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Railroad Engineer Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Amsted Rail Company

AR Engineering CO-OP

Hammond, IN · On-site

Company Overview Amsted Rail is a private, employee-owned, multi-billion-dollar global corporation ... Position Summary The Engineering Co-Op will work under the supervision of the Engineering and ...

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All JobsRailroad Engineer JobsRailroad Engineer Jobs in Indiana

Railroad Engineer information

See Indiana salary details

$10.5K

$53.3K

$126.6K

How much do railroad engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for railroad engineer in Indiana is $53,260.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $32,400.00 and $56,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges a Railroad Engineer may face during their daily operations?

Railroad Engineers often encounter challenges such as unexpected delays due to track obstructions, adverse weather conditions, and mechanical issues with locomotives. They must remain vigilant and adaptable, ensuring safety protocols are strictly followed while communicating effectively with dispatchers, conductors, and maintenance crews. Additionally, managing fatigue during long shifts and adhering to strict schedules under time pressure can be demanding, making time management and situational awareness essential for success in this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Railroad Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Railroad Engineer, you need a solid understanding of train operations, safety regulations, and mechanical systems, typically supported by a high school diploma or equivalent and completion of a railroad training program. Familiarity with locomotive control systems, signaling technology, and compliance with Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) guidelines is crucial. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective communication are essential soft skills for managing emergencies and coordinating with dispatchers and crew. These skills ensure the safe and efficient movement of trains, protect public safety, and minimize operational delays.

What does a Railroad Engineer do?

A Railroad Engineer, often called a locomotive engineer, is responsible for operating trains that transport passengers or freight across long and short distances. Their duties include monitoring train speed, handling brakes, communicating with dispatchers, and ensuring the safe operation of the train according to schedules and safety regulations. Railroad Engineers must also inspect equipment before and after trips to maintain safety standards. They play a critical role in the efficient and safe movement of goods and people by rail.

What Does a Railroad Engineer Do?

A railroad engineer drives trains along routes to deliver passengers or cargo to different destinations. As a locomotive engineer, your job duties include controlling the speed of the train to account for weather and track conditions, monitoring controls and equipment, maintaining train inspection logs, communicating with other railroad employees in person and over the radio, managing time to keep trains on schedule, and responding appropriately to emergency situations. You must be able to think logically and make quick decisions. You also need strong time management and communication skills to work as a railroad engineer.

What is the difference between Railroad Engineer vs Locomotive Operator?

AspectRailroad EngineerLocomotive Operator
CredentialsCommercial driver's license, safety certifications, technical trainingSimilar certifications, often overlapping with railroad engineer requirements
Work EnvironmentRailroads, train yards, on tracks, in control roomsOn locomotives, train yards, and sometimes in control centers
Employer & IndustryRailroad companies, freight and passenger rail servicesRailroad companies, freight and passenger services

Railroad engineers and locomotive operators often share similar certifications and work environments, both operating trains within the railroad industry. However, railroad engineers typically have more responsibilities related to train operation and safety protocols, whereas locomotive operators may focus more on the physical operation of the train. Both roles are essential for safe and efficient rail transportation.

More about Railroad Engineer jobs
What are popular job titles related to Railroad Engineer jobs in Indiana? For Railroad Engineer jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Railroad Engineer jobs in Indiana look for? The top searched job categories for Railroad Engineer jobs in Indiana are:
What cities in Indiana are hiring for Railroad Engineer jobs? Cities in Indiana with the most Railroad Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Railroad Engineer jobs in IN? For Railroad Engineer jobs in IN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Railroad Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Railroad Engineer job openings in Indiana as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $53,260 per year, or $25.6 per hour.
Railroad Engineer - Conductor

Railroad Engineer - Conductor

Pinsly Railroad

La Crosse, IN • On-site

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

Normal Work Schedule:

Hours of Work: Variable.

Days of Work: Variable.

Note: The hours of work are established as needed by operations and at the direction of management and are subject to change by management as required.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Position will work as both a locomotive engineer and conductor as needed.
  • Inspect locomotive for operational readiness by making FRA- and company-required checks and tests.
  • Receive train consist, which provides the physical makeup of train and includes weights, lengths, location of loads and empties, and cars requiring special handling.
  • Apply knowledge of territory, including terrain, grades, curves, and grade crossings, in order to give prescribed warning signals and to otherwise operate the train in a safe manner.
  • Conducts the movement of rail cars and train movements; signals crew member(s) for movement of the engine or train using lantern, hand and/or flag signals, or radio to indicate when to start, stop, and back-up or set and release air brakes.
  • Observes, interprets, and relays arm, lantern, or radio signals and all other indications affecting movement of a train.
  • Operates track switches (visually checks switch condition and direction) to change the direction of the engine or cars within yard limits or on the main railroad; may apply or release hand brakes to switch or perform other duties.
  • Reads and understands the book of rules, timetables, bulletins, train orders, waybills, placards, safety instructions, and other written or printed material.
  • Prepares required daily reports, switch lists (manually or with a computer), and fills out forms including train orders.
  • Inspects the condition of the train and equipment in movement and while stationary.
  • May couple air and electrical connections between locomotives when making up trains.
  • Comply with train orders, train signals, radio communications, and railroad rules and regulations to operate the locomotive in an efficient and safe manner.
  • Observe track to detect obstructions and to anticipate operating problems, as required by federal or company rules; diagnose minor malfunctions and perform minor maintenance and servicing activities when maintenance personnel are not available.
  • Notify proper authorities and prepare reports to explain accidents, unscheduled stops, or delays.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

REQUIRED SKILLS/ABILITIES

  • Ability to understand printed and written and oral communications.
  • Ability to recognize colors and understand visual displays.
  • Ability to make logical choices and/or draw logical conclusions
  • Ability to judge speed/distance of objects or moving parts.
  • Good eye/hand coordination.
  • Ability to take actions and/or make decisions affecting security/well-being of others.
  • Two years of related work experience and one year of engineer experience; two years of conductor experience preferred.
  • Be able to work outdoors in all weather conditions - including snow, ice, rain, cold and heat - and be expected to work various hours, nights, weekends, and holidays.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

  • High school diploma or GED; and/or equivalent combination of education and work experience.
  • Requires a valid driver's license.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

  • Ascending or descending ladders, stairs, scaffolding, ramps, poles and the like.
  • Moving self in different positions to accomplish tasks in various environments including tight and confined spaces.
  • Remaining in a stationary position, often standing or sitting for prolonged periods.
  • Adjusting or moving objects up to 75 pounds in all directions.
  • High temperatures.
  • Outdoor elements such as precipitation and wind.

Ability to pass a background check and drug screening.

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