ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Freight Train Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

CSX Corporation

Freight Conductor - Hamlet, NC

Hamlet, NC · On-site

$2K/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 Corporation

Freight Conductor - Tampa, FL

Tampa, FL · On-site

$2K/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 ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsFreight Train Engineer Jobs

Freight Train Engineer information

See salary details

$35.5K

$96.1K

$168K

How much do freight train engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for freight train engineer in the United States is $96,107.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $80,000.00 and $108,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical challenges faced by Freight Train Engineers on the job?

Freight Train Engineers often face challenges such as operating trains in various weather conditions, adhering to strict timetables, and responding quickly to equipment or track issues that arise en route. They must remain vigilant for unexpected obstacles or signals and comply with complex safety regulations at all times. Additionally, engineers frequently work irregular hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays, which can affect work-life balance. Despite these challenges, the role offers an engaging environment with strong teamwork and opportunities for advancement into supervisory or training positions.

What is a Freight Train Engineer job?

A Freight Train Engineer operates and controls freight trains, ensuring the safe and efficient transportation of goods. They monitor train speed, track signals, and mechanical systems while following safety regulations and schedules. Engineers communicate with dispatchers and rail yard personnel to coordinate movements and handle emergencies. This role requires extensive training, certification, and knowledge of rail systems, mechanical functions, and safety protocols.

What does an engineer do on a freight train?

A freight train engineer operates and controls the locomotive to move cargo safely and efficiently. They monitor gauges, follow signals, and communicate with dispatchers, often working long hours and requiring certification and knowledge of safety procedures.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Freight Train Engineer position, and why are they important?

To succeed as a Freight Train Engineer, you need strong mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent, often supplemented by a federally mandated locomotive engineer certification. Familiarity with train control systems, safety protocols, and electronic logging devices is essential for operating and navigating freight locomotives safely. Excellent situational awareness, clear communication, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are key soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure safe train operation, adherence to schedules, and effective responses to unexpected challenges on the rail.

More about Freight Train Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Freight Train Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Freight Train Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Freight Train Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Freight Train Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Freight Train Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Freight Train Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Freight Train Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Freight Train Engineer jobs are:
Freight Train Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freight Train Engineer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,107 per year, or $46.2 per hour.

Railroad Freight Train Engineer - Onset, MA; Hyannis, MA; Taunton, MA

Massachusetts Coastal Railroad LLC

Taunton, MA • On-site

$79K - $105K/yr

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

EOE Statement
We are an equal employment opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law.
Category
Transportation
Description
The Railroad Freight Train Engineer operates a locomotive and interprets train orders, train signals, and railroad rules and regulations to transport freight or passenger trains in a safe, efficient manner. All work at Mass Coastal is performed in accordance with FRA, industry, and company standards and guidelines, procedures, and specifications. Mass Coastal offers complete and detailed training for this position, competitive pay, as well as the opportunity for professional growth and advancement. Operating in a safe manner will take place over any other job function. This position reports to our Trainmaster. This is an at-will position governed by the Massachusetts Coastal Railroad (MCRR) Employee Handbook, NORAC, Federal Railroad Administration (FRA), and any other applicable rules and regulations in effect.
Engineer Primary Responsibilities:
  • Operate equipment while monitoring signals and other devices to safely and efficiently operate train.
  • Perform required tests and make inspections of equipment and brakes as required.
  • Think and function independently while maintaining alertness, situational awareness, and vigilance to maintain safety.
  • Apply knowledge of territory, including terrain, grades, curves, and grade crossings, in order to give prescribed warning signals and to otherwise operate the train in a safe manner
  • Comply with train orders, train signals, radio communications, and railroad rules and regulations to operate the locomotive in an efficient and safe manner
  • Observe track to detect obstructions and to anticipate operating problems, as required by federal or company rules
  • Notify proper authorities and prepare reports to explain accidents, unscheduled stops, or delays
  • Confer with conductor or traffic-control personnel to give or receive information and to give instructions concerning stops, delays, or oncoming trains
  • Comply with all related safety and communication rules and procedures.

Position Requirements
Train Engineer Requirements:
  • High School Diploma, GED or equivalent
  • 1 or more years as Train Engineer experience required
  • Ability to read and comprehend written safety rules, procedure and safety manuals, government regulations, operating and maintenance instructions, memos and other work-related information.
  • Ability to see railroad colors and see details at a distance.
  • Possess excellent listening, oral and written communication skills. Ability to communicate with others at different levels of expertise.
  • Highly responsible, organized and detailed oriented.
  • Ability to pass training and required testing.
  • Ability to think and act quickly in responding to emergency and non-emergency situations. Ability to adhere to all safety rules and regulations to ensure ethe safety of the crew and passengers.
  • Ability to make independent judgments using sound reasoning skills and knowledge base.
  • Weekend availability
  • Work Location: Reporting location varies from Taunton, New Bedford, Fall River, Hyannis, Wareham and Onset.
  • Must be able to work in an extremely loud work environment; and in all weather conditions. Must possess physical agility and be able to get on/off train equipment, move between cars, bend, lift, stretch, reach and safely ride the side of the train.
  • Applicant must be currently authorized to work permanently in the United States.
  • Driver's License (Required)

Full-Time/Part-Time
Full-Time
City
State
Position
Railroad Freight Train Conductor
Division
MASSACHUSETTS COASTAL RAILROAD LLC
Exempt/Non-Exempt
Non-Exempt
Open Date
11/26/2025
This position is currently accepting applications.

Apply