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Freight Train Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Assembler

Salem, VA

$15.50 - $17.50/hr

You may be asked to assist or train in multiple work cells. * Follows specified work instructions ... Whether it's freight, transit, ports, logistics, mining, industrial, or marine, our expertise ...

Assembler - Hiring Now

Salem, VA · On-site

$15.50 - $17.50/hr

You may be asked to assist or train in multiple work cells. * Follows specified work instructions ... Whether it's freight, transit, ports, logistics, mining, industrial, or marine, our expertise ...

Assembler

Salem, VA

$15.50 - $17.50/hr

You may be asked to assist or train in multiple work cells. * Follows specified work instructions ... Whether it's freight, transit, ports, logistics, mining, industrial, or marine, our expertise ...

You may be asked to assist or train in multiple work cells. * Follows specified work instructions ... Whether it's freight, transit, ports, logistics, mining, industrial, or marine, our expertise ...

You may be asked to assist or train in multiple work cells. * Follows specified work instructions ... Whether it's freight, transit, ports, logistics, mining, industrial, or marine, our expertise ...

Assembler

Salem, VA · On-site

$15.50 - $17.50/hr

You may be asked to assist or train in multiple work cells. * Follows specified work instructions ... Whether it's freight, transit, ports, logistics, mining, industrial, or marine, our expertise ...

Assembler - Manufacturing

Salem, VA · On-site

$15.50 - $17.50/hr

You may be asked to assist or train in multiple work cells. * Follows specified work instructions ... Whether it's freight, transit, ports, logistics, mining, industrial, or marine, our expertise ...

Assembler

Salem, VA · On-site

$15.50 - $17.50/hr

You may be asked to assist or train in multiple work cells. * Follows specified work instructions ... Whether it's freight, transit, ports, logistics, mining, industrial, or marine, our expertise ...

Showing results 21-40

Freight Train Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$35.2K

$95.3K

$166.6K

How much do freight train engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for freight train engineer in Virginia is $95,283.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,300.00 and $107,100.00 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 the most commonly searched types of Freight Train Engineer jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Freight Train Engineer jobs in Virginia are:

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

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

What job categories do people searching Freight Train Engineer jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Freight Train Engineer jobs in Virginia are:

Infographic showing various Freight Train Engineer job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $95,283 per year, or $45.8 per hour.

High Reach Forklift Operator

The Lee Group

Newport News, VA

$19/hr

Other

Posted 20 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Operate forklifts safely and efficiently, including passing certification training.

  • Unload inbound shipments, move products to storage or production areas, and prepare products for shipment.

  • Perform inventory counts, cycle counts, and maintain accurate records using ERP and RF technology.


Job description

Now hiring for High Reach Forklift Operator/Warehouse Coordinator in Newport News, VA!
 
Position TitleHigh Reach Forklift Operator
Shift: 2nd and 3rd shifts available
2nd Shift - 3:00pm – 11:30pm, Monday – Friday (required overtime, weekdays and weekends)
3rd Shift - 11:00pm - 7:30am, Monday - Friday (required overtime, weekdays and weekends)
Must be available for training on 1st shift
Pay: $19.00/hr
 
What we are looking for in a High Reach Forklift Operator:
The Forklift Operator is primarily responsible for the accurate storage, shipping, receiving, and cycle counting and location accuracy for all products stored in either frozen or dry goods warehouse areas. This job requires a high degree of organizational skills and ability to work effectively with other organizations on a daily basis.
 
Additionally the Warehouse Coordinator must be capable of utilizing the current ERP application and/or RF technology equipment and capable of operating a forklift for the purpose of moving, locating, relocating, stacking, kitting and counting products.  
 
Responsibilities of High Reach Forklift Operator:
  • Accountable for the safe and efficient operation of the forklifts. And capable of passing certification training. 
  • Unload and move inbound shipments safely and move product to storage locations or production floor and efficiently stack and store the product in the appropriate area. 
  • Pull and prepare product for shipment, ensuring that the exact quantity and type of product required is loaded and shipped. 
  • Perform picking duties in an efficient manner that meets customer service standards. 
  • Fulfillment of work orders per manufacturing schedule. Requires issuing materials or returning material in a real-time basis via RF technology to/from work-orders. 
  • Capable of backing up all functions associated with warehousing in both frozen and dry goods areas. 
  • Check or count freight for accuracy and/or damage and infestation. 
  • Perform daily cycle counts and participate in annual physical inventories. 
  • Maintain a clean, neat, and orderly work area.  
  • Assist in maintaining the security of the warehouse. Conduct operations in a manner which promotes safety and report anything which may compromise food safety to management. 
  • Performs inventory transfers/transactions and adjustments to inventory balances using the ERP application and/or RF technology. 
  • Load, unload, move, stack, and stage product and materials using a forklift. Maintain the facility’s equipment and materials in a neat, clean, and orderly fashion. 
  • On a daily basis, inspect and perform minor maintenance on the forklift or other equipment. 
  • Operate all equipment in a safe and efficient manner following prescribed work methods. 
  • Keep appropriate records and reports to guarantee that tight inventory control and security are maintained. Ensure proper stock rotation via FIFO principles. 
 
Qualifications for High Reach Forklift Operator position:
  • High Reach Forklift experience preferred but willing to train motivated candidates.
  • Must have a minimum of 2 years experience in Supply Chain, specifically in the inventory Control and/or Warehousing areas Knowledge of inventory control systems and processes and the ability to utilize for daily activities. 
  • Experienced in Fork Lift truck operation.
  • Able to work in Cold Storage environments with temperatures ranging from 24 degrees Fahrenheit to –10 degrees Fahrenheit. 
  • Ability to communicate effectively with Freight suppliers, Import/Export, Freight forwarders, Packaging/Corrugated vendors, Manufacturing personnel, Customer Service, Engineering, Finance and other company personnel as required. 
  • Knowledge of Warehousing processes and how these processes can be integrated into existing company practices and requirements. 
  • Ability to analyze and reconcile inventory variances. 
  • Ability to maintain an accurate and well-organized warehouse and receiving/shipping dock. 
  • Ability to interface with MIS on enhancements or problems with the system application and/or initiate requests necessary to improve or correct inventory control issues. 
 
Working conditions for High Reach Forklift Operator position:
  • The plant work environment will expose the employee to loud noise, food grade dust & odors, moving & vibrating machinery, heavy equipment, powered industrial trucks, heights, traffic, anhydrous ammonia, oil and electricity. 
  • The employee may be exposed to adverse weather conditions including extreme cold, heat, rain, snow, dust, smoke and odors.  
  • Flexibility of work hours.  
  • Ability to work on feet for extended periods of time if needed. 
 
Physical requirements/allergens:
  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to walk, sit, talk, listen, and reach with hands and arms.  
  • The employee is required to use hands to handle, operate, and feel objects, tools or controls.   
  • The employee is occasionally required to operate a motor vehicle to travel to off-site meetings. 
  • The employee must have visual acuity sufficient to operate a motor vehicle and digital camera, as well as other office and position equipment.  
  • Specific vision abilities required by the job include close vision and the ability to adjust focus.  
  • Employee must be able to hear and speak clearly in order to communicate with clients, coworkers, employees and vendors. 
 
The Lee Group is driven by our purpose and passion: aligning talent, growing businesses and changing lives! And that’s what the right job can mean for a family and what the right employees can mean for a business.
We get up every day and come to work for one reason, putting the right people in the right seats.

We are guided by our core values:
  • We are purpose driven to change people’s lives.
  • We are approachable and genuine, with a great sense of fun.