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Rail Engineer Jobs in Mississippi (NOW HIRING)

Locomotive Engineer: · To safely maintain responsibility for safe and efficient operation of the ... Valid Driver's License; 2 years verifiable work experience and/or college; railroad industry ...

Locomotive Engineer: • To safely maintain responsibility for safe and efficient operation of the ... Valid Driver's License; 2 years verifiable work experience and/or college; railroad industry ...

... engineers, mechanics, and MOW Team Members at Watco's Safe Performance Center • Leadership and ... a railroad, industrial plant, or similar location to facilitate the unloading and loading of ...

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Rail Engineer information

See Mississippi salary details

$22.1K

$74K

$122.1K

How much do rail engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for rail engineer in Mississippi is $74,013.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,956.00 and $95,253.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a rail engineer?

To thrive as a Rail Engineer, you need a strong background in civil, mechanical, or electrical engineering, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree and professional accreditation. Familiarity with industry-standard design software (such as AutoCAD, MicroStation, and rail-specific analysis tools) and knowledge of railway safety regulations are essential. Excellent problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help in coordinating with multidisciplinary teams and managing complex projects. These competencies are crucial for ensuring the safety, efficiency, and reliability of rail infrastructure projects.

What are some common challenges rail engineers face when working on large infrastructure projects?

Rail Engineers often encounter challenges such as coordinating with multiple stakeholders, managing project timelines, and adapting to unexpected site conditions. Ensuring safety standards are met while minimizing disruptions to existing rail operations is also a key concern. Effective communication and problem-solving skills are essential, as Rail Engineers frequently collaborate with project managers, contractors, and government officials to deliver projects on time and within budget.

What is the difference between Rail Engineer vs Track Engineer?

AspectRail EngineerTrack Engineer
CredentialsEngineering degree, certifications in railway systemsEngineering degree, certifications in civil or railway engineering
Work EnvironmentDesign, oversee railway projects, coordinate with construction teamsInspect, maintain, and repair railway tracks and infrastructure
Industry UsageDesigning and planning railway systemsEnsuring track safety and functionality

Rail Engineers focus on designing and planning railway systems, while Track Engineers specialize in maintaining and repairing railway tracks. Both roles require engineering credentials and work within the railway industry, but their daily tasks and responsibilities differ significantly.

Are railroad engineers in demand?

Railroad engineers are in steady demand due to ongoing infrastructure maintenance and expansion of rail networks. The job requires technical skills, certifications, and knowledge of safety protocols, and employment opportunities are often influenced by government investments in transportation infrastructure.

How much do rail engineers get paid?

Rail engineers typically earn between $50,000 and $90,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and specialization. Senior or specialized roles can pay higher, often exceeding $100,000, especially with certifications and advanced skills in railway systems and safety protocols.

What does a rail engineer do?

A rail engineer designs, maintains, and oversees the construction and operation of railway systems, including tracks, signals, and rolling stock. They ensure safety, efficiency, and compliance with regulations, often working with specialized tools and requiring technical certifications. Their work environment typically involves field inspections and collaboration with other transportation professionals.

What are popular job titles related to Rail Engineer jobs in Mississippi?

For Rail Engineer jobs in Mississippi, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Rail Engineer jobs in Mississippi look for?

The top searched job categories for Rail Engineer jobs in Mississippi are:

Infographic showing various Rail Engineer job openings in Mississippi as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $74,013 per year, or $35.6 per hour.

Conductor/Engineer GTRA

Patriot Rail

Columbus, MS • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago


Patriot Rail rating

5.0

Company rating: 5.0 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

SUMMARY OF POSITION

The primary function of the Conductor is to maintain responsibility over the physical operation and safety of the locomotive. All train crew employees are responsible for strict adherence to safety guidelines and for completing their duties with integrity and professionalism. 

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Conductor: 

·         To always ensure compliance with all train orders, signals, and railroad rules and regulations for safety, operations, and the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA);

·         To always review instructions from dispatchers and yardmasters, and discuss with locomotive engineer and train crew;

·         To always inspect all equipment on cars prior to departures;

·         To accurately receive and transmit information by radio and telephone;

·         To accurately read and understand bulletins, work orders, and switch lists;

·         To safely assist and instruct train crews to couple and uncouple cars, operate switches, and make minor repairs to railcars, including replacing heavy couplings or air brake hoses;

·         To safely and professionally work with customers to ensure accurate movement and placement of cars;

·         To always safely maintain awareness of surrounding area and suspicious activity to ensure rail safety;

·         To comprehend color and/or hand signals and systems;

·         To safely, quickly, and repeatedly make precise adjustments in moving the controls of a machine or vehicle to exact positions;

·         To accurately and quickly respond (with the hand, finger, or foot) to visual symbols, signals and displays (sound, light, picture, etc.);

Locomotive Engineer: 

·         To safely maintain responsibility for safe and efficient operation of the locomotive;

·         To safely perform manipulation of throttle and brake controls as well as interpreting gauges and controls;

·         To safely manipulate valves and switches both inside and outside of the cab;

·         To safely and efficiently apply and release handbrakes;

·         To safely ascend and descend steps and ladders to get on and off the equipment;

·         To takes directions from conductors and brakemen;

·         To safely line switches;

·         To safely perform maintenance services to the locomotive (brake shoes, oil, sand and fuel);

·         To always comply with all new and outstanding railroad instructions regarding the operation of the train.;

·         To always comply with all federal regulations regarding the operation of the train air brakes; and

·         To perform any additional duties as assigned by operations and/or management.

ESSENTIAL JOB REQUIREMENTS:

18 years of age or older;

Valid Driver's License;

2 years verifiable work experience and/or college; railroad industry experience strongly preferred;

Must pass all required assessments;

Must pass a background screening;

Federal regulations require random testing for drugs and/or alcohol;

No driving violations involving alcohol or drugs within the past 3 years;

Knowledge of and skills in using hand tools, including wrenches, sockets, screwdrivers, measuring tapes, etc. and skills in using power tools and hydraulic equipment, including portable grinders, rail saws, spike pullers, track wrench machines, power drills;

Prefer experience reading and comprehending safety manuals, operating and maintenance instructions, test materials, drawings, schematics, and procedure manuals;

Must be able to meet physical requirements of the position;

Position requires flexible work schedule and the need to work overtime on occasion; and

Must report to work as called on a 24-hour schedule.

CORE COMPETENCIES 

Verbal Comprehension – Understands oral and written communications (both general and technical).

Communication Skills – Provides clear instructions/directions.  Listens and adheres to operations and management guidance.

Reasoning Skills – Demonstrates high level of skill to effectively use his/her problem solving and troubleshooting skills.

Time Management – Values and manages time effectively.  Effectively prioritizes, manages, and organizes workload and broad range of activities.

Excellent Interpersonal Skills – Ability to communicate and collaborate with diverse personalities.

Exceptional Organizational Skills – Demonstrates high level of organization.

Resourcefulness – Ability to find innovate ways to overcome obstacles, problems, and unforeseen/challenging situations.

ESSENTIAL PHYSICAL DEMANDS/WORK ENVIRONMENT

Locomotive Engineers must meet and maintain the following physical requirements:

Must meet and maintain color vision requirements as described in the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) Regulations; and

Must meet and maintain all hearing requirements as described in the FRA Regulations.

The physical nature of the work will vary from day to day based on operational needs; however, the job requires that the incumbent be able to perform the following non-exhaustive list:  climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, bending, crouching, crawling, reaching, standing, walking, pushing, pulling, lifting, typing, grasping, handling, feeling, talking, hearing, seeing, and repetitive motion. Employees in this position may work in cramped, confined, enclosed, or awkward places. Employees will walk long distances over uneven terrain. Heavy work requires occasional lifting, carrying, frequent pushing and pulling of up to or greater than 80 lbs.  A wide range of motion is required for throwing ground and waist-level switches. Outdoor position requiring a tolerance to extreme heat, cold and wet conditions. Employees in this position must be able to work outside in all weather conditions. Perform activities in the proximity of moving equipment. Good auditory and visual acuity/tracking/inspection, accommodation, field of vision and depth perception to successfully perform duties and for general safety. Color vision is necessary for perceiving signals. Employees must wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) including but not limited to hearing protection, safety-toe boots, and safety glasses. Must be able to work outside in all weather conditions.

This is a Safety Sensitive Position

Safety is the cornerstone value in our Company. Our employees are expected to live our values on the job in how we work, how we act, and how we create value. Safety is a personal responsibility.  We are professionals and our activities must reflect that professionalism. Each team member must demonstrate safety advocacy every day – regardless of their role in the Company.  Compliance with safety and operating rules is required and essential to our own safety and that of others.

“The Patriot Way.”

At Patriot, we value our relationships – with our customers, employees, shareholders, communities and other stakeholders. We know that safety, integrity, reliability, ethical behavior and exceptional customer service are critical to building and maintaining strong, mutually beneficial relationships. Everyone at Patriot – from the mailroom to the boardroom – embraces those values. More importantly, as a team, we make it our business to demonstrate them in everything we do. It’s “The Patriot Way.”


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