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Locomotive Maintenance Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Genesee & Wyoming Inc

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

HARBOR RAIL SERVICES

Locomotive Engineer

Oro Grande, CA

$25 - $30/hr

Maintain accurate records of locomotive operations, inspections, and any incidents occurring during ... shifts. * Ensure compliance with hazardous materials handling guidelines when transporting such ...

Harbor Services

Locomotive Engineer

Oro Grande, CA · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Maintain accurate records of locomotive operations, inspections, and any incidents occurring during ... shifts. * Ensure compliance with hazardous materials handling guidelines when transporting such ...

GATX

Locomotive Tech 1

La Porte, TX · On-site

$43K - $56K/yr

The Locomotive Technician 1 assists other Locomotive Technicians in the maintenance, repair and inspection of GATX-owned locomotives. Ensures that all necessary work order information is complete in ...

Express Employment

Locomotive Mechanic

Minooka, IL

$23 - $28/hr

Inspect, maintain, and repair locomotives, air compressors, road maintenance equipment, and shop mechanical systems. * Tear down, rebuild, and overhaul air compressors and locomotive components.

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Locomotive Maintenance information

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$5

$29

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How much do locomotive maintenance jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 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 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.

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?

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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,577 per year, or $29.6 per hour.

Mechanic

Genesee & Wyoming Inc

Bay City, MI • On-site

$29.80/hr

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago

Genesee & Wyoming rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 31 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

269th of 360 rated logistics

Job description

SUMMARY:

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 using hand tools, measuring instruments, and sometimes machine tools. He or she may operate mechanical equipment to assemble, repair, and fabricate metal parts and may be required to qualify as a shop-service locomotive engineer in accordance with FRA standards.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Ensure compliance with all railroad rules and regulations for safety and operations and with Federal Railroad Administration standards
  • Perform daily inspections, servicing, and maintenance on diesel-electric locomotives, including but not limited to performing scheduled and preventative maintenance as determined by company policy; fueling, checking, and changing oil and liquid levels; changing filters for engine air, air compressor, fuel, and lube oil; replacing and maintaining engine components, traction motors, generators, air compressors, wheels, and truck components; and washing and cleaning locomotives as necessary 
  • Be responsible for following FRA regulations pertaining to locomotive maintenance and inspection as well as railroad environmental requirements 
  • Troubleshoot and diagnose malfunctions in diesel engines, air equipment, trucks, or other components; repair or replace as necessary
  • Perform locomotive car-body repairs as necessary, including performing metal fabrication and welding 
  • Operate forklifts, light cranes, power tools, and hydraulic tools while working outside in all weather conditions, in confined spaces, and/or at elevated heights
  • Assist with other projects and perform other duties as assigned 

REQUIRED SKILLS AND/OR EXPERIENCE:

  • Knowledge of FRA regulations pertaining to locomotive maintenance and inspection
  • Knowledge of railroad environmental requirements
  • Two years of relevant work experience as a heavy mechanic 
  • Ability to read and comprehend written and oral instructions

REQUIRED EDUCATION AND/OR CREDENTIALS: 

  • High school diploma or GED; four-year journeyman locomotive machinist/mechanic a plus; Locomotive Service Engineer certification a plus; welding certification a plus
  • At least eighteen years of age
  • Valid driver’s license 

This position is employed by the specific entity set forth in the job posting.

Genesee & Wyoming Inc. and its subsidiary companies do not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service, or any other protected status under federal, state or local laws.

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