Occupational railway instructor
Also known as: trolley driver instructor, metro driving instructor, practitioner of railway instruction, railway instruction practitioner, train driver instructor, tram driver instructor
About this occupation
Occupational railway instructors teach future occupational drivers of railway transportation, such as train, tram, metro and trolley drivers how to operate their railway vehicle according to regulations. They teach their students theory and techniques on how to optimally drive and maintain their specific railway vehicle, observe and evaluate the students' practice. They also focus on non-driving related subjects such as customer service (in case of person transportation) and safety measure regulations.
A specialisation of vocational teacher.
Essential skills and knowledge
- locomotive brake applications
- curriculum objectives
- adapt instruction to labour market
- health and safety measures in transportation
- passenger transport regulations
- physical characteristics of railways
- apply teaching strategies
- mechanics of trains
- observe student's progress
- monitor developments in field of expertise
- adapt teaching to student's capabilities
- control train movement
Typical tasks and preparation
From the related US occupation profile Teachers and Instructors, All Other (O*NET 25-3099.00). Linked by an official crosswalk: related, not identical; details vary by country.
US median pay: US$66,140 a year (2025), 113,790 employed. Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics.