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Locomotive Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Freeport McMoRan

Locomotive Operator Trainee

Morenci, AZ · On-site

$21 - $27/hr

... operators, supervisors, and equipment trainers Responsible for understanding changes to assigned work areas and any potential hazards Responsible for knowing the following procedures: start-up and ...

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 ...

Brightline

Locomotive Engineer

Miami, FL

Your responsibilities include operating locomotives with precision, adhering to strict safety and compliance standards, and maintaining constant situational awareness to ensure smooth and efficient ...

Brightline

Locomotive Engineer

Orlando, FL · On-site

Your responsibilities include operating locomotives with precision, adhering to strict safety and compliance standards, and maintaining constant situational awareness to ensure smooth and efficient ...

Brightline

Locomotive Engineer

West Palm Beach, FL · On-site

Your responsibilities include operating locomotives with precision, adhering to strict safety and compliance standards, and maintaining constant situational awareness to ensure smooth and efficient ...

GATX

Locomotive Tech 1

La Porte, TX

... 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 ...

GATX

Locomotive Tech 1

Saint James, LA · 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 ...

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Locomotive Operator information

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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.

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Locomotive Operator jobs near you
Gary Railway Company | Locomotive Machinist (GRW-268)

Gary Railway Company | Locomotive Machinist (GRW-268)

transtar

Gary, IN • On-site

Other

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

Since the late 1800's, the Transtar companies consist of a group of rail carriers have been an important component in this country's industrial development. Moving billions of tons of raw materials to manufacturing sites. Transporting finished products to market. Storing and handling bulk commodities. Providing rail transport services to hundreds of satisfied customers throughout the nation's industrial heartland.

The Locomotive Machinist is a Locomotive Department position of the Gary Railway Company of Transtar, Inc.  The Locomotive Machinist is responsible for the inspection, repair, and maintenance of diesel locomotives and mechanical road/shop equipment in field and shop environments.

Job Responsibilities:

  • Receives instructions regarding work to be done.
  • Determines materials and required tools.
  • Inspects, maintains, and repairs diesel locomotives, and mechanical shop equipment.
  • Communicates written and/or verbal findings of inspections to Supervisor.
  • Performs disassembly, repair, replacement, rebuild, re-assembly, installation, adjustment, alignment, and lubrication activities on mechanical equipment.
  • Performs welding and burning.

Requirements:

  • Valid driver's license is required.
  • High School Diploma or equivalent (GED) is required.
  • Trade school or formal railroad locomotive maintenance training required.
  • Experience with diesel or gas powered engine, troubleshooting, repairs, overhauls and fuel / lubricating systems is required.
  • A journeyman or has 4 years’ experience in the mechanical maintenance field is required.
  • Locomotive experience - running repair, truck overhaul, EMD engine experience preferred.
  • Technical training related to machinist / mechanic work alignment of rotating equipment, compressed air brake maintenance, and heavy equipment maintenance is a plus.
  • Locomotive electrical training preferred.
  • Ability to work overtime, weekends, holidays, and on-call is required.
  • Ability to work outdoors in inclement work conditions is required.
  • Performing manual labor and lifting in excess of 50 pounds is required.

Transtar LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer.  All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, protected veteran status or disability status.

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