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Railroad Locomotive Engineer Contract Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Locomotive Engineer

Oro Grande, CA ยท On-site

$25 - $30/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Locomotive Engineer COMPANY ... Harbor Rail Services has been in the railroad business since 1986 and is a leading provider of ...

Locomotive Engineer

Ferndale, WA ยท On-site

$34 - $36/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Life

Cando provides specialized rail operating services. We provide a wide range of rail services ... Locomotive Engineers with Cando are responsible for providing safe and efficient rail car switching ...

In your role as a Locomotive Engineer, you will: Be responsible for the safe operation of ... Operates trains during various work hours on Metrolink's passenger rail system while maintaining ...

In your role as a Locomotive Engineer, you will: Be responsible for the safe operation of ... Operates trains during various work hours on Metrolink's passenger rail system while maintaining ...

In your role as a Locomotive Engineer, you will: Be responsible for the safe operation of ... Operates trains during various work hours on Metrolink's passenger rail system while maintaining ...

Job Summary The Locomotive Engineer Training Program prepares candidates to become qualified ... Operate locomotives safely while following railroad operating rules and regulations. * Perform pre ...

Locomotive Engineer

Pueblo, CO ยท On-site

$49K - $61K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

This role collaborates closely with MxV Rail test staff and customers and requires a strong ... The Locomotive Engineer uses technical expertise to effectively communicate operational matters to ...

In your role as a Locomotive Engineer, you will: Be responsible for the safe operation of ... Prior railroad operating experience. Physical Requirements * Medium to heavy work, lifting up to 50 ...

The Locomotive Engineer is responsible for driving diesel-electric locomotives to transport freight ... Interpret train orders, electronic or manual signals, and railroad rules and regulations. General ...

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Railroad Locomotive Engineer Contract information

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How much do railroad locomotive engineer contract jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for railroad locomotive engineer contract in the United States is $26.64, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.63 and $27.64 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are railroad locomotive engineer contracts?

Railroad Locomotive Engineer Contracts are formal agreements that outline the terms, conditions, and responsibilities for locomotive engineers working for railway companies. These contracts typically cover aspects such as wages, work hours, safety protocols, job duties, benefits, and grievance procedures. They are often negotiated between labor unions representing engineers and the railroad companies to ensure fair treatment and compliance with federal regulations. Such contracts help maintain safety standards and protect both the employers' and employees' rights in the railway industry.

What are some common challenges faced by railroad locomotive engineers working on a contract basis?

Contract Railroad Locomotive Engineers often face challenges such as adapting quickly to new routes or equipment, since assignments may vary by project. They also need to maintain up-to-date certifications and stay informed about differing safety protocols across rail companies. Additionally, contract engineers may work irregular hours, including nights and weekends, and must be prepared for variable workloads based on client needs. Strong communication and collaboration skills are essential, as they frequently coordinate with dispatchers, conductors, and maintenance crews to ensure safe and efficient train operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a railroad locomotive engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Railroad Locomotive Engineer, you need a high school diploma or GED, completion of a railroad training program, and certification from the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA). Familiarity with locomotive control systems, signaling equipment, and safety protocols is essential, along with ongoing certification renewals. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective communication help engineers manage train operations and coordinate with crew members. These competencies are crucial to ensure operational safety, schedule adherence, and the smooth, reliable transportation of goods or passengers.
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What cities are hiring for Railroad Locomotive Engineer Contract jobs? Cities with the most Railroad Locomotive Engineer Contract job openings:
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What job categories do people searching Railroad Locomotive Engineer Contract jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Railroad Locomotive Engineer Contract jobs are:
Infographic showing various Railroad Locomotive Engineer Contract job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 6% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% In-person, and 1% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $55,402 per year, or $26.6 per hour.

Locomotive Engineer/Conductor

American Dedicated Rail Services Ll

Pinopolis, SC โ€ข On-site

$22 - $25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago


Job description

Who We Are

American Dedicated Rail Services is a Jacksonville, Florida based railroad services company founded in 2020 to provide the industry with a customer-centric approach to railroading. We are a relationship-driven company that believes strong partnerships build a great business.

We are committed to safely and efficiently serving the railroad industry and our customers. Our proactive customer-centric approach achieves the results that our customers expect, along with the satisfaction of knowing they have a partner in the railroad industry.

We are seeking a Railroad Locomotive Engineer/Conductor. Minimum 2 yrs Experience Required. This is a non-FRA site and prospective candidate does not have to be FRA certified, but must be experienced in either engineer or conductor duties.

This position is on-call with a 35hr per week guaranteed pay and involves duties across multiple company job sites in the South Carolinas.

Job Summary

As a Locomotive Engineer, you will be responsible for operating the freight train safely and efficiently. This role requires a deep understanding of locomotive systems, adherence to safety protocols, and excellent communication skills. As a Conductor, you will ensure the safe and timely positioning of the locomotive via concise coordination with their Engineer and aid in any activities involved in doing so. The role involves coordinating train crew activities, managing the loading and unloading of cargo, and maintaining compliance with safety regulations.

Job Responsibilities

· Conduct thorough pre and post trip inspections of the locomotive to ensure operational readiness

· Operate the locomotive using manual and computer controls in accordance with company procedures

· Monitor on-board instruments and gauges, including train speed, battery use, air pressure, amperage, etc

· Maintain clear communication with Conductors and Clerks, responding to instructions and following up with reports

· Identify obstructions on tracks and provide warning signals at crossings

· Address breakdowns and perform basic maintenance as required

· Ensure all logbooks and manuals are properly maintained and stowed in cabin

· Complete accurate reports as required

· Effectively and safely place cars to facilitate loading and unloading

· Ensure compliance with all train orders, signals, and railroad rules

· Inspect all equipment on cars prior to departures

· Receive and transmit information by radio and telephone

· Couple and uncouple cars, operate switches, and make minor repairs as needed

· Work with customers to ensure accurate movement and placement of cars

· Operate locomotive equipment thought the use of remote control devices

· Maintain consistent awareness of surroundings

- Safely and effectively operate a forklift.

· Inspect and repair rail cars, ensuring compliance with all railroad rules and regulations outlined with the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA)

- Any other duties as assigned

Qualifications

· Proven experience as a Locomotive Engineer/Conductor

· Advanced knowledge of mechanical and electrical locomotive systems

· Strong diagnostic and problem solving skills

· Strong commitment to safety

· Excellent communication skills

Physical Requirements

· Ability to concentrate for long periods

· Capable of lifting moderate weights occasionally

· Good hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity

· Able to sit for extended periods

· Comfortable working in various weather conditions

· Able to climb ladders and step on uneven surfaces

· Basic mechanical skills for minor troubleshooting and repairs

· In-depth area knowledge including road crossings, track curves, and tunnels

· Ability to lift a maximum of 50 lbs

· Stoop, bend, kneel, crouch, crawl, balance, climb.

· Work in cramped, confined, or awkward places.

· Ride on the outside of rail equipment for long periods.

· Walk long distances over uneven terrain.

· Work safely to prevent on-the-job accidents and injuries.

· Wear protective equipment including hearing protection, safety-toe boots, or safety glasses.

Safety Notice

Safety is of the utmost importance within our company. All work performed at our operations is taken with maximum consideration for safety and any work performed that is considered to not adhere to our high safety standards can be subject to disciplinary action up to and including termination. Preemployment tests and procedures gauge one’s ability to adhere to our safety requirements and may be required as part of our hiring and/or qualifications screening.

Drug Testing Notice

ADRS is a drug-free workplace and will take the appropriate actions necessary to ensure as such. Employees are subject to a preemployment 10 panel rapid non-dot drug test and are also subject to any future drug tests up to the companies’ discretion.

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:

  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Vision insurance

Work Location: In person

Company Description

People oriented company that places their employees first. Great growth opportunity for those individuals that can work with a team of committed railroaders that want to bring service back to the industry.