Locomotive Engineers
Locomotive engineers operate electric, diesel-electric, steam, or gas-turbine-electric locomotives to move passengers or freight across rail networks. They interpret train orders, signals, and railroad regulations to safely guide trains along established routes. This work takes place on trains and in rail yards throughout the United States.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against locomotive engineers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A locomotive engineer's week involves operating trains over assigned routes, monitoring speed and fuel consumption, and responding to signals and track conditions. Engineers conduct pre-trip inspections of locomotives, communicate with dispatchers and crew members via radio, and document their work according to railroad procedures. They may work irregular schedules including nights, weekends, and holidays, with shifts lasting 8-12 hours depending on route length and freight or passenger loads.
Who this work suits
Holland code RCI. Realistic work is hands-on, practical work with tools, machines or the outdoors. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You tend to do well in this work if you prefer hands-on operation of equipment and following established procedures and regulations. A practical, detail-oriented approach—combined with responsibility and respect for safety protocols—helps you succeed as a locomotive engineer.
What it takes
Preparation: Some preparation (usually high school; some on-the-job training).
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New York | $93,590 | $109,220 | $110,280 | 1,510 |
| Massachusetts | $108,790 | $108,790 | $119,030 | 640 |
| Mississippi | $60,640 | $96,710 | $174,440 | 300 |
| Minnesota | $85,620 | $93,700 | $93,830 | 990 |
| Illinois | $84,470 | $93,320 | $97,280 | 2,340 |
| Indiana | $83,150 | $92,790 | $94,240 | 1,030 |
| Florida | $80,290 | $92,310 | $94,020 | 350 |
| Oklahoma | $84,280 | $91,970 | $100,290 | 260 |
| Virginia | $82,020 | $90,780 | $90,940 | 790 |
| Montana | $90,220 | $90,220 | $90,370 | 470 |
| Iowa | $74,850 | $89,970 | $92,170 | 1,000 |
| Arizona | $89,840 | $89,840 | $93,260 | 490 |
All 35 states
Certifications people in this field hold
- Locomotive Engineer Certification — United States Department of Transportation, Federal Railroad Administration (FRA)
- Designated Supervisors of Locomotive Engineers — United States Department of Transportation, Federal Railroad Administration (FRA)
- Student Engineers — United States Department of Transportation, Federal Railroad Administration (FRA)
- Train Service Engineer — United States Department of Transportation, Federal Railroad Administration (FRA)
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against locomotive engineers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 53-4011.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.