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Locomotive Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 re‑railing cars after train derailments, and may perform minor ...

New

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 re‑railing cars after train derailments, and may perform minor ...

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 ...

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 ...

Freeport-McMoRan, Inc.

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 re-railing cars after train derailments, and may perform minor track ...

New

Freeport McMoRan

Locomotive Operator I

Claypool, AZ

$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 ...

New

Freeport McMoRan

Locomotive Operator I

Claypool, AZ

$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 ...

New

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Locomotive Operator information

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How much do locomotive operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 20, 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 jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Locomotive operators typically do not earn $4,000 per week without specialized experience or certifications. High-paying jobs that can reach this level without a degree often include skilled trades like commercial pilots, certain sales roles, or entrepreneurship, but these usually require specific skills, licenses, or significant experience. Most jobs paying this amount without a degree are rare and often involve high responsibility or risk.

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 much do locomotive operators make?

Locomotive operators, also known as train conductors or engineers, typically earn a median annual salary of around $65,000 to $75,000. Salaries can vary based on experience, location, and the employer, with some experienced operators earning over $100,000 annually. Certification and safety training are often required for this role.

Is 55 too old to become a train driver?

Locomotive operators can often start their careers at various ages, and age is not a strict barrier as long as the individual meets physical and health requirements, which are essential for operating trains safely. Many rail companies value experience and training, and certification programs are available regardless of age, making it possible to pursue a career later in life if physically capable.

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 to ensure safe and efficient transportation of passengers or freight. They monitor signals, operate controls, and adhere to safety protocols, often requiring certification and knowledge of railway systems.
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Locomotive Operator jobs near you
Locomotive Operator I

Locomotive Operator I

Freeport McMoRan

Claypool, AZ • On-site

$24 - $32/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago

New

Freeport-McMoRan rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 137 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

6th of 32 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-Miami historic 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 perform duties related to the operation and minor maintenance of locomotive equipment and railroad tracks at a 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 inspecting them 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 I, you perform track inspections, general track work, flagging trains, opening and closing boxcars, and re‑railing 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 transport materials and perform duties that 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, truck‑mounted hoists, backhoes, hi‑rail trucks, boom trucks, forklifts, and hydraulic front‑end loaders.
  • You may also 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, and 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, guarding or flagging vehicular railroad crossings, spotting railcars, and connecting multi‑unit locomotive air hoses.
  • You may perform minor maintenance and operations support activities and perform other duties as required.
What You Bring To Freeport
  • Six (6) months 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 safety‑related 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.
Preferred Qualifications

What We Offer You 

The estimated pay range for this role is currently $24.00 - $32.00/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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