BE PART OF THE FUN!
Learn about volunteer, paid part-time, and paid full-time positions at Maine Narrow Gauge.
When you participate with the railroad, you not only keep an important piece of Maine history alive – you will likely learn new skills, meet amazing colleagues, and have fun every day!
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
Our railroad is primarily powered by volunteers. For most of our 30-year history, Maine Narrow Gauge has relied on volunteers from all walks of life to preserve, maintain, and operate our equipment and welcome guests.
No previous experience is necessary – all that is required is a positive attitude, willingness to learn new things, and time to be part of a worthwhile, educational activity.
*Note: all volunteers are required to join Maine Narrow Gauge as Members. Some positions may require an additional background check.
DIESEL ENGINEER
The Diesel Engineer is responsible for the safe operation of select diesel locomotives at Maine Narrow Gauge. This individual must be knowledgeable on operating rules and procedures.
CONDUCTOR
The Conductor is the “boss” of the train. This position oversees all personnel working on the train and the responsible contact for problems or concerns that may arise while the train is in operation. This individual must stay in tune with all operating procedures and general railroad safety. This is a very public-facing position: applicants should feel at ease interacting with the public and being a resource of railway and historic knowledge.
TRAINMAN
The Trainman (sometimes otherwise known as “Assistant Conductor”) serves as a second set of hands for the Conductor and Engineer. Often, the Trainman position is filled by an individual training to become a Conductor. This position helps ensure that the train operates safely and efficiently at all times.
RIGHT-OF-WAY MAINTENANCE
Right-of-Way Maintenance focuses on making sure that our track and roadbed are in optimum shape and in full compliance of all applicable regulations. Job duties are usually physically intensive and may involve tasks such as grading, laying rails, and removing and replacing ties. Group work sessions are typically held a few times throughout the year.Â
ROUTE GUIDE
The Route Guide interacts with guests and shares local Portland history and Maine narrow gauge railroading history over the train’s PA system. This individual should be highly knowledgeable and visibly enthusiastic about sharing railroad and regional history with the public.
RESTORATION SHOP
Those who are mechanically inclined, and/or woodworkers, and/or those who enjoy the “nuts and bolts” of an operational railroad can request to be placed in the Restoration Shop. The Shop, located off-site from the railroad, is where our equipment is maintained and restored.
SPECIAL EVENTS
Exciting special events are offered year-round. These take many forms, including Spring Aboard, Pride Trains, Ice Cream Trains, Sunset Trains, Independence Day Trains, Pumpkin Trains, and others. During special events, extra assistance may be needed, such as serving ice cream to passengers, face-painting, or handing gift bags to passengers.
POLAR EXPRESS
The Polar Express Train Ride is the biggest annual fundraiser for Maine Narrow Gauge. This festive tradition brings the famous book and film of the same name to life right in Portland! There are many volunteer roles, including:
- Station Greeters
- Car Attendants
- Hot Chocolate Chefs
- Hot Chocolate Preparation
- Santa Transport
- Santa Assistant
- Logistics Support
- Retail Support
PART-TIME AND FULL-TIME OPPORTUNITIES
Love trains? Love history? Make railroad history your job!
Opportunities are posted here for year-round work at Maine Narrow Gauge. Benefits may include competitive compensation, medical, vision, and dental insurance, matching retirement fund, generous vacation package, as well as a collaborative, inclusive, and enjoyable working environment.
Location: Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad – Portland, Maine
Duration: May 2 through December 31, 2026
Schedule: Part-time, flexible hours including weekends and holidays
Compensation: $23.00 to $28.00 per hour, depending on experience
About Us
Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to preserving and operating historic two-foot gauge railroad equipment for the education and enjoyment of the public. Since 1995, we have welcomed passengers aboard steam and diesel-powered trains along Portland’s Eastern Promenade. We operate year-round, with our busiest season being the nationally celebrated The Polar Express™ Train Ride event, which brings joy to tens of thousands each holiday season.
Our railroad enjoys a reputation as one of the leading visitor attractions in the State of Maine. All train crew members are required to maintain a strong focus on safety, communications, and customer service at all times.
Team members play a critical role in delivering a safe, educational, and memorable experience to every guest.
Position Summary
Maine Narrow Gauge is currently seeking a Part-Time Seasonal Train Conductor to join our team and help deliver a memorable and safe experience to every guest. The ideal candidate has excellent interpersonal skills, a strong safety mindset, and is comfortable working outdoors in a dynamic, team-oriented environment.
This position is primarily focused on operational duties but may occasionally assist with minor facility tasks or support other crew members. This is a safety-sensitive position involving direct responsibility for passenger safety and train operations. The Conductor must exercise sound judgment, maintain situational awareness, and make real-time decisions, often with limited direct supervision, and is accountable for maintaining safe operations at all times.Â
This role does not include formal staff supervision but carries operational authority over train movements, onboard safety, and passenger management during assigned shifts. The position reports to the General Manager.
Key Responsibilities
Train Crew Operations
- Act as Conductor on tourist trains in both pulling and pushing configurations, with primary responsibility for safe train operations.
- Serve as the primary authority for communication and safety during all push movements.
- Perform and document pre-departure inspections and readiness checks on equipment.
- Exercise independent judgment in real-time operational decisions to ensure the safety of passengers, crew, and equipment.
- Oversee and manage passenger boarding, onboard communication, and crowd control.
- Coordinate with the Engineer to ensure safe and efficient train movements.
- Take immediate action to address unsafe conditions, including stopping operations when necessary.
- Maintain a consistently safe, professional, and composed demeanor at all times while in public view, recognizing the role as a visible representative of the organization.
Passenger Experience
- Represent Maine Narrow Gauge as a front-line ambassador and uphold organizational standards for guest engagement.
- Deliver consistently professional, courteous, and guest-focused service to individuals of all ages and backgrounds.
- Actively monitor onboard safety, comfort, and accessibility.
- Address guest concerns promptly and appropriately using sound judgment and professionalism.
Support & Safety
- Support minor maintenance tasks as needed when not assigned to train crew.
- Strictly adhere to and enforce all safety regulations as defined by internal policy and applicable rail industry standards.
- Follow and consistently apply all training procedures and safety briefings.
- Perform other duties as assigned to support safe and efficient railroad operations. Duties may evolve based on operational needs.
Qualifications
Required
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Outstanding communication and interpersonal skills
- Proven ability to remain calm and professional under pressure
- Demonstrated ability to work independently with minimal supervision while maintaining high standards of safety and professionalism
- Strong decision-making and problem-solving skills in dynamic, public-facing environments
- Valid U.S. driver’s license
- Legal authorization to work in the United States
- Ability to work weekends, holidays, and in variable weather conditions
- Physical ability to climb steps, stand for extended periods, and lift 50–75 lbs
Preferred
- Prior experience in railroad operations, safety-critical roles, or public-facing jobs
- Familiarity with train crew responsibilities and shove movement safety protocols
- Experience in tourism, hospitality, or event management is a plus
Expectations
- Demonstrate good judgment, professionalism, and diplomacy in all interactions with guests, volunteers, and staff
- Maintain constant focus on safety in all aspects of the role, including during routine and non-routine operations
- Operate reliably and responsibly in a position requiring limited direct supervision
- Represent the organization positively in all public-facing situations
Additional Details
- Work Environment: Primarily outdoors on or around historic railroad equipment
- Seasonal Schedule: Heaviest needs during summer, fall, and holiday seasons
- Compensation: Competitive hourly rate, uniform & boot allowance
- Part-time roles are not eligible for insurance benefits
- Opportunities for growth within the organization
- Flexible and supportive team atmosphere
How to Apply
Send your resume and brief cover letter to [email protected]. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.
Please, no phone calls.
Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad is an equal opportunity employer.
Location: Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad – Portland, Maine
Duration: May 2 through December 31, 2026
Schedule: Full-time, flexible hours including weekends and holidays
Compensation: $23.00 to $28.00 per hour, depending on experience
About Us
Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to preserving and operating historic two-foot gauge railroad equipment for the education and enjoyment of the public. Since 1995, we have welcomed passengers aboard steam and diesel-powered trains along Portland’s Eastern Promenade. We operate year-round, with our busiest season being the nationally celebrated The Polar Express™ Train Ride event, which brings joy to tens of thousands each holiday season.
Our railroad enjoys a reputation as one of the leading visitor attractions in the State of Maine. All train crew members are required to maintain a strong focus on safety, communications, and customer service at all times.
Team members play a critical role in delivering a safe, educational, and memorable experience to every guest.
Position Summary
Maine Narrow Gauge is currently seeking a Full-Time Seasonal Train Conductor to join our team and help deliver a memorable and safe experience to every guest. The ideal candidate has excellent interpersonal skills, a strong safety mindset, and is comfortable working outdoors in a dynamic, team-oriented environment.
This position is primarily focused on operational duties but may occasionally assist with minor facility tasks or support other crew members. This is a safety-sensitive position involving direct responsibility for passenger safety and train operations. The Conductor must exercise sound judgment, maintain situational awareness, and make real-time decisions, often with limited direct supervision, and is accountable for maintaining safe operations at all times.Â
This role does not include formal staff supervision but carries operational authority over train movements, onboard safety, and passenger management during assigned shifts. The position reports to the General Manager.
Key Responsibilities
Train Crew Operations
- Act as Conductor on tourist trains in both pulling and pushing configurations, with primary responsibility for safe train operations.
- Serve as the primary authority for communication and safety during all push movements.
- Perform and document pre-departure inspections and readiness checks on equipment.
- Exercise independent judgment in real-time operational decisions to ensure the safety of passengers, crew, and equipment.
- Oversee and manage passenger boarding, onboard communication, and crowd control.
- Coordinate with the Engineer to ensure safe and efficient train movements.
- Take immediate action to address unsafe conditions, including stopping operations when necessary.
- Maintain a consistently safe, professional, and composed demeanor at all times while in public view, recognizing the role as a visible representative of the organization.
Passenger Experience
- Represent Maine Narrow Gauge as a front-line ambassador and uphold organizational standards for guest engagement.
- Deliver consistently professional, courteous, and guest-focused service to individuals of all ages and backgrounds.
- Actively monitor onboard safety, comfort, and accessibility.
- Address guest concerns promptly and appropriately using sound judgment and professionalism.
Support & Safety
- Support minor maintenance tasks as needed when not assigned to train crew.
- Strictly adhere to and enforce all safety regulations as defined by internal policy and applicable rail industry standards.
- Follow and consistently apply all training procedures and safety briefings.
- Perform other duties as assigned to support safe and efficient railroad operations. Duties may evolve based on operational needs.
Qualifications
Required
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Outstanding communication and interpersonal skills
- Proven ability to remain calm and professional under pressure
- Demonstrated ability to work independently with minimal supervision while maintaining high standards of safety and professionalism
- Strong decision-making and problem-solving skills in dynamic, public-facing environments
- Valid U.S. driver’s license
- Legal authorization to work in the United States
- Ability to work weekends, holidays, and in variable weather conditions
- Physical ability to climb steps, stand for extended periods, and lift 50–75 lbs
Preferred
- Prior experience in railroad operations, safety-critical roles, or public-facing jobs
- Familiarity with train crew responsibilities and shove movement safety protocols
- Experience in tourism, hospitality, or event management is a plus
Expectations
- Demonstrate good judgment, professionalism, and diplomacy in all interactions with guests, volunteers, and staff
- Maintain constant focus on safety in all aspects of the role, including during routine and non-routine operations
- Operate reliably and responsibly in a position requiring limited direct supervision
- Represent the organization positively in all public-facing situations
Additional Details
- Work Environment: Primarily outdoors on or around historic railroad equipment
- Seasonal Schedule: Heaviest needs during summer, fall, and holiday seasons
- Compensation: Competitive hourly rate, uniform & boot allowance
- Full-time roles are not eligible for insurance benefits
- Opportunities for growth within the organization
- Flexible and supportive team atmosphere
How to Apply
Send your resume and brief cover letter to [email protected]. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.
Please, no phone calls.
Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad is an equal opportunity employer.