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Train Engineer Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Spark Tek Inc

Release Train Engineer

Washington, DC · On-site

Spark Tek Inc is a company seeking a Release Train Engineer (RTE) to facilitate and lead a large-scale Agile Release Train (ART) in the Washington, D.C. area. The role involves driving the delivery ...

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 ...

Booz Allen Hamilton

Release Train Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$87 - $198/hr

Release Train Engineer The Lead Release Train Engineer (RTE) serves as the Agile execution leader responsible for coordinating delivery activities across multiple Agile Release Trains supporting ...

Booz Allen Hamilton

Release Train Engineer

Herndon, VA

$86K - $198K/yr

Release Train Engineer The Opportunity: The Lead Release Train Engineer (RTE) serves as the Agile execution leader responsible for coordinating delivery activities across multiple Agile Release ...

Phase2 Technology

Release Train Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$119 - $198/hr

R0247350 Release Train Engineer The Lead Release Train Engineer (RTE) serves as the Agile execution leader responsible for coordinating delivery activities across multiple Agile Release Trains ...

Unity Compass

Release Train Engineer

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$110 - $215/hr

We are seeking a highly experienced Release Train Engineer (RTE) to lead Agile delivery and cross-team coordination in support of a mission-critical geospatial intelligence (GEOINT) program. This ...

Booz Allen Hamilton

Release Train Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$99K - $225K/yr

Release Train Engineer The Opportunity: As a scrum master, you're passionate about outcomes and supporting a development team that's modernizing critical projects. You know the importance of Agile ...

Booz Allen Hamilton

Release Train Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$99K - $225K/yr

R0247923 Release Train Engineer The Opportunity: As a scrum master, you're passionate about outcomes and supporting a development team that's modernizing critical projects. You know the importance of ...

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All JobsTrain Engineer JobsTrain Engineer Jobs in Washington, DC

Train Engineer information

See Washington, DC salary details

$43K

$131.2K

$216.8K

How much do train engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for train engineer in Washington, DC is $131,179.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $94,000.00 and $171,500.00 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 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 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 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.

Do train engineers make good money?

Train engineers typically earn a median annual salary of around $60,000 to $70,000, with experienced professionals and those working for major rail companies earning higher wages. Salaries can vary based on location, experience, and certifications such as locomotive engineer licenses. The job often includes shift work and safety training requirements.

How do you get a job as a train engineer?

To become a train engineer, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by specialized training provided by the employer or a technical school. They must obtain a locomotive engineer license from the Federal Railroad Administration, which involves passing written and skills tests, and often requires prior experience as a train conductor or in a related role.

Is there a demand for train engineers?

Train engineers are in steady demand due to the ongoing need for freight and passenger transportation. Employment opportunities often depend on the transportation industry’s growth, infrastructure investments, and the availability of qualified personnel with proper certifications and experience.

What does a train engineer do?

A train engineer, also known as a locomotive engineer, operates and controls trains to ensure safe and efficient transportation of passengers or freight. They monitor signals, control speed, and communicate with dispatchers, often working in a cab with specialized equipment. Certification and adherence to safety protocols are essential in this role.

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 63% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 5% Temporary, and 27% Contract. Highlights an 78% In-person, 6% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $131,179 per year, or $63.1 per hour.

Release Train Engineer

JCD Staffing

Washington, DC

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago

Job description

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 customer. This role will lead Agile Release Trains supporting the migration of legacy and cloud-based communications environments, while coordinating delivery across engineering, cybersecurity, infrastructure, deployment, and operations teams.

The ideal candidate is an experienced Agile leader with strong SAFe knowledge, excellent communication skills, and a background supporting large-scale enterprise IT, telecommunications, infrastructure, or modernization initiatives.

Location

Washington, DC
Onsite 5 days per week

Clearance Requirements

  • U.S. Citizenship is required

  • Active Top Secret clearance required at time of application

  • Must be willing and able to obtain SCI access

  • Must be able to pass a CI polygraph

Responsibilities

  • Lead and facilitate Agile Release Train events, including PI Planning, Scrum of Scrums, ART Syncs, Inspect & Adapt workshops, and System Demos

  • Coordinate work across engineering, cybersecurity, infrastructure, deployment, operations, and stakeholder teams

  • Manage dependencies, risks, impediments, and program-level issues across multiple Agile teams

  • Track and report delivery metrics such as velocity, predictability, burn-down/burn-up, and flow efficiency

  • Support continuous improvement efforts and help mature Agile delivery practices across the program

  • Partner with Product Management, Solution Architects, Scrum Masters, and technical leads to prioritize roadmap objectives

  • Prepare executive-level status reports, risk updates, and implementation readiness materials

  • Promote DevSecOps, CI/CD, automation, and secure delivery best practices where applicable

  • Coach Agile teams, Scrum Masters, and stakeholders on SAFe, Lean-Agile principles, and enterprise Agile delivery

  • Ensure delivery aligns with federal security requirements, telecommunications standards, contractual milestones, and compliance expectations

Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Information Systems, Computer Science, Engineering, Business Management, or a related field

  • In lieu of a bachelor's degree, an additional 4 years of relevant experience may be accepted

  • 10+ years of progressive experience in Agile delivery, program management, systems engineering, enterprise IT modernization, or related technical program environments

  • 3+ years of experience as a Release Train Engineer, Chief Scrum Master, or equivalent Agile leadership role in a large-scale enterprise environment

  • Experience coordinating complex telecommunications, infrastructure, Unified Communications, or enterprise modernization efforts

  • Strong knowledge of SAFe Agile methodologies, Lean principles, and Agile delivery frameworks

  • Experience with Agile lifecycle management and collaboration tools such as Jira, Confluence, Rally, or Azure DevOps

  • Strong written, verbal, facilitation, and organizational communication skills

  • Ability to communicate effectively with both technical teams and executive stakeholders

Preferred Qualifications

  • SAFe Release Train Engineer, SAFe Program Consultant, PMP, Scrum Master, or related Agile certification

  • Experience supporting FBI, DOJ, DHS, federal law enforcement, or intelligence community environments

  • Familiarity with Microsoft Teams Voice, SIP trunking, VoIP, and enterprise telecom infrastructure

  • Experience with secure cloud environments such as AWS GovCloud or Microsoft Azure Government

  • Knowledge of DevSecOps, automated testing, and CI/CD pipeline implementation in secure federal environments

  • Experience supporting large-scale enterprise migrations, infrastructure transformation, or Unified Communications modernization programs