Volunteer, paid part-time, and paid full-time positions are available 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!
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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:
Love trains? Love history? Make railroad history your job!
Opportunities are available for year-round work at Maine Narrow Gauge. Benefits include competitive compensation, medical, vision, and dental insurance, matching retirement fund, generous vacation package, as well as a collaborative, inclusive, and enjoyable working environment.