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How much do contract locomotive driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract locomotive driver in the United States is $26.64, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.63 and $27.64 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Contract Locomotive Drivers?

Contract Locomotive Drivers are professional train operators who are hired on a contract basis rather than as permanent employees. They operate locomotives to transport freight or passengers, often working for rail companies that need temporary or specialized driving services. These drivers may cover staff shortages, handle seasonal demand, or provide expertise for specific routes or train models. Contract drivers must hold the appropriate licenses and certifications, and they are expected to follow all safety and operational procedures. Their flexible employment allows rail companies to efficiently manage resources while maintaining safe, reliable train operations.

What are some common challenges faced by contract locomotive drivers, and how can they be managed?

Contract locomotive drivers often encounter challenges such as adapting quickly to new rail networks, varying company procedures, and different types of locomotives. Managing these challenges involves staying current with safety regulations, being proactive in communication with dispatchers and other rail staff, and participating in ongoing training. Flexibility and strong problem-solving skills are crucial, as contract drivers may frequently move between assignments and work environments. Building good rapport with permanent staff can also help ease transitions and ensure smooth operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Contract Locomotive Driver, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Contract Locomotive Driver, you need comprehensive knowledge of railway operations, safety regulations, and typically must hold a valid locomotive engineer certification or license. Familiarity with train control systems, signaling technology, and compliance management software is commonly required. Strong attention to detail, situational awareness, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure safe, efficient, and reliable train operations while minimizing risks and maintaining regulatory compliance.

What is the difference between Contract Locomotive Driver vs Railroad Engineer?

AspectContract Locomotive DriverRailroad Engineer
CredentialsCommercial driver's license (CDL), locomotive certificationLocomotive engineer certification, CDL often required
Work EnvironmentOn-site at various rail yards, short-term contractsOn trains, in rail yards, often full-time employment
Employer & IndustryContract-based, freight or passenger rail companiesRailroads, freight, and passenger rail services
Search & Comparison IntentContract Locomotive Driver vs Railroad EngineerSimilar roles, different employment types

Contract Locomotive Drivers and Railroad Engineers both operate trains and require similar certifications. The main difference lies in employment type: Contract Locomotive Drivers work on short-term contracts, often with multiple employers, while Railroad Engineers are typically full-time employees of rail companies. Both roles involve operating trains in similar environments, but contract drivers may have more flexible schedules and varied work sites.

More about Contract Locomotive Driver jobs
What cities are hiring for Contract Locomotive Driver jobs? Cities with the most Contract Locomotive Driver job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Locomotive Driver jobs? The most popular types of Locomotive Driver jobs are:
What states have the most Contract Locomotive Driver jobs? States with the most job openings for Contract Locomotive Driver jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Contract Locomotive Driver jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Contract Locomotive Driver jobs are:
Contract Locomotive Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various Contract Locomotive Driver job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 48% Full Time, 49% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 82% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,402 per year, or $26.6 per hour.

HOME DAILY - CDL A Hazmat Driver - Locomotive Fueling & Servicing - Allentown, PA

Velocity Rail Solutions

Easton, PA • On-site

$93K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Velocity Rail Solutions has been a trusted provider of locomotive fueling services since 1996. We operate under long-term contracts with Class I Railroads, delivering consistent, year-round service using specialized equipment.

This Allentown-based position offers local routes, a home daily schedule, and reliable weekly pay with a set night shift schedule, guaranteed schedule and overtime, year round work, and stability.

Position Highlights
  • $93,000 + Annually
  • Home Daily
  • Report to Location: Allentown, PA (CANNOT LIVE IN PHILLY).
  • Paid Weekly
  • Schedule 1 (Locomotive Fueling ONLY):
    • Set 5 On / 2 Off PM Shift Schedule (60 hours a week)
      • 1:00 PM – 1:00 AM or 2:00 PM-2:00 AM Wednesday thru Sunday
      • Days Off: Monday, Tuesday
  • Schedule 2 (Locomotive Fueling and Servicing)
    • Set 5 on/2 off PM Shift Schedule (60 hours a week)
      • 4 PM - 4 AM Thursday thru Monday
      • Days Off: Tuesday and Wednesday
  • Equipment: Automatic transmission tractor-trailer tanker
Benefits
  • Medical, Dental, Vision (BCBS – Individual & Family)
  • 401(k): 5% company contribution + 4% match (fully vested immediately)
  • Paid Time Off: Vacation, holidays, and sick time (vacation accrues from day one)
  • Company-Paid Insurance: Life, accidental, and long-term disability
  • Health Savings Account (HSA): With employer contributions
  • Flex Spending Account (FSA): Plus dependent care flex spending
  • Supplemental Insurance Options
  • Gym Membership Discounts
  • Legal & Identity Theft Assistance
  • Annual Reimbursement: Work boots & prescription safety glasses
Why Velocity?
  • Stability
  • Hourly Pay with Built-In Overtime
  • Paid Training
  • Paid Holidays – Whether Scheduled or Not
  • Vacation Time Accrues from Day One
  • Full Benefits Package Available After 30 Days
  • Consistent Paychecks & Job Stability
  • Guaranteed Overtime
Train Refueling Key Responsibilities

· First and foremost, work safely at all times without incident. You are empowered to STOP work at any time due to unsafe conditions.

  • Safely refuel locomotives by following precise procedures on loading, transporting, and transferring diesel to locomotives on an on-call basis.

· Fully loaded and readily available, while on duty, to answer customer dispatches and respond in a timely manner.

  • Respond promptly to customer dispatches, ensuring 24/7/365 availability.

· Provides complete and accurate fuel accounting paperwork in the prescribed manner within established timelines.

· Provides complete and accurate service paperwork in the prescribed manner within established timelines.

· Wears all required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) at all times.

· Conducts pre and post shift vehicle and equipment inspections.

· Use worker protection when required and follows all customer safety rules and regulations.

· Controls, contains and reports any spill or incident (operational and/or safety related) immediately to management.

· Assists with light maintenance and upkeep of the vehicles and equipment.

· Assists with cleanliness and organization of company provided office space, storage, equipment, etc.

· Ensure all training, licenses, and certifications are kept current.

· Is a reliable, safe, and positive team member that demonstrates their commitment with proper attendance, verbal or written communication, and conduct.

Qualifications
  • CDL Class A with Hazmat and Tanker endorsements
  • Must pass all background checks required by the company, customer, and government
  • Responsible for maintaining all required licenses and certifications
  • Must be able to read, write, and understand English
  • Reliable, dependable, and able to work independently
  • Moderate computer skills required
Physical Requirements
  • Able to bend, stoop, kneel, and climb on and off elevated surfaces
  • May need to walk long distances on paved or uneven surfaces
  • Able to climb in and out of truck cab and up locomotive steps multiple times per shift
  • Able to work outdoors in all weather conditions
  • Willing to work with liquid non-hazardous materials
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs frequently

Equal Opportunity Employer | Drug-Free Workplace