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Diesel Locomotive Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Express Employment

Locomotive Mechanic

Minooka, IL

$20 - $25/hr

Trade school training or formal diesel, locomotive, or mechanical maintenance training preferred. * Minimum 2.5 years of mechanical experience preferred. * Experience rebuilding air compressors ...

New

APP RAILCAR GROUP

Locomotive Diesel Mechanic

Parkersburg, WV · On-site

$24.50 - $32.50/hr

Summary Description The person in this position will inspect, service, and maintain diesel locomotives and on-track equipment in accordance with federal and company regulations, diagnose diesel ...

Guardian Rail, LLC

Locomotive Diesel Mechanic

Parkersburg, WV · On-site

$24.50 - $32.50/hr

Summary Description The person in this position will inspect, service, and maintain diesel locomotives and on-track equipment in accordance with federal and company regulations, diagnose diesel ...

Patriot Rail

Locomotive Mechanic GSRR

Sylvania, GA

Inspects services and maintains diesel locomotives in accordance with federal and company regulations, diagnoses diesel engine malfunctions and makes indicated repairs using hand tools, measuring ...

Patriot Rail

Locomotive Mechanic GSRR

Fort Valley, GA · On-site

Inspects services and maintains diesel locomotives in accordance with federal and company regulations, diagnoses diesel engine malfunctions and makes indicated repairs using hand tools, measuring ...

Union Pacific

Mechanic- Diesel Engines

Roseville, CA

$44.31/hr

Repair, replace or rebuild our locomotives and diesel engine components as needed * Inspect and service diesel locomotives fleet within compliance of company, federal, and industry standards

Union Pacific

Mechanic- Diesel Engines

Hermiston, OR

$44.31/hr

Repair, replace or rebuild our locomotives and diesel engine components as needed * Inspect and service diesel locomotives fleet within compliance of company, federal, and industry standards

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Diesel Locomotive information

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How much do diesel locomotive jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for diesel locomotive in the United States is $28.27, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.04 and $31.73 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a diesel locomotive engineer?

To thrive as a Diesel Locomotive Engineer, you need a solid understanding of locomotive operations, mechanical systems, and safety regulations, typically backed by a high school diploma and specialized training or certification. Familiarity with train control systems, diagnostic tools, and regulatory compliance software is crucial. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help engineers respond to unexpected situations and coordinate with crew members. These skills and qualities ensure the safe, efficient, and reliable transportation of goods or passengers.

What is the difference between Diesel Locomotive vs Electric Locomotive?

AspectDiesel LocomotiveElectric Locomotive
Power SourceDiesel engineElectric power from overhead lines or third rail
Work EnvironmentRail yards, tracks, and maintenance facilitiesSimilar rail environments, often in electrified networks
CertificationsMechanical and diesel engine certificationsElectrical certifications and safety standards
UsageFreight and passenger trains on non-electrified routesHigh-speed and urban transit on electrified lines

Diesel Locomotives and Electric Locomotives both operate in rail transportation but differ mainly in power sources and operational environments. Diesel locomotives are versatile for non-electrified routes, while electric locomotives are preferred for high-speed and urban transit due to their efficiency and lower emissions.

What is a diesel locomotive?

Diesel locomotives are railway engines that use a diesel engine to generate power for movement. Unlike steam locomotives, diesel locomotives are more efficient and require less maintenance, making them a popular choice for freight and passenger trains worldwide. They can operate as diesel-electric, where the diesel engine powers an electric generator that drives the wheels, or as diesel-mechanical/hydraulic, where the engine is mechanically linked to the wheels. Diesel locomotives have largely replaced steam engines due to their reliability and lower operating costs.

What are some common challenges faced by diesel locomotive engineers in their daily work?

Diesel locomotive engineers often encounter challenges such as managing unexpected mechanical issues, adapting to varying weather conditions, and adhering to strict schedules. They must remain vigilant for potential track obstructions and communicate effectively with dispatchers and other crew members to ensure safe operations. Additionally, working long or irregular hours, especially during night shifts or weekends, can be demanding but is standard in the industry.
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What job categories do people searching Diesel Locomotive jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Diesel Locomotive jobs are:
Diesel Locomotive jobs near you
Infographic showing various Diesel Locomotive job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $58,798 per year, or $28.3 per hour.

Diesel Locomotive Mechanic

North Central Transit Services LLC

Fort Worth, TX • On-site

$52K - $56K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

Receives instructions regarding work to be done.

Determines materials and required tools.

Performs inspection utilizing diagnostic systems, analyzes trouble areas, and makes repairs as required.

Performs necessary mechanical tests, removes, disassembles, replaces, repairs, modifies, rebuilds, assembles, adjusts, and maintains batteries and all mechanical equipment or components on locomotives, performs road maintenance on equipment, lighting circuits, air compressors, and associated equipment.

Perform electrical duties in accordance with FRA and Company Standards and Customer Specifications.

Follow all safety rules and procedures (Blue Signal)

Install/repair/replace components/sections in compliance with Locomotive and/or Engine requirements.

Correctly prepare and maintain records/reports.

Other duties as assigned.


Job Requirements:

Valid driver's license is required.

High School Diploma or equivalent (GED) is required.

College/trade school training or mechanical maintenance and repair experience is required.

Ability to climb and work at heights is required.

Performing manual labor and lifting in excess of 50 pounds is required.

Ability to work overtime, weekends, holidays, and on-call is required.

Locomotive diesel mechanical training preferred.

Schematic reading and troubleshooting experience is a plus.

One year of outdoor and industrial work experience is preferred.

Computer skills preferred.