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Amtrak Train Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Amtrak

Electrical Engineer - 90103892 - Bear

Bear, DE · On-site

Your success is a train ride away! As we move America's workforce toward the future, Amtrak ... The Electrical Engineer works with the Senior Manager Equipment Engineering to ensure all passenger ...

Amtrak

Electrical Engineer - 90103892 - Bear

Bear, DE · On-site

Your success is a train ride away! As we move America's workforce toward the future, Amtrak ... The Electrical Engineer works with the Senior Manager Equipment Engineering to ensure all passenger ...

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Amtrak Train Engineer information

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$49K

$111.3K

$169.5K

How much do amtrak train engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for amtrak train engineer in the United States is $111,304.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $87,500.00 and $136,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Amtrak Train Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Amtrak Train Engineer, you need comprehensive knowledge of railroad operations, mechanical systems, and federal safety regulations, typically supported by a high school diploma and completion of a rigorous engineer training program. Familiarity with locomotive control systems, Positive Train Control (PTC), and certification from the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) are essential. Attention to detail, quick decision-making, and strong communication skills help engineers manage complex situations and collaborate with crew members. These skills and qualifications are vital for ensuring passenger safety, on-time performance, and compliance with regulatory standards.

How hard is it to be an Amtrak engineer?

Becoming an Amtrak train engineer requires completing a training program, gaining experience as a locomotive operator, and passing certification exams. The role demands technical skills, attention to safety protocols, and the ability to work irregular hours, including nights and weekends.

What is the difference between Amtrak Train Engineer vs Amtrak Conductor?

AspectAmtrak Train EngineerAmtrak Conductor
CredentialsValid engineer certification, train operation trainingConductor certification, safety and customer service training
Work EnvironmentCab of the locomotive, operating train controlsPassenger cars, station platforms, assisting passengers
Employer & IndustryAmtrak, passenger rail industry

While both roles are essential for train operations, the Amtrak Train Engineer primarily focuses on operating the train and ensuring safety from the locomotive cab. The Amtrak Conductor manages passenger service, safety checks, and station operations. Both positions require specialized certifications and work within the passenger rail industry, but their daily responsibilities and work environments differ significantly.

What engineers make $500,000?

Most train engineers, including Amtrak train engineers, do not typically earn $500,000 annually. High earnings in engineering fields are usually associated with executive roles, specialized consulting, or highly experienced professionals in certain industries, but train engineers generally have lower salary ranges. Top earners in transportation or engineering may reach high six-figure incomes with seniority and overtime, but $500,000 is uncommon for standard train engineer positions.

How do you become an Amtrak Train Engineer?

To become an Amtrak Train Engineer, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, a valid driver's license, and a clean driving record. They must complete Amtrak's training program, which includes classroom instruction, hands-on training, and passing written and practical exams, along with meeting federal and company-specific safety and certification requirements.

How much does a Train Engineer make for Amtrak?

Amtrak train engineers typically earn an average salary of around $70,000 to $100,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and seniority. They are responsible for operating trains safely and often require certification and adherence to federal safety regulations.

What does an Amtrak Train Engineer do?

An Amtrak Train Engineer is responsible for operating passenger trains safely and efficiently along designated routes. Their duties include controlling the speed and handling of the train, monitoring track signals, communicating with dispatchers, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations. They also inspect equipment before and after trips, respond to emergencies, and keep detailed records of each journey. Overall, an Amtrak Train Engineer plays a critical role in ensuring the safety and timely arrival of passengers.

What are some common challenges Amtrak Train Engineers face during their shifts?

Amtrak Train Engineers often encounter challenges such as adapting to varying weather conditions, maintaining strict adherence to safety protocols, and managing unexpected delays or technical issues with the train. They must remain vigilant and focused throughout long shifts, often during nights, weekends, or holidays. Effective communication with conductors, dispatchers, and maintenance crews is essential for ensuring passenger safety and smooth operations.
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Amtrak Train Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Amtrak Train Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 93% In-person, and 7% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $111,304 per year, or $53.5 per hour.
Mgr Train Ops I - 90110744 - Wilmington

Mgr Train Ops I - 90110744 - Wilmington

Amtrak

Wilmington, DE • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago

Amtrak rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 142 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

22nd of 76 rated public transport

Job description

Your success is a train ride away!

As we move America's workforce toward the future, Amtrak connects businesses and communities across the country. We employ more than 20,000 diverse, energetic professionals in a variety of career fields throughout the United States. The safety of our passengers, our employees, the public and our operating environment is our priority, and the success of our railroad is due to our employees.

Are you ready to join our team?

Our values of 'Do the Right Thing, Excel Together and Put Customers First' are at the heart of what matters most to us, and our Core Capabilities, 'Building Trust, Accountability, Effective Communication, Customer Focus, and Proactive Safety & Security' are what every employee needs to know and do to be most impactful at Amtrak. By living the Amtrak values, focusing on our capabilities, and actively embracing and fostering diverse ideas, backgrounds, and perspectives, together we will honor our past and make Amtrak a company of the future.

Job Summary

The Manager of Train Operations is responsible for the day-to-day and long-term operations of the Movement Office. The position is responsible for supervising and coordinating the movement of trains and M/W equipment within the constraints of NORAC Operating Rules, Timetable/Special Instructions and applicable operating instructions and procedures including FRA regulations. This responsibility includes communication with interlocking stations, other movement offices, clerical forces, freight and commuter railroad control centers and field supervision, both transportation and engineering.

The position is responsible for cost effective utilization of train movement personnel, monitoring attendance and will help develop effective training programs for employees. The incumbent must closely and continually monitor the performance of employees to ensure compliance with operating rules and procedures and have responsibility for conducting disciplinary investigations. The incumbent will monitor daily track usage, as well as major track projects. The Manager of Train Operations will assist in recovery from service disruptions and must fill in for the position of CETC Assistant Superintendent of Operations when necessary.

This position is a tiered position. Incumbents will have a position level assigned based on their skills and experience, and inalignment with position development plans. Position placement is at Amtrak's sole and absolute discretion.

Essential Functions
  • Supervising and coordinating movement of trains and M&W equipment within the constraints of the NORAC Operation Rules, Timetable/Special Instructions and applicable operating instructions and procedures including FRA Regulations
  • Conducts audits and compliance events on Dispatchers, Assistant Chief Dispatchers, and Block Operators for compliancy within the operating rules. Oversees the clerical staff to ensure compliancy with delay and data entry. Ensures all requirements are met within the testing programs.
  • Communication with interlocking stations, other movement offices, clerical forces, freight and commuter railroad control centers and field supervision-both transportation, mechanical and engineering. 
  • Responsible for cost effective utilization of train movement personnel, monitoring attendance and will help develop effective training programs for employees. He/ She must closely and continually monitor the performance of employees to ensure compliance with operating rules and procedures and have responsibility for conducting disciplinary investigation.
  • Works with CNOC to develop alternative operating plans in the event of service disruptions so that passenger inconvenience is minimized, equipment is re-balanced, and locomotives have sufficient fuel.
  • Plan daily track usage, as well as major track projects.
  • Assist in recovery for service disruptions.
  • Must be capable of filling the position of Assistant Superintendent of Operations, when necessary
Minimum Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in business, Transportation, Logistics or related field of study OR an equivalent combination of education, training and work experience. 
  • Plus 3 years of relevant experience 
Preferred Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in business, Transportation, Logistics or related field of study OR an equivalent combination of education, training and work experience.
  • Plus 5 years of relevant work experience.
  • Qualified on physical characteristics of territory and prior experience as an Assistant Chief Train Dispatcher
  • Prior functional experience in train operations, equipment utilization, field transportation management, manpower utilization, stations operations.
  • Thorough understanding of the interrelationship that train operations, equipment and manpower play in providing service to our passengers
  • Working knowledge of Amtrak's route structure, operating rules and practices, passenger equipment types and general train makeup characteristics.
  • Working knowledge and/or qualification on any applicable railroad book-of-rules, AMT-2, AMT-3, AMT-4 or AMT-5
  • Practical work experience with Amtrak labor agreements, safety and environmental regulations and applicable federal codes and statutes governing railroad operations.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
  • Ability to act upon incomplete information in a time-critical environment in order to begin developing and implementing recovery plans as soon as service disruptions first occur.
  • Able to work any shift; 24/7; 365 days per year. 
  • Qualified on NORAC operating rules and have a thorough knowledge of the Safety Rules
  • Demonstrated aptitude for working with and through a diverse work force at all levels of the organization to achieve a common objective (be it business-as-usual train operations or recovery from a major service disruption).
  • Ability to effectively convey information and instruction to field supervision (trainmasters, road foreman, managers of train operations and others).
  • Proficiency using computer applications such as Outlook, Word, Excel, ARROW, etc.
  • Qualified on physical characteristics of territory and prior experience as a Train Dispatcher or Train Director

This position has a target salary of $114,000. Pay is based on several factors including but not limited to education, work experience, certifications, etc. Depending on an employee's assigned worksite or location, Amtrak may consider a geo-pay differential to be applied to the employee's base salary. Amtrak may offer additional incentive and pay programs to recognize and reward our employees, including a short-term incentive bonus based upon factors such as individual and company performance that is commensurate with the level of the position. 

Health and Wellbeing Financial and Retirement Work and Family Life Support Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance 401K with Employer Match Generous Paid Time Off  Wellness Programs Railroad Retirement Benefits Paid Caregiving Days and Backup Care Health Savings Account Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness Fertility and Family Building Benefits No-cost Personal Health Advocate Student Loan Assistance Adoption and Surrogacy Assistance Medical Plan Opt-out Credit Tuition and Education Reimbursement Paid Family Leave   Life Insurance Rail Pass Privileges   Short- and Long-term Disability Insurance Employee Assistance Program   No-cost Financial Advisor Sessions Commuter and Flexible Spending Accounts

 Learn more about our benefits offerings here.

Requisition ID:166610
Work Arrangement:06-Onsite 4/5 Days Click here for more information about work arrangements at Amtrak.
Relocation Offered:No
Travel Requirements:Up to 25%

Recruiter Name:Abir Ahmad
Recruiter Email: Abir.Ahmad@amtrak.com

You power our progress through your performance.

We want your work at Amtrak to be more than a job. We want your career at Amtrak to be a fulfilling experience where you find challenging work, rewarding opportunities, respect among colleagues, and attractive compensation. Amtrak maintains a culture that values high performance and recognizes individual employee contributions.


Amtrak is committed to a safe workplace free of drugs and alcohol. All Amtrak positions requires a pre-employment background check that includes prior employment verification, a criminal history check and a pre-employment drug screen.

Candidates who test positive for marijuana will be disqualified, regardless of any state or local statute, ordinance, regulation, or other law that legalizes or decriminalizes the use or possession of marijuana, whether for medical, recreational, or other use. Amtrak's pre-employment drug testing program is administered in accordance with DOT regulations and applicable law.


In accordance with DOT regulations (49 CFR 40.25), Amtrak is required to obtain prior drug and alcohol testing records for applicants/employees intending to perform safety-sensitive duties for covered Department of Transportation positions. If an applicant/employee refuses to provide written consent for Amtrak to obtain these records, the individual will not be permitted to perform safety-sensitive functions.

In accordance with federal law governing security checks of covered individuals for providers of public transportation (Title 6 U.S.C. 1143), Amtrak is required to screen applicants for any permanent or interim disqualifying criminal offenses.


Note that any education requirement listed above may be deemed satisfied if you have an equivalent combination of education, training and experience.

Amtrak is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race/color, to include traits historically associated with race, including but not limited to, hair texture and hairstyles such as braids, locks and twists, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth and related conditions, such as lactation), national origin/ethnicity, disability (intellectual, mental and physical), veteran status, marital status, ancestry, sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression, genetic information, citizenship or any other personal characteristics protected by law.

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About Amtrak

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

As we move America's workforce toward the future, Amtrak connects businesses and communities across the country. We employ more than 20,000 diverse, energetic professionals in a variety of career fields throughout the United States. The safety of our passengers, our employees, the public and our operating environment is our priority, and the success of our railroad is due to our employees.

Industry

Travel arrangement services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Washington, DC, US

Year founded

1971

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