Locomotive Engineers
Drive electric, diesel-electric, steam, or gas-turbine-electric locomotives to transport passengers or freight. Interpret train orders, electronic or manual signals, and railroad rules and regulations.
36 alternate job titles:
Salary Information
Locomotive Engineers: $77,400 (median) per year.
Starting salary (10th percentile).
Required expreience: Varies by Company
Data source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Daily Tasks & Responsibilities
| Task Description | Category |
|---|---|
| Monitor equipment gauges or displays to ensure proper operation. | Maintenance |
| Monitor surroundings to detect potential hazards. | Maintenance |
| Monitor operational quality or safety. | Maintenance |
| Monitor availability of equipment or supplies. | Maintenance |
| Monitor loading processes to ensure they are performed properly. | Maintenance |
| Receive information or instructions for performing work assignments. | General |
| Operate locomotives or other rail vehicles. | General |
| Respond to transportation emergencies. | General |
| Prepare accident or incident reports. | General |
| Inspect locomotives or other railroad equipment. | General |
| Communicate with others to coordinate vehicle movement. | Management |
| Signal others to coordinate vehicle movement. | Management |
Technology Requirements
| Technology | Description |
|---|---|
| Microsoft Excel | Spreadsheet software |
| Microsoft Word | Word processing software |
| Electronic train management systems ETMS | Expert system software |
| Route mapping software | Route navigation software |
| Time tracking software | Time accounting software |
Relevant Certifications
Industry certifications that may be valuable for this career role:
| Certification | Issuing Organization | Practice Test |
|---|---|---|
| Designated Supervisors of Locomotive Engineers | United States Department of Transportation, Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) | Not Available |
| Locomotive Engineer Certification | United States Department of Transportation, Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) | Not Available |