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Freight Train Engineer Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

G&W

Locomotive Engineer

Coshocton, OH · On-site

$35.31/hr

... train signals, and railroad rules and regulations to transport freight or passenger trains in a ... engineer certification This position is employed by the specific entity set forth in the job ...

Plaskolite

Logistics Project Manager

Columbus, OH · On-site

$150K/yr

This role is responsible for managing projects that improve freight cost, service performance ... train users. * Create and maintain logistics performance reporting, including cost, service ...

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Freight Train Engineer information

See Ohio salary details

$33.8K

$91.4K

$159.7K

How much do freight train engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for freight train engineer in Ohio is $91,369.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,100.00 and $102,700.00 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.
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Freight Train Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freight Train Engineer job openings in Ohio as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $91,369 per year, or $43.9 per hour.
Locomotive Engineer

Locomotive Engineer

Genesee & Wyoming Inc

Coshocton, OH

$35.31/hr

Full-time

Posted 27 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Inspect locomotive for operational readiness by making FRA- and company-required checks and tests.

  • Operate the locomotive in compliance with train orders, signals, communications, and railroad rules to safely transport trains.

  • Observe track for obstructions, diagnose minor malfunctions, and perform minor maintenance and servicing activities when maintenance personnel are unavailable.

Genesee & Wyoming rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 31 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

260th of 352 rated logistics

Job description

SUMMARY:
The person in this position operates an electric or diesel-electric locomotive and interprets train orders, train signals, and railroad rules and regulations to transport freight or passenger trains in a safe manner.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
•Inspect locomotive for operational readiness by making FRA- and company-required checks and tests
•Receive train consist, which provides the physical makeup of train and includes weights, lengths, location of loads and empties, and cars requiring special handling
•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; diagnose minor malfunctions and perform minor maintenance and servicing activities when maintenance personnel are not available
•Confer with conductor or traffic-control personnel by radio to give or receive information and to give instructions concerning stops, delays, or oncoming trains
•Notify proper authorities and prepare reports to explain accidents, unscheduled stops, or delays
•Assist with other projects and perform other duties as assigned
REQUIRED SKILLS AND/OR EXPERIENCE:
•Ability to understand printed and written and oral communications
•Ability to recognize colors and understand visual displays
•Ability to make logical choices and/or draw logical conclusions
•Ability to judge speed/distance of objects or moving parts
•Good eye/hand coordination
•Ability to take actions and/or make decisions affecting security/well-being of others
•Two years of related work experience and one year of conductor experience; two years of conductor experience preferred
•Experience in a 24/7 work environment with exposure to outside weather conditions
REQUIRED EDUCATION AND/OR CREDENTIALS:
•High school diploma or GED; or an equivalent combination of education and work experience

•Associate degree and valid engineer certification 
This position is employed by the specific entity set forth in the job posting.
Genesee & Wyoming Inc. and its subsidiary companies do not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service, or any other protected status under federal, state or local laws.

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