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Locomotive Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Freeport McMoRan

Locomotive Operator II

Claypool, AZ

$27 - $36/hr

As the Locomotive Operator II, you perform track inspections, general track work, flagging trains, opening and closing boxcars, and rerailing cars after train derailments, and may perform minor track ...

Freeport McMoRan

Locomotive Operator II

Claypool, AZ · On-site

$27 - $36/hr

As the Locomotive Operator II, you perform track inspections, general track work, flagging trains, opening and closing boxcars, and rerailing cars after train derailments, and may perform minor track ...

Tenaris

Locomotive Operator

Koppel, PA · On-site

$31.24/hr

Locomotive Operator LOCATION: Koppel - Pennsylvania - USA DEPARTMENT: INDUSTRIAL OPERATIONS Pay: From $31.24 per hour Schedule: Will work on a rotating shift. Purpose: Performs the operation of ...

Freeport McMoRan

Locomotive Operator II

Claypool, AZ · On-site

$27 - $36/hr

As the Locomotive Operator II, you perform track inspections, general track work, flagging trains, opening and closing boxcars, and re‑railing cars after train derailments, and may perform minor ...

Freeport McMoRan

Locomotive Operator I

Claypool, AZ · On-site

$24 - $32/hr

As the Locomotive Operator I, you perform track inspections, general track work, flagging trains, opening and closing boxcars, and rerailing cars after train derailments, and may perform minor track ...

Tenaris

Locomotive Operator

Koppel, PA · On-site

$31.24/hr

Locomotive Operator LOCATION: Koppel - Pennsylvania - USA DEPARTMENT: INDUSTRIAL OPERATIONS Pay: From $31.24 per hour Schedule: Will work on a rotating shift. Purpose: Performs the operation of ...

Freeport McMoRan

Locomotive Operator I

Claypool, AZ · On-site

$24 - $32/hr

As the Locomotive Operator I, you perform track inspections, general track work, flagging trains, opening and closing boxcars, and rerailing cars after train derailments, and may perform minor track ...

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How much do locomotive operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 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 is a locomotive operator?

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 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.

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 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.

How hard is it to become a locomotive operator?

Becoming a locomotive operator typically requires completing a training program, obtaining a commercial driver's license with a passenger or freight endorsement, and gaining on-the-job experience. The process involves learning safety protocols, operating procedures, and passing certification exams, which can take several months to a year depending on the program and employer requirements.

How much does a locomotive operator make?

The average salary for a locomotive operator in the United States is around $65,000 to $75,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer. Many operators earn additional pay for overtime, night shifts, and specialized routes, and must typically hold relevant certifications and safety training.
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Locomotive Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Locomotive Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 37% Full Time, 61% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. 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 II

Freeport McMoRan

Claypool, AZ

$27 - $36/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 20 days ago

Freeport-McMoRan rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 141 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

8th of 41 rated mining

Job description

At Freeport-McMoRan, we are committed to providing an employment package that recognizes excellence, encourages safe production and a culture supported by our core values. Here, you'll find a collaborative environment where safety is a top priority, all opinions are valued, and people are empowered to grow in their career. Apply Today! 

Where You Will Work 

Our Miami smelter and rod plant is nestled just 90 miles east of Phoenix. The smelter processes copper concentrate primarily from our company's Arizona copper mines and is the most significant source of sulfuric acid for our North American leaching operations.Arizona's Globe-Miamihistoric mining district offers natural beauty and a rich mining heritage. The Tri-Town of Globe, Claypool and Miami offers convenient shopping locales, including Walmart, Safeway, Fry's and other local stores. Here, our employees and their families can connect with the outdoors and enjoy the family-friendly atmosphere. Visit Globe-Miami.com to learn more.

What You Will Do

Safely performs duties related to the operation and minor maintenance of locomotive equipment and railroad tracks at a highly skilled level.

  • In this role, you are responsible for the knowledge and safe performance of procedures for working on or near railroad tracks, including the use of chains and slings and inspection for defects, crossing from one side of a train to the other, Blue Stake procedures, reading blueprints for proper building of switches, and illustrating standard crane signals.
  • As the Locomotive Operator II, you perform track inspections, general track work, flagging trains, opening and closing boxcars, and rerailing cars after train derailments, and may perform minor track maintenance duties such as lubricating switches and using track wrenches and pneumatic tools to tighten nuts and bolts on railroad tracks.
  • You may load, unload, and cut bands from railroad tie bundles, transport materials, recognize and report defects on equipment and tools, identify and repair defective track switches, and identify and repair defective rail.
  • Duties also include building track panels, handling and laying track sections, operating ballast regulators, performing ballast train dumping operations, operating spot tampers, track maintainers, and crane cars, and operating track drills, track saws, truckmounted hoists, backhoes, hirail trucks, boom trucks, forklifts, and hydraulic frontend loaders.
  • You train and mentor coworkers and may perform brakeman and switchman duties, including handling, coupling, and uncoupling acid, freight, and concentrate railcars, performing railcar brake inspections, weighing and inspecting railcars, and ensuring proper and safe securing of railcars.
  • You are responsible for the safe movement of freight trains and railcar switching in rail yards, providing clear hand and radio signals to locomotive operators, demonstrating knowledge and safe performance of locomotive horn signals, riding positions, mounting and dismounting moving trains and locomotives, use of hand brakes, proper alignment of railroad track switches, hand and lantern signals, establishing car clearances, crossing over railcars, spotting railcars, connecting multiunit locomotive air hoses, performing locomotive engineer duties including the operation of single and multiple unit locomotives, completing preshift equipment inspections, performing minor maintenance and operations support activities, and performing other duties as required.
What You Bring To Freeport
  • Two (2) years of locomotive operating experience.
  • Must have completed academic and practical competencies required (including Line of Progression requirements for internal employees where LOP exists) and have experience demonstrating the required aptitude, with the ability to apply knowledge and skills while passing a written assessment where required.
  • Ability to understand and apply verbal and written work and safetyrelated instructions and procedures in English.
  • Ability to communicate in English with respect to job assignments, job procedures, and applicable safety standards.
  • Knowledge of the proper use and performance of railroad track jacks.
  • Knowledge of the proper use and performance of claw bars to move rails and spiking or spacing hammers to insert spikes.
  • Knowledge of locomotive mechanical and electrical functions and locomotive air systems.
Preferred Qualifications
  • High Scool Diploma or GED
  • Railroad Transportation experience
  • Familiar with GCOR rules
  • Familiar with the FRA-DOT
  • Familiar with the ACC (Arizona Corporation Commission) 
  • This position will be Monday-Friday 4pm-12am shift 

What We Offer You 

The estimated pay range for this role is currently$27.00 - $36.00/hour. This range reflects base salary only and does not include bonus payments, benefits or retirement contributions. Actual base pay is determined by experience, qualifications, skills and other job-related factors. This role is eligible for additional discretionary and incentive payment considerations based on company and individual performance. More details will be shared during the hiring process. Click here to view a sample of Total Rewards Estimate for this role. 

  • Affordable medical, dental and vision benefits 
  • Company-paid life and disability insurance 
  • 401(k) plan with employer contribution/match 
  • Paid time off, paid sick time, holiday pay, parental leave 
  • Tuition assistance 
  • Employee Assistance Program 
  • Discounted insurance plans for pet, auto, home and vehicle 
  • Internal progression opportunities 
  • Learn more about our competitive and comprehensive benefits package! 

What We Require 

  • Candidates may be required to pass a medical exam. 
  • Candidates must pass all required training and/or testing. 
  • Employees may be required to work a non-standard schedule, which may include shift work (other than day shift) at a 24/7, 365-day operation. 
  • Freeport-McMoRan promotes a drug/alcohol-free work environment using mandatory pre-employment drug testing and on-going drug and alcohol testing, as allowed by applicable laws. 

 Equal Opportunity Employer 

Please be advised that Freeport-McMoRan will never request payment for job-related expenses from applicants. If you receive any suspicious emails, please disregard them, and report the incident to HRSC@fmi.com. 

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