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Diesel Locomotive Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Express Employment Professionals has partnered with a growing diesel locomotive repair shop located out of Minooka, IL in search of a Locomotive Electrician to join the growing team. This position ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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

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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$14

$28

$38

How much do diesel locomotive jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 28, 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, and why are they important?

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 are diesel locomotives?

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.
More about Diesel Locomotive jobs
What job categories do people searching Diesel Locomotive jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Diesel Locomotive jobs are:
Infographic showing various Diesel Locomotive job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 3% 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.
Locomotive Electrician

Locomotive Electrician

Express Employment

Minooka, IL

$20 - $32/hr

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

Express Employment Professionals has partnered with a growing diesel locomotive repair shop located out of Minooka, IL in search of a Locomotive Electrician to join the growing team. This position offers weekly pay and benefits. Apply today, interview tomorrow.
Pay:
$20.00 - $32.00/HR
Benefits:
Group Health
Dental
Vision
Pension (3% matching)
PTO
Paid personal days
Schedule:
Days - 10-hour shifts - Monday to Thursday
6:00 AM to 4:30 PM
Fridays off
Job Duties / Requirements:
Troubleshoot, repair, and maintain electrical systems on diesel locomotives
Diagnose issues involving wiring, circuits, alternators, starters, and control systems
Read and interpret electrical schematics and diagrams
Perform electrical testing using meters and diagnostic tools
Assist with basic mechanical repairs as needed
Lift up to 75 lbs
Maintain a clean and safe work space
#2022IL

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About Express Employment Professionals

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Express Employment Professionals, based in Oklahoma City, OK, USA, operates in the staffing industry and is renowned for providing robust and reliable staffing solutions. Their official website - expresspros.com - details their variety of services, which include temporary and full-time staffing, human resources services, and professional search. The company was established in 1983 with the aim of helping as many people as possible to find good jobs, and since then, it has grown exponentially, expanding its reach to various domains within the job market.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Oklahoma City, OK, US

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