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Train Engineer Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

Hunter Strategy

Release Train Engineer

Washington, DC · On-site

$130K - $150K/yr

Release Train Engineer Salary Range: $130,000 - $150,000 annually About the Role Hunter Strategy is seeking an experienced Release Train Engineer to support a new mission with a large federal ...

JCD Staffing

Release Train Engineer

Washington, DC

Senior Release Train Engineer Overview Our client is seeking a Senior Release Train Engineer to support a mission-critical Unified Communications modernization program for a federal law enforcement ...

WorkNovas LLC

Release Train Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

Release Train Engineer Reston, VA, 3 days onsite In-person interview Description: Release Train Engineer Responsibilities: Plan and Facilitate the Program Increment Sessions Summarize Team PI ...

Leidos

Release Train Engineer

Gaithersburg, MD · On-site

Leidos is seeking an experienced Release Train Engineer (RTE) to join the Air Traffic Business Area within the Homeland Sector, supporting the development of next-generation flight service and air ...

Leidos

Release Train Engineer

Gaithersburg, MD · On-site

Leidos is seeking an experienced Release Train Engineer (RTE) to join the Air Traffic Business Area within the Homeland Sector, supporting the development of next-generation flight service and air ...

Leidos

Release Train Engineer

Ashburn, VA · On-site

Leidos is seeking an experienced Release Train Engineer (RTE) to join the Air Traffic Business Area within the Homeland Sector, supporting the development of next-generation flight service and air ...

Navstar, Inc.

Solution Train Engineer, Senior

Annapolis, MD · On-site

$54.75 - $70.50/hr

An experienced, energetic Solution Train Engineer (STE) is needed to facilitate Solution Train and Agile Release Train (ART) operations for a very large program using the Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe ...

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All JobsTrain Engineer JobsTrain Engineer Jobs in Washington, DC

Train Engineer information

See Washington, DC salary details

$42.9K

$130.7K

$216.1K

How much do train engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for train engineer in Washington, DC is $130,735.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $93,700.00 and $170,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a train engineer?

Train engineers, also known as locomotive engineers, are professionals responsible for operating trains that transport passengers or freight. They control the speed, handling, and braking of the train, ensuring it runs safely and on schedule. Train engineers must be highly attentive, follow safety regulations, and be able to respond quickly to unexpected situations. Their work often involves collaborating with conductors and other rail workers to ensure smooth and safe train operations.

What are some common challenges train engineers face during daily operations, and how are they typically addressed?

Train Engineers often encounter challenges such as managing unexpected delays, adverse weather conditions, or mechanical issues with locomotives. To address these, they rely on clear communication with dispatchers and maintenance crews, adhere strictly to safety protocols, and follow established troubleshooting procedures. Ongoing training ensures engineers are prepared for emergencies and can make quick, informed decisions to maintain passenger safety and schedule reliability. Collaboration with other railroad staff is essential for resolving issues efficiently and minimizing disruptions.

What do you do as a train engineer?

A train engineer operates trains to transport passengers or freight safely and efficiently. They monitor controls, observe signals, and communicate with dispatchers, often working long hours and requiring certification and knowledge of safety procedures. Their responsibilities include inspecting equipment and ensuring adherence to schedules and safety regulations.

Do train engineers make good money?

Train engineers typically earn a median annual salary of around $70,000, with experienced professionals making over $90,000. Salaries can vary based on location, experience, and the type of trains operated, and the job often requires certification and safety training. Overall, it is considered a well-paying career in the transportation industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a train engineer?

To thrive as a Train Engineer, a solid understanding of railway operations, mechanical systems, and safety regulations is essential, typically supported by a high school diploma and completion of a railroad training program. Familiarity with train control systems, signaling technology, and certification from the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) are commonly required. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and effective communication are important soft skills for responding to unexpected situations and coordinating with crew members. These skills and qualifications are critical for ensuring the safe and efficient operation of trains, protecting passengers, cargo, and railway infrastructure.

What is the difference between Train Engineer vs Locomotive Operator?

AspectTrain EngineerLocomotive Operator
Required CredentialsCommercial driver's license, safety certifications, technical trainingSimilar certifications, safety training, technical knowledge
Work EnvironmentTrain cabins, rail yards, maintenance facilitiesLocomotive cabs, rail yards, on-track operations
Employer & IndustryRailroads, freight and passenger servicesRailroads, freight companies, transit agencies
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

Both Train Engineers and Locomotive Operators are essential roles in rail transportation, requiring similar certifications and working in comparable environments. While the terms are often used interchangeably, 'Train Engineer' typically emphasizes operating passenger or freight trains, whereas 'Locomotive Operator' may focus more on the technical operation of locomotives. Understanding these nuances helps job seekers find the right position in the rail industry.

Is there a demand for train engineers?

Train engineers are in steady demand due to ongoing needs for freight and passenger transportation. Employment opportunities often depend on the transportation industry’s growth, infrastructure investments, and the availability of qualified candidates with proper certifications and experience.
What are popular job titles related to Train Engineer jobs in Washington, DC? For Train Engineer jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Train Engineer jobs in Washington, DC look for? The top searched job categories for Train Engineer jobs in Washington, DC are:
Train Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Train Engineer job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $130,735 per year, or $62.9 per hour.

Release Train Engineer

Hunter Strategy

Washington, DC • On-site

$130K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

About Hunter Strategy
Hunter Strategy has a unique philosophy to technical project delivery. We treat all our customers like mission partners because they rely on our team to meet their objectives through complex software engineering, cloud operations, and cyber risk management solutions. Hunter Strategy was founded on the premise that IT is 21st century infrastructure - critically important but only instrumentally valuable. Accordingly, our teams look at problems with a single objective: the identification and enablement of the right capability to address the most vexing problems our Mission Partners face. We continue to support our partners' success by leveraging the right technology, with the right plan, and the right team to address tomorrow's challenges today.
Release Train Engineer
Salary Range: $130,000 - $150,000 annually
About the Role
Hunter Strategy is seeking an experienced Release Train Engineer to support a new mission with a large federal civilian agency. You will join a team of Agile practitioners and architects to establish and mature SAFe methodologies, cadence, and ceremony structure for a newly formed Agile environment. This is a greenfield program, and the framework is stood up from the ground up.
PI Planning is yours from day one, and the scope grows with the program. You begin by facilitating a single Agile Release Train. As new development teams come online, you absorb Scrum of Scrums, PI planning, and cross-team dependency resolution across multiple trains, carrying Solution Train Engineer scope as the program scales. A team of Agile practitioners and architects works alongside you throughout.
What You Will Do
  • Facilitate a single Agile Release Train at program start, establishing the cadence and ceremony structure for a newly formed federal Agile environment
  • Plan and facilitate PI Planning events in a cross-functional, multi-contractor organization
  • Absorb Scrum of Scrums, PI planning coordination, and cross-team dependency resolution across multiple trains as they come online, carrying Solution Train Engineer scope as the program scales
  • Work with a team of Agile practitioners and architects to establish and mature SAFe methodology across the program
  • Partner with the Product Owner, Scrum Master, Agile Coach, and Metrics Analyst on backlog readiness and delivery cadence
  • Work with the Agile Metrics Analyst to keep PI predictability and related delivery metrics visible

What You Bring
  • 6+ years of Agile delivery experience
  • 3+ years working in a SAFe environment
  • 1+ years leading PI Planning and other SAFe ceremonies in a cross-functional organization
  • Experience standing up or transforming Agile practices in a new or changing organization
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a Public Trust suitability determination

Preferred
  • Certified SAFe Release Train Engineer (RTE) or SAFe Program Consultant (SPC); SAFe Agilist considered
  • Experience supporting federal civilian or defense programs, particularly multi-contractor environments
  • Experience facilitating development teams the RTE does not directly manage (vendor-neutral or oversight settings)

Position Details
This position is contingent upon contract award, with a tentative start date of September 1, 2026. Work is remote-first; occasional onsite support in Washington, DC may be coordinated with the Government. Hunter Strategy is an equal opportunity employer.
This posting is for a current vacancy and the employer intends to fill this position no sooner than September 1, 2026. This position is contingent upon contract award.

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