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.
SOC: 53-4011.00
Common Job Titles
Locomotive Engineer
Passenger Locomotive Engineer
Railroad Engineer
Transportation Specialist
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
Hands-onOperate diesel-electric, electric, and gas-turbine-electric locomotives transporting passengers or freight along designated routes following railroad regulations.
Proficient
KnowledgeEvaluate electronic train management systems and manual signals for compliance with safety standards in real-time operational conditions under varying weather and track conditions.
Proficient
Hands-onCoordinate locomotive speed, braking systems, and throttle controls maintaining schedule adherence while ensuring passenger and freight safety.
Proficient
KnowledgeInterpret train orders, track signals, and railroad rules and regulations independently making critical decisions affecting safe train operations.
Proficient
MindsetIntegrate public safety protocols with operational efficiency requirements when coordinating with dispatchers, conductors, and rail traffic control.
Proficient
KnowledgeAssess time-distance relationships and stopping requirements calculating speed adjustments for scheduled station stops and track clearances.
Proficient
KnowledgeExplain locomotive operating procedures and safety regulations to trainees during on-the-job training and qualification activities.
Proficient
KnowledgeAnalyze locomotive mechanical performance and operational anomalies through continuous monitoring of instruments, gauges, and on-board systems.
Developing
Hands-onExecute emergency braking procedures and coupling/uncoupling operations responding to track hazards, equipment failures, or safety threats.
Developing
KnowledgeApply geographic and route knowledge to navigation and speed regulation adapting to grade changes, curves, and track condition restrictions.
Developing
Hands-onPerform pre-trip and post-trip inspections of locomotive equipment and safety devices following Federal Railroad Administration standards and company protocols.
Developing
MindsetParticipate in crew communications using two-way radios and end-of-train devices maintaining situational awareness and coordinating with train crew members.
Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Locomotive Engineers (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
31,990
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $60,980. 25th percentile: U.S. $73,410. 50th percentile: U.S. $77,400. 75th percentile: U.S. $84,230. 90th percentile: U.S. $100,690. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$60,980
10% of workers earn the following or more
$100,690
Workers on average earn
$81,540
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
Transportation4.5/5
Public Safety and Security3.6/5
English Language3.3/5
Education and Training3.3/5
Customer and Personal Service3.0/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
