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Railroad Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

The Environmental Engineer owns day-to-day environmental program execution, including inspections ... Amsted Rail is an Equal Opportunity employer. All applicants will receive consideration for ...

Summary: The Staff Test Engineer will support IST Engineering in the design, development, and ... Broad railroad experience pertaining to locomotive technologies, operations and operating practices ...

Staff Test Engineer

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$79K - $112K/yr

Summary: The Staff Test Engineer will support IST Engineering in the design, development, and ... Broad railroad experience pertaining to locomotive technologies, operations and operating practices ...

Staff Test Engineer

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$79K - $112K/yr

The Staff Test Engineer will support IST Engineering in the design, development, and facilitation ... Broad railroad experience pertaining to locomotive technologies, operations and operating practices ...

Staff Test Engineer

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$79K - $112K/yr

The Staff Test Engineer will support IST Engineering in the design, development, and facilitation ... Broad railroad experience pertaining to locomotive technologies, operations and operating practices ...

Summary: The Staff Test Engineer will support IST Engineering in the design, development, and ... Broad railroad experience pertaining to locomotive technologies, operations and operating practices ...

Summary: The Staff Test Engineer will support IST Engineering in the design, development, and ... Broad railroad experience pertaining to locomotive technologies, operations and operating practices ...

Staff Test Engineer

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$79K - $112K/yr

Summary: The Staff Test Engineer will support IST Engineering in the design, development, and ... Broad railroad experience pertaining to locomotive technologies, operations and operating practices ...

Staff Test Engineer

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$79K - $112K/yr

The Staff Test Engineer will support IST Engineering in the design, development, and facilitation ... Broad railroad experience pertaining to locomotive technologies, operations and operating practices ...

Ruby Devloper

New York, IA · On-site

$106K - $145K/yr

Mentor junior engineers on software development best practices * REQUIREMENTS: * BS/MS in Computer ... Rails, or another modern web application framework (Django, Express, etc) and an interest in ...

CDL Driver (CN)

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$21.60/hr

Through the continuous development of cutting-edge diagnostic technologies and AI-assisted analysis, we are transforming railway safety worldwide. Our global engineering teams work collaboratively to ...

Ruby Devloper

New York, IA · On-site

$106K - $145K/yr

Mentor junior engineers on software development best practices REQUIREMENTS: * BS/MS in Computer ... Rails, or another modern web application framework (Django, Express, etc) and an interest in ...

The Environmental Engineer owns day-to-day environmental program execution, including inspections ... Amsted Rail is an Equal Opportunity employer. All applicants will receive consideration for ...

Showing results 41-60

Railroad Engineer information

See Iowa salary details

$10.3K

$52.6K

$124.9K

How much do railroad engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 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 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 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 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 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.

Are railroad engineers in demand?

Railroad engineers are in steady demand due to ongoing needs for freight and passenger transportation. Employment opportunities often require technical skills, certifications, and experience operating trains or related equipment, with job stability influenced by the transportation industry’s growth and infrastructure investments.

How much do railroad engineers get paid?

Railroad engineers typically earn a median annual salary of around $70,000 to $80,000, with experienced engineers and those working for major freight or passenger rail companies earning higher wages. Salaries can vary based on location, experience, and the complexity of the routes they operate, and the job often requires certification and knowledge of safety protocols.

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 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:

Infographic showing various Railroad Engineer job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, and 10% Part Time. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,571 per year, or $25.3 per hour.

Environmental Engineer

Amsted Rail Company

Keokuk, IA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago


Amsted Rail rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

178th of 490 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

This position is responsible for the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of environmental compliance programs and sustainability data tracking for the manufacturing facility. The Environmental Engineer owns day-to-day environmental program execution, including inspections, reporting, spill response, permitting and any other compliance items related to air, water, stormwater, tanks and waste management associated with U.S. and Iowa environmental regulations. This role works closely with operations, maintenance, engineering, supervisors, and employees to comply with environmental requirements and reduce the facility's environmental footprint.
What you will do:
Owns the implementation and maintenance of facility environmental programs and initiatives.
  • Conducts routine inspections, reporting, plan updates, and permitting associated with air, water, waste and tank requirements.
  • Works with supervision and operations teams to collect data associated with environmental reporting.
  • Leads the spill response program.
  • Develops, updates, and delivers employee environmental training on required topics and company procedures.
  • Coach employees and supervisors on environmental compliance and reducing the environmental footprint of the facility.
  • Manages hourly personnel tasked with waste activities and stormwater best management practices.
  • Facility representative during agency inspections.
  • Coordinates activities associated with remediation projects.

Job Knowledge/Skills & Experience:
  • Bachelor's Degree in Environmental Engineering/Sciences or a related technical field is required.
  • 3-5 years of environmental experience in a manufacturing, heavy industrial, or related environment.
  • Working knowledge of federal and state environmental regulations.
  • Experience with major environmental programs such as Title V air permits, NPDES permits, Large Quantity Generator of Hazardous Waste, Spill Prevention Control and Countermeasures Program, Tier 2 and Toxic Release Inventory Reporting.
  • Demonstrates sound problem-solving, analytical, communication, and organizational skills with strong attention to detail.
  • Ability to work effectively with operations, maintenance, engineering, supervisors, and hourly employees to implement environmental improvements.
  • Ability to communicate expectations and procedures clearly to employees at all levels of the organization.
  • Proficient with Microsoft Office applications and basic environmental data tracking, reporting, and documentation systems.
  • Responds quickly and professionally to environmental concerns and emergency situations.

Amsted Rail is an Equal Opportunity employer. All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.
To review our EEO Policies or to request assistance please go to www.amstedrail.com/careers/ and select EEO Compliance/Statements. To learn more about us, please visit us online at www.amstedrail.com.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities and any other basis covered by federal, state, or local law.
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Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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About Amsted Rail

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Amsted Rail is a global leader in providing innovative solutions and components for the rail industry. With a strong commitment to advancing rail technology and improving safety, Amsted Rail offers a wide range of products and services that enhance the performance and reliability of rail systems worldwide. As a trusted partner to railroads, transit systems, and freight operators, Amsted Rail specializes in the design, manufacturing, and distribution of high-quality freight car components, including bogies, couplers, wheelsets, and braking systems. Amsted cutting-edge solutions are engineered to withstand the demands of heavy-duty rail operations, improving efficiency, reducing maintenance costs, and enhancing overall railcar performance.

Industry

Transportation equipment manufacturing

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Chicago, IL, US

Year founded

1977