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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 ...

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 ...

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Showing results 1-20

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 Jun 12, 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 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 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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $95,283 per year, or $45.8 per hour.
Assembler

$15.50 - $17.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Company Description
Job Description
Who will you be working with?
You will work with a broad range of talented individuals to deliver quality products in a timely manner. You'll work alongside Assemblers and partner with professionals across multiple departments.
How will you make a difference?
As a member of the Assembly team, you will follow specified work instructions and/or engineering parts drawings to assemble a wide variety of products. You will be responsible for the quality of your work, which includes accurate counts and meeting production standards. You will continually look for ways to improve our production processes.
What do we want to know about you?
  • Do you have a wide variety of hand or power tools experience for assembly purposes?
  • Do you have proven math, reading, and computer skills?
  • Are you able to receive and execute written or verbal instruction?
  • Do you have a high school diploma or GED (preferred)?

What will your typical day look like?
  • Assemble or disassemble on a production line. You may be asked to assist or train in multiple work cells.
  • Follows specified work instructions to assemble, test, and package products for shipment, as required.
  • Follow applicable ISO procedures
  • Keep work area clean and in order
  • Follow all company safety procedure and guidelines
  • Report malfunction of equipment and process deviations to appropriate personnel.

What about the physical demands of the job?
  • Constant handling, reaching outward, lifting 10lbs or less
  • Frequent standing, walking
  • Occasional sitting, reaching up/over shoulder, climbing, bending, lifting up to 50lbs.

You may also be asked to perform other duties outside of your function or trade, for which adequate training will be provided if necessary.
The hourly rate for this role is in the range of $15.50 - $17.50/hr.
The actual salary offered to a candidate may be influenced by a variety of factors, such as: training, transferable skills, work experience, education, business needs, market demands and work location. The base pay range is subject to change and may be modified in the future. More information on offered benefits, which
Qualifications
Additional Information
Our job titles may span more than one career level. The salary rate for this role is currently $15.50-$17.00 The actual salary offered to a candidate may be influenced by a variety of factors, such as: training, transferable skills, work experience, education, business needs, market demands and work location. The base pay range is subject to change and may be modified in the future. More information on offered benefits, which include health, welfare, and retirement, are available at mywabtecbenefits.com. Other benefit offerings for this role may include annual bonus, if eligible.
What could you accomplish in a place that puts People First?
At Wabtec, it's not just about a job - it's about the impact you make. When our people come together, we're Expanding the Possible by continuously improving what we do and how we do it - for our clients and each other.
If you're ready to revolutionize how the world moves for future generations, Wabtec is the place for you.
Who are we?
Wabtec is a leading global provider of equipment, systems, digital solutions, and value-added services for the freight and transit rail sectors. Drawing on more than 150 years of experience, we are leading the way in safety, efficiency, reliability, innovation, and productivity. Whether it's freight, transit, ports, logistics, mining, industrial, or marine, our expertise, technologies, and people together - are accelerating the future of transportation. With roots that date back to George Westinghouse, Thomas Edison, and Louis Faiveley, Wabtec has always built technologies and implemented solutions for a variety of sectors that are critical to meeting the needs of customers and governments alike.
Our global team of about 30,000 employees worldwide delivers performance that moves the world forward. We're lifelong learners, obsessed with better. Learn more at www.WabtecCorp.com.
Culture powers us and the possibilities.
We believe the best ideas come from a mix of experiences and backgrounds. At Wabtec, we strive every day to create a place where everyone belongs. We're building a culture where leadership, inclusion and your unique perspective fuel progress.
We're proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We welcome talent of all backgrounds, experiences, and identities, including race, gender, age, disability, veteran status and more.
Need accommodation? Just let us know - we've got you.