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Railroad Engineer Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

RailPros

Rail Systems Engineer II

Somerset, WI · On-site

Perform engineering tasks related to the design and integration of railroad signaling and communications systems. * Prepare engineering drawings, wiring diagrams, equipment layouts, and system ...

RailPros

Rail Systems Engineer II

Somerset, WI

Perform engineering tasks related to the design and integration of railroad signaling and communications systems. * Prepare engineering drawings, wiring diagrams, equipment layouts, and system ...

RailPros

Rail Systems Engineer II

Somerset, WI · On-site

$48K - $58K/yr

Perform engineering tasks related to the design and integration of railroad signaling and communications systems. * Prepare engineering drawings, wiring diagrams, equipment layouts, and system ...

RailPros

Rail Systems Engineer I

Somerset, WI

The Rail Systems Engineer I performs entry level engineering work supporting the design ... Learn applicable railroad standards, safety practices, and regulatory requirements * Demonstrate ...

RailPros

Rail Systems Engineer I

Somerset, WI · On-site

$40K - $50K/yr

The Rail Systems Engineer I performs entry level engineering work supporting the design ... Learn applicable railroad standards, safety practices, and regulatory requirements * Demonstrate ...

RailPros

Rail Systems Engineer I

Somerset, WI

The Rail Systems Engineer I performs entry level engineering work supporting the design ... Learn applicable railroad standards, safety practices, and regulatory requirements * Demonstrate ...

RailPros

Rail Systems Engineer III

Somerset, WI · On-site

$55K - $70K/yr

Design and integrate railroad signaling, communications, and control systems. * Develop system ... Prepare detailed engineering documentation including wiring diagrams, system layouts, and interface ...

RailPros

Rail Systems Engineer III

Somerset, WI

Design and integrate railroad signaling, communications, and control systems. * Develop system ... Prepare detailed engineering documentation including wiring diagrams, system layouts, and interface ...

RailPros

Rail Systems Engineer III

Somerset, WI · On-site

Design and integrate railroad signaling, communications, and control systems. * Develop system ... Prepare detailed engineering documentation including wiring diagrams, system layouts, and interface ...

RailPros

$14.25 - $19/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

$14.25 - $19/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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All JobsRailroad Engineer JobsRailroad Engineer Jobs in Wisconsin

Railroad Engineer information

See Wisconsin salary details

$11.1K

$56.5K

$134.2K

How much do railroad engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for railroad engineer in Wisconsin is $56,494.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $34,300.00 and $59,600.00 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.
More about Railroad Engineer jobs

What are popular job titles related to Railroad Engineer jobs in Wisconsin?

For Railroad Engineer jobs in Wisconsin, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Railroad Engineer jobs in Wisconsin look for?

The top searched job categories for Railroad Engineer jobs in Wisconsin are:

What are popular job titles related to Railroad Engineer jobs in WI?

For Railroad Engineer jobs in WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Railroad Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Railroad Engineer job openings in Wisconsin 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 $56,494 per year, or $27.2 per hour.

Railroad Engineer at Wisconsin DOT Madison, WI

kozmetickesluzby.vecnakraska.sk - Jobboard

Madison, WI • On-site

$64.85 - $108.95/hr

Other

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

Railroad Engineer – Wisconsin DOT, Madison, WI Position Summary

The Railroad Project Engineer is responsible for providing railroad engineering expertise and consultation for passenger rail and freight rail infrastructure projects. The engineer supports rail engineering matters related to passenger rail operations and projects, assists in freight projects on publicly owned corridors, and manages development of design and construction estimates, project plan reviews, technical exhibits for regulatory agencies, and inspections of port facilities, tracks, and structures, including wayside signals, track structure, bridges, grade crossings, signals, and buildings.

The Railroad Facilities Engineer is responsible for railroad engineering expertise and consultation related to railroad property acquisitions, track rehabilitation, track maintenance, and new track construction. This role oversees and supports the Freight Railroad Preservation Program (FRPP) and the Freight Railroad Infrastructure Improvement Program (FRIIP) activities and assists with rail facility construction projects funded by the Transportation Economic Assistance (TEA) program. Responsibilities include track structure and appurtenances such as bridges, grade crossings, signals, and buildings.

Salary Information

Entry level: schedule range 14-14, starting salary between $64,854 and $73,840, with incremental increases every 6 months for the first 2 years. 12‑month probationary period required.

Senior level: schedule range 14-13, annual salary $80,870‑99,403, with 12‑month probationary period.

Advanced level: schedule range 14-13, annual salary $90,064‑108,950, with 12‑month probationary period.

Job Details

WisDOT does not sponsor work visas. Applications are contingent upon proof of valid status to work in the United States.

All appointments may require a comprehensive criminal background check, including FBI fingerprinting.

Qualifications

Minimum qualifications: Graduation or expected graduation by May 2025 from an Engineering Accreditation Commission (EAC) ABET accredited college or university with a 4‑year bachelor’s degree (or Master’s or Ph.D.) in engineering, or possession of a professional engineer (PE) license in Wisconsin, or valid PE registration with ability to obtain Wisconsin PE registration within 3 months if from another state.

Senior level candidates: must also have at least 4 years of professional transportation engineering project experience in construction or design phases, including team membership or leadership in transportation projects, field work guidance, technical consultation, monitoring and reporting project progress.

Advanced level candidates: must also have experience in rail or bridge components, inspections, operations, or applying project management principles to roadway and/or track projects.

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