ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Locomotive Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Tenaris

Locomotive Operator

Koppel, PA

$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 ...

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 ...

City of Columbia, MO

Railroad Operator

Columbia, MO

Serves as locomotive engineer, train conductor, and dispatcher of trains and maintenance crews ... Ensures compliance with Federal Railroad Administration (FRA), General Code of Operating Rules ...

City of Columbia, MO

Railroad Operator

Columbia, MO · On-site

$23.26 - $33.96/hr

Serves as locomotive engineer, train conductor, and dispatcher of trains and maintenance crews ... Ensures compliance with Federal Railroad Administration (FRA), General Code of Operating Rules ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

People also search for

All JobsLocomotive Operator Jobs

Locomotive Operator information

See salary details

$20

$22

$24

How much do locomotive operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 8, 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.

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.

More about Locomotive Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Locomotive Operator jobs? Cities with the most Locomotive Operator job openings:
Who are the top companies hiring for Locomotive Operator jobs? The top employers for Locomotive Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Locomotive Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Locomotive Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Locomotive Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Locomotive Operator jobs are:
What are popular job titles related to Locomotive Operator jobs? For Locomotive Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Locomotive Operator jobs near you

Locomotive Operator

Cando Rail & Terminals Ltd.

Beaumont, TX • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Cando Rail & Terminals is North America's leading provider of specialized rail operating services and terminal infrastructure that allow industrial shippers to optimize their supply chains and connect to Class I railways by leveraging Cando's operating capabilities and network of owned multi-purpose rail terminals. The company provides a wide range of rail services including industrial switching, material handling, terminal & transload services, short line operations, railcar staging, train assembly, and related services.
Cando Advantages
  • Work Life Balance
  • Cando's Technical and Leadership Training Programs
  • Award Winning Safety Culture
  • Group Life, Accidental Death & Dismemberment, and Long-Term Disability Insurances
  • Health & Dental Benefits including voluntary options
  • Expanding in the US and we welcome you to come grow with us!

Locomotive Operator with Cando are responsible for providing safe and efficient rail car switching services. If you enjoy working outdoors, physical activity, problem solving, and a company that promotes a strong safety culture, this opportunity is for you!
Roles & Responsibilities
The incumbent works in a team environment to provide safe and effective switching services. Responsibilities include:
  • Ensuring safe operation of the locomotive and train movements including conducting clear and concise job briefings.
  • Applying rules, special instructions, and switching procedures while operating as a locomotive engineer or grounds person. This includes but is not limited to working as a team to operate switches and derails, coupling and uncoupling rail cars, managing air hoses, and applying or releasing handbrakes to perform necessary rail car switching maneuvers for the customer.
  • Providing protection of train, track, and equipment.
  • Performing plant and equipment inspections, including air brake tests.
  • Complying with all applicable operating rules, switching procedures, regulations imposed by government, the customer, and/or Cando; practicing and promoting safe work habits.
  • Keeping the interior of the locomotive safe, clean, and tidy.
  • Completing daily inspection and testing of the locomotive brakes and safety devices.
  • Completing daily reports, daily logs, and other reports deemed necessary for the customer or Cando.
  • Actively participating with the team and providing excellent customer service while promoting a superior company image.
  • Participating in training or company initiatives as required.

Skills, Knowledge, & Abilities
  • Excellent teamwork skills and strong customer service skills.
  • Ability to read and write general documentation including safety briefings, policy and procedure manuals, and switching lists.
  • Physically fit including the ability to pull self-up and down from a railcar on a continuous basis, able to lift and twist air hoses, able to secure rail car brakes, and operate both derails and switches effectively.
  • Knowledge with technology and computer systems with a willingness to use Excel and Outlook on a daily basis.
  • Ability to obtain necessary certification and pass Drug/Alcohol and medical clearances to perform the role.

Education & Experience
  • Experience as a Locomotive Operator is preferred.
  • Previous experience in a customer-oriented environment is preferred.

Note: This description is not intended to limit the assignment of work or be construed as a complete list of the many duties to be performed by the incumbent. The qualifications are provided so interested candidates understand of the level of expertise required in this position.
#INDCRUS
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

Apply