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Locomotive Entry Level Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Train Service job is an entry level transportation position of Transtar's Gary Railway Company ... Maintain cleanliness of locomotive cab. * Work outdoors in all weather conditions and walk extended ...

Transloader- Augusta, GA

Augusta, GA

  • 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 ...

Decatur- Rail Switching Technician

Decatur, IL · On-site

$22.50 - $24/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

Marysville, OH- Rail Switching Technician

Marysville, OH

$19 - $21/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

Midland- Rail Switching Technician

Midland, MI · On-site

$20 - $23/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

Midland- Rail Switching Technician

Midland, MI · On-site

$20 - $23/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 ...

Ville Platte - Rail Switching Technician

Ville Platte, LA · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

Lincoln - Rail Switching Technician

Lincoln, NE · On-site

$20 - $26/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

Decatur- Rail Switching Technician

Decatur, IL

$22.50 - $24/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

Rail Switching Operator

Cincinnati, OH · On-site

$21.50 - $24.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... locomotives, assist with switching operations, and support the safe movement and placement of railcars, while also assisting with basic administrative and clerical tasks. This is an entry-level ...

Rail Switching Operator

Cincinnati, OH · On-site

$21.50 - $24.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... locomotives, assist with switching operations, and support the safe movement and placement of railcars, while also assisting with basic administrative and clerical tasks. This is an entry-level ...

Brunswick, GA- Rail Switching Technician

Brunswick, GA · On-site

$19 - $21/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 ... is an entry-level role; training will be provided Work is performed outdoors in all weather ...

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 ...

Showing results 21-40

Locomotive Entry Level information

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$17

$26

$41

How much do locomotive entry level jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 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.

Union Railroad Company | Train Service (URR-0088)

transtar

Homestead, PA

$20.50 - $26.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 21 days ago


Job description

Since the late 1800's, the Transtar companies consist of a group of rail carriers have been an important component in this country's industrial development. Moving billions of tons of raw materials to manufacturing sites. Transporting finished products to market. Storing and handling bulk commodities. Providing rail transport services to hundreds of satisfied customers throughout the nation's industrial heartland.

The Train Service job is an entry level transportation position of Transtar’s Union Railroad Company located in Duquesne, Pennsylvania. As part of the transportation department, you will perform duties that include the operation of locomotives moving raw materials, finished products.

Job Responsibilities: 
  • Communicate via radio transmitter with crew members and workers in the Yard Office regarding rail transportation work to be performed.
  • Observe hand and radio signals in the yard in accordance with railroad rules and regulations.
  • Operate track switches as needed.
  • Perform procedures required to couple/uncouple rail cars.
  • Push/pull drawhead into place to align for railcar coupling.
  • Apply hand brakes on rail cars not in active use.
  • Maintain cleanliness of locomotive cab.
  • Work outdoors in all weather conditions and walk extended distances over uneven terrain.
Requirements: 
  • A minimum of one-year outdoor work experience is required.
  • High School Diploma or equivalent (GED) is required.
  • Valid driver's license is required.
  • Full time position, working any shift, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week including holidays.
  • Adherence to safety procedures/guidelines at all times. Safety is our core value which requires you to wear safety protection such as hard hats, safety glasses, hearing protection, protective clothing, and boots with metatarsal protection.
  • The position requires punctuality, consistent attendance, self-direction and work collaboratively in a team environment for the success of the operations.
  • Must pass assessment test(s).

Transtar LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, protected veteran status or disability status.