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Temporary Locomotive Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Review instructions from Trainmaster and discuss with Locomotive Engineer and train crew ... sub-freezing temps; loud noise and fumes from gas, oil and grease. TRAVEL * Daily travel as ...

Review instructions from Trainmaster and discuss with Locomotive Engineer and train crew ... sub-freezing temps; loud noise and fumes from gas, oil and grease. TRAVEL * Daily travel as ...

Review instructions from Trainmaster and discuss with Locomotive Engineer and train crew ... sub-freezing temps; loud noise and fumes from gas, oil and grease. TRAVEL * Daily travel as ...

... 1 Locomotive Engineer. In your initial year of service, you can expect earnings of around $80,000 ... Temporary furloughs are possible depending on fluctuations in business volumes. Furloughs and ...

... 1 Locomotive Engineer. In your initial year of service, you can expect earnings of around $80,000 ... Temporary furloughs are possible depending on fluctuations in business volumes. Furloughs and ...

... 1 Locomotive Engineer. In your initial year of service, you can expect earnings of around $80,000 ... Temporary furloughs are possible depending on fluctuations in business volumes. Furloughs and ...

... 1 Locomotive Engineer. In your initial year of service, you can expect earnings of around $80,000 ... Temporary furloughs are possible depending on fluctuations in business volumes. Furloughs and ...

IL ยท On-site

... 1 Locomotive Engineer. In your initial year of service, you can expect earnings of around $80,000 ... Temporary furloughs are possible depending on fluctuations in business volumes. Furloughs and ...

... 1 Locomotive Engineer. In your initial year of service, you can expect earnings of around $80,000 ... Temporary furloughs are possible depending on fluctuations in business volumes. Furloughs and ...

... 1 Locomotive Engineer. In your initial year of service, you can expect earnings of around $80,000 ... Temporary furloughs are possible depending on fluctuations in business volumes. Furloughs and ...

Train Crew

Phoenix, AZ ยท On-site

... 1 Locomotive Engineer. In your initial year of service, you can expect earnings of around $80,000 ... Temporary furloughs are possible depending on fluctuations in business volumes. Furloughs and ...

... 1 Locomotive Engineer. In your initial year of service, you can expect earnings of around $80,000 ... Temporary furloughs are possible depending on fluctuations in business volumes. Furloughs and ...

Train Crew - Denver, CO

Denver, CO

$18.50 - $23.50/hr

... 1 Locomotive Engineer. In your initial year of service, you can expect earnings of around $80,000 ... Temporary furloughs are possible depending on fluctuations in business volumes. Furloughs and ...

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Temporary Locomotive Engineer information

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$26

$41

How much do temporary locomotive engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for temporary locomotive engineer 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 engineers make $500,000?

Highly experienced locomotive engineers or senior transportation engineers in specialized roles can earn around $500,000 annually, often through overtime, bonuses, or management positions. Such salaries are typically associated with large freight or passenger rail companies and require extensive experience, certifications, and technical skills.

What is a Temporary Locomotive Engineer job?

A Temporary Locomotive Engineer operates trains on a short-term or contract basis, ensuring the safe and efficient transportation of passengers or freight. They follow schedules, signals, and regulations while managing train speed and handling emergency situations. This role typically requires certification, prior railroad experience, and adherence to strict safety protocols. Temporary positions may be used to cover workforce shortages, seasonal demand, or special projects.

Are locomotive engineers in demand?

Locomotive engineers are in steady demand due to ongoing needs for freight and passenger transportation. Employment opportunities often depend on the health of the transportation industry, regulatory requirements, and the availability of experienced operators with proper certifications. Job prospects may be influenced by industry growth and technological advancements in rail systems.

How much do locomotive engineers make hourly?

Locomotive engineers typically earn between $25 and $45 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer. They often work in shifts that can include nights, weekends, and holidays, and require certification and safety training.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Temporary Locomotive Engineer position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Temporary Locomotive Engineer, you need strong knowledge of train operations, federal safety regulations, and mechanical systems, typically supported by completion of an engineer training program and relevant certifications such as FRA locomotive engineer certification. Familiarity with on-board control systems, communication devices, and track signaling technologies is essential. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills are important soft skills in this position. These qualifications and attributes are vital for ensuring safe, timely train operations and seamless coordination with rail crews and dispatchers.

What is a typical work schedule like for a Temporary Locomotive Engineer?

Temporary Locomotive Engineers often work variable schedules that can include nights, weekends, and holidays, depending on the needs of the railroad and specific assignments. Shifts may range from a few hours to extended runs, sometimes on short notice to cover for regular staff or address seasonal demand. Flexibility and readiness to respond to changing work schedules are important aspects of this role. While the job can be physically and mentally demanding, it also offers opportunities to gain experience in different routes and operations, which can be beneficial for long-term career development in the railroad industry.

How to become a locomotive engineer with no experience?

To become a locomotive engineer, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, a valid driver's license, and completion of a federal training program that includes classroom instruction and hands-on operating experience. Employers often require passing a background check and medical exam, and obtaining certification from the Federal Railroad Administration is necessary before working independently.
What cities are hiring for Temporary Locomotive Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Temporary Locomotive Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Locomotive Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Locomotive Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Temporary Locomotive Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Temporary Locomotive Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Temporary Locomotive Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Temporary Locomotive Engineer jobs are:
Infographic showing various Temporary Locomotive Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $55,402 per year, or $26.6 per hour.
Engineer/Conductor- NKCR

Engineer/Conductor- NKCR

omnitrax

Grant, NE โ€ข On-site

Other

Posted 26 days ago


Job description

POSITION SUMMARY

The Conductor oversees the train, freight and crew: operates track switches, couples and uncouples cars and places cars to facilitate loading and unloading, places cars and engines in rail yards and on the main railroad. Receives, relays, or acts upon oral, written, or radio instructions from dispatcher, yardmaster, or other personnel indicating the switch movement, placement, or delivery of railroad cars and/or a train. Performs work safely, effectively and efficiently in accordance with company policies and procedures, and Federal Railroad Association rules and regulations to meet company objectives.

The Conductor demonstrates and adheres to the company values of: safety, honesty, ownership, respect and teamwork to ensure successful partnerships with customers and employees that result in OmniTRAXโ€™s continued success.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Ensure compliance with all railroad rules and regulations for safety, operation and the Federal Railroad Association (FRA)
  • Move trains safely in the yards and over roads
  • Operate track switches, inspect equipment on cars and use radio communications to control train movement
  • Assist and instruct train crews to couple and uncouple cars, operate switches and make minor repairs to railcars: including replacing heavy couplings or air brake hoses
  • Maintain awareness of surrounding area and suspicious activity to ensure rail safety
  • Review instructions from Trainmaster and discuss with Locomotive Engineer and train crew
  • Coordinate execution of railcar switch list
  • Communicate with Locomotive Engineer and other parties in the yard using proper hand signals and/or radio communication protocol
  • Conduct the movement of rail cars and train movements; signal crew member(s) for movement of the engine or train using lantern, hand and flag signals, or radio to indicate when to start, stop, and back-up or set and release air brakes
  • Observe, interpret, and relay arm, lantern, or radio signals and all other indications affecting movement of a train
  • Operate track switches (visually checks switch condition and direction) to change the direction of the engine or cars within yard limits or on the main railroad; may apply or release hand brakes to switch or perform other duties
  • Read and understand the book of rules, timetables, bulletins, train orders, waybills, placards, safety instructions, and other written or printed material
  • Prepare required daily reports, switch lists (manually or with a computer), and fill out forms including train orders
  • Inspect the condition of the train and equipment in movement and while stationary
  • May couple air and electrical connections between locomotives when making up trains
  • Judge speed and distance of moving objects or parts
  • Recall information required from work activity
OTHER DUTIES
  • Report to work as called on a 24-hour schedule
  • Work safely to prevent on the job accidents and injuries
  • Wear required protective equipment such as: hard hats, hearing protection, safety-toe boots or safety glasses
  • Work hours may include a nonstandard workweek, overtime and various shift work
  • Perform other duties and projects as assigned
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES
  • None
ย REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS, KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
  • High School Diploma/GED
  • Aptitude in the Transportation field and desire to learn
  • Execute exceptional sound judgment when complying and interpreting railroad rules, regulations and instructions and complying with FRA that apply to operations of trains
  • Pass job and health related examinations including: operating rules examination, vision and hearing test
  • Basic computer skills in Microsoft Office Suite
  • Write legibly to complete routine reports and other company documents
  • Effectively communicate and demonstrate interpersonal skills with all level of employees, and business associates in a clear concise and professional manner
  • Demonstrate problem solving and troubleshooting skills resulting in effective resolution on routinely programmed work
  • Professional integrity and accountability
  • Work in fast-paced, collaborative environment
REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS AND LICENSES
  • Valid State Driverโ€™s License
  • FRA Conductor Certification: required post hire
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS, KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
  • Previous experience in Rail Transportation, Supply Chain Logistics, Manufacturing and/or Oil & Gas industries

PREFERRED CERTIFICATIONS AND LICENSES

  • FRA Engineer Certification
WORK ENVIRONMENT
  • Exposure to hot, cold, wet, humid, or windy conditions caused by the weather including: (snow, rain, heat, and sub-freezing temps; loud noise and fumes from gas, oil and grease.
TRAVEL
  • Daily travel as business requires during scheduled work hours
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Strength

Occ

Freq

Cons

Weight/ Force

ย 

Side

ย 

Height From

ย 

Height To

ย 

Lifting - Knuckle

X

85 lb

Two Hands

0 in

46 in

ย 

Height

Rotation

Grip Pattern

Pushing - Auto Rack Brake

X

83 lb

Two Hands

67.5 in

Neutral

Cylinder

Pushing - Ergo Bow Switch

X

133.7 lb

Two Hands

35 in

Neutral

Cylinder

Pulling - Pin Lifter

X

86 lb

Either

25 in

Neutral

Cylinder

Pulling - Wheel Brake Tank Car

X

129.3 lb

Right

36 in

Neutral

Hook

Pulling - Wheel Brake Hopper Car

X

136.2 lb

Right

36 in

Neutral

Hook

Pulling - Ground Switch

X

46.8 lb

Two Hands

5 in

Supinated

Cylinder

Pulling - Derail

X

57.5 lb

Two Hands

7 in

Pronated

Cylinder

Pulling - Ergo Bow Switch

X

75.1 lb

Two Hands

35 in

Neutral

Cylinder

Pulling - High Stand Switch

X

87 lb

Two Hands

36 in

Pronated

Cylinder

Pulling - Align Knuckle

X

160.4 lb

Two Hands

35 in

Neutral

Hook

Grip & Pinch

Occ

Freq

Cons

Weight/ Force

Side

Rotation

Grip Setting/Type

Hand Grip - Hose Coupling Grip

X

47 lb

Left

Neutral

3

Hand Grip - Hose Coupling Grip

X

47 lb

Right

Neutral

3

Upper Body

Occ

Freq

Cons

Description

Reaching - Below Knee

X

Extending hand(s) and arm(s) below the level of the knee.

Reaching - Over Shoulder

X

Extending hand(s) and arm(s) above shoulder level.

Reaching - Knee to Shoulder

X

Extending hand(s) and arm(s) between knee and shoulder level.

Handling - Both

X

Seizing, holding, grasping, turning, or otherwise working with hands.

Fingering - Fine Motor Manipulation

X

Picking, pinching, or otherwise working primarily with fingers.

Cervical Flexion/Extension

X

Flexing and/or extending at the cervical spine.

Rotation - Cervical

X

Rotating at the cervical spine.

Rotation - Thoracic & Lumbar

X

Rotating at the thoracic and lumbar spine.

Lower Body

Occ

Freq

Cons

Description

Sitting

X

Remaining in a seated position.

Standing

X

Remaining on oneโ€™s feet in an upright position without moving about.

Walking

X

Moving about on foot.

Climbing

X

Ascending or descending between two points.

Balancing

X

Maintaining body equilibrium to prevent falling.

Stooping

X

Bending body forward by bending spine at the waist.

Kneeling - Two Knees

X

Bending legs at knees to come to rest on one or both knees.

Crouching/Squatting

X

Bending body downward and forward by bending legs and spine.

Other Physical Demands

ย 

Occ

ย 

Freq

ย 

Cons

Type/Position/Description

Vision

ย 

ย 

X

Per FRA Requirements

Hearing

X

Per FRA Requirements

*Occ = Occasional; defined as 1-33% of a usual and customary workday.

*Freq = Frequent; defined as 34-66% of a usual and customary workday. ย ย 

*Cons = Constant; defined as 67-100% of a usual and customary workday.

** Not all tasks required at each location. Position and physical demand is representative, but individualized assessment may be necessary.

ย