should be confirmed through the applicable job posting or employment agreement.
Does Metra offer internships?
Yes. Metra has internship opportunities, and current third-party salary data includes submitted compensation information for interns. Applicants should check individual internship postings for current requirements and pay.
Does Metra offer apprenticeships?
Yes. Metra has described a three-year Mechanical Apprentice Program that combines classroom education with hands-on training and can prepare participants for skilled crafts such as carman, electrician, machinist, and sheet metal worker.
What benefits does Metra offer?
Depending on employment classification and eligibility, benefits can include medical, dental and vision coverage, paid time off, retirement programs, tuition reimbursement, regional transit benefits, and other programs.
Where are Metra jobs located?
Many Metra positions are located in the Chicago metropolitan area, with some jobs tied to particular stations, facilities, yards, or service locations. Always check the location specified in the individual vacancy.
Final Thoughts
Metra careers offer opportunities across railroad operations, engineering, skilled trades, technology, customer service, administration, finance, human resources, safety, and other professional fields. The organization also provides apprenticeship and internship pathways for people who want to build experience and develop specialized skills.
Because Metra salaries vary significantly by position, applicants should not rely on a single average salary when evaluating an opportunity. Current job postings, employment classifications, collective bargaining agreements where applicable, and official benefits information provide more relevant details for a specific role.
If you are interested in Metra jobs, start by reviewing the official Careers & Employment page, identify positions that match your education and experience, and carefully review each job’s qualifications and compensation before applying.
