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Railroad Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

RailPros

$20 - $30/hr

RailPros is the premier provider of engineering and diversified safety services to America's rail and transit industry . Driven by a passion for our people, clients, and communities, we are committed ...

RailPros

$20 - $30/hr

RailPros is the premier provider of engineering and diversified safety services to America's rail and transit industry . Driven by a passion for our people, clients, and communities, we are committed ...

RailPros

$14 - $18.50/hr

RailPros is the premier provider of engineering and diversified safety services to America's rail and transit industry. Driven by a passion for our people, clients, and communities, we are committed ...

Patriot Rail

Engineer/Conductor KJRY

Keokuk, IA

To always ensure compliance with all train orders, signals, and railroad rules and regulations for ... Locomotive Engineer: To safely maintain responsibility for safe and efficient operation of the ...

RailPros

$14 - $18.50/hr

RailPros is the premier provider of engineering and diversified safety services to America's rail and transit industry. Driven by a passion for our people, clients, and communities, we are committed ...

Patriot Rail

Engineer/Conductor KJRY

Keokuk, IA · On-site

To always ensure compliance with all train orders, signals, and railroad rules and regulations for ... Locomotive Engineer: To safely maintain responsibility for safe and efficient operation of the ...

L. G. Everist, Inc.

Conductor

Sioux City, IA

$22.25 - $29.25/hr

D & I Railroad Reports to: Operations Manager Job Summary: The Conductor is responsible for managing all aspects of their train and works directly with the locomotive engineer to ensure the safe ...

RailPros

$14 - $18.50/hr

RailPros is the premier provider of engineering and diversified safety services to America's rail and transit industry. Driven by a passion for our people, clients, and communities, we are committed ...

RailPros

$14 - $18.50/hr

RailPros is the premier provider of engineering and diversified safety services to America's rail and transit industry. Driven by a passion for our people, clients, and communities, we are committed ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsRailroad Engineer JobsRailroad Engineer Jobs in Iowa

Railroad Engineer information

See Iowa salary details

$10.3K

$52.6K

$124.9K

How much do railroad engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for railroad engineer in Iowa is $52,571.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $31,900.00 and $55,400.00 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 is the highest paid railroad job?

The highest paid railroad jobs are typically senior management positions such as railroad executives or chief operating officers, who oversee operations and strategic planning. These roles often require extensive experience, leadership skills, and industry knowledge, and they can earn six-figure salaries or higher. Other well-compensated roles include trainmasters and safety directors, depending on the company and location.

What does a railroad engineer do?

A railroad engineer operates trains, ensuring safe and efficient transportation of passengers or freight. They monitor controls, observe signals, and communicate with dispatchers, often working long hours and requiring certification and knowledge of safety procedures.

Are railroad engineers in demand?

Railroad engineers are in steady demand due to the ongoing need for freight and passenger transportation. Employment opportunities often depend on industry growth, infrastructure investments, and the ability to operate complex machinery safely, with certifications and experience enhancing job prospects.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Railroad engineers typically do not earn $500,000 annually; their salaries usually range from $60,000 to $120,000. High earnings in the transportation industry are more common for executive roles or specialized engineers with extensive experience and certifications. Achieving such a high salary generally requires senior management or executive positions beyond the standard engineer role.

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 Iowa? For Railroad Engineer jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Railroad Engineer jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Railroad Engineer jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Railroad Engineer jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Railroad Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Railroad Engineer jobs in IA? For Railroad Engineer jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Railroad Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Railroad Engineer job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,571 per year, or $25.3 per hour.
Railroad Flagger

Railroad Flagger

National Railroad Safety Services

Sioux City, IA

$25 - $37/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Railroad Flagging
Location: Sioux City, IA
Job Type: Full-Time
Reports To: District Manager
Travel: Yes, travel is expected for this position (50% - 85% on average).
Compensation: $25 - $37 based on experience

Job Description:

National Railroad Safety Services, Inc. (NRSS) is hiring a Railroad Flagger. This role keeps workers safe on train tracks by controlling train movements and following federal safety rules. The job supports major railroads, smaller rail lines, transit systems, state transportation projects, and contractors.

Required Experience: Minimum 2 years of experience with a Class 1 Railroad, Regional Short Line, Transit System, State DOT Rail Division, Railroad Supplier, Railroad Contractor, and/or Railroad Consultant; preferably within the Maintenance Of Way (MOW) Department.

Job Requirements:

  • Skilled with basic computer tools, including Citrix, email, phone, and texting apps
  • Comfortable using Android tablets and smartphones
  • Highly organized with strong attention to detail
  • Good verbal and written communication skills
  • Knowledge of railroad engineering, design, construction, and safety
  • Able to build and maintain strong client relationships
  • Willing to travel for long periods (even months at a time)
  • Able to complete required federal, client, and company training

Job Duties:

  • Coordinate activities at the job site
  • Communicate clearly with dispatchers, train crews, railroad staff, and contractors
  • Lead safety briefings before work begins
  • Follow and enforce all railroad, state, and federal rules
  • Ensure contractors meet training requirements
  • Spot and address any rule violations
  • Complete daily reports on work activities
  • Maintain on-track safety following federal regulations

Work Environment:

  • This job operates in a field environment.
  • Must communicate clearly in English (speaking, reading, and writing)
  • Must be willing to travel or drive long distances
  • Must be able to stand for long periods and walk on uneven ground
  • Must have good vision (near, far, color, and peripheral)
  • Must handle extreme weather (hot and cold)
  • Must work in dusty and noisy environments
  • Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds

Benefits:

  • Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance
  • Short-Term, Long-Term Disability Insurance
  • Paid Vacation and Holidays
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan

Required Education: High School Diploma or Equivalent.

Keywords: Assistant Roadmaster, Bridge Inspector, Bridge Manager, Bridge Maintainer, Bridge Supervisor, Division Engineer (DE), Employee In Charge (EIC), Flagger, Flagging, Flagman, Foreman, Foremen, Maintenance Of Way (MOW), Manager Track Maintenance (MTM), Manager Track Projects (MTP), Rail, Railroad, Railroad Project Manager, Railway, Railway Project Manager, Roadmaster, Roadway Worker, Roadway Worker In Charge (RWIC), Roadway Worker Protection (RWP), Safety, Signal Inspector, Signal Maintainer, Signal Manager, Signal Supervisor, Track Inspector, Track Maintainer, Track Manager, Track Supervisor.

Company Profile: National Railroad Safety Services, Inc. (NRSS) is a certified DBE/WBE firm primarily focused on providing safety services to the railroad industry. NRSS is the most trusted name in the railroad industry for providing qualified field safety staff and safety training. To best serve the railroad industry, NRSS provides all these services in the continental United States, Canada, and Mexico. NRSS has the proven ability and the proven safety record to handle any project.

Safety Commitment: All employees at NRSS must always prioritize safety. No job is so urgent that it can't be done safely. Safety is a core value, ensuring the protection of workers, customers, and communities while maintaining leadership in railroad safety.

Closing Statement: National Railroad Safety Services, Inc. (NRSS) is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. Any candidate selected for this position must be able to successfully pass pre-employment/recurrent background checks, drug/alcohol testing, and classroom training.


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