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Locomotive Engineer Trainee Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Engine Power Components

Quality Engineer

Grand Haven, MI · On-site

$65K - $84K/yr

... for large ships, locomotives, mining equipment and power generation. Excellent customer ... Train appropriate process stakeholders in new or improved process requirements and ensure trainee ...

Engine Power Components

Quality Engineer

Grand Haven, MI · On-site

$65K - $84K/yr

... for large ships, locomotives, mining equipment and power generation. Excellent customer ... Train appropriate process stakeholders in new or improved process requirements and ensure trainee ...

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Locomotive Engineer Trainee information

See Michigan salary details

$26.6K

$59.8K

$100.7K

How much do locomotive engineer trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for locomotive engineer trainee in Michigan is $59,806.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,300.00 and $64,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a locomotive engineer trainee?

To thrive as a Locomotive Engineer Trainee, you need a high school diploma or equivalent, strong mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a solid understanding of safety protocols. Familiarity with train control systems, locomotive operation manuals, and the ability to attain relevant railroad certifications (such as FRA certification) are often required. Dependability, strong communication, problem-solving ability, and composure under pressure are standout soft skills for this role. These qualifications are essential to ensure safe, efficient train operation and effective response to any unexpected situations on the tracks.

What can I expect during the training period as a locomotive engineer trainee?

As a Locomotive Engineer Trainee, you'll undergo a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on, on-the-job training under the supervision of experienced engineers. You'll learn about locomotive mechanics, safety regulations, signaling systems, and proper operating procedures, gradually taking on more responsibility as you build competence. The training period is typically structured and may include assessments, simulator exercises, and practical train runs. Expect to work variable hours, including nights and weekends, as the work environment often requires flexibility. Successful completion of the program will prepare you for certification and advancement to a full Locomotive Engineer position.

What does a locomotive engineer trainee do?

A locomotive engineer trainee assists experienced engineers by learning to operate trains, monitor systems, and follow safety protocols. They typically undergo classroom instruction and on-the-job training to develop skills in train handling, safety procedures, and communication with dispatchers.

How much does a locomotive engineer trainee make?

A locomotive engineer trainee typically earns between $40,000 and $60,000 annually, depending on the employer and location. Trainees usually receive on-the-job training and may start at a lower wage before advancing to full engineer status with increased pay and responsibilities.

What is a locomotive engineer trainee?

A Locomotive Engineer Trainee is an entry-level position where individuals receive hands-on training to operate trains safely and efficiently. Trainees learn to inspect locomotives, follow railroad regulations, and control train speed and braking under various conditions. The role involves classroom instruction, simulator training, and on-the-job experience under the supervision of experienced engineers. Upon successful completion of the training program and required certifications, trainees become qualified locomotive engineers responsible for transporting cargo or passengers. This job requires strong attention to detail, adherence to safety protocols, and the ability to work irregular hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays.

Are locomotive engineer trainees in demand?

Locomotive engineer trainees are in steady demand as rail transportation remains essential for freight and passenger services. The industry values candidates with technical skills, safety knowledge, and proper certifications, and employment opportunities often depend on industry growth and infrastructure investments.
What are the most commonly searched types of Locomotive Engineer jobs in Michigan? The most popular types of Locomotive Engineer jobs in Michigan are:
What are popular job titles related to Locomotive Engineer Trainee jobs in Michigan? For Locomotive Engineer Trainee jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Locomotive Engineer Trainee jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Locomotive Engineer Trainee jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Locomotive Engineer Trainee jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Locomotive Engineer Trainee job openings:
Locomotive Engineer Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Locomotive Engineer Trainee job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $59,806 per year, or $28.8 per hour.

Quality Engineer

Engine Power Components

Grand Haven, MI • On-site

$65K - $84K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 26 days ago

Job description

Quality Engineer

Engine Power Components, Inc.

Opportunity at Grand Haven, Michigan facility

Why you should join our team:

The Quality Engineer will play a key role in building upon recent improvements, to develop robust processes and systems that are nimble, efficient, and reliable to provide growth and continuous improvement. If you are passionate about quality and eager to provide problem-solving expertise to support our employees and our customers, the opportunities are available and rewarding. We win together and we lose together, but we really enjoy winning!

Who we are:

Engine Power Components is an IATF 16949 certified, global leader in camshaft design and production. We serve a worldwide customer base and supply many diverse market segments. If it has an engine, we probably supply a camshaft for that application. We service heavy duty on and off-road markets, marine and recreational vehicles, light duty trucks, passenger cars, motorcycles, auxiliary power units, racing and high-performance vehicles, and large high horsepower applications for large ships, locomotives, mining equipment and power generation. Excellent customer relationships with some of the best known, globally recognized engine manufacturers, together with talented and dedicated staff, have allowed Engine Power Components to grow from a small operation founded in 1979, to one of the leading camshaft suppliers in the world today.

As a Quality Engineer, you will:


  • Participate with other team members to launch new products. This includes creating control plans, training, quality measurements and analysis and other functions as may be necessary to properly launch a new product.
  • Ensure the quality of all products meets customer specifications
  • Participate in the APQP process as required for both new and existing work, including quality-related technical support for other departments.
  • Develop required documentation to support the product development process and in accordance with customer requirements (e.g., APQP, PPAP, and FMEA).
  • Perform studies to ensure process control for all products.
  • Investigate and respond to customer quality concerns.
  • Coordinate resolution of quality issues with suppliers and other company team members
  • Train appropriate process stakeholders in new or improved process requirements and ensure trainee competence.
  • Participate in the internal audit and calibration systems process to ensure integrity of process standards.
  • Ensure assigned corrective action reports are completed in a timely manner, including verifying the corrective actions of others.
  • Aid in implementing and managing the company’s IATF 16949 quality management system.
  • Prepare for and participate in internal, customer, and third-party quality system audits, including ISO 9001 and IATF 16949

As an ideal candidate for the Quality Engineer, you would:

  • 3+ years of related work experience as a quality engineer, including at least 1 year in a metal manufacturing environment.
  • Experience implementing an ISO/TS 16949 or IATF 16949 quality management system, including third-party audits.
  • GD&T training.
  • Experience using Minitab or similar quality software packages.
  • Apply DMAIC and 5-why principles towards problem Solving
  • Strong knowledge of quality control standards, methodologies, and best practices.
  • Utilize Statistical Process Control
  • Experience using CAD/CAM systems.
  • Experience using the Microsoft Office suite.


If you are passionate about Quality Engineering, and the potential to make an amazing difference, we would love to speak with you. We reward our employees with excellent benefits, including competitive wages, family health, dental, vision & life insurance, paid vacation, and a 401(k) plan. If you are looking for a great opportunity, consider joining our team. Help us to write the next chapter and be part of a great story!


It is the policy of Engine Power Components to comply with all applicable state and federal laws prohibiting discrimination in its employment practices due to an applicant’s race, color, creed, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, protected genetic information, age, gender, sex, pregnancy, disability, marital status, veteran status, religion, height, weight, or any other protected classification.