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Locomotive Maintenance Jobs (NOW HIRING)

ssc

Mechanic Locomotive

Delaware City, DE

$25.59 - $34.94/hr

Inspect, maintain, troubleshoot, and repair malfunctions in diesel engines, air brake equipment, electrical equipment, running gear or locomotive components. * Ability to weld and use a cutting torch ...

Guardian Rail, LLC

Locomotive Diesel Mechanic

Parkersburg, WV · On-site

$24.50 - $32.50/hr

Summary Description The person in this position will inspect, service, and maintain diesel locomotives and on-track equipment in accordance with federal and company regulations, diagnose diesel ...

APP RAILCAR GROUP

Locomotive Diesel Mechanic

Parkersburg, WV · On-site

$24.50 - $32.50/hr

Summary Description The person in this position will inspect, service, and maintain diesel locomotives and on-track equipment in accordance with federal and company regulations, diagnose diesel ...

Genesee & Wyoming Inc

Mechanic

Bay City, MI

$29.80/hr

The person in this position inspects, services, and maintains diesel locomotives in accordance with federal and company regulations, diagnoses diesel-engine malfunctions, and makes indicated repairs ...

Genesee & Wyoming Inc

Mechanic

Norwood, OH · On-site

$28.87/hr

The person in this position inspects, services, and maintains diesel locomotives in accordance with federal and company regulations, diagnoses diesel-engine malfunctions, and makes indicated repairs ...

G&W

Mechanic

Bay City, MI · On-site

$29.80/hr

The person in this position inspects, services, and maintains diesel locomotives in accordance with federal and company regulations, diagnoses diesel-engine malfunctions, and makes indicated repairs ...

Genesee & Wyoming Inc

Mechanic

Fort Wayne, IN

$30.92/hr

The person in this position inspects, services, and maintains diesel locomotives in accordance with federal and company regulations, diagnoses diesel-engine malfunctions, and makes indicated repairs ...

G&W

Mechanic

Fort Wayne, IN · On-site

$30.92/hr

The person in this position inspects, services, and maintains diesel locomotives in accordance with federal and company regulations, diagnoses diesel-engine malfunctions, and makes indicated repairs ...

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Locomotive Maintenance information

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$5

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How much do locomotive maintenance jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for locomotive maintenance in the United States is $29.60, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $38.22 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is locomotive maintenance?

Locomotive maintenance refers to the regular inspection, repair, and servicing of locomotives to ensure their safe and efficient operation. This work includes checking and repairing mechanical, electrical, and control systems, as well as performing preventative maintenance to avoid breakdowns. Maintenance tasks can range from routine oil changes and brake inspections to major overhauls of engines and components. Skilled technicians follow strict safety and regulatory standards to keep locomotives in peak condition and minimize downtime for rail operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in locomotive maintenance?

To thrive in Locomotive Maintenance, you need strong mechanical aptitude, problem-solving abilities, and typically a technical diploma or apprenticeship in diesel technology or a related field. Familiarity with diagnostic software, hand and power tools, and safety protocols is essential, along with certifications like FRA compliance or ASE Diesel certifications. Attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication are vital soft skills for minimizing errors and ensuring workplace safety. These skills ensure efficient locomotive operation, regulatory compliance, and safe rail transport.

What are some common challenges faced in a locomotive maintenance role, and how can they be managed effectively?

One of the main challenges in locomotive maintenance is troubleshooting complex mechanical and electrical systems under time constraints, especially when locomotives are needed back in service quickly. Working with heavy machinery in sometimes adverse weather conditions also requires a strong focus on safety and attention to detail. Collaboration with engineers, conductors, and other team members is essential to coordinate repairs and minimize downtime. Staying up-to-date with the latest diagnostic technologies and maintenance procedures can help technicians address these challenges more efficiently.

What is the difference between Locomotive Maintenance vs Railroad Car Maintenance?

AspectLocomotive MaintenanceRailroad Car Maintenance
CertificationsASE certifications, diesel mechanic licensesASE certifications, general mechanic licenses
Work EnvironmentRepair shops, rail yards, on-site locomotive facilitiesRail yards, maintenance shops, on-site repair facilities
Industry UsageFocuses on engines and mechanical systems of locomotivesFocuses on the structural and mechanical systems of railcars
Common Search/ComparisonLocomotive Maintenance vs Railroad Car Maintenance

Locomotive Maintenance technicians specialize in repairing and maintaining locomotives, focusing on engines and mechanical systems. Railroad Car Maintenance workers, on the other hand, focus on railcars' structural and mechanical components. Both roles require similar certifications and often work in rail yards or repair shops, but their specific duties differ based on the equipment they service.

What do you need to be a locomotive maintenance technician?

To become a locomotive maintenance technician, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, technical training or an associate degree in diesel technology, mechanics, or a related field. Relevant skills include knowledge of mechanical systems, electrical systems, and tools, along with the ability to read technical manuals and perform troubleshooting. Certifications such as ASE or manufacturer-specific training can enhance job prospects.
More about Locomotive Maintenance jobs

What states have the most Locomotive Maintenance jobs?

States with the most job openings for Locomotive Maintenance jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Locomotive Maintenance jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Locomotive Maintenance jobs are:

Locomotive Maintenance jobs near you
Infographic showing various Locomotive Maintenance job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,577 per year, or $29.6 per hour.

Mechanic Locomotive

ssc

Delaware City, DE

$25.59 - $34.94/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

Location: Delaware City, DE

Compensation: $25.59 to $34.94 per hour. OT after 8 hours

Days/Hours: Monday to Friday  

These are just a few of the benefits you can expect from working with Savage: 

  • Opportunities for growth
  • $175 annual steel-toe boot allowance
  • Uniforms provided with laundry service
  • A culture that appreciates our Team Members  
  • Excellent benefits including medical, dental, vision, and 401(k) with match, Paid Time Off (PTO), and paid holidays
  • Profit Sharing

The locomotive mechanic will primarily conduct locomotive mechanical and electrical maintenance, repairs, and troubleshooting, ensuring that the rail equipment needs are supported and maintenance work is completed timely, efficiently, and safely.

 

What you’ll be doing:

  • Ensure compliance with all regulatory railroad rules and regulations for safety and operations.
  • Responsibilities for overall locomotive maintenance.
  • Inspect, maintain, troubleshoot, and repair malfunctions in diesel engines, air brake equipment, electrical equipment, running gear or locomotive components.
  • Ability to weld and use a cutting torch to repair or modify locomotive equipment.
  • Familiar with and ability to perform periodic inspections.
  • Ability to interpret oil sample results.
  • Conduct daily inspections and locomotive servicing.
  • Keeping track of all locomotive inventory.
  • Maintaining a clean and safe work environment.

Requirements to be successful:

  • Preferably 3 years’ experience maintaining, troubleshooting, and repairing EMD locomotives.
  • Self-starter capable of working independently, in line with company goals, strategies, and policies.
  • Ability to work with other members of the team and to follow instruction.
  • Be familiar on EMD 90 and 190 manuals and will develop relationships with material vendors to ensure required materials are on hand for scheduled and unscheduled maintenance.
  • Ability to problem solve and is familiar with locomotive maintenance.
  • Ability to read electrical schematics and troubleshoot low and high voltage AC/DC circuits.
  • Will need to obtain and maintain DOT certification and physical.
  • The successful candidate will have a value system that matches up with the culture that we embrace.
  • The ability to work in adverse weather conditions.
  • Understands that working safely is a pre-requisite and will utilize the provided PPE and employ all defined safe practices while conducting maintenance.
  • Ability to operate proficiently forklift, truck crane, and manlift.
  • Travel will be required for training for this position.
  • Travel will also be required for repairs and maintenance at other facilities.
  • General knowledge of computer skills and ability to maintain filing system for record keeping.
  • Ability to learn and be proficient with the Manager plus program for completing workorders, inspections and maintaining inventory.
  • Must possess hand tools including metric and standard wrench sets, Socket sets (1/4”, 3/8” & ½” Drive with ratchets), Pliers, Channel Locks, Screw Drivers, Multi-meter with extension leads, etc……

Education/Experience:

  • Rail Industry experience is a must.
  • A high school diploma, or equivalent
  • Current/valid driver license 

Some physical requirements and working conditions:

  • The mechanic will be on his/her feet for extended periods of time and walk long distances throughout the day.
  • Navigating the facilities will include, but is not limited to, exposure to harsh weather conditions, uneven ground, ladders, racks, and other high places, ground that can be slick, icy, or uneven, and other industrial hazards.
  • Potential work sites include industrial rail facilities, remote rail lines, and will require someone who can work safely around this type of environment as well as ensure compliance to strict TC/FRA regulations.
  • Ability to lift and maneuver components up to 50 lbs.

 

Probationary Period:

  •  The candidate will be subject to a 90-day probationary period.

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