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Locomotive Maintenance Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Marmon Holdings, Inc.

$26 - $30/hr

This is a full-time, hands-on mechanical role critical to maintaining reliable locomotive equipment and supporting safe, efficient customer operations. Tools and a company truck are provided by ...

G&W

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 ...

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 ...

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Locomotive Maintenance information

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$5

$29

$44

How much do locomotive maintenance jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 13, 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 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 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Locomotive Maintenance, and why are they important?

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 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.
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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $61,577 per year, or $29.6 per hour.
Gary Railway Company | Locomotive Machinist (GRW-268)

Gary Railway Company | Locomotive Machinist (GRW-268)

Transtar

Gary, IN • On-site

Full-time

Posted 23 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 Locomotive Machinist is a Locomotive Department position of the Gary Railway Company of Transtar, Inc. The Locomotive Machinist is responsible for the inspection, repair, and maintenance of diesel locomotives and mechanical road/shop equipment in field and shop environments.
Job Responsibilities:
  • Receives instructions regarding work to be done.
  • Determines materials and required tools.
  • Inspects, maintains, and repairs diesel locomotives, and mechanical shop equipment.
  • Communicates written and/or verbal findings of inspections to Supervisor.
  • Performs disassembly, repair, replacement, rebuild, re-assembly, installation, adjustment, alignment, and lubrication activities on mechanical equipment.
  • Performs welding and burning.

Requirements:
  • Valid driver's license is required.
  • High School Diploma or equivalent (GED) is required.
  • Trade school or formal railroad locomotive maintenance training required.
  • Experience with diesel or gas powered engine, troubleshooting, repairs, overhauls and fuel / lubricating systems is required.
  • A journeyman or has 4 years' experience in the mechanical maintenance field is required.
  • Locomotive experience - running repair, truck overhaul, EMD engine experience preferred.
  • Technical training related to machinist / mechanic work alignment of rotating equipment, compressed air brake maintenance, and heavy equipment maintenance is a plus.
  • Locomotive electrical training preferred.
  • Ability to work overtime, weekends, holidays, and on-call is required.
  • Ability to work outdoors in inclement work conditions is required.
  • Performing manual labor and lifting in excess of 50 pounds is required.

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.

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