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$11K

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$133K

How much do railroad engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 26, 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.

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.

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Railroad Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Railroad Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 33% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 50% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,971 per year, or $26.9 per hour.
Railroad Engineer/Attendant

Railroad Engineer/Attendant

Six Flags Entertainment Corporation

San Antonio, TX

$13/hr

Temporary

Posted 9 days ago

Six Flags rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 521 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

23rd of 56 rated theme parks

Job description

Railroad Engineer/Attendant

Job Type: Seasonal
Pay Rate: $13.00
Category: Operations
Location: Six Flags Fiesta Texas in San Antonio, Texas

WHAT WE PROVIDE:

This is a seasonal position at Six Flags Fiesta Texas, in San Antonio, TX. This position features competitive pay starting at $13 per hour, also comes with perks such as: Free entry to any Six Flags Park for all employees and a guest with each visit, additional complimentary tickets for friends and family, discounts off merchandise for all employees, flexible scheduling and Dayforce Wallet and biweekly pay available.


All Aboard! The Fiesta Texas Railroad will take you for a journey of a lifetime. When you hear that train whistle echoing through the park, you’ll know the Fiesta Texas Railroad is pulling into station! You will be a key part of a team, turning this classic style locomotive into a memorable experience for all ages.  Your can-do attitude inspires those around you to provide smiles, friendliness, and great service to your guests.  You are passionate about our park, its’ history and potential.  You do all you can to keep it clean, safe and operating smoothly.  You are why we are Six Flags Fiesta Texas!  Thumbs up.  All clear!  Ready to enjoy the ride?

HOW YOU WILL DO IT:

  • Provide superb guest-centered service in a high-volume and fast paced environment
  • Ensures guest safety by assisting guests with boarding, riding, and disembarking the locomotive and passenger cars
  • Perform all aspects of Ride Operation in accordance with Six Flags’ procedures
  • Help drive our Guest Satisfaction results through positive, fun and plentiful enthusiasm

  • Be at least 18 years of age 
  • Ability and desire to work in a fast-paced, vibrant team environment
  • General knowledge or willingness to learn various aspects of a diesel hydraulic drive system
  • Meet the physical demands of the job, including walking long distances, standing for long periods of time, lifting, working at heights, etc. with or without reasonable accommodation
  • Must be able to sufficiently see and hear clearly while operating the locomotive during various weather and lighting conditions with or without reasonable accommodation
  • Friendly, outgoing personality, and the desire to interact with guests to make their visit special
  • 1 years+ experience in rides, train operation, or theme park industry preferred, but not required
  • Ability to communicate effectively in both written and oral format
  • Be available to work most weekends and holidays, as well as evenings
  • Be flexible and adaptable to change, as well as the ability and willingness to assist in other aspects of general ride operations (including but not limited to the ability to be cross-trained and or learn other rides/ attractions as required)
  • Ability to work in all outdoor conditions for extended periods of time, as well as shorter periods of time in the engine, which includes high temperatures. 
  • Be willing to wear themed railroad costume/ attire.

 

OTHER NOTES:

  • May perform other duties beyond scope of above as necessary to support the park as a whole
  • Reports to Ride Operations Leadership
  • Ability to work in all weather conditions, including high temperatures

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