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Trainee Freight Train Engineer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

CSX

Freight Conductor - Ottawa, IL

Ottawa, IL · On-site

A Freight Conductor's primary responsibility is to safely coordinate train crews on a freight train ... Advance to engineer position when required, based on seniority * This position is governed by a ...

Bunge

Operations Engineering Trainee

Cairo, IL

$78K/yr

Upon successful completion of the program, Engineering Operations Trainees will apply for ... Train, develop and lead the Bunge safety culture by learning, understanding and demonstrating safe ...

Boise Cascade

Freight Specialist

Granite City, IL

$23 - $30/hr

May train driving associates. Demonstrate strong commitment to safety, quality, environmental ... plywood and engineered wood products in North America. Because our business is built on ...

Boise Cascade

Freight Specialist

Granite City, IL · On-site

May train driving associates. Demonstrate strong commitment to safety, quality, environmental ... plywood and engineered wood products in North America. Because our business is built on ...

omnitrax

Engineer/Conductor

Ottawa, IL

POSITION SUMMARY The Engineer/Conductor oversees the train, freight, and crew: operates track switches, couples, and uncouples cars and places cars to facilitate loading and unloading, places cars ...

omnitrax

Engineer/Conductor

Ottawa, IL · On-site

POSITION SUMMARY The Engineer/Conductor oversees the train, freight, and crew: operates track switches, couples, and uncouples cars and places cars to facilitate loading and unloading, places cars ...

OmniTRAX

Engineer/Conductor

Ottawa, IL · On-site

POSITION SUMMARY The Engineer/Conductor oversees the train, freight, and crew: operates track switches, couples, and uncouples cars and places cars to facilitate loading and unloading, places cars ...

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Trainee Freight Train Engineer information

What is a trainee freight train engineer?

Trainee freight train engineers are individuals undergoing specialized training to operate freight trains under the supervision of experienced engineers. They learn how to safely control locomotives, follow railway regulations, and understand signaling systems and freight handling procedures. The training usually involves both classroom instruction and hands-on experience in real-world rail environments. Upon successful completion, trainees become certified engineers responsible for transporting goods across rail networks.

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

To thrive as a Trainee Freight Train Engineer, you need a high school diploma or equivalent, strong mechanical aptitude, and a basic understanding of rail operations. Familiarity with railroad signaling systems, train control technology, and the ability to obtain relevant certifications such as a locomotive engineer license are typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are essential soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure safe and efficient train operations, compliance with regulations, and the ability to handle unexpected situations on the job.

What are the typical challenges faced during the training period as a trainee freight train engineer?

During the training period, Trainee Freight Train Engineers often encounter challenges such as mastering complex safety protocols, adapting to irregular work hours, and learning to operate powerful locomotives under varying weather and track conditions. Trainees must quickly develop strong situational awareness and decision-making skills, as the role requires constant attention to detail and adherence to strict operational procedures. Additionally, trainees frequently work alongside experienced engineers and conductors, which requires effective communication and teamwork to ensure safe and efficient freight transport.

What is the difference between Trainee Freight Train Engineer vs Conductor?

AspectTrainee Freight Train EngineerConductor
CredentialsTraining certification, locomotive operation knowledgeRailroad certification, safety training
Work EnvironmentLocomotive cab, train yardsTrain cars, stations, onboard
Industry UsageOperating trains, safety proceduresPassenger and freight management, safety oversight

The Trainee Freight Train Engineer primarily focuses on operating locomotives and gaining technical skills, while the Conductor manages train operations, safety, and passenger or freight services. Both roles are essential in rail transport, often working closely but with different responsibilities and certifications.

How do you become a trainee freight train engineer?

To become a trainee freight train engineer, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, a valid driver's license, and a clean driving record. They often undergo on-the-job training provided by the employer, which includes learning safety protocols, operating procedures, and sometimes obtaining certifications such as a locomotive engineer license or related safety certifications.

How to become a trainee freight train engineer with no experience?

To become a trainee freight train engineer, applicants typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, a valid driver's license, and a clean driving record. Prior experience in operating heavy machinery or working in transportation can be beneficial, and candidates often undergo on-the-job training provided by rail companies, which may include safety certifications and understanding of railway operations.

What are the requirements to become a trainee freight train engineer?

To become a trainee freight train engineer, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, a valid driver's license, and a clean driving record. They must pass a background check, drug screening, and often complete a training program that includes safety protocols, operational procedures, and sometimes certification in railroad safety or operating rules.

What are the most commonly searched types of Freight Train Engineer jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Freight Train Engineer jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Trainee Freight Train Engineer jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Trainee Freight Train Engineer job openings:

Trainee Freight Train Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Trainee Freight Train Engineer job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 92% In-person, and 8% Hybrid job distribution.

Freight Train Conductor - Bedford Park, IL

Paducah & Louisville Railway

Bedford Park, IL • On-site

$38.19/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

Midway Southern Railway, Inc. (part of P&L Transportation, Inc.) is looking for Freight Train Conductors in Bedford Park, IL.


The conductor is responsible for the safe and efficient administration of the train operations and handling of customer freight in accordance with FRA, AAR, and Company rules, policies and regulations. All necessary safety procedures, guidelines and policies must be adhered to in the performance of the tasks assigned to this position as set forth below.


Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Understand and adhere to operating rules, safety rules, policies, procedures and regulations and ensure train crew’s compliance with all train orders, signals, rules and regulations and for safe train operations.
  • Perform railcar switching by combining or separating cars to make up or break up trains by switching tracks, coupling and uncoupling cars, and routing inbound and outbound traffic while directing engineer to move cars to fit planned train configurations.
  • Receive and comprehend instructions, bulletins, work orders, and switch lists from dispatchers and Trainmaster, and discuss with locomotive engineer and train crew to ensure all understand the immediate job task.
  • Complete paperwork of car movements and keep records of the contents and destination of each train car to ensure cars are added/removed at proper points on route in accordance with customer’s instructions and for proper billing.
  • Observe, understand, and act upon the indications of color light signals and signs.
  • Communicate with engineer, dispatcher, and other workers using telecommunications equipment/radios and hand signals.
  • Inspect the condition of trains and equipment including making repairs such as changing knuckles and air brake hoses.


Job Requirements - Context and Environment:

  • Work safely to prevent on the job accidents and injuries.
  • SAFETY SENSITIVE POSITION – Extreme consequence of error to worker and public.
  • Exposure to hazardous equipment.
  • Vision, color, and hearing acuity as specified in FRA regulations.
  • Governed by a collective bargaining agreement with membership required which determines specific job duties, work assignments, and work locations.
  • Regular and timely attendance at work.
  • Work hours are irregular and will vary in length and schedule. Work hours will include a nonstandard workweek, overtime, and shiftwork including nights and weekends usually exceeding 40 hours per week.
  • Required to report to work safely on as close to two-hour notice as possible. Will include nights and weekends.
  • Requires a valid driver’s license.
  • >95% travel required.
  • Wearing Common Protective or Safety Equipment such as Safety Shoes, Glasses, Gloves, Hearing Protection, Hard Hats, or Life Jackets
  • Frequent lifting work up to 50 pounds and 85 pounds occasionally.
  • Walking long distances over uneven terrain and on elevated surfaces and slopes.
  • Ascends and descends steps and ladders to get on and off equipment.
  • Working under Time Pressure to meet strict deadlines.
  • Working outdoors (Exposed to all Weather conditions). Exposed to heat and cold including extreme heat and cold, both natural and man-made and with equipment that intensifies the heat factor. They are required to work in a variety of weather conditions at all times of the day or night
  • Exposed to Sounds and elevated Noise Levels (Are Distracting or Uncomfortable


Education/Training/Certification: High school diploma or general education degree (GED).