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Locomotive Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Nucor

Locomotive Operator

Fontana, CA · On-site

The Locomotive operator responsibilities include, but are not limited to the safe receipt and placement of empty and loaded cars and distributing cars to the various departments and campus facilities ...

Tenaris

Locomotive Operator

Koppel, PA · On-site

$30.33/hr

Locomotive Operator LOCATION: Koppel - Pennsylvania - USA DEPARTMENT: INDUSTRIAL OPERATIONS Pay: From $30.33 per hour Schedule: Will work on a rotating shift. Purpose: Performs the operation of ...

Enviri Corporation

Locomotive Operator

Muscatine, IA · On-site

May assist locomotive operator in driving switching locomotive within the plant for loading and unloading of scrap metals and/or product. * Inspects each load of scrap and picks up nonferrous ...

Aurizon

Locomotive Driver - Esperance

Edmonds, WA

Locomotive Driver - Esperance Back to search results Apply now Job Number: 84991-565459 Work type ... Aurizon is Australia's largest rail freight operator and a top 100 ASX company. Each year, we ...

Kinder Morgan inc

Switchman

Fairless Hills, PA · On-site

... locomotive operator • Set track switches properly, set out railcars and pick up rail cars, accordingly. • Judges braking and stopping distances in order to give proper radio signals to the ...

Trans-Global Solutions, Inc.

Locomotive Welder

Baytown, TX · On-site

$17.75 - $23.50/hr

Responsible for the efficient inspection, troubleshooting, preventive maintenance, and repair of locomotive car body, sub-structure, and various components in order to keep locomotives operating at ...

Alstom

Locomotive Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

Have operated a locomotive within one (1) year. * Valid California Driver's License. * 2 years ... verifiable work experience and/or college. * No driving violations involving alcohol or drugs ...

GATX

Locomotive Tech 1

La Porte, TX · On-site

$43K - $56K/yr

... operating condition before starting work. * Conducts locomotive inspections to insure each unit complies with regulatory, industry and customer-specific requirements, and to detect evidence of wear ...

Alstom

Locomotive Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

Have operated a locomotive within one (1) year. * Valid California Driver's License. * 2 years ... verifiable work experience and/or college. * No driving violations involving alcohol or drugs ...

Alstom

Locomotive Engineer

Los Angeles, CA

Have operated a locomotive within one (1) year. * Valid California Driver's License. * 2 years ... verifiable work experience and/or college. * No driving violations involving alcohol or drugs ...

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Locomotive Operator information

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How much do locomotive operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for locomotive operator in the United States is $22.60, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.88 and $23.32 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Locomotive Operators, and how can they be addressed on the job?

Locomotive Operators often encounter challenges such as navigating adverse weather conditions, managing fatigue during long shifts, and ensuring strict adherence to safety protocols. Effective communication with dispatchers and other crew members is essential for coordinating complex train movements and responding to unexpected issues. Many operators find that staying alert, regularly reviewing safety procedures, and participating in ongoing training help them maintain performance and minimize risks on the job.

How do you become a locomotive operator?

To become a locomotive operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, a valid driver's license, and completion of a federal training program such as the Federal Railroad Administration's certification. They must also pass background checks, drug tests, and a medical exam, and often gain experience through apprenticeships or on-the-job training.

How much does a locomotive train driver make?

A locomotive operator typically earns between $50,000 and $70,000 annually, with experienced drivers and those working in certain regions earning higher wages. Salaries can vary based on experience, location, and the employer, and the job often requires certification and safety training.

Is 55 too old to become a train driver?

Locomotive operators, or train drivers, can often start their careers at age 55 if they meet the required physical fitness, training, and certification standards. Age limits vary by employer and region, but many rail companies value experience and may not have strict upper age restrictions as long as health requirements are met. Ongoing training and physical assessments are typically part of the job to ensure safety and performance.

What is the difference between Locomotive Operator vs Rail Yard Clerk?

AspectLocomotive OperatorRail Yard Clerk
CredentialsCommercial driver's license (CDL), train operation certificationHigh school diploma, clerical skills, sometimes certification in record-keeping
Work EnvironmentTrain cab, rail yards, industrial settingsOffice, rail yard administrative areas
Industry UsageRail transportation, freight and passenger servicesRail yard operations, logistics coordination
Job FocusOperating trains safely and efficientlyManaging rail yard documentation and schedules

While both roles are integral to rail operations, Locomotive Operators focus on train operation and safety, whereas Rail Yard Clerks handle administrative tasks within the rail yard. They work in different environments but are both essential for smooth rail transportation.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Locomotive Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Locomotive Operator, you need a thorough understanding of train operations, safety regulations, and mechanical systems, typically supported by a high school diploma and specialized training or certification. Familiarity with train control systems, signaling technology, and sometimes computerized dispatch platforms is crucial. Attention to detail, strong situational awareness, and effective communication are vital soft skills for managing schedules and responding to emergencies. These competencies are essential for ensuring safe, efficient railroad operations and minimizing risks during transit.

What are locomotive operators?

Locomotive operators, also known as train engineers or locomotive engineers, are professionals responsible for driving trains and ensuring their safe operation. They control the speed, handling, and navigation of locomotives on railways, transporting passengers or freight. Locomotive operators must pay close attention to signals, track conditions, and safety regulations while communicating with dispatchers and crew. Their work requires specialized training, certification, and a strong focus on safety.

What Does a Locomotive Operator Do?

As a locomotive operator, sometimes called or sometimes sharing duties with a rail switch, your job is to ensure the proper functioning of a railcar facility, operating engines or switching vehicles between tracks as needed. Other responsibilities include providing briefings and explanations of the tracks, applying rules and special instructions, performing inspections, loading and unloading trains from tracks, and creating daily reports for each railcar whose activities you are logging. Some companies ask you to switch between the control booth and operating a train as a conductor, so you may need to know safe train engine operation and procedures.

What is a locomotive operator?

A locomotive operator, also known as a train engineer or driver, is responsible for operating and controlling trains, ensuring safe and efficient movement of freight or passengers. They monitor instruments, follow schedules, and adhere to safety protocols, often requiring certification and knowledge of railway signals and procedures.
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Locomotive Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Locomotive Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,000 per year, or $22.6 per hour.
Locomotive Operator

Locomotive Operator

Nucor

Fontana, CA • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 19 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Safely receive and place empty and loaded railcars and distribute cars to various departments and campus facilities.

  • Service Nucor operations by shipping out empty and loaded railcars.

  • Assist with other various tasks around the Material Handling department as needed.

Nucor rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 135 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

188th of 521 rated manufacturers

Job description

Job Details

Division: California Steel Industries

Location: Fontana, CA, United States  

Other Available Locations: N/A

Welcome to Nucor, where our unique culture sets us apart. Joining Nucor means becoming part of North America's largest steel and steel products manufacturer, offering unmatched career opportunities and stability. We are known for our innovative sustainability practices and are the continent's largest recycler. Our vibrant culture, built on personal connections and teamwork, empowers every team member with the freedom to innovate and contribute to our collective success. Experience a workplace where safety, efficiency, and meaningful personal connections define every day, enriching both our teammates and the communities we serve.

Nucor supports its teammates with top-tier benefits like Medical, Dental, Vision, and Disability Insurance, 401K and Roth accounts, Profit sharing, Pay-for-performance bonuses, Paid parental leave, Tuition reimbursement, Stock program, Scholarships and more.

Basic Job Functions:

The Locomotive operator responsibilities include, but are not limited to the safe receipt and placement of empty and loaded cars and distributing cars to the various departments and campus facilities and areas.  Additionally, the locomotive operator is responsible for servicing the various Nucor operations by shipping out empty and loaded railcars.  The Locomotive operator is a member of the Material Handling team and will be expected to help with other various tasks around the Material Handling department when needed. The Locomotive operator will be required to qualify on mobile equipment as well.

Must be willing to actively participate in meetings and activities before, during, and after regularly scheduled work hours. Able to work rotating shifts and scheduled/unscheduled overtime including nights, weekends and holidays.

Safety is the most important part of all jobs within Nucor; therefore, candidates must be able to demonstrate the ability to initiate, lead, and uphold safety policies, practices, procedures, and housekeeping standards at all times.

Minimum Qualifications:
  • 96 hours of locomotive cross training
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Prior locomotive operations experience
  • Basic welding, fabrication skills
  • Diesel mechanical experience

Nucor is an Equal Opportunity Employer and a drug-free workplace

What Nucor employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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About Nucor

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Nucor Corporation is an American producer of steel and related products based in Charlotte, North Carolina. It is the largest steel producer in the United States, the largest "mini-mill" steelmaker (i.e. it uses electric arc furnaces to melt scrap steel as opposed to blast furnaces to melt iron), and the biggest recycler of scrap in North America. As of 2021, Nucor was the 15th-largest steel producer in the world.

Industry

Primary metal manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Charlotte, NC, US

Year founded

1905

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