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Freight Engineer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Fifth Wheel Freight

Senior Software Developer

Kentwood, MI · On-site

$50 - $66.25/hr

... Freight is a high-performing 3PL (third-party logistics) company built on speed, precision, and continuous improvement. We're hiring a senior Software Engineer (7+ years) to join our Software ...

CSX

Freight Conductor - Detroit, MI

Dearborn, MI · On-site

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 - Grand Rapids, MI

Wyoming, MI

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 ...

Gatik AI

Manufacturing Engineer

Rochester Hills, MI · On-site

$67K - $86K/yr

... freight movement by reducing congestion. The company focuses on short-haul, B2B logistics for ... Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, wiring diagrams, and specifications.

Gatik AI

Manufacturing Engineer

Rochester Hills, MI

$67K - $86K/yr

... freight movement by reducing congestion. The company focuses on short-haul, B2B logistics for ... Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, wiring diagrams, and specifications.

androidind

Packaging Engineer

Auburn Hills, MI

Packaging Engineer We are seeking an experienced Packaging Engineer to lead the design, development ... Optimize packaging for product protection, ergonomics, cost, pack density, freight efficiency ...

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All JobsFreight Engineer JobsFreight Engineer Jobs in Michigan

Freight Engineer information

See Michigan salary details

$30.9K

$83.8K

$146.4K

How much do freight engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for freight engineer in Michigan is $83,767.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,700.00 and $94,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

Senior engineers in fields such as petroleum, aerospace, software, and electrical engineering often earn $200,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and in high-demand industries. These roles typically require specialized knowledge, advanced degrees, and sometimes professional certifications or leadership responsibilities.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles. High-level positions often require advanced degrees, certifications, and a strong track record in their industry.

What engineers make $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum engineering, aerospace engineering, or software engineering with executive or senior roles can earn $500,000 or more annually. These positions often require advanced skills, certifications, and leadership responsibilities, and compensation may include bonuses and stock options.

How does a Freight Engineer typically collaborate with logistics and operations teams to optimize transportation solutions?

Freight Engineers work closely with logistics coordinators, operations teams, and sometimes clients to design and implement efficient transportation solutions. They analyze shipment data, routes, and carrier performance, then recommend improvements to reduce costs and enhance delivery timelines. Regular meetings and data sharing are essential, as Freight Engineers rely on input from operations to identify bottlenecks and test new strategies. This collaborative environment helps ensure that proposed engineering solutions are practical and aligned with real-world logistics challenges.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Freight Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Freight Engineer, you need a solid background in logistics, transportation planning, and supply chain management, often supported by a degree in engineering or a related field. Familiarity with logistics management systems (LMS), route optimization software, and relevant certifications such as Six Sigma or APICS is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help differentiate top professionals in this role. These skills are crucial for designing efficient freight systems, reducing costs, and ensuring timely and reliable delivery within complex transportation networks.

What does a freight engineer do?

A freight engineer is responsible for designing, maintaining, and overseeing the safe and efficient movement of freight trains or cargo transportation systems. They often work with railway or logistics teams, utilize technical skills, and may require certifications in engineering or safety standards. Their duties include ensuring compliance with regulations, troubleshooting technical issues, and optimizing freight operations.

What is a Freight Engineer?

A Freight Engineer is a professional who designs, optimizes, and manages systems for transporting goods efficiently and safely. They analyze shipping routes, develop logistics solutions, and work with various stakeholders to ensure timely deliveries while minimizing costs and environmental impact. Freight Engineers may also implement technology and automation to improve freight operations and address challenges such as capacity, regulations, and sustainability within the supply chain.

What is the difference between Freight Engineer vs Rail Signal Engineer?

AspectFreight EngineerRail Signal Engineer
CredentialsRelevant engineering degree, certifications in freight or transportation systemsElectrical or electronics engineering degree, certifications in signaling systems
Work EnvironmentFreight yards, transportation hubs, railroadsRailway control centers, trackside signaling systems, maintenance facilities
Employer & IndustryFreight rail companies, logistics firmsRailway operators, transit authorities
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

While both Freight Engineers and Rail Signal Engineers work within the rail industry, Freight Engineers focus on the operation and safety of freight trains, including train handling and logistics. Rail Signal Engineers specialize in the design, installation, and maintenance of signaling systems that control train movements. Understanding these differences helps job seekers identify the right career path based on their skills and interests in rail operations or signaling technology.

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Freight Engineer jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Freight Engineer job openings:
Freight Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freight Engineer job openings in Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $83,767 per year, or $40.3 per hour.
Senior Software Developer

Senior Software Developer

Fifth Wheel Freight

Kentwood, MI • On-site

$50 - $66.25/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

Senior Software Developer

Fifth Wheel Freight is a high-performing 3PL (third-party logistics) company built on speed, precision, and continuous improvement. We're hiring a senior Software Engineer (7+ years) to join our Software Development team building and supporting the proprietary technology that runs our business.

This is a hands-on role on a small, capable team. You'll own systems end to end, from initial build through production support, and your work will directly shape how FWF operates in the freight market.

This role is 100% on-site in our Kentwood, MI office for the first 90 days, with the potential for a hybrid schedule afterward.

What you'll do

  • Build mission-critical applications alongside the development team
  • Own your code in production, including participating in an on-call rotation
  • Lead ongoing support for major systems after release
  • Move quickly and communicate clearly in a demanding environment

What we offer

  • Comprehensive benefits: health, dental, vision, and life insurance
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Four weeks of paid time off plus paid holidays
  • Transparent, people-first culture
  • Discounted gym memberships
  • Dependent care reimbursement accounts
  • Employee assistance and discount programs

Required qualifications

  • 7+ years of full-stack development, including building complex systems from the ground up
  • Proven track record supporting live systems through maintenance and bug fixes, with strong communication throughout
  • Demonstrated proficiency with TypeScript, React, Postgres, and AWS
  • Experience with TypeScript API development, modern front-end frameworks, database design, and automated testing (unit and end-to-end)
  • Comfortable operating under pressure with competing priorities
  • Receptive to feedback and quick to adapt
  • Resourceful problem-solver
  • Interest in learning the freight industry
  • Able to work on-site in Kentwood for the first 90 days, hybrid thereafter

Bonus

  • Experience with high-volume transactional or sales-driven platforms

Recognition

  • Inc. 5000 Fastest-Growing Private Companies in America - eight years running
  • Transport Topics Top Freight Brokerage Firm
  • Detroit Free Press Top Workplaces
  • Michigan Celebrates Small Business 50 Companies to Watch
  • West Michigan's Best and Brightest Companies to Work For

Apply