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Locomotive Engineer Jobs in Georgia (NOW HIRING)

Diesel Mechanic

Dawson, GA · On-site

$23 - $30.25/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 ...

Diesel Mechanic

Dawson, GA · On-site

$23 - $30.25/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 ...

Rail Car Mover including switchmen or Locomotive / Track Mobile Engineer preferred. * Basic knowledge and good safety record in working in an industrial setting. * Good understanding of Rail Track ...

Perform inspections on the locomotive before and after runs * Safely operate the train between stations * Monitor on-board meters and gauges including air pressure, battery charge, amperage, and ...

Perform inspections on the locomotive before and after runs * Safely operate the train between stations * Monitor on-board meters and gauges including air pressure, battery charge, amperage, and ...

Whether it is a locomotive shop that services rolling stock, or state-of-the-art intermodal ... HDR Senior Rail Facilities Engineers / Architects thrive in entrepreneurial environments where team ...

Switchman

Valdosta, GA

$20.99 - $25.10/hr

The Company's regulatory, engineering and commercial expertise make UTLX the preferred source of ... Operates locomotive to transport material and spot rail cars utilizing instructions from a switch ...

Senior Rail Facilities Engineer / Architect

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$53.25 - $68.50/hr

Whether it is a locomotive shop that services rolling stock, or state-of-the-art intermodal ... HDR Senior Rail Facilities Engineers / Architects thrive in entrepreneurial environments where team ...

Locomotive Engineer information

See Georgia salary details

$14

$22

$35

How much do locomotive engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for locomotive engineer in Georgia is $22.49, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $23.37 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?

AspectLocomotive EngineerTrain Conductor
CredentialsCommercial driver's license, technical training, certificationsCustomer service skills, safety training, certifications
Work EnvironmentOperate and control trains, focus on machineryCoordinate passenger or freight services, oversee safety
Employer & IndustryRailroads, freight and passenger servicesRailroads, 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Locomotive Engineer jobs in Georgia?

The most popular types of Locomotive Engineer jobs in Georgia are:

What are popular job titles related to Locomotive Engineer jobs in Georgia?

For Locomotive Engineer jobs in Georgia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Georgia are hiring for Locomotive Engineer jobs?

Cities in Georgia with the most Locomotive Engineer job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Locomotive Engineer jobs in GA?

For Locomotive Engineer jobs in GA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Locomotive Engineer job openings in Georgia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,780 per year, or $22.5 per hour.

Operator -Rail Support

Macon, GA • On-site


Vulcan Materials Company
Coal, Metals and Minerals Mining • 10K+ employees

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 151 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

298th of 544 rated manufacturers

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Recommended by students


Full-time

Posted 16 days ago


Job description

Essential Functions
Job requirements include weighing trucks on scale; entering appropriate data into computer (price, product, weight, customer name, etc.)
Collecting cash/checks; interfacing with company personnel and with outside haulers
Generating bill of sale, dray tickets, and bills of lading
Inspect all equipment on cars prior to movement. Instruct locomotive operator threw radio communication in coupling and uncoupling cars, operate switches, and make minor repairs to railcars, including replacing heavy couplings; i.e., replacing broken knuckles or air brake hoses
Required to operate switches; operate uncoupling levers; operate remote control devices; sets/releases hand brakes; inspects and makes minor train repairs; comprehends color and/or hand signals, safety, operating rules and communications; and, switching activities and train movements
Operate and maintain rail equipment, including locomotives, railcars, and other specialized equipment
Conduct regular inspections of rail equipment to ensure safety and compliance with regulations
Perform minor repairs and maintenance on rail equipment
Receive and review directions from supervisor, lead man and clerk and discuss with locomotive engineer and other crew members
The employee may work in high and/or precarious places or cramped work space that requires getting into awkward positions
Must be able to stand, walk, or sit for extended periods of time; grip, climb, reach, shovel, squat, crawl, or pull, push, as well as, bend and lift up to 45 pounds
Must be able to speak, read, and have a working knowledge of the English language if required for the position
Performs start-up and shut down procedures and monitors material flow, load out settings throughout assigned responsible area, making adjustments as required to maximize production and to provide a quality product along with operating same such machines to load same finished product into rail car
Comply with all safety rules and regulations
Critical Competencies
Technical Expertise-Solid mechanical understanding of mobile equipment, including basic maintenance checks and troubleshooting minor issues. Ability to identify signs of equipment malfunction and report them to the maintenance team.
Problem Solving- identify, analyze, and resolve work-related issues efficiently and effectively using practical knowledge, experience, and hands-on skills. This involves identifying the problem, diagnosing the cause, finding practical solutions, implementing fixes, and adapting to unexpected challenges.
Safety Awareness- Ability to recognize, understand, and adhere to safety protocols and procedures in the workplace; proactive in identifying potential hazards, taking steps to mitigate risks, and ensuring that both personal and collective safety are maintained in all tasks and environments.
Collaboration- Ability to work effectively with others to achieve common goals by fostering teamwork, open communication, and mutual respect. It involves actively listening, sharing ideas, problem-solving collectively, and leveraging diverse skills and perspectives. Strong collaboration requires adaptability, conflict resolution, and a willingness to support team members, ensuring productivity and a positive work environment.
Adaptability: Adjusts to new conditions, challenges, or changes in the work environment; demonstrate the ability to be flexible, open-minded, and resilient when facing shifting priorities, unforeseen obstacles, or evolving situations; responds positively to change, learns new skills when necessary, and maintains high performance even in unfamiliar or uncertain circumstances.

Education
High School Diploma/GED or an equivalent combination of training and work experience.
Experience
Office and clerical experience, word processing, and calculator operations are preferred.
Knowledge of the rail weight regulations, capacities, and limitations is a plus.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Proficient in operating and maintaining rail equipment, including locomotives, railcars, and other specialized equipment.
Strong mechanical and electrical skills
Excellent communication skills
Able to perform switching, loading/unloading, breaking or making up of trains.
Must be able to operate hand controlled rail switches, pneumatic air valves, manual hand-wheel brakes on railcars, high pressure water hoses, pry bar and shovel
Able to safely and efficiently operate rail load out through the use of conveyor belts, crushers, motor, gear boxes, screens, etc.
Work outdoors and exposed to varying and/or extreme weather conditions (i.e., heat, wet, cold, etc.)
Strong mechanical and electrical skills.
Ability to read and understand technical manuals and schematic
Other Requirements
Must be able to work required overtime, weekends and flexible work schedule as needed
Travel with the train on its assigned route to protect the movement of train
Maintain a clean and safe work environment
Strong mechanical and electrical skills
Valid driver's license
JD Disclaimer
Vulcan Materials Company is an equal opportunity employer.


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