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Freight Train Engineer Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

Conductor

Fort Lauderdale, FL · On-site

$39.86 - $44.42/hr

Overview Supervise train crews on a freight train and coordinate switch engine crews. Place cars to ... Review instructions from dispatchers and yardmasters, and discuss with locomotive engineer and ...

Overview Supervise train crews on a freight train and coordinate switch engine crews. Place cars to ... Review instructions from dispatchers and yardmasters, and discuss with locomotive engineer and ...

Conductor

Fort Lauderdale, FL · On-site

$39.86 - $44.42/hr

Overview Supervise train crews on a freight train and coordinate switch engine crews. Place cars to ... Review instructions from dispatchers and yardmasters, and discuss with locomotive engineer and ...

Signal Engineer IV

Jacksonville, FL · On-site

$79K - $112K/yr

These projects involve signaling, train control, communications, and back-office solutions with a ... Whether it's freight, transit, ports, logistics, mining, industrial, or marine, our expertise ...

These projects involve signaling, train control, communications, and back-office solutions with a ... Whether it's freight, transit, ports, logistics, mining, industrial, or marine, our expertise ...

Signal Engineer IV

Jacksonville, FL · On-site

$79K - $112K/yr

These projects involve signaling, train control, communications, and back-office solutions with a ... Whether it's freight, transit, ports, logistics, mining, industrial, or marine, our expertise ...

Signal Engineer IV

Jacksonville, FL · On-site

$79K - $112K/yr

These projects involve signaling, train control, communications, and back-office solutions with a ... Whether it's freight, transit, ports, logistics, mining, industrial, or marine, our expertise ...

Signal Engineer IV

Jacksonville, FL · On-site

$79K - $112K/yr

These projects involve signaling, train control, communications, and back-office solutions with a ... Whether it's freight, transit, ports, logistics, mining, industrial, or marine, our expertise ...

... train control, communications, and back-office solutions with a strong focus on project execution ... Whether it's freight, transit, ports, logistics, mining, industrial, or marine, our expertise ...

Signal Engineer IV

Jacksonville, FL · On-site

$79K - $112K/yr

... train control, communications, and back-office solutions with a strong focus on project execution ... Whether it's freight, transit, ports, logistics, mining, industrial, or marine, our expertise ...

Senior Bridge Engineer

Tampa, FL · On-site

$98K - $135K/yr

From designing resilient highways and iconic bridges to advancing transit, passenger and freight ... Mentor, train, and oversee junior and midlevel engineers, fostering professional growth through ...

Senior Bridge Engineer

Tampa, FL · On-site

$98K - $135K/yr

From designing resilient highways and iconic bridges to advancing transit, passenger and freight ... Mentor, train, and oversee junior and mid-level engineers, fostering professional growth through ...

... freight interchanging with CSXT and FECR. SCFE services between 25 and 35 locations with over more ... The position includes supervision of train crews, adherence to safety protocols, conducting ...

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Showing results 1-20

Freight Train Engineer information

See Florida salary details

$26.5K

$71.8K

$125.5K

How much do freight train engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for freight train engineer in Florida is $71,820.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59,800.00 and $80,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a freight train engineer?

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 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freight train engineer, 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.

How do you become a freight train engineer?

To become a freight train engineer, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by on-the-job training or an apprenticeship program provided by a railroad company. They must obtain a locomotive engineer license or certification, which involves passing written and practical exams, and often requires a clean driving record and good communication skills. Experience operating trains and knowledge of safety protocols are also essential.

What does a freight train engineer do on a freight train?

A freight train engineer operates and controls the locomotive to move freight cars along rail lines, ensuring safe and efficient transportation. They monitor gauges, manage speed, communicate with dispatchers, and perform safety checks throughout their shift, which often involves long hours and adherence to strict regulations.

What are popular job titles related to Freight Train Engineer jobs in Florida?

For Freight Train Engineer jobs in Florida, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Freight Train Engineer job openings in Florida as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 88% In-person, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $71,820 per year, or $34.5 per hour.

$39.86 - $44.42/hr

Other

Re-posted 20 hours ago


Job description

Overview
Supervise train crews on a freight train and coordinate switch engine crews. Place cars to facilitate loading and unloading and the makeup and breakdown on trains in a rail yard, industrial plant, or similar location. Start date scheduled for October 5, 2026. Paid training will commence in New Smyrna Beach, Florida for three (3) weeks; thereafter, new hire Conductors will return to their home Miami terminal for on-the-job training in all levels of Conductor service (Yard, Local, Through Freight).
Starting pay is $29.34/hr. Salary will increase between $39.86 - $44.42/hr once qualified (after the probationary period ends) per collective bargaining agreement
Responsibilities
  • Ensure compliance with all train orders, signals, and railroad rules and regulations for safety, operations, and the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA)
  • Review instructions from dispatchers and yardmasters, and discuss with locomotive engineer and train crew
  • Inspect all equipment on cars prior to departures
  • Receive and transmit information by radio and telephone
  • Read and understand bulletins, work orders, and switch lists
  • Assist and instruct train crews to couple and uncouple cars, operate switches, and make minor repairs to railcars, including replacing heavy couplings or air brake hoses
  • Work with customers to ensure accurate movement and placement of cars
  • Maintain awareness of surrounding area and suspicious activity to ensure rail safety
  • Operate locomotive equipment through the use of remote control device.
  • Comprehend color and/or hand signals and systems
  • Quickly and repeatedly make precise adjustments in moving the controls of a machine or vehicle to exact positions
  • Quickly respond (with the hand, finger, or foot) to visual symbols, signals and displays (sound, light, picture, etc.)
  • Assist other employees when and where instructed

Qualifications
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
  • High school diploma or general education degree (GED)
  • Must have a valid driver's license
  • 2 years verifiable work experience and/or college
  • No driving violations involving alcohol or drugs within the past 3 years

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Outside work experience
  • Mechanical aptitude
  • Experience working on an on-call basis
  • Experience working varying shift schedules
  • Heavy equipment experience

KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS:
  • Verbal comprehension (Understand oral and written communications-both general and technical)
  • Communication skills (provide clear instructions/directions)
  • Reasoning skills (problem solving and troubleshooting skills)
  • Demonstrate auditory and visual acuity
  • Basic Math
  • Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals

JOB REQUIREMENTS:
  • Work hours may include a nonstandard workweek, overtime, and various shift work, including on-call 7 days a week, 24 hours per day, with extended periods of time away from home and short rest between assignments in accordance with the hours of service regulation
  • Advance to engineer position when required, based on seniority
  • Work hours are based on seniority - new hires will work primarily nights, weekends, and holidays
  • Must be able to report to work safely with two-hour notice
  • Strict disciplinary policy regarding inability to report to work within proper time frame, or failure to accept a call for work
  • Lift up to 90 pounds occasionally
  • Stoop/bend/kneel/crouch/balance/climb on an occasional basis
  • Work outside in all weather conditions and on occasion at elevated heights
  • Work safely to prevent on the job accidents and injuries
  • Wear protective equipment such as hard hat, hearing protection, safety-toe boots, or safety glasses
  • Walk long distances over uneven terrain
  • Work in cramped, confined, enclosed, or awkward places
  • Ride on the outside of rail equipment for long periods of time
  • Work hours may include a nonstandard workweek, overtime, and various shift work
  • Complete annual training and pass safety rules examinations
  • Must successfully complete probationary period
  • May require random testing for drugs and/or alcohol
  • Must pass all required assessments
  • Must pass a background and drug screening
  • Requires a medical examination, including physical capabilities, audio and vision testing
  • Must meet color vision requirements as described in the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) Regulations
  • Active employees must complete one year in current position or craft before applying for positions
  • An active or furloughed employee who changes to a new craft may be required to permanently relinquish his/her seniority in the former craft unless otherwise provided for in the applicable collective bargaining agreement or other governing agreement.
  • This position is governed by a collective bargaining agreement, membership is required

Our company provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics.