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Diesel Locomotive Jobs (NOW HIRING)

NE ยท On-site

$41.07/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

The Locomotive Mechanic will diagnose mechanical and diesel engine issues, perform preventive and emergency repairs, complete inspections, maintain accurate records, and ensure equipment is ...

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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 Sep 7, 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 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 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 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.

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.

More about Diesel Locomotive jobs
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, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,798 per year, or $28.3 per hour.

Locomotive Diesel Technician

Impact Workforce Solutions

Mayfield, KY โ€ข On-site

$19 - $23.50/hr

Other

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

Locomotive Diesel Technician

Location: Mayfield, KY

Employment Type: Full-time with weekly pay and benefits

Compensation: $19.00 – $23.50 per hour, based on experience and shift

What a day looks like

Picture this: You arrive at our Mayfield shop as the sun comes up over the yard. A historic diesel-electric locomotive is waiting for your trained eye. You review work orders, pull up schematics, and set out the torque wrenches, gauges, and precision tools you’ll need. By mid-morning, you’ve diagnosed an air system issue, swapped a component, and verified the repair. After lunch, you’re completing an FRA-required inspection, updating the electronic maintenance log, and fueling and lubricating a unit that’s scheduled to move this weekend. It’s hands-on, detail-driven work that keeps living history rolling safely.

Your core responsibilities
  • Inspect, troubleshoot, repair, and maintain diesel and electric locomotives and related mechanical systems.
  • Diagnose faults in diesel engines, air systems, trucks, and other locomotive subsystems.
  • Execute preventative maintenance and respond to urgent repair needs.
  • Repair/replace components: wheels and trucks, traction motors, springs, couplers, draft gear, gear cases, cylinder heads, air compressors, turbochargers, and more.
  • Handle daily service tasks: fueling, watering, lubricating/oiling, cleaning, and supply checks.
  • Complete periodic and annual inspections in alignment with Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) requirements.
  • Interpret blueprints, schematics, work instructions, and other technical documentation.
  • Document inspections, repairs, and PM activities accurately in both written and electronic systems; finish work orders and travelers on time.
  • Operate tools and equipment safely, including torque wrenches, pipe threaders, tubing benders, cutting torches, electric/pneumatic hand tools, forklifts, and overhead cranes.
  • Maintain orderly, clean work areas and well-kept tools.
  • Work independently with minimal supervision while meeting safety, quality, and productivity targets.
  • Share know-how and assist in training seasonal and part-time mechanical team members.
  • Adhere to railroad safety rules, FRA rules, PPE requirements, blue signal/worker protection procedures, and company policies.
  • Demonstrate advanced mechanical skills in your day-to-day work.
Additional responsibilities you may take on (experience-dependent)
  • Align rotating equipment.
  • Identify locomotive systems and conduct air tests.
  • Use precision measuring instruments and specialized tooling.
  • Troubleshoot complex mechanical and air systems.
What you bring
  • Solid mechanical aptitude with strong troubleshooting instincts.
  • Working knowledge of diesel engines and mechanical systems.
  • Ability to pinpoint faults and determine effective repairs.
  • Comfort reading blueprints, schematics, and technical instructions.
  • Skilled with hand/power tools, precision instruments, and shop equipment.
  • Self-directed work style; minimal supervision needed.
  • Meticulous attention to detail and an unwavering commitment to safety.
  • Curiosity and willingness to learn locomotive-specific systems and railroad procedures.
Physical demands and environment
  • Lift and handle up to 50 lbs.
  • Work in tight, confined, and hard-to-access areas.
  • Frequent standing, walking, squatting, kneeling, stair climbing, and work around heavy equipment.
  • Indoor/outdoor work in varied weather and temperature conditions.
  • Regular exposure to noise, vibration, oils/lubricants, cutting torches, welding operations, and mechanical equipment.
  • Consistent use of required PPE and adherence to all safety procedures.

This is a safety-sensitive role on and around railroad tracks, locomotives, and heavy equipment. You will strictly follow railroad safety procedures, FRA regulations, blue signal/worker protection requirements, PPE requirements, and company policies.

Expanded drug and alcohol screening requirements may apply in accordance with applicable regulations and company policy.

Schedules
  • Day Shift: Monday–Thursday, 6:00 AM – 4:00 PM (40 hours / 10-hour shifts)
  • Weekend Shift: Friday–Sunday, 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Work 36 hours, Paid for 40 hours + $1.00/hr Shift Differential)
Your background might include

Experience with diesel engines, heavy equipment, commercial trucks, automotive systems, aircraft, agricultural equipment, or other mechanical systems—ready to apply your skills in a unique railroad setting.

Proficiencies
  • Diesel Engine Systems
  • Brake & Suspension Systems
  • Transmission & Drivetrain Systems
  • Automotive Repair
  • Engine Repair
  • Automatic Transmission/Transaxle
  • Light Vehicle Diesel Engines
  • Diesel & Heavy Equipment Systems
  • Hydraulic Systems & Components
  • Equipment Diagnostics & Troubleshooting
  • Automotive Repair & Service Systems
  • Locomotive Diesel Mechanic
  • Railroad Mechanic
Machines & technologies you’ll use
  • air brake systems
  • couplers, draft gear, and gear cases
  • cutting torches
  • Diesel and electric locomotives
  • draft gear, and gear cases
  • electric and pneumatic hand tools
  • overhead cranes
  • pipe threaders
  • precision measuring instruments
  • torque wrenches
  • traction motors
  • tubing benders
  • turbochargers
Apply now

If this sounds like you, apply online: https://iwsllc.applytojob.com/apply/tLorYiL6cd/Diesel-Mechanic?source=FactoryFix


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