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Freight Train Engineer Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

... customers' freight. Previous railroad experience is not required as we provide all necessary ... Yard and local service crews work with an engineer, or by remote control. They classify (sort) the ...

MN ยท On-site

$20 - $35/hr

... with train dispatchers and engineers, ensuring work groups are clear of limits during train ... freight * Employment is contingent upon the successful outcome of pre-employment and recurring ...

MN ยท On-site

$20 - $35/hr

... with train dispatchers and engineers, ensuring work groups are clear of limits during train ... freight * Employment is contingent upon the successful outcome of pre-employment and recurring ...

Sr. Material Handler

Chanhassen, MN ยท On-site

$22 - $24/hr

As a Material Handler (Shipping and Receiving), you will cross train and support all aspects of ... Contact and schedule carriers to pick up freight * Assist with cycle count inventory * Operate a ...

Sr. Material Handler

Chanhassen, MN ยท On-site

$22 - $24/hr

As a Material Handler (Shipping and Receiving), you will cross train and support all aspects of ... Contact and schedule carriers to pick up freight * Assist with cycle count inventory * Operate a ...

Shipping/Receiving Clerk

Chanhassen, MN ยท On-site

$24 - $26/hr

As a Shipping/Receiving Clerk, you will cross train and support all aspects of material flow ... Contact and schedule carriers to pick up freight. * Create SLI's, CI's and delivery notes along ...

Shipping/Receiving Clerk

Chanhassen, MN ยท On-site

$24 - $26/hr

As a Shipping/Receiving Clerk, you will cross train and support all aspects of material flow ... Contact and schedule carriers to pick up freight. * Create SLI's, CI's and delivery notes along ...

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Showing results 1-20

Freight Train Engineer information

See Minnesota salary details

$34.8K

$94.1K

$164.5K

How much do freight train engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for freight train engineer in Minnesota is $94,129.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,400.00 and $105,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineers make $500,000?

In the transportation industry, senior freight train engineers or locomotive engineers with extensive experience and specialized skills can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially with overtime, bonuses, or in high-demand regions. Such high earnings typically require decades of experience, advanced certifications, and working for large freight companies or in supervisory roles.

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.

How do you become a freight train engineer?

To become a freight train engineer, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, a valid driver's license, and completion of a formal training program provided by a railroad company or a technical school. They must also pass a background check, drug tests, and obtain certification from the Federal Railroad Administration, which includes passing written and practical exams. Experience operating trains or related machinery is often required or preferred.

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. Their primary responsibility is to ensure the train's safe and timely delivery of freight.

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.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

In the freight industry, senior train engineers or locomotive engineers with extensive experience and seniority can earn around $150,000 to $200,000 annually, with some top earners reaching close to $300,000 including overtime and bonuses. Achieving this level typically requires many years of experience, specialized skills, and working in high-demand or high-cost-of-living areas. Most freight train engineers do not regularly earn $300,000 per year, but top-tier professionals in related engineering fields or executive roles in transportation companies may reach or exceed this salary level.
What are popular job titles related to Freight Train Engineer jobs in Minnesota? For Freight Train Engineer jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Freight Train Engineer job openings in Minnesota as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $94,129 per year, or $45.3 per hour.
Machinist 2 or 3 - 2nd shift

Machinist 2 or 3 - 2nd shift

Millerbernd Manufacturing

Winsted, MN โ€ข On-site

$25.50 - $33/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

NOW HIRING: We are looking for a Machinist 2 or 3 to join our 2nd shift Circular Products (CP) Winsted team. The Machinist 2 or 3 is responsible for set ups, operating and monitoring CNC Vertical Turning Centers, Vertical and Horizontal Milling Centers and manual machining centers in the manufacture and production of various products in accordance with product specifications.

Job Title: Machinist 2 or 3
Location: onsite in Winsted, MN
Salary Range: $25.50 โ€“ 33.00 per hour (Non-Exempt)
(In compliance with Minnesota Pay Transparency Law, this range reflects the anticipated compensation for this role. Actual pay may vary based on experience, education, and other factors.)
Shift Schedule: 2nd shift Monday โ€“ Thursday 3pm โ€“ 1am
Shift Differential
: 2nd shift - $1.50/hour

As an Experienced Machinist 2 or 3, you will:

  • Select appropriate tooling and inserts
  • Calculate and set controls to regulate machining
  • Sets up and operate machines on trial run to verify the accuracy of machine settings or programmed control data
  • Start and observe machine operations to detect malfunctions or out-of-tolerance machining, and adjusts machine controls or control media as required
  • Use a crane, hoist, forklift, or other material handling equipment to transport materials and products into and out of the work area as required
  • Monitor the production board and internal paperwork from the supervisor to perform tasks in the designated sequence
  • Verify end parts are consistent with blueprint specifications
  • Accurately label all parts that require a classification for routing to the next operation
  • Confer with engineers, production personnel, programmers, or others to resolve machining or assembly problems
  • Expresses logic in the determination of method/sequences of operations and selection of materials
  • Troubleshoot machine issues and perform tool changes, tool wear offsets or change inserts
  • Performs prescribed preventative maintenance on machines as required
  • Complete set ups and teardowns
  • Connect and disconnect power from machines
  • Minor programming may be required
  • May be required to train on a small number of machine centers
  • Monitor the production board and internal paperwork from supervisor to perform tasks in the designated sequence
  • Enter job data in production tracking system
  • Verify end parts are consistent with blue print specifications
  • Accurately label all parts that require classification for routing to next operation
  • Ensure use of safe work procedures and wear all required PPE
  • Perform work at the appropriate pace to maintain quality and productivity requirement

Role qualifications as an Experienced Machinist 2 or 3:

  • Preferred candidates will have a 2-year technical degree and a minimum of 5 years experience in a related area. (Machinist 2)
  • 6+ years machining on both lathes and mills (Machinist 3)
  • Proficient knowledge in interpreting blueprints and mechanical drawings
  • Proficiency in performing operations using CNC equipment
  • Accurately use tape measure and precision measuring devices
  • Ability to perform basic shop math functions
  • Ability to maintain crane and forklift certifications
  • Ability to solve practical problems and make decisions within a set of guidelines
  • Ability to read and understand required internal manufacturing paperwork
  • Ability to electronically record production information
  • Effective and appropriate oral and written communication skills, including legible handwriting in English
  • Work with others as part of a team
  • Adapt to changing work priorities
  • Able to work under limited supervision using standardized practices and/or procedures
  • Accept and apply on the job training to advance your skill level

Join Millerbernd Manufacturing โ€“ Where Your Career Can Take Shape

About Us: At Millerbernd, we donโ€™t just offer jobsโ€”we build careers. We're dedicated to creating meaningful opportunities where you can unlock your potential, turn ideas into action, and be part of a skilled, diverse, and driven team. From day one, youโ€™ll experience a supportive and dynamic environment designed to help you grow and succeed.

What We Offer:

Comprehensive Benefits

  • Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance โ€“ Two medical plan options, with company HSA contributions
  • Health & Flexible Spending Accounts (HSA/FSA) โ€“ For medical and dependent care expenses
  • Life & Disability Insurance โ€“ Company-paid basic life, AD&D, and short-/long-term disability
  • Voluntary Benefits โ€“ Including optional life, legal & ID protection, accident & critical illness insurance

Financial Security

  • 401(k) with 4% Match โ€“ Immediate vesting
  • Incentive Pay โ€“ Performance-based bonus programs depending on your role and shift
    • Certain roles are eligible for the Performance-based โ€œFreight Train Profit Sharing (FTPS)โ€ Incentive plans
    • This team incentive plan has a weekly goal and a weekly stretch goal
    • If goals are achieved, the monthly payout can be up to $1,000 per eligible employee

Work-Life Balance

  • Accrual Paid Time Off (PTO) and Paid Holidays
  • Tuition Reimbursement โ€“ Up to $5,250/year for job-related education
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP) โ€“ Free, confidential support services
  • Onsite Training โ€“ Includes leadership, welding, and language courses
  • Uniform Subsidy โ€“ For eligible roles

Benefits available to employees working 30+ hours/week. 401(k) available to all employees.

What to Expect from the Hiring Process

  1. Submit Your Application โ€“ Our internal Talent Acquisition Team personally reviews every application
  2. Phone Interview โ€“ If your background aligns with the role, weโ€™ll reach out for an introductory call
  3. Onsite Interview & Facility Tour โ€“ Get a firsthand look at what it's like to work at Millerbernd
  4. Follow-Up & Offer โ€“ Stay informed throughout the process; most decisions are made within 3โ€“10 business days

We're an Equal Opportunity Employer

Millerbernd Manufacturing Company is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We encourage individuals of all backgrounds to apply.

Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S. We are unable to sponsor or assume sponsorship of employment visas at this time.

Ready to shape your future with us?
Apply today and discover whatโ€™s possible at Millerbernd.

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