Locomotive Electrician Jobs
Locomotive Electrician jobs are open across freight rail, passenger rail, and transit agencies, from entry-level apprentice to senior and lead electrician, with specializations in traction motor repair, diesel-electric systems, and control circuit diagnostics. Find a role that fits from the openings below and apply directly.
Find Locomotive Electrician JobsOverview
Showing 5 of 11+ Locomotive Electrician jobs
Job Purpose
Performs the duties of locomotive mechanic involved in inspecting, repairing, fabricating, and maintaining historic diesel/electric locomotives to meet and exceed FRA regulations and CVSR expectations for positive, safe and reliable customer experience while maintaining a clean and respectable fleet appearance.
This position will have a starting wage at $24.
Flexible upon experience
Req ID
12042BR
City
Marshalltown
State:
Iowa
Company Description
Progress Rail stands at the intersection of legacy and innovation—driving the future of rail with a pioneering spirit. Since its founding in 1983, the company has grown to become one of the world’s largest and most trusted providers of railroad products, services, and technologies. Today, Progress Rail delivers a comprehensive portfolio of cost-effective solutions to railway customers around the globe. From the rails themselves to the EMD® locomotives that ride them, the company’s products are in operation across more than 100 countries—powering progress and connecting communities. In 2006, Progress Rail joined Caterpillar Inc., further strengthening its ability to lead the rail industry with cutting-edge technology, unmatched expertise, and a commitment to excellence. At Progress Rail, the team is not just building the future of rail—they are making history every day.
Key Job Elements
- Ensure compliance with all railroad rules and regulations for safety, operations, and the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA). Comply with the guidelines set forth by the FRA on Personal Blue Signal Protection of workers;
- Inspect equipment components for compliance with FRA, Association of American Railroads (AAR), APTA (American Public Transportation Association) and CVSR standards;
- Diagnoses malfunctions in diesel engines, air equipment, trucks or other components to determine nature of problem and needed repair or replacement;
- Perform emergency repairs to locomotives;
- Replaces locomotive and diesel engine components including but not limited to wheels or trucks, traction motors, springs, couplers, draft gear assembly, gear cases, cylinder heads, air compressors, and turbo chargers;
- Performs daily service of locomotive units: fuels, waters, lubricates and oils; wipes down and cleans unit/windows; checks supplies and drinking water;
- Performs periodic and annual inspections and understands FRA regulations pertaining to inspections;
- Maintain written and computer records for maintenance and repairs as required;
- Properly utilize equipment and tools consistently, accurately and safely: roll-overs; torque wrench; pipe threaders; tubing benders; cutting torches; electric and air operated hand tools; forklifts; overhead cranes; other mechanical equipment;
- Work with little or no supervision consistently, accurately, and safely;
- Follow written/scope of work instructions and or QWI’s consistently, accurately, and safely;
- Read schematics and blueprints and make needed repairs;
- Keep work area clean and organized;
- Complete and document jobs in a timely manner per requirements (QWIs, Travelers);
- Read and interpret Blueprints;
- Follow all safety policies and procedures, utilize all PPE;
Advanced duties and responsibilities
- Ability to align rotating equipment;
- Ability to identify systems and conduct Air Test;
- Utilize precision instruments and tooling;
- Any other duties assigned;
Education / Training
- High School Diploma or equivalent required;
- Previous locomotive mechanic experience required;
- 2-5+ years of experience as locomotive, diesel, automotive or aircraft mechanic; Technical Certifications a plus;
Qualifications and Experience
- Forklift and/or crane experience;
- Problem solving skills to properly assess and compensate for variations due to incoming part quality, process variations, process changes, engineering changes and part shortages;
- Mechanical aptitude;
- Knowledge of Locomotive diesel engine components;
- Must demonstrate ability to read and comprehend complex instructions, technical correspondence, and memos;
- Demonstrate ability to communicate verbally or as written;
- Demonstrate ability to effectively present information in one-on-one and group situations to customers and employees of the organization.
Essential and Physical Activities Functions
- Strength – Must be able to lift and carry up to 35lbs, push and pull up to 50lb;
- Motion – Constant walking Frequent and sustained bending, crouching, stopping, kneeing, squatting and overhead reaching and climbing ladders;
- Vision/Hearing Requirements – Must be able to follow written and verbal instructions and hear audible alarms;
- Work Environment – Works on varied surfaces, concrete floors, and gravel, rail car and locomotive floors. Works at varied heights from floor level to tops of locomotives. Work in confined spaces. Non-temperature control environment, all weather conditions with high noise and high dust levels;
- Emotional Demands – Due to the working environment, noise, dust, personal protective equipment, employee must be comfortable working alone;
- Safety – Safety Sensitive positions because it works in and around active tracks, rail cars, locomotives, and other moving equipment. Employee must abide by all safety protocols, health/medical screenings and utilize all required PPE. Included but not limited to metatarsal boots, safety glasses, gloves, respirators, aprons, ear protection, etc.
Benefits
Compensation and benefits offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, job level, market location, job-related knowledge, skills, individual performance, and experience. Please note that salary is only one component of total compensation at Progress Rail.
- Competitive Salary
- 401(k) plan with up to 6% company match (no waiting period with immediate vesting)
- Medical/Dental/Vision/Life/Disability Insurance
- Supplemental Accident, Critical Care, and Hospital Insurance available along with an HDHP and HSA with seed money
- Flexible Spending Accounts
- Paid Vacation
- Paid Holidays
- Paid Time-Off (PTO)
- Employee Assistance Plan
- Education Assistance Program
- Employee Recognition Programs
- Site specific Production and Incentive Plans
- Site specific Step and Skill Level Wage Adjustment Plans
- Site Specific Relocation and Sign-on Bonus Programs
Benefits eligibility varies by job position, full-time/part-time and regular/temporary status. The provisions of the plan documents control such benefits.
EEO
Progress Rail is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities.
Job Category
Production - Hourly
PRS Facility Location
EMD Marshalltown, IA - 405
Job Purpose
Performs the duties of locomotive mechanic involved in inspecting, repairing, fabricating, and maintaining historic diesel/electric locomotives to meet and exceed FRA regulations and CVSR expectations for positive, safe and reliable customer experience while maintaining a clean and respectable fleet appearance.
This position will have a starting wage at $24.
Flexible upon experience
Req ID
12042BR
City
Marshalltown
State:
Iowa
Company Description
Progress Rail stands at the intersection of legacy and innovation—driving the future of rail with a pioneering spirit. Since its founding in 1983, the company has grown to become one of the world’s largest and most trusted providers of railroad products, services, and technologies. Today, Progress Rail delivers a comprehensive portfolio of cost-effective solutions to railway customers around the globe. From the rails themselves to the EMD® locomotives that ride them, the company’s products are in operation across more than 100 countries—powering progress and connecting communities. In 2006, Progress Rail joined Caterpillar Inc., further strengthening its ability to lead the rail industry with cutting-edge technology, unmatched expertise, and a commitment to excellence. At Progress Rail, the team is not just building the future of rail—they are making history every day.
Key Job Elements
- Ensure compliance with all railroad rules and regulations for safety, operations, and the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA). Comply with the guidelines set forth by the FRA on Personal Blue Signal Protection of workers;
- Inspect equipment components for compliance with FRA, Association of American Railroads (AAR), APTA (American Public Transportation Association) and CVSR standards;
- Diagnoses malfunctions in diesel engines, air equipment, trucks or other components to determine nature of problem and needed repair or replacement;
- Perform emergency repairs to locomotives;
- Replaces locomotive and diesel engine components including but not limited to wheels or trucks, traction motors, springs, couplers, draft gear assembly, gear cases, cylinder heads, air compressors, and turbo chargers;
- Performs daily service of locomotive units: fuels, waters, lubricates and oils; wipes down and cleans unit/windows; checks supplies and drinking water;
- Performs periodic and annual inspections and understands FRA regulations pertaining to inspections;
- Maintain written and computer records for maintenance and repairs as required;
- Properly utilize equipment and tools consistently, accurately and safely: roll-overs; torque wrench; pipe threaders; tubing benders; cutting torches; electric and air operated hand tools; forklifts; overhead cranes; other mechanical equipment;
- Work with little or no supervision consistently, accurately, and safely;
- Follow written/scope of work instructions and or QWI’s consistently, accurately, and safely;
- Read schematics and blueprints and make needed repairs;
- Keep work area clean and organized;
- Complete and document jobs in a timely manner per requirements (QWIs, Travelers);
- Read and interpret Blueprints;
- Follow all safety policies and procedures, utilize all PPE;
Advanced duties and responsibilities
- Ability to align rotating equipment;
- Ability to identify systems and conduct Air Test;
- Utilize precision instruments and tooling;
- Any other duties assigned;
Education / Training
- High School Diploma or equivalent required;
- Previous locomotive mechanic experience required;
- 2-5+ years of experience as locomotive, diesel, automotive or aircraft mechanic; Technical Certifications a plus;
Qualifications and Experience
- Forklift and/or crane experience;
- Problem solving skills to properly assess and compensate for variations due to incoming part quality, process variations, process changes, engineering changes and part shortages;
- Mechanical aptitude;
- Knowledge of Locomotive diesel engine components;
- Must demonstrate ability to read and comprehend complex instructions, technical correspondence, and memos;
- Demonstrate ability to communicate verbally or as written;
- Demonstrate ability to effectively present information in one-on-one and group situations to customers and employees of the organization.
Essential and Physical Activities Functions
- Strength – Must be able to lift and carry up to 35lbs, push and pull up to 50lb;
- Motion – Constant walking Frequent and sustained bending, crouching, stopping, kneeing, squatting and overhead reaching and climbing ladders;
- Vision/Hearing Requirements – Must be able to follow written and verbal instructions and hear audible alarms;
- Work Environment – Works on varied surfaces, concrete floors, and gravel, rail car and locomotive floors. Works at varied heights from floor level to tops of locomotives. Work in confined spaces. Non-temperature control environment, all weather conditions with high noise and high dust levels;
- Emotional Demands – Due to the working environment, noise, dust, personal protective equipment, employee must be comfortable working alone;
- Safety – Safety Sensitive positions because it works in and around active tracks, rail cars, locomotives, and other moving equipment. Employee must abide by all safety protocols, health/medical screenings and utilize all required PPE. Included but not limited to metatarsal boots, safety glasses, gloves, respirators, aprons, ear protection, etc.
Benefits
Compensation and benefits offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, job level, market location, job-related knowledge, skills, individual performance, and experience. Please note that salary is only one component of total compensation at Progress Rail.
- Competitive Salary
- 401(k) plan with up to 6% company match (no waiting period with immediate vesting)
- Medical/Dental/Vision/Life/Disability Insurance
- Supplemental Accident, Critical Care, and Hospital Insurance available along with an HDHP and HSA with seed money
- Flexible Spending Accounts
- Paid Vacation
- Paid Holidays
- Paid Time-Off (PTO)
- Employee Assistance Plan
- Education Assistance Program
- Employee Recognition Programs
- Site specific Production and Incentive Plans
- Site specific Step and Skill Level Wage Adjustment Plans
- Site Specific Relocation and Sign-on Bonus Programs
Benefits eligibility varies by job position, full-time/part-time and regular/temporary status. The provisions of the plan documents control such benefits.
EEO
Progress Rail is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities.
Job Category
Production - Hourly
PRS Facility Location
EMD Marshalltown, IA - 405
See All Locomotive Electrician Jobs
Jump back to the full list of openings and apply to any locomotive electrician role that fits.
Find Locomotive Electrician JobsLocomotive Electrician Job Market
A snapshot from current openings nationwide, updated as new roles post.
Who's Hiring
- The Marmon Group3
- Faraday Future2
- Progress Rail2
- Enviri Corporation1
- Grambling State University1
Top Industries Hiring
- Consulting & Professional Services3
- Manufacturing3
- Automotive2
- Education1
- Mining & Natural Resources1
What Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in locomotive electrician jobs.
- Experience troubleshooting and repairing diesel-electric locomotive systems
- Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics and wiring diagrams
- Completion of a formal electrician apprenticeship or vocational training program
- Familiarity with EMD and GE locomotive platforms and their control systems
- Proficiency with diagnostic tools including multimeters, oscilloscopes, and laptop-based test equipment
- Valid driver's license and ability to pass FRA-required medical and background screening
Tips for Your Locomotive Electrician Job Search
Tailor your resume to rail systems
List the specific locomotive models you've worked on, such as EMD or GE series, alongside the electrical systems you've serviced. Hiring managers at Class I and regional railroads scan for this detail before anything else on your resume.
Get your certifications documented properly
NORAC rules compliance, AAR electrical standards, and any FRA-regulated training need to appear as named credentials, not vague references to 'railroad experience.' Recruiters filter on these terms, so match the exact language used in the job posting.
Apply early to roles that fit
Migrate Mate lists locomotive electrician openings from across the United States in one place, so you can find roles that match and apply directly to each listing.
Target postings by equipment type
Search for openings that name the equipment you know best, whether that's AC traction systems, head-end power units, or event recorder diagnostics. Matching your hands-on experience to the specific hardware in a posting makes your application far more competitive.
Prepare for hands-on technical assessments
Many rail employers test candidates on schematic reading, multimeter use, and fault isolation before the panel interview. Practice narrating your diagnostic process out loud so you can walk an interviewer through your reasoning step by step.
Negotiate shift differentials, not just base pay
Locomotive electrician roles often run on rotating or night shifts, and the differential can meaningfully change total compensation. Ask about overtime guarantees, on-call expectations, and per diem for travel assignments before you accept any offer.
Locomotive Electrician Jobs: Frequently Asked Questions
Which companies are hiring the most locomotive electricians?
The companies hiring the most locomotive electricians right now include The Marmon Group, Faraday Future, and Progress Rail, with the largest share of openings in California, Illinois, and Iowa, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of June 2026. Freight Class I carriers and commuter rail authorities consistently account for the bulk of active postings.
How many locomotive electrician jobs are remote?
About 0% of locomotive electrician openings are fully remote or hybrid as of June 2026, reflecting the hands-on nature of most work in this trade. The sub-areas most likely to include remote or hybrid components are technical documentation, warranty reporting, and parts procurement coordination roles attached to electrical maintenance departments.
How do you become a locomotive electrician?
Start by completing a vocational program or community college coursework in industrial or transportation electrical systems, then enter a formal apprenticeship through a railroad employer or a union such as the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. Build hands-on experience on diesel-electric equipment, learn to read locomotive schematics, and pursue any FRA-regulated training your employer requires before advancing to independent troubleshooting responsibilities.
Can you get hired as a locomotive electrician with little experience?
Yes, some railroads and transit agencies hire entry-level candidates into apprentice or helper roles if you have a vocational electrical background and can demonstrate schematic-reading ability. Emphasize any experience with heavy equipment, industrial motors, or 480V systems on your resume, and be prepared to pass a mechanical aptitude assessment, since many employers use these to evaluate candidates who lack direct rail experience.
What does the locomotive electrician interview process look like?
Most rail employers start with a phone screen focused on your electrical background and availability for shift work, followed by a technical interview where you walk through past troubleshooting scenarios on locomotive or heavy equipment systems. A hands-on skills assessment, often involving schematic interpretation or multimeter use, is common at the shop level before a final offer is extended and pre-employment drug, physical, and background checks are completed.
Where can I find and apply to locomotive electrician jobs?
You can find and apply to locomotive electrician jobs on Migrate Mate, which lists current openings from across the United States in one place. Find the roles that match your experience and equipment background, then apply directly to each listing.
See All Locomotive Electrician Jobs
Jump back to the full list of openings and apply to any locomotive electrician role that fits.
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