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Locomotive Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Locomotive Engineer: To safely maintain responsibility for safe and efficient operation of the locomotive; To safely perform manipulation of throttle and brake controls as well as interpreting gauges ...

Locomotive Engineer: To safely maintain responsibility for safe and efficient operation of the locomotive; To safely perform manipulation of throttle and brake controls as well as interpreting gauges ...

Train Crew

Boone, IA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

As you progress in your career, you may have the opportunity to apply for engine service (fireman's class) and become a Class 1 Locomotive Engineer. In your initial year of service, you can expect ...

Train Crew

Ankeny, IA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

As you progress in your career, you may have the opportunity to apply for engine service (fireman's class) and become a Class 1 Locomotive Engineer. In your initial year of service, you can expect ...

Train Crew

Des Moines, IA

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

As you progress in your career, you may have the opportunity to apply for engine service (fireman's class) and become a Class 1 Locomotive Engineer. In your initial year of service, you can expect ...

Train Crew - Boone, IA

Boone, IA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

As you progress in your career, you may have the opportunity to apply for engine service (fireman's class) and become a Class 1 Locomotive Engineer. In your initial year of service, you can expect ...

Train Crew

Boone, IA

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

As you progress in your career, you may have the opportunity to apply for engine service (fireman's class) and become a Class 1 Locomotive Engineer. In your initial year of service, you can expect ...

Staff Test Engineer

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$79K - $112K/yr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

The Staff Test Engineer will support IST Engineering in the design, development, and facilitation ... Broad railroad experience pertaining to locomotive technologies, operations and operating practices ...

Staff Test Engineer

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$79K - $112K/yr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

The Staff Test Engineer will support IST Engineering in the design, development, and facilitation ... Broad railroad experience pertaining to locomotive technologies, operations and operating practices ...

Staff Test Engineer

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Retirement

Summary: The Staff Test Engineer will support IST Engineering in the design, development, and ... Broad railroad experience pertaining to locomotive technologies, operations and operating practices ...

Summary: The Staff Test Engineer will support IST Engineering in the design, development, and ... Broad railroad experience pertaining to locomotive technologies, operations and operating practices ...

Staff Test Engineer

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$79K - $112K/yr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

The Staff Test Engineer will support IST Engineering in the design, development, and facilitation ... Broad railroad experience pertaining to locomotive technologies, operations and operating practices ...

Staff Test Engineer

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$79K - $112K/yr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

Summary: The Staff Test Engineer will support IST Engineering in the design, development, and ... Broad railroad experience pertaining to locomotive technologies, operations and operating practices ...

Staff Test Engineer

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$79K - $112K/yr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

Summary: The Staff Test Engineer will support IST Engineering in the design, development, and ... Broad railroad experience pertaining to locomotive technologies, operations and operating practices ...

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Showing results 1-20

Locomotive Engineer information

See Iowa salary details

$16

$25

$39

How much do locomotive engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for locomotive engineer in Iowa is $25.02, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.34 and $25.96 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 Iowa?

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

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

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

What job categories do people searching Locomotive Engineer jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Locomotive Engineer jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Locomotive Engineer jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Locomotive Engineer job openings:

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

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

Infographic showing various Locomotive Engineer job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 91% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,037 per year, or $25 per hour.

Full-time

Re-posted 27 days ago


Job description

SUMMARY OF POSITION

The primary function of the Conductor is to maintain responsibility over the physical operation and safety of the locomotive. All train crew employees are responsible for strict adherence to safety guidelines and for completing their duties with integrity and professionalism.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Conductor:

To always ensure compliance with all train orders, signals, and railroad rules and regulations for safety, operations, and the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA);

To always review instructions from dispatchers and yardmasters, and discuss with locomotive engineer and train crew;

To always inspect all equipment on cars prior to departures;

To accurately receive and transmit information by radio and telephone;

To accurately read and understand bulletins, work orders, and switch lists;

To safely assist and instruct train crews to couple and uncouple cars, operate switches, and make minor repairs to railcars, including replacing heavy couplings or air brake hoses;

To safely and professionally work with customers to ensure accurate movement and placement of cars;

To always safely maintain awareness of surrounding area and suspicious activity to ensure rail safety;

To comprehend color and/or hand signals and systems;

To safely, quickly, and repeatedly make precise adjustments in moving the controls of a machine or vehicle to exact positions;

To accurately and quickly respond (with the hand, finger, or foot) to visual symbols, signals and displays (sound, light, picture, etc.);

Locomotive Engineer:

To safely maintain responsibility for safe and efficient operation of the locomotive;

To safely perform manipulation of throttle and brake controls as well as interpreting gauges and controls;

To safely manipulate valves and switches both inside and outside of the cab;

To safely and efficiently apply and release handbrakes;

To safely ascend and descend steps and ladders to get on and off the equipment;

To takes directions from conductors and brakemen;

To safely line switches;

To safely perform maintenance services to the locomotive (brake shoes, oil, sand and fuel);

To always comply with all new and outstanding railroad instructions regarding the operation of the train.;

To always comply with all federal regulations regarding the operation of the train air brakes; and

To perform any additional duties as assigned by operations and/or management.

ESSENTIAL JOB REQUIREMENTS:

18 years of age or older;

Valid Driver's License;

2 years verifiable work experience and/or college; railroad industry experience strongly preferred;

Must pass all required assessments;

Must pass a background screening;

Federal regulations require random testing for drugs and/or alcohol;

No driving violations involving alcohol or drugs within the past 3 years;

Knowledge of and skills in using hand tools, including wrenches, sockets, screwdrivers, measuring tapes, etc. and skills in using power tools and hydraulic equipment, including portable grinders, rail saws, spike pullers, track wrench machines, power drills;

Prefer experience reading and comprehending safety manuals, operating and maintenance instructions, test materials, drawings, schematics, and procedure manuals;

Must be able to meet physical requirements of the position;

Position requires flexible work schedule and the need to work overtime on occasion; and

Must report to work as called on a 24-hour schedule.

CORE COMPETENCIES

Verbal Comprehension – Understands oral and written communications (both general and technical).

Communication Skills – Provides clear instructions/directions. Listens and adheres to operations and management guidance.

Reasoning Skills – Demonstrates high level of skill to effectively use his/her problem solving and troubleshooting skills.

Time Management – Values and manages time effectively. Effectively prioritizes, manages, and organizes workload and broad range of activities.

Excellent Interpersonal Skills – Ability to communicate and collaborate with diverse personalities.

Exceptional Organizational Skills – Demonstrates high level of organization.

Resourcefulness – Ability to find innovate ways to overcome obstacles, problems, and unforeseen/challenging situations.

ESSENTIAL PHYSICAL DEMANDS/WORK ENVIRONMENT

Locomotive Engineers must meet and maintain the following physical requirements:

Must meet and maintain color vision requirements as described in the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) Regulations; and

Must meet and maintain all hearing requirements as described in the FRA Regulations.

The physical nature of the work will vary from day to day based on operational needs; however, the job requires that the incumbent be able to perform the following non-exhaustive list: climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, bending, crouching, crawling, reaching, standing, walking, pushing, pulling, lifting, typing, grasping, handling, feeling, talking, hearing, seeing, and repetitive motion. Employees in this position may work in cramped, confined, enclosed, or awkward places. Employees will walk long distances over uneven terrain. Heavy work requires occasional lifting, carrying, frequent pushing and pulling of up to or greater than 80 lbs. A wide range of motion is required for throwing ground and waist-level switches. Outdoor position requiring a tolerance to extreme heat, cold and wet conditions. Employees in this position must be able to work outside in all weather conditions. Perform activities in the proximity of moving equipment. Good auditory and visual acuity/tracking/inspection, accommodation, field of vision and depth perception to successfully perform duties and for general safety. Color vision is necessary for perceiving signals. Employees must wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) including but not limited to hearing protection, safety-toe boots, and safety glasses. Must be able to work outside in all weather conditions.

This is a Safety Sensitive Position

SAFETY

Safety is the cornerstone value in our Company. Our employees are expected to live our values on the job in how we work, how we act, and how we create value. Safety is a personal responsibility. We are professionals and our activities must reflect that professionalism. Each team member must demonstrate safety advocacy every day – regardless of their role in the Company. Compliance with safety and operating rules is required and essential to our own safety and that of others.