... engineers, mechanics, and MOW Team Members at Watco's Safe Performance Center • Leadership and ... The Locomotive Mechanic inspects, repairs, and maintains locomotives consistent with company ...
... engineers, mechanics, and MOW Team Members at Watco's Safe Performance Center • Leadership and ... The Locomotive Mechanic inspects, repairs, and maintains locomotives consistent with company ...
... engineers, mechanics, and MOW Team Members at Watco's Safe Performance Center • Leadership and ... The Locomotive Mechanic inspects, repairs, and maintains locomotives consistent with company ...
... engineers, mechanics, and MOW Team Members at Watco's Safe Performance Center • Leadership and ... The Locomotive Mechanic inspects, repairs, and maintains locomotives consistent with company ...
... locomotive train service engineer certification • Must possess a valid Driver's License with no restrictions • Supervisory experience in operating department as a Designated Supervisor of ...
... locomotive train service engineer certification • Must possess a valid Driver's License with no restrictions • Supervisory experience in operating department as a Designated Supervisor of ...
... locomotive train service engineer certification • Must possess a valid Driver's License with no restrictions • Supervisory experience in operating department as a Designated Supervisor of ...
... locomotive train service engineer certification • Must possess a valid Driver's License with no restrictions • Supervisory experience in operating department as a Designated Supervisor of ...
Mechanic
Monroeville, AL · On-site
$26/hr
Locomotive Servicing Engineer certification is a plus depending on location * Welding certification is a plus * Basic computer skills * Strong verbal and written communication skills to effectively ...
Mechanic
Monroeville, AL · On-site
$26/hr
Locomotive Servicing Engineer certification is a plus depending on location * Welding certification is a plus * Basic computer skills * Strong verbal and written communication skills to effectively ...
Mechanic
Monroeville, AL · On-site
$26/hr
Locomotive Servicing Engineer certification is a plus depending on location * Welding certification is a plus * Basic computer skills * Strong verbal and written communication skills to effectively ...
Mechanic
Monroeville, AL · On-site
$26/hr
Locomotive Servicing Engineer certification is a plus depending on location * Welding certification is a plus * Basic computer skills * Strong verbal and written communication skills to effectively ...
Cybersecurity Engineer
Albertville, AL · On-site
$88K - $160K/yr
From the rails themselves to the EMD ® locomotives that ride them, the company's products are in ... operations, engineering, IT, and EHS teams to securely integrate OT systems with enterprise IT ...
Cybersecurity Engineer
Albertville, AL · On-site
$88K - $160K/yr
From the rails themselves to the EMD ® locomotives that ride them, the company's products are in ... operations, engineering, IT, and EHS teams to securely integrate OT systems with enterprise IT ...
Quality Engineer
Albertville, AL · On-site
$69K - $89K/yr
Job Purpose Quality Engineer partners with cross-functional teams and customers to develop ... From the rails themselves to the EMD ® locomotives that ride them, the company's products are in ...
New
Quality Engineer
Albertville, AL · On-site
$69K - $89K/yr
Job Purpose Quality Engineer partners with cross-functional teams and customers to develop ... From the rails themselves to the EMD ® locomotives that ride them, the company's products are in ...
New
Train Conductor
Vance, AL · On-site
$19/hr
Responsible for assisting the Train Engineer with the movement of rail equipment (locomotives, rail cars, tracks, etc.) within the rail yard in a safe and efficient manner. * Maintain an efficient ...
Quick apply
Train Conductor
Vance, AL · On-site
$19/hr
Responsible for assisting the Train Engineer with the movement of rail equipment (locomotives, rail cars, tracks, etc.) within the rail yard in a safe and efficient manner. * Maintain an efficient ...
ERP Senior Manager (Infor LN)
Albertville, AL · On-site
$127K - $240K/yr
... engineering, quality, and service operations. Company Description Progress Rail stands at the ... From the rails themselves to the EMD ® locomotives that ride them, the company's products are in ...
ERP Senior Manager (Infor LN)
Albertville, AL · On-site
$127K - $240K/yr
... engineering, quality, and service operations. Company Description Progress Rail stands at the ... From the rails themselves to the EMD ® locomotives that ride them, the company's products are in ...
From the rails themselves to the EMD ® locomotives that ride them, the company's products are in ... engineering, order management, finance, sales, transportation, and operations. • Develop job ...
From the rails themselves to the EMD ® locomotives that ride them, the company's products are in ... engineering, order management, finance, sales, transportation, and operations. • Develop job ...
Locomotive Engineer information
See Alabama salary details
$15.47 - $17.51
3% of jobs
$17.51 - $19.55
14% of jobs
$20.22 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$19.55 - $21.59
24% of jobs
The median wage is $22.31 / hr.
$21.59 - $23.63
26% of jobs
$24.76 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$23.63 - $25.67
15% of jobs
$25.67 - $27.71
3% of jobs
$27.71 - $29.75
2% of jobs
$29.75 - $31.79
5% of jobs
$31.79 - $33.83
3% of jobs
$33.83 - $35.87
2% of jobs
$35.87 - $37.91
2% of jobs
$15
$24
$37
How much do locomotive engineer jobs pay per hour?
As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for locomotive engineer in Alabama is $24.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.62 and $25.05 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What is a locomotive engineer?
Locomotive engineers are skilled professionals responsible for operating trains that transport passengers or freight. They control the speed, handling, and braking of locomotives, ensuring safe and timely travel along rail routes. Locomotive engineers must be attentive to signals, track conditions, and communication from dispatchers to prevent accidents. They also inspect their trains before departures and keep detailed records of their journeys. This role requires specialized training and certification to ensure both safety and efficiency.
What does a locomotive engineer do?
Locomotive engineers, also known as train conductors, operate trains on railroads. In this role, you oversee operations for trains that transport freight or passengers. Some locomotive engineers work in a station or rail yard where they supervise the coupling of train cars. Before each trip, a train conductor inspects the train and plans the timing of their journey. Your responsibilities include communicating with control centers along the route to ensure the safety of the train and to monitor updates about track conditions. Locomotive engineers also document any problems that arise concerning the state of the train or tracks.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a locomotive engineer?
To thrive as a Locomotive Engineer, you need in-depth knowledge of train operations, mechanical systems, and safety regulations, typically requiring a high school diploma and completion of a railroad training program with federal certification. Familiarity with locomotive control systems, diagnostic tools, and railroad signaling technology is essential for daily operations. Attention to detail, strong situational awareness, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for this role. These skills ensure safe, efficient train movement and help prevent accidents or operational delays.
What are some typical challenges faced by locomotive engineers during their shifts?
Locomotive Engineers often encounter challenges such as adapting to varying weather conditions, maintaining strict adherence to safety protocols, and managing unexpected delays or mechanical issues. They must remain highly alert during long shifts, especially when operating at night or through complex track systems. Effective communication with conductors, dispatchers, and maintenance crews is essential to ensure smooth and safe train operations.
What is the difference between Locomotive Engineer vs Train Conductor?
| Aspect | Locomotive Engineer | Train Conductor |
|---|---|---|
| Credentials | Commercial driver's license, technical training, certifications | Customer service skills, safety training, certifications |
| Work Environment | Operate and control trains, focus on machinery | Coordinate passenger or freight services, oversee safety |
| Employer & Industry | Railroads, freight and passenger services | Railroads, passenger transit companies |
Locomotive Engineers primarily operate trains and focus on controlling the locomotive, requiring technical training and certifications. Train Conductors oversee train operations, passenger safety, and customer service. Both roles are essential in rail transportation but differ in responsibilities and daily tasks.
Are locomotive engineers in demand?
Locomotive engineers are in steady demand due to ongoing needs for freight and passenger transportation. Employment opportunities depend on the transportation industry’s growth, infrastructure investments, and the requirement for certifications and safety training. Job prospects are generally stable, especially in regions with active rail networks.
Do locomotive engineers make good money?
Locomotive engineers typically earn a competitive salary, with median wages around $70,000 to $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and employer. They often work irregular hours and require certification and safety training, which can influence earning potential.
How do you get to be a locomotive engineer?
To become a locomotive engineer, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by completing a training program provided by a railroad company or a technical school. They must pass written and skills tests, obtain certification from the Federal Railroad Administration, and often gain experience through on-the-job training or apprenticeships.
More about Locomotive Engineer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Locomotive Engineer jobs in Alabama?
The most popular types of Locomotive Engineer jobs in Alabama are:
What are popular job titles related to Locomotive Engineer jobs in Alabama?
For Locomotive Engineer jobs in Alabama, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Locomotive Engineer jobs in Alabama look for?
The top searched job categories for Locomotive Engineer jobs in Alabama are:
What cities in Alabama are hiring for Locomotive Engineer jobs?
Cities in Alabama with the most Locomotive Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Locomotive Engineer jobs in AL?
For Locomotive Engineer jobs in AL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Full-time
Posted 10 days ago
Watco rating
6.3
Based on 56 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
305th of 366 rated logistics
Job description
Start a Watco Career and Discover the Difference
Keep the world's supply chain moving. That's what the Watco team does every day at our short line railroads, switching sites, terminals, ports, and logistics hubs. Whether you're at one of these locations or in a support-services role, there's one thread that ties everyone together. We're all on the same team. One Watco.
Here's what you can expect from Watco:
• Outstanding culture recognized by Forbes and Newsweek
• Competitive compensation and benefits
• Paid on-the-job training with peer trainers
• Training for conductors, engineers, mechanics, and MOW Team Members at Watco's Safe Performance Center
• Leadership and development programs offered through Watco University
• Career advancement opportunities
Job Summary
The Locomotive Mechanic inspects, repairs, and maintains locomotives consistent with company policies and FRA regulations, and perform mechanical related maintenance as required.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
• Provide a level of customer service consistent with company expectations
• Obtain working knowledge and proper use of gauges and testing equipment
• Complete written documents for any necessary FRA reports pertaining to mechanist job duties
• Able to become qualified service engineer certificate related to FRA inspections and regulations
• Interpret instructions in written, oral, diagram, or schedule form
• Observe mechanical devices in operation to identify issues
• Dismantle devices using hoists, cranes, hand tools, and power tools to remove, repair or replace defective parts
• Record hour meter readings for inspections and preventative maintenance repair
• Check locomotives for air-fuel, oil, water, exhaust leaks, etc. clean as needed
• Inspect safety equipment, securing bolts and pins as required
• Clean and lube screens, strainers and traps
• Check locomotives for defects, damage, leaks, etc, in accordance with company standards
• Perform main bearing checks and air brake tests according to specifications
• Perform emergency repairs and re-railing of railroad rolling stock
• Inspect wheels according to wheel inspection report
• Basic knowledge of welders, torches, hammers, jacks, pneumatic, hand tools, forklifts and cranes
Qualifications
• Must be able to pass and or obtain all reporting, testing, and certifications required for this position, such as troubleshooting and repair of motors, generators, and transformers
• Must possess valid driver’s license and be insurable by company insurance provider
• Have or be able to obtain Class B CDL
• Have the ability to become a qualified Service Engineer according to FRA regulations
• Able to complete a three-year Railroad Apprenticeship, if required
Education
High School or GED equivalent