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Locomotive Entry Level Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Locomotive Engineers (88U)

Houston, TX · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Position is entry level. REQUIREMENTS: * A U.S. citizen or permanent resident with a valid Green ... SKILLS YOU'LL LEARN: * Locomotive Operations. * Signals Usage. * Car Coupling & Uncoupling.

Locomotive Switchman/Conductor

Mulberry, FL · On-site

$21/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... with locomotive operators and fellow crew members. Railroad experience is a plus, but it is not ... Many of our supervisors and crew leaders began in entry-level rail roles before advancing through ...

Transloader- Augusta, GA

Concord, NC · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

This is an entry-level opportunity with training provided for individuals who are reliable, safety ... This position involves working around railcars, locomotives, transfer equipment, and industrial ...

Transloader- Augusta, GA

Augusta, GA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

This is an entry-level opportunity with training provided for individuals who are reliable, safety ... This position involves working around railcars, locomotives, transfer equipment, and industrial ...

Production Mechanic

Muncie, IN · On-site

$19 - $21/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

1st & 2nd Shift Production Mechanic (Locomotive Assembler) Muncie, IN Full-time, Weekly Pay, and ... On-the-job training is available, making this a great opportunity for entry-level mechanics and ...

Seabrook, TX - Rail Switching Technician

Seabrook, TX

$18 - $20/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Railserve.com In this role, you'll work as part of a team to operate locomotives, assist with switching operations, and support the safe movement of railcars. This is an entry-level opportunity with ...

Decatur- Rail Switching Technician

Decatur, IL · On-site

$22.50 - $24/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

In this role, you will operate locomotives, assist with switching operations, and support the safe movement and placement of railcars. This is an entry-level opportunity with training provided for ...

Rail Switching Technician- La Porte, TX

La Porte, TX · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Railserve.com In this role, you'll work as part of a team to operate locomotives, assist with switching operations, and support the safe movement of railcars. This is an entry-level opportunity with ...

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Showing results 1-20

Locomotive Entry Level information

See salary details

$17

$26

$41

How much do locomotive entry level jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for locomotive entry level in the United States is $26.64, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.63 and $27.64 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a locomotive entry level job?

Locomotive entry level jobs are positions in the rail industry that involve assisting with the operation, inspection, and maintenance of trains and locomotives. These roles are designed for individuals who are new to the railroad industry and typically require minimal prior experience. Common duties include helping with train preparation, performing safety checks, and learning about train operations under the guidance of experienced personnel. Entry level roles may also include classroom and on-the-job training to prepare employees for more advanced positions, such as locomotive engineer or conductor.

What skills and qualifications are needed for a locomotive entry level job?

To thrive as a Locomotive Entry Level worker, you need basic mechanical aptitude, physical fitness, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with safety protocols, train operation systems, and sometimes completion of railroad training programs are typically required. Attention to detail, strong communication, and teamwork are important soft skills for this role. These skills are crucial for maintaining safety, following procedures, and ensuring efficient train operations.

What are common challenges faced by entry-level locomotive operators, and how can new hires overcome them?

Entry-level locomotive operators often face challenges such as adapting to irregular work schedules, learning complex safety protocols, and operating equipment in varied weather conditions. New hires can overcome these hurdles by actively engaging in hands-on training, seeking guidance from experienced colleagues, and maintaining a strong focus on safety procedures. Building good communication skills and being proactive about learning can also ease the transition into this demanding but rewarding role.

What is the difference between Locomotive Entry Level vs Locomotive Apprentice?

AspectLocomotive Entry LevelLocomotive Apprentice
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some technical trainingHigh school diploma; technical training or apprenticeship programs
Work EnvironmentRail yards, depots, and on trainsTraining facilities, rail yards, on-the-job learning
Employer & Industry UsageRailroads, freight and passenger servicesRailroad companies, training programs for new hires

Locomotive Entry Level roles typically require basic education and some technical training, focusing on operational tasks. Locomotive Apprenticeship programs are more structured, combining classroom instruction with hands-on training, preparing individuals for full locomotive operation. Both roles are essential in the rail industry, but apprenticeships offer a more comprehensive training pathway.

What are the most commonly searched types of Locomotive jobs?

The most popular types of Locomotive jobs are:

Infographic showing various Locomotive Entry Level job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,402 per year, or $26.6 per hour.

Locomotive Engineer/Conductor (Entry level)

CGB Enterprises

Jeffersonville, IN • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 14 hours ago


Job description

Thank you for your interest in joining our team! At CGB, you can contribute to meaningful work, grow professionally and personally, and belong in a place where everyone has a voice.

Founded in 1969, CGB Enterprises, Inc. is known as an innovative and progressive leader in the grain and transportation industries. Today, CGB operates an enterprise with over 100 locations and nearly 2,000 U.S. employees overseeing a diverse family of businesses that provide an array of services for producers and logistics services for an international base of customers. The combination of our assets provides a growing organization that is celebrating over 50 years of strength and stability!

This job is primarily responsible for the safe operation of locomotives, movement of railcars and track maintenance while operating under the rules and regulations of the Federal Railroad Administration.

In this job, you will:

Actual responsibilities will vary depending on daily needs and type of facility.

  • Fully participate in the company Safety Program and attend daily pre-shift meetings.
  • Perform all duties within compliance of FRA, company safety, and environmental regulations (ISO where applicable); including wearing appropriate PPE for task being performed.
  • Maintain and inspect all equipment before use.
  • Switch out and deliver railcars according to supervisor instructions and information provided by other relevant sources.
  • Assist with set up and use of remote unit(s) and locomotive operation set up.
  • Complete all rail documentation requirements timely, accurately and legibly.
  • Assist in the communication/coordination of rail movements with other operators and railroads.
  • Use signals and communication equipment to coordinate the movement, start and stop of rail cars.
  • Monitor surroundings to detect hazards e.g. cars/trucks movement at crossings, track obstructions etc.
  • Other duties as assigned.; including performing minor maintenance on locomotive and track maintenance.

Here's what you'll need to be considered:

Education

Required - High school diploma or equivalent, or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Experience

Required - None.

Preferred - 1 years' experience working in an industrial environment with a dependable work record.

Certification/License

Required - Must hold a valid driver's license in state of issuance and with good driving record no DUI's or operating under the influence within the last 3years.

Required - Must achieve and maintain FRA License and certification provided by in-house training.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

  • Strong multi-tasking skills with exceptional attention to detail.
  • Basic mathematical skills (add, subtract, multiply, divide).
  • Effective interpersonal, oral and written communication skills with the ability to interact with all levels of people within and outside the organization.
  • Ability to plan and execute multiple movements of railcars in sequence.
  • Able to follow direction and to use logical thought process to interpret oral and written instructions and troubleshoot problems.
  • Ability to work well both independently and within a team environment.
  • Ability to use tools appropriate for assigned task.
  • Ability to remain focused on exceptional customer service, both internally and externally.
  • Ability to read and understand measurements.

Here's additional information you need to know:

Physical Demands & Requirements

The physical demands and requirements frequencies of this job may vary depending on the specific location and operational needs as well as other factors.

  • Ability to pass all required testing under FRA and DOT for this position (where applicable).
  • Ability to balance constantly/continuously.
  • Ability to bend, stoop, twist, crouch, crawl, kneel and squat (constantly/continuously) frequently.
  • Ability to climb stairs and climb ladders (constantly/continuously)
  • Ability to concentrate on task without becoming distracted, constantly/continuously.
  • Ability to reach overhead frequently.
  • Ability to enter information into a computer (observations, other computers).
  • Ability to grasp and reach frequently.
  • Ability to lift/push/pull 85 lbs. occasionally.
  • Ability to meet requirement of and utilize all applicable PPE, when applicable.
  • Ability to meet requirements of PFT and fit testing, when applicable.
  • Ability to reach forward and grasp constantly/continuously.
  • Ability to stand and walk constantly/continuously.
  • Ability to understand and communicate verbally, in person and over two-way radio (and recognize emergency alarms).
  • Ability to understand and communicate written instructions.
  • Ability to work extended hours, weekend, holidays and/or alternate shifts as needed.
  • Ability to work in an environment with high dust levels.
  • Ability to work on call as needed.
  • Ability to work outside in extreme weather conditions.
  • Acutely aware of surroundings with ability to quickly adjust to a signal or change in environment.
  • Uses near, far and peripheral vision and depth perception for task(s) being performed.
  • Uses vision to recognize and distinguish between railroad signals colors (red, white, green, yellow, blue)(where applicable).

Environmental Conditions

The work environment described here are meant to be representative of those an employee would normally encounter while performing the essential functions of this job.

The physical environment requires the employee to work both inside and outside in heat/cold, wet/humid, and dry/arid conditions. Frequently required to use personal protective equipment.

The expected base pay range for this role is:

$20.00 - $30.00

Actual pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including work location, job-related knowledge, skills and relevant experience for the job. Pay amount does not guarantee employment for any particular period of time.


Are you ready to make a meaningful career move & an impact at CGB? Apply today!

CGB Enterprises, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal links inEnglishorSpanishare listed here. Also, we are unable to legally hire anyone who is not eligible to work in the United States nor are we able to sponsor visas.


The above is intended to describe the general content of and requirements for the performance of this position. It should not be construed as a detailed description of all the work requirements that may be performed in the job.

All Third Party Agencies, Headhunters, and Recruiters

CGB Enterprises, Inc. and its Subsidiaries only forms contracts with recruiters with whom we have an established relationship and with whom we have in place a signed contract. All contact from third parties must go through our Human Resources Department. Any contact made outside of our Human Resources Department by a third party will cancel any future business relationships between the third party and CGB Enterprises, Inc. and its Subsidiaries.


This posting may use automated systems to help distribute listings to job seekers based on relevance (e.g., search terms, location, engagement). Hiring decisions are made by CGB personnel. Questions? Contact Recruiting@cgb.com