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Locomotive Entry Level Jobs (NOW HIRING)

U.S. Army

Locomotive Engineers (88U)

Houston, TX · On-site

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.

Irwin Car &Equipment

Be Seen First

Laborer - Entry Level Mechanic

Irwin, PA · On-site

$22 - $28/hr

Full time person for day shift with mechanical skills required for disassembling and assembling of electrical motors, generators and wheel assemblies for locomotive and industrial equipment. Must ...

Marmon

Sparks, NV- Rail Switching Technician

Sparks, NV · On-site

$23 - $28/hr

Railserve.com 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 ...

Marmon

Midland- Rail Switching Technician

Midland, MI · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Railserve.com 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 ...

Union Pacific Railroad

NE · On-site

You will work in and around our locomotive shops to diagnose issues, make necessary repairs, and ... * Entry level experience reading and understanding electrical AND mechanical schematics * Willing ...

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Locomotive Entry Level information

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$41

How much do locomotive entry level jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 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 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 some 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Locomotive Entry Level worker, and why are they important?

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.

Can you be a train conductor with no experience?

Becoming a train conductor typically requires on-the-job training and a valid certification or license, but prior experience is not always necessary. Entry-level positions often provide training to develop the necessary skills for operating trains and ensuring safety. Candidates should have good communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work flexible hours.

How to get into the locomotive industry?

To become a locomotive operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, a valid driver's license, and a commercial driver's license (CDL) with a passenger or tank endorsement. Relevant skills include understanding safety protocols, operating train controls, and sometimes completing on-the-job training or apprenticeships offered by rail companies.

What are locomotive entry level jobs?

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.
More about Locomotive Entry Level jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Locomotive jobs? The most popular types of Locomotive jobs are:
What job categories do people searching Locomotive Entry Level jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Locomotive Entry Level jobs are:
Locomotive Entry Level jobs near you
Infographic showing various Locomotive Entry Level job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% As Needed. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,402 per year, or $26.6 per hour.
Locomotive Engineers (88U)

Locomotive Engineers (88U)

U.S. Army

Houston, TX • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 6 days ago

United States Army rating

5.9

Company rating: 5.9 out of 10

Based on 468 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

42nd of 46 rated military and defense

Job description

Enlist as a Soldier into the United States Army and as a Railway Specialist (88U), you’ll oversee the Army’s rail network capabilities and infrastructure assessments to assist with safe handling of important cargo. This includes rail planning and properly managing host nation or contracted rail assets, along with car inspections at route stops and following instructions received from signal towers or other trains. This is not a civilian contractor position.  
No experience necessary. Position is entry level.  
REQUIREMENTS:  
  • A U.S. citizen or permanent resident with a valid Green Card.
  • 17 to 34 Years Old.
  • High School Diploma or GED.
  • Meet Tattoo Guidelines.
  • No Major Law Violations.
  • No Medical Concerns.
TESTING & CERTIFICATIONS:  
  • 13 Nationally Recognized Certifications Available.
  • 10 weeks of Basic Training.
  • 6 weeks of Advanced Individual Training.
  • 92 ASVAB Score: Mechanical Maintenance (MM).
SKILLS YOU'LL LEARN:  
  • Locomotive Operations.
  • Signals Usage.
  • Car Coupling & Uncoupling.
BENEFITS:  
Financial Benefits:  
  • Salary and Bonuses: Competitive base pay with potential for bonuses, including enlistment bonuses and re-enlistment bonuses.  
  • Retirement Plan: Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) similar to a 401(k), and a pension plan for those who serve 20 years or more.  
  • Special Pays: Extra pay for hazardous duty, special skills, and deployment.  
Healthcare:  
  • Medical Coverage: Comprehensive medical care for soldiers and their families through TRICARE.  
  • Dental and Vision: Access to dental and vision care services.  
Education:  
  • Tuition Assistance: Financial support for college courses while on active duty.  
  • GI Bill: Benefits for education and training programs, including the Post- 9/11 GI Bill.  
  • Student Loan Repayment: Assistance in repaying student loans.  
Housing and Living:  
  • Housing Allowance: Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) to cover the cost of housing.  
  • On-Base Housing: Access to housing on military installations.  
  • Commissary and Exchange: Discounts on groceries and goods at military stores.  
Career and Training:  
  • Professional Development: Opportunities for leadership training and career advancement.  
  • Skill Training: Technical and tactical training in various fields.  
Family Support:  
  • Family Programs: Support services for families, including counseling and childcare.  
  • Relocation Assistance: Help with moving costs and finding housing.  
Retirement and Veterans Benefits:  
  • Pension: Lifetime monthly pension after 20 years of service.  
  • VA Benefits: Access to Department of Veterans Affairs benefits, including healthcare and home loans.  
Recreation and Leisure:  
  • Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR): Access to recreational facilities, sports programs, and leisure activities.  

What United States Army employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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About US Army

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

National security, health care and social assistance, national security and international affairs and public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Arlington, VA, US

Social media

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