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Railroad Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Metro-North Railroad Primary Location(s): Croton-Harmon Salary Range: $85,287-$122,774.55 Regulated ... Engineering services include: Electrical, Mechanical, Manufacturing, Industrial, and Materials ...

Regional Lead - Rail Engineer

Charlotte, NC · On-site +1

$140K - $200K/yr

The ideal candidate will bring strong technical expertise in railroad engineering and project delivery, along with demonstrated leadership and experience managing teams, mentoring staff, developing ...

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Railroad Engineer information

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$11K

$56K

$133K

How much do railroad engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for railroad engineer in the United States is $55,971.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $34,000.00 and $59,000.00 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.

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.

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. Compensation can vary based on location, experience, and the complexity of the rail systems they operate, often requiring certification and safety training. Many engineers work full-time, including nights and weekends, due to the 24/7 nature of rail operations.

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.

What cities are hiring for Railroad Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Railroad Engineer job openings:
Who are the top companies hiring for Railroad Engineer jobs? The top employers for Railroad Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Railroad Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Railroad Engineer jobs include:
What are popular job titles related to Railroad Engineer jobs? For Railroad Engineer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Railroad Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,971 per year, or $26.9 per hour.

Field Equipment Engineer

Metro-North Railroad

Hudson, NY

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago


Metro-North Railroad rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 37 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

28th of 97 rated public transport


Job description

Job Title: Field Equipment Engineer

Department: Maintenance of Equipment

MTA Agency: Metro-North Railroad

Primary Location(s): Croton-Harmon

Salary Range: $85,287-$122,774.55

Regulated/Safety Sensitive: Non-DOT Regulated/Safety Sensitive

Union Affiliation: Non-agreement

Closing Date (if applicable): Until Filled

Shift (if applicable):

Title 55-a (yes or no): No

Other: Telework eligible

 

JOB SUMMARY

Provide various engineering services to support the safe and reliable operation of the Metro-North Railroad rolling stock fleet.  Engineering services include: Electrical, Mechanical, Manufacturing, Industrial, and Materials Engineering, advanced analytic services for Reliability Centered Maintenance, Reliability Availability and Maintainability, and Enterprise Asset Management, Quality functions, Technical Support, and Maintenance Planning.


DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Develop equipment modifications. Review and process Equipment Change Requests (ECRs), design the equipment modifications, and write the instructions for implementation of such modifications.  Develop Equipment Maintenance Instructions (EMIs), Equipment Overhaul Instructions (EOIs), and Maintenance Service Bulletin MSB) to create a standard of good maintenance and safety practice and to convey emergency repair information.
  • Participate and provide engineering expertise in preparation of technical specifications and procurement of new fleet and overhaul of existing fleet and system.
  • Support Revenue Service Operations proactively utilizing Wayside Monitoring and Diagnostic System (WMDS), Chief Logs, and IMS/AMS data management systems to minimize operational risk and identify trends. Retrieve and review downloads such as Real Time Data Monitoring (RTDM) and Event Recorder (ER) for train incidents and failure investigations. Provide technical evaluations detailing cause and corrective actions. 
  • Provide oversight and guidance to shop personnel for failure investigations, troubleshooting and repairs of all rolling stock. Utilize engineering principles in component failure analysis and provide detailed findings and technical bases for cause and resolution.
  • Effectively contribute to the functions of all MofE departments, other Metro-North Railroad departments, other MTA agencies to support the rolling stock fleet reliability and operations efficiency
  • Position may be required to work various shifts and locations as assigned to support a 24-hour day/, 7 days a week operation. Will be on call and respond to emergencies as required
  • Select, develop, and motivate staff and provide career development for team members. Provide effective coaching and counseling.  Manager team and individual performance.  Create a professional environment that respects individual differences and enables staff to develop and contribute to their full potential. 

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

  • Must demonstrate a technical knowledge of either electrical or mechanical equipment systems to include, but not limited to, controls, power and pneumatic, microprocessor-based, high voltage, low voltage, system interfaces, and mechanical systems.
  • Must be capable of interpreting existing electrical schematics and vendor supplied wiring, piping, diagrams necessary for troubleshooting rolling stock systems, subsystems and component-level. 
  • Strong problem solving and analytical skills to diagnose fleet problems and provide acceptable recommendations to maintenance supervision or workforce.
  • Ability to understand regulatory rules and guidelines including FRA and APTA.
  • Good interpersonal, organizational and both oral and written communication skills will all levels of MNR personnel.
  • Working knowledge of test and diagnostic equipment.
  • Experience in configuring replacement components and system assemblies for fit, form and function applications.
  • Ability to determine appropriate functional requirements for equipment systems with regards to design and maintenance, based on reliability and risk analysis.
  • Familiarity with FRA regulations, APTA standards as well as other industry related engineering standards.
  • Strong written and oral communication skills
  • Strong technical writing skills for development of correspondence, reports, procedures and technical Instructions.  
  • Knowledge of standard safety practices rules and regulations in a railroad environment.
  • Knowledge in the review and development of drawings, specifications and technical reports.
  • Working knowledge of Microsoft Office and/or comparable applications. CAD/ CAE and Auto Cad experience or demonstrated equivalent

REQUIRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

  • Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical or Mechanical Engineering or related technical field.
  • Minimum three (3) years’ experience in an engineering environment and/or equipment manufacturer working on passenger railcars and/or locomotives or related mass transportation equipment.
  • Two (2) years of supervisory experience. 

 

OR

  • Completion of the Metro-North Railroad Engineer-in-Training Program and two (2) years of supervisory competencies.

The following is/are preferred: 

  • MS in ME and/or PE Preferred

OTHER INFORMATION

  • Pursuant to the New York State Public Officers Law & the MTA Code of Ethics, all employees who hold a policymaking position must file an Annual Statement of Financial Disclosure (FDS) with the NYS Commission on Ethics and Lobbying in Government (the “Commission”).
  • Actual salary offers may vary based on individual work experience. The annual salary range is subject to change and may be modified at the company’s discretion.
  • Employees driving company vehicles will be subject to License Monitoring and must complete defensive driver training once every three years for current MTA drivers; or within 180 days of hire or transfer for an employee entering an authorized driving position.
  • Current employee applicants should be in their current position 12 months prior to starting a new role and must possess a satisfactory work history, including attendance and discipline record.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY/ADA DISCLAIMER

MTA and its subsidiary and affiliated agencies are Equal Opportunity Employers and encourage qualified applicants from diverse backgrounds, experiences, and abilities, including military service members, to apply.

If you seek a reasonable accommodation for a medical condition or disability, or for a religious practice or observance, to participate in the job application or interview process, please notify your MTA representative once you have been contacted regarding the role.


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