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Locomotive Trainee Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Utilityman/Conductor Trainee Posting Start Date: 7/7/26 Job Location: UNITED STATES SUGAR ... Mount and dismount locomotive and check switch points for proper alignment This position will be ...

Car Repairman Trainee Job ID: 16770 Business Unit: Long Island Rail Road Location: Queens, NY ... Builds, rebuilds, troubleshoots, repairs, tests, replaces and inspects locomotives, passenger ...

Conductor Trainee Mandan ND

Mandan, ND · On-site

$70 - $82/hr

Ability to work at various heights above the ground including on locomotives, railcars and other ... Trainee, Supply, Entry Level, Operations #J-18808-Ljbffr

Showing results 21-40

Locomotive Trainee information

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$21.5K

$47.5K

$82K

How much do locomotive trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for locomotive trainee in the United States is $47,524.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37,500.00 and $52,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a locomotive trainee?

Locomotive Trainees are entry-level employees who are training to become qualified locomotive engineers or conductors. They learn how to safely operate trains, understand railroad regulations, and perform essential checks and maintenance. The training involves both classroom instruction and hands-on experience under the supervision of experienced personnel. Upon successful completion of training and required certifications, they are eligible to operate locomotives independently.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a locomotive trainee?

To thrive as a Locomotive Trainee, you need a high school diploma or GED, strong mechanical aptitude, and basic knowledge of safety regulations. Familiarity with train control systems, radio communication devices, and completion of federally mandated certification programs is typically required. Attention to detail, strong communication, and the ability to stay calm under pressure are standout soft skills for this role. These skills are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and compliant train operations in a dynamic rail environment.

What are some common challenges a locomotive trainee might face during their initial months on the job?

As a Locomotive Trainee, you may find adjusting to irregular work hours and shift rotations to be a significant challenge, since rail operations often run 24/7. Learning and adhering to strict safety protocols, as well as quickly mastering the technical aspects of train operation and signaling systems, can also be demanding. Additionally, you'll be expected to work closely with experienced engineers and conductors, so effective communication and teamwork are essential for success and for ensuring safe operations.

What is the difference between Locomotive Trainee vs Locomotive Driver?

AspectLocomotive TraineeLocomotive Driver
QualificationsHigh school diploma, training certificationValid driving license, experience, certification
Work EnvironmentTraining sites, rail yardsOn the train, rail routes
Job RoleLearning train operations, safety proceduresOperating trains, ensuring safety and schedule adherence

The main difference is that a Locomotive Trainee is in training to become a licensed Locomotive Driver, focusing on learning and gaining experience. A Locomotive Driver is a qualified professional responsible for operating trains independently. Trainees are in the learning phase, while drivers are fully licensed and perform the actual train operations.

More about Locomotive Trainee jobs

What cities are hiring for Locomotive Trainee jobs?

Cities with the most Locomotive Trainee job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Locomotive jobs?

The most popular types of Locomotive jobs are:

What states have the most Locomotive Trainee jobs?

States with the most job openings for Locomotive Trainee jobs include:

Infographic showing various Locomotive Trainee job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,524 per year, or $22.8 per hour.

2027 Transportation Operations Management Trainee (Various Locations)

Norfolk Southern Corp.

Birmingham, AL

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

A resume helps you stand out to hiring managers and recruiters; your resume communicates your experience and your brand. While it is not required, we encourage you to include an up-to-date resume along with a  job application to give you the best opportunity to be considered. A complete resume helps us to better understand your unique  background, relevant experiences, and passions. We look forward to learning about you.

Transportation Operations Management Trainee

Norfolk Southern is seeking motivated individuals to join our Transportation Operations Management Trainee program. This structured program provides the foundational training and leadership development necessary to prepare for a career in Rail Operations Management. Trainees will gain hands-on experience overseeing train operations, managing conductors and locomotive engineers, and ensuring the safe and efficient movement of freight across our 22-state network.

Program Overview

The Rail Transportation Management Trainee program is designed to provide comprehensive training in railroad operations, leadership, and safety. Key components of this 6+ month training program include:

  • Participation in a conductor certification course to gain practical experience in train operations.
  • Instruction on managing terminal and territory operations, with exposure to key decision-making responsibilities.
  • Leadership development training focused on operational efficiency, safety, and workforce management.

Projected Start Date

The projected start date for this position is January 2027. 

What Makes a Successful Transportation Trainee?

  • Commitment to safety and adherence to operational protocols.
  • Demonstrated leadership abilities and a proactive mindset.
  • Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills to navigate complex operational challenges.
  • Effective communication and relationship-building skills to engage with teams and stakeholders.
  • Adaptability and resilience in a dynamic, fast-paced work environment.
  • Willingness to work a flexible schedule, including nights, weekends, and holidays, as well as in outdoor conditions.
  • Willingness to travel and relocate. 

Education & Experience

  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in any field.
    • Current college seniors are eligible to apply - all offers are contingent on graduation prior to start date. 
  • OR a minimum of four years of leadership experience in industries such as military, manufacturing, transportation, or logistics.
  • Military personnel with experience in the following roles are encouraged to apply:
    • Army: Railway Operations Crewmember (11B, 13B, 88M)
    • Navy/Marines: Logistics Specialist, Embarkation Specialist (0421)
    • Air Force: Traffic Management Apprentice (2T2X1)
    • Coast Guard: Machinery Technician (MK)

Career Progression

The program is designed to develop future leaders in railroad operations by gaining experience in different territories and terminals. This program develops future leaders in railroad operations, equipping them for advancing responsibilities.
 

Join Norfolk Southern and build a career in one of the most critical industries driving the nation's economy. Apply today to be part of a team that moves freight safely and efficiently across our network.

Company Overview

Since 1827, Norfolk Southern Corporation (NYSE: NSC) and its predecessor companies have safely moved the goods and materials that drive the U.S. economy. Today, it operates a customer-centric and operations-driven freight transportation network. Committed to furthering sustainability, Norfolk Southern helps its customers avoid 15 million tons of yearly carbon emissions by shipping via rail. Its dedicated team members deliver more than 7 million carloads annually, from agriculture to consumer goods, and is the largest rail shipper of auto products and metals in North America. Norfolk Southern also has the most extensive intermodal network in the eastern U.S., serving a majority of the country's population and manufacturing base, with connections to every major container port on the Atlantic coast as well as the Gulf of Mexico and Great Lakes. Learn more by visiting www.NorfolkSouthern.com.

At Norfolk Southern, we believe in celebrating our individuality. By leveraging the unique backgrounds and viewpoints of our employees, we can create a culture of innovation, respect, and inclusion. We know that employees thrive in a workplace where differing viewpoints, ideas, and experiences are freely shared and valued. As such, we encourage all employees to contribute their distinctive skills and capabilities to our organization.

Equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants regardless of race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetic information, veteran status, sexual orientation, and gender identity. Together, we power progress.