How to Become a Locomotive Engineer

Step 1: Understand the job description and responsibilities of a Locomotive Engineer

What does a Locomotive Engineer do?

A Locomotive Engineer drives electric, diesel-electric, or gas-turbine electric locomotives to transport freight and/or passengers between stations. May be required to complete specific trade school courses and possess necessary certifications. Being a Locomotive Engineer is familiar with a variety of the field's concepts, practices, and procedures. Relies on experience and judgment to plan and accomplish goals. Additionally, Locomotive Engineer performs a variety of complicated tasks.

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Locomotive engineers, also known as train engineers, are responsible for driving trains safely from one destination to another.

11/29/2019: Monroe, LA

Some locomotive engineers drive trains between stations, while others move trains around in a rail yard.

10/30/2019: Baton Rouge, LA

Locomotive engineers drive freight or passenger trains between stations.

10/11/2019: Flagstaff, AZ

Most drive diesel-electric engines, although some drive locomotives powered by battery or electricity.

11/05/2019: Winston Salem, NC

Locomotive engineers adjust train speeds to account for weather conditions or sensitive cargo needs.

11/23/2019: Lincoln, NE
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Step 2: Learn best tips to become a Locomotive Engineer

Best tips for those who want to become a Locomotive Engineer

Here are some tips to become a Locomotive Engineer.

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Top 13 Situational Interview Questions As Railway Locomotive Engineer.

10/28/2019: Chillicothe, OH
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Step 3: View best colleges and universities for Locomotive Engineer

Best colleges and universities for Locomotive Engineer

  • Butler University
  • Taylor University
  • California State University--Maritime Academy
  • William Jessup University
  • Fairfield University
  • United States Merchant Marine Academy

Step 4: Think about whether is it worth to be a Locomotive Engineer

Is being a Locomotive Engineer Worth it?

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Disney's team of engineers are driving authentic, steam-powered trains to this day.

10/04/2019: Tacoma, WA

They have made a few innovations, though — instead of using coal, today's steam locomotives at Disneyland run mostly off biodiesel that's made from oil recycled from the park's many restaurants.

11/08/2019: Saint Louis, MO

Agency officials attribute the significant increase in engineer training activities to the hyper-focused efforts of the Murphy Administration and NJ TRANSIT President and CEO Kevin Corbett to improve reliability and the customer experience.

12/24/2019: Peoria, IL

Some ask why NJ TRANSIT can’t simply bring in engineers from other railroads across the country as a short-term solution.

12/25/2019: Amarillo, TX

Locomotive engineers from other railroads would still have to undergo the extensive training required to become certified to operate on NJ TRANSIT’s rail network.

11/09/2019: Omaha, NE
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Step 5: Prepare relevant skills for being a Locomotive Engineer

What skills do you need to be a Locomotive Engineer?

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This training period lasts two to three months, and involves riding with an experienced engineer who will instruct the trainee on a specific track's length, switch location and unusual features.

12/24/2019: Dallas, TX

Even experienced engineers need to go through this training period every time they switch to a new track in order to become familiar with the new track.

12/14/2019: San Antonio, TX

At the end of the training period, new engineers and those on new routes must be certified by the FRA to ensure they understand all physical aspects of the route they are operating.

10/12/2019: Chillicothe, OH

After reading this, you will be able to plan for your future if you want to be a Locomotive Engineer.

10/04/2019: Winston Salem, NC

You may need some previous work-related skill, knowledge or experience to be A Locomotive Engineer.

12/29/2019: Cedar Rapids, IA
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Step 6: View average salary for Locomotive Engineer

How much does a Locomotive Engineer make?

The average salary range for a Locomotive Engineer is from $66,876 to $99,562. The salary will change depending on your location, job level, experience, education, and skills.

Salary range for a Locomotive Engineer
$66,876 to $99,562

Step 7: Find relevant Locomotive Engineer jobs, and apply.

Looking for Locomotive Engineer jobs?

Here are some Locomotive Engineer jobs in the United States.

Search Locomotive Engineer Jobs in the United States

Step 8: Explore Career Path of Locomotive Engineer