ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Locomotive Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

GATX

Locomotive Tech 1

La Porte, TX · On-site

... 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

... 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

... 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 ...

Carload Express

Locomotive Electrician

Harrington, DE · On-site

Following general safety rules, performs diagnostics, installation and repair of locomotive ... operating and maintenance instructions, memos and other work-related information. * Effectively ...

Alstom

Locomotive Electrician

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$37.64/hr

Operating locomotives and passenger coaches as part of a team * Ensuring compliance with FRA and Alstom safety standards * Supporting additional duties as per union agreement All about you We value ...

Alstom

Locomotive Electrician

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$37.64/hr

Operating locomotives and passenger coaches as part of a team * Ensuring compliance with FRA and Alstom safety standards * Supporting additional duties as per union agreement All about you We value ...

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 Electrician

Locomotive Electrician

Carload Express

Harrington, DE

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Company Description

Carload Express is known for our strong investment in rail infrastructure, motive power, traffic development, and for our people. Recognized and trusted by our customers, public-private partnerships and connecting railroads. We are proud to announce the formation of the Delmarva Central Railroad Company ("DCR"), a 162 mile railroad supporting a broad base of high profile customers on the Delmarva Peninsula.

Job Description

The successful candidate will be responsible for the efficient inspection, troubleshooting, preventive maintenance and installation of locomotive mechanical systems / equipment and electrical systems / equipment such as diesel engine, motors, generators, wheels / truck repair, air brake, wiring/lighting systems and other mechanical / electrical components to ensure conformance with FRA, company, and customer specifications. This is accomplished by performing the following duties or ability to be trained to perform.

Duties and Responsibilities

  • Perform required inspections, troubleshooting and preventive maintenance to ensure that locomotive mechanical and electrical systems conform to specifications and operate properly within design limits and intent.
  • Complete inspection and repair reports according to company and FRA specifications and guidelines.
  • Following general safety rules, performs diagnostics, installation and repair of locomotive components to ensure proper operation and compliance with required federal and company specifications.
  • Able to, or able to learn to read with accuracy diesel engine manuals, locomotive schematics, service bulletins, maintenance instructions and other craft related documentation for an EMD locomotive.
  • Tests, installs and repairs system components including but not limited to: pumps, radiators, power assemblies, compressors, air brake repair / change, brushes replacement, commutator repair, panel lighting, circuit breakers, regulator repair / change to ensure all function and equipment conform to required specifications for an EMD unit.
  • Regularly examines and verifies flow / pressure measurements, installation and alignment of rotating equipment, control points, relays and wiring and adjusts or replaces defective parts as needed.
  • Operational qualification of mechanical and electrical control systems to verify conformance to specifications on EMD locomotives using a variety of test equipment and procedures i.e.: gages, dial indicators, manometers, meters, insulation break-down test devices, specialized tooling and live system measurements.
  • Able to read and understand FRA and company rules, specifications and guidelines. Able to legibly document items of non-compliance.
  • Analyzes and able to correct faults related to inspection, troubleshooting, preventive maintenance and installation of locomotive equipment.
  • Assists in all other repairs and maintenance as required by supervision.
  • You may be required to travel to locations away from your home shop in another state and/or country for several days to assist other Carload Express managed companies with repairs and maintenance.
  • Performs other duties as requested or required.
Qualifications
  • High school education or general education development (GED).
  • Preferred 6 months to 3 years job-related work experience; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Perceived aptitude in the mechanical field and/or electrical field and/or diesel engines and demonstrating a desire to learn required.
  • A valid State Driver's License is required. A CDL is a plus and may be required at some locations.
  • Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
  • Knowledge and skills in locomotive or general mechanical and/or electrical repair / maintenance helpful.
  • Reading and interpreting manuals, blueprints, service publications, wiring diagrams, and flow diagrams helpful.
  • Using various testing equipment such as micrometer, dial indicator, gages, insulation test devices, voltmeters, ohm-meters helpful.
  • Recognizing the appropriate application and use of hand tools.
  • Recognizing various power tools, including drills, grinders, and air impact wrenches and their intended use.
  • Ability to use cutting torches and / or welding helpful.
  • Demonstrate an attention to detail and coordinate various activities simultaneously.
  • Ability to operate various industrial equipment including forklifts helpful.
  • Comply with instructions furnished in written, oral and schedule form.
  • Read and comprehend published rules, procedure and manuals, inspection checklists, government regulations, operating and maintenance instructions, memos and other work-related information.
  • Effectively communicates with co-workers, supervisors and associates in a clear, concise, courteous and professional manner.
  • Ability to write legibly.
Additional Information

All jobs will be posted at http://carloadexpress.com/employment/openings/ or information can be obtained by calling human resources at (302) 846-7820.

Apply