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Entry Level Freight Train Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Rail Management Services

Train Conductor

Ennis, TX · On-site

$30K - $45K/yr

No experience is required in this entry level position as we'll teach you everything you need to ... Responsible for assisting the Train Engineer with the movement of rail equipment (locomotives, rail ...

Rail Management Services

Train Conductor

Salt Lake City, UT · On-site

$45K - $65K/yr

No experience in required in this entry level position as we'll teach you everything you need to ... Responsible for assisting the Train Engineer with the movement of rail equipment (locomotives, rail ...

CSX Corporation

Freight Conductor - Tampa, FL

Tampa, FL · On-site

$2.9K/wk

A Freight Conductor's primary responsibility is to safely coordinate train crews on a freight train ... Advance to engineer position when required, based on seniority * This position is governed by a ...

CSX

Freight Conductor - Wilmington, NC

Leland, NC

A Freight Conductor's primary responsibility is to safely coordinate train crews on a freight train ... Advance to engineer position when required, based on seniority * This position is governed by a ...

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All JobsEntry Level Freight Train Engineer Jobs

Entry Level Freight Train Engineer information

See salary details

$30K

$69.4K

$118K

How much do entry level freight train engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level freight train engineer in the United States is $69,362.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,500.00 and $78,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineers make $500,000?

Entry level freight train engineers typically do not earn $500,000; such high salaries are usually associated with senior or specialized roles in the transportation industry, often requiring extensive experience, certifications, and seniority. Most freight train engineers earn a median salary significantly lower than that, with top earners reaching higher levels through overtime, bonuses, or supervisory positions.

Is there a demand for train engineers?

The demand for train engineers, including entry-level freight train engineers, is expected to grow due to increased freight transportation needs and infrastructure investments. Employment opportunities are influenced by industry growth, safety regulations, and the need for skilled operators with proper certifications and training.

How to become a train engineer with no experience?

To become an entry-level freight train engineer with no experience, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, a valid driver's license, and a clean driving record. Employers often provide on-the-job training and require passing a background check, medical exam, and drug screening; some may also require certification from the Federal Railroad Administration or equivalent authority.

How hard is it to become a freight train engineer?

Becoming a freight train engineer typically requires completing a training program, gaining on-the-job experience, and obtaining certification from the Federal Railroad Administration. Candidates usually need a valid driver's license, good communication skills, and the ability to work irregular hours and in a safety-sensitive environment.

What is the difference between Entry Level Freight Train Engineer vs Conductor?

AspectEntry Level Freight Train EngineerConductor
CredentialsHigh school diploma, locomotive engineer certification, safety trainingHigh school diploma, safety training, certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentOperate trains, monitor controls, work in locomotive cabSupervise train operations, coordinate crew, work on the ground
Industry UsageResponsible for driving freight trains, part of rail transportation industryManage train crew, ensure safety, communication with engineers

Entry Level Freight Train Engineers focus on operating trains and ensuring safety from the locomotive cab, while Conductors oversee train operations, coordinate crew, and handle communication. Both roles are essential in freight rail transportation, but they differ in responsibilities and daily tasks.

More about Entry Level Freight Train Engineer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Freight Train Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Freight Train Engineer jobs are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Freight Train Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Freight Train Engineer jobs are:
Entry Level Freight Train Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Freight Train Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 99% Full Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,362 per year, or $33.3 per hour.
Train Conductor

Train Conductor

Rail Management Services

Ennis, TX • On-site

$30K - $45K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Assist the Train Engineer with the movement of rail equipment within the rail yard in a safe and efficient manner.

  • Manage rail track switches to direct rail cars to appropriate tracks and maintain an efficient and orderly rail yard.

  • Inspect all rail equipment to ensure there is no damage and notify the operator and supervisor immediately if there is.

Job description

Terminal Switching Services is looking for a Conductor to join our team working at the Union Pacific Dallas, TX Terminal!  No experience is required in this entry level position as we'll teach you everything you need to know in order to be successful on the job.  This is a full time permanent position in an essential industry.
We are looking for ambitious, capable, and skilled team members to join our nationwide crew. We offer a team-oriented atmosphere with quality employee benefits, and room to grow your career!  We have multiple shifts available both day and night.
Apply Online or in Person at the work location:
TSS Office at UP Dallas Terminal
301 E Pleasant Run Rd
Wilmer, TX 75172

Job Summary:
The Conductor is responsible for the movement of rail equipment to ensure the accurate placement of rail cars that will facilitate the loading and unloading of trains in the rail yard.
Starting Rate of Pay: $15
Shift:
  • 6pm-6am (overnight).
  • (2-2-3 rotation).

Job Responsibilities:
  • Responsible for assisting the Train Engineer with the movement of rail equipment (locomotives, rail cars, tracks, etc.) within the rail yard in a safe and efficient manner.
  • Maintain an efficient and orderly rail yard by moving rail cars and freeing rail tracks for incoming rail traffic.
  • Manage rail track switches to direct rail cars to appropriate tracks.
  • Ability to connect and disconnect rail air hoses as needed to consolidate rail cars efficiently.
  • Lead job briefings with the Supervisors and crew prior to work beginning.
  • Ensures compliance is met under HAZMAT and OSHA Regulations. This includes reporting any incidents to the supervisory immediately.
  • Conductor is required to wear Personal Protection Equipment (PPE), such as safety vest, safety glasses, hearing protection and safety toe boots.
  • Responsible for maintaining clear communication with Train Engineer/Operator and other crew members while moving locomotives with either verbal, hand or radio signals.
  • Participates in daily safety briefings.
  • Inspects all rail equipment to ensure there is no damage and notify the operator and supervisor immediately if there is.
  • Handles all rail equipment in a safe and efficient manner.
  • Maintain awareness and organization within the rail yard, to include an attention to the ground surface (potholes, debris, and/or slippery conditions).

Minimum Qualifications:
  • You must have a valid driver's license.
  • You must have advanced knowledge of the railroad industry from vocational education, apprenticeship, on-the-job training, or similar experience.
  • You must be able to pass a vision and hearing test.
  • You must have excellent written and verbal communication skills to coordinate with a variety of individuals.

Work Environment Requirements
  • Job duties are performed in an ambient outdoor environment, which would include varying conditions (rain, snow, ice, heat, wind, cold, etc).
  • This position requires that you travel throughout the yard and the transfer station either by walking and/or driving.
  • The noise level in the work environment is loud and this noise is continuous.
  • You must have the ability to work in an environment that can be hazardous at times.  You must have the physical ability to see and hear fast-moving equipment and be able to move so that you can remain safe always.
 Benefits:
  • Medical | Dental | Vision Insurance.
  • Paid Vacation, Holidays, and Personal Days.
  • Life Insurance.
  • 401k.

You will be employed directly by Terminal Switching Services and will not be considered an employee of the railroad.