Locomotive Engineer Jobs
Locomotive Engineer jobs are open across freight rail, passenger rail, and commuter transit, covering specializations in freight conductor, passenger operations, and yard engineer work, at every level from trainee to senior engineer. Find a role that fits below and apply directly.
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Move forward with us! At NJ TRANSIT, you'll join us in transforming the third-largest transportation agency in North America. We are committed to delivering safe, reliable service that gets customers to their destinations on time–and we're looking to hire talented folks with a commitment to excellence to make it all possible.
Get your career on track as a Locomotive Engineer at NJ TRANSIT!
As a Locomotive Engineer, you’ll join the ranks of the most trained and skilled of all rail workforces. You’ll control equipment that is complex and powerful and bear responsibility for the safety of others. Become part of a Rail team that transports over 500,000 passengers a day and starts moving towards a successful and lucrative career. If you’re constantly challenging yourself to do better, then this is the job for you!
Position Summary:
The Locomotive Engineer (LE) position entails deep knowledge and application of train operating rules and regulations. It involves the operation of locomotives, performing pre-trip inspections and tests, monitoring track conditions during runs, controlling train speed by throttle adjustment and brake application, and ensuring the safety of passengers and equipment. Typically LEs monitor speed, air pressure, battery use, and other instruments to ensure that the locomotive runs smoothly. They observe the track for obstructions, such as fallen tree branches, and use a variety of controls, such as throttles and airbrakes to operate the train. In partnership with NJ Transit Conductors, LEs are part of a dynamic team that communicates in person and via radio to get information about delays or changes in the schedule to the public. The LE is also responsible for handling emergency situations involving troubleshooting repairs on equipment.
Skills & Attributes:
- Strong multi-tasking abilities, strong interpersonal, and communication skills- outstanding listening, verbal, written, and reading comprehension.
- Careful attention to detail and time management.
- Ability to work effectively as a team member.
- Ability to demonstrate self-management capabilities- Possession of self-control, trustworthiness, adaptability, and conscientiousness while on the job.
- Ability to learn, recall, and apply technical information.
- Shows accountability and dependability, and effectively demonstrates a positive attitude during stressful situations.
- Operates well in various environmental conditions (I.e. cold/hot weather, rain, fog, snow).
Minimum Requirements:
- High School Diploma or GED Equivalent is required.
- Some college is desired.
- Customer-facing experience preferred.
- Mechanical, diesel, automotive, electrical experience preferred.
- Commercial experience as a bus driver, truck driver, subway or train operator, commercial pilot, or other heavy equipment experience preferred.
- Please Submit a Resume with your Application
This is not your typical “9 to 5” job.
Our Hiring Process:
Prescreen: Applicants whose resumes pass the initial review will undergo a prescreening process to further confirm eligibility.
General Information Session: Qualified applicants will be invited to attend a general information session where they will learn more about the role and the company.
Test: After the information session, applicants will take a Locomotive Engineer Training Program (LETP) Aptitude Test to assess key skills and attributes required for the role.
Panel Interview: Applicants who perform well on the test will be invited to participate in a panel interview with representatives from Human Resources and Rail Transportation Operations.
20-Month LETP Program:
Locomotive Engineer Trainees participate in a twenty (20) month training program, which includes classroom learning, on-the-job training, knowledge of NORAC rules and regulations, and general railroad information. Trainees go through equipment orientation where they learn about airbrakes, rules of the railroad, physical characteristics of divisional railroad lines, etc. They learn in-depth knowledge of equipment and electrical operations as well as safety training before they are qualified on the lines of their assigned railroad division.
Post LETP Completion:
New Locomotive Engineer graduates are usually assigned to work the “extra list” before being able to hold a regular assignment. Assignments are chosen by employees based on seniority; therefore, preferred day shift jobs and locations are often chosen by senior employees. New employees must work assignments with irregular hours or work the “extra list” with assignments and locations changing daily. The railroad is a twenty-four (24) hour operation. Train crews are subject to duty at any time and must report to assignments within four (4) hours of being called. After becoming a Locomotive Engineer, you will be required to pass yearly examinations that test your knowledge of operating rules and other aspects of information required to successfully continue in your position.
Work Days/Hours:
After completion of the training program, the nature of the Locomotive Engineer position may require that he/she work on one train, such as the rush hour train, have a period of time off, then work the next train that is scheduled to leave. This period of time off, in between trains, is called “layover” and the Locomotive Engineer is considered “held for duty”. Employees in passenger service will be paid overtime for time “on duty”, or “held for duty” in excess of eight (8) hours. An employee held for duty will not be paid for the largest segment of time, meaning eight (8) hours pay for nine (9) hours on duty.
Salary:
Under the current labor agreement, the entry pay rate is $38.21 per hour and $54.59 per hour upon LETP promotion. Additional pay rate increases are according to the collective bargaining agreement.
Collective Bargaining Agreement:
Locomotive Engineer Trainees will be required to join the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen (BLE) union upon ninety (90) days of hire.
Performance Responsibility:
To be a successful Locomotive Engineer, you must demonstrate:
- Control Precision: The ability to quickly and repeatedly adjust the controls of a machine.
- Near & Peripheral Vision: The ability to see details at close range & the ability to see objects or movement of objects to one’s side when the eyes are looking ahead.
- Selective Attention: The ability to concentrate on a task over a period of time without being distracted.
- Reaction Time: The ability to quickly respond (hand, finger, foot) to a signal (sound, light, picture) when it appears.
- Operation Monitoring: Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure the machine is working properly.
- Problem Sensitivity: The ability to tell when something is wrong or likely to go wrong. It does not involve solving the problem, only recognizing there is a problem.
- Gross Body Equilibrium: The ability to keep or regain your body balance or stay upright when in an unstable position.
- Oral Comprehension: The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.
- Hearing Sensitivity: The ability to detect or tell the differences between sounds that vary in pitch/loudness.
- Active Listening: Giving full attention to what other people are saying.
- Critical Thinking: Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions.
Other Knowledge and Skills Necessary:
- Ability to memorize large quantities of information, (physical characteristics, operating rules and procedures, equipment operation, and terminology), that is used daily in decision making and train operating.
- Ability to read and comprehend technical and written material as well as technical drawings (i.e. operator manuals, diagrams, and flow charts, etc.). These materials are usually written at the 10th-grade reading level.
- Ability to work irregular hours and travel long distances to varied work locations.
- Ability to follow instructions and apply rules and procedures without regard to personal opinion.
Physical Factors and Work Conditions for Locomotive Engineers:
- Cramped, confined, enclosed, or awkward workspaces.
- Work that involves walking, climbing, talking, hearing, using hands to handle, feel, and/or reach with hands and arms.
- Climbing on rail equipment, walking and carrying in all weather conditions, year-round operation.
- Stooping, bending, kneeling, crouching, balancing, climbing, and sitting for long durations of time.
What we offer
- Comprehensive Family Health Insurance - Prescription, Dental, Vision
- Flexible Spending Account
- Life Insurance
- Paid Leave
Apply to become an NJ TRANSIT Locomotive Engineer today!
INDRA1
NJ TRANSIT is an Equal Opportunity Employer
Learn more about NJ TRANSIT! Sign up to receive an invitation to our next live information session at WWW.NJTRANSIT.COM/BEST
NJ TRANSIT has been recognized as Best Public Sector Recruitment Partner by NJIT, the New Jersey institute of Technology.
Move forward with us! At NJ TRANSIT, you'll join us in transforming the third-largest transportation agency in North America. We are committed to delivering safe, reliable service that gets customers to their destinations on time–and we're looking to hire talented folks with a commitment to excellence to make it all possible.
Get your career on track as a Locomotive Engineer at NJ TRANSIT!
As a Locomotive Engineer, you’ll join the ranks of the most trained and skilled of all rail workforces. You’ll control equipment that is complex and powerful and bear responsibility for the safety of others. Become part of a Rail team that transports over 500,000 passengers a day and starts moving towards a successful and lucrative career. If you’re constantly challenging yourself to do better, then this is the job for you!
Position Summary:
The Locomotive Engineer (LE) position entails deep knowledge and application of train operating rules and regulations. It involves the operation of locomotives, performing pre-trip inspections and tests, monitoring track conditions during runs, controlling train speed by throttle adjustment and brake application, and ensuring the safety of passengers and equipment. Typically LEs monitor speed, air pressure, battery use, and other instruments to ensure that the locomotive runs smoothly. They observe the track for obstructions, such as fallen tree branches, and use a variety of controls, such as throttles and airbrakes to operate the train. In partnership with NJ Transit Conductors, LEs are part of a dynamic team that communicates in person and via radio to get information about delays or changes in the schedule to the public. The LE is also responsible for handling emergency situations involving troubleshooting repairs on equipment.
Skills & Attributes:
- Strong multi-tasking abilities, strong interpersonal, and communication skills- outstanding listening, verbal, written, and reading comprehension.
- Careful attention to detail and time management.
- Ability to work effectively as a team member.
- Ability to demonstrate self-management capabilities- Possession of self-control, trustworthiness, adaptability, and conscientiousness while on the job.
- Ability to learn, recall, and apply technical information.
- Shows accountability and dependability, and effectively demonstrates a positive attitude during stressful situations.
- Operates well in various environmental conditions (I.e. cold/hot weather, rain, fog, snow).
Minimum Requirements:
- High School Diploma or GED Equivalent is required.
- Some college is desired.
- Customer-facing experience preferred.
- Mechanical, diesel, automotive, electrical experience preferred.
- Commercial experience as a bus driver, truck driver, subway or train operator, commercial pilot, or other heavy equipment experience preferred.
- Please Submit a Resume with your Application
This is not your typical “9 to 5” job.
Our Hiring Process:
Prescreen: Applicants whose resumes pass the initial review will undergo a prescreening process to further confirm eligibility.
General Information Session: Qualified applicants will be invited to attend a general information session where they will learn more about the role and the company.
Test: After the information session, applicants will take a Locomotive Engineer Training Program (LETP) Aptitude Test to assess key skills and attributes required for the role.
Panel Interview: Applicants who perform well on the test will be invited to participate in a panel interview with representatives from Human Resources and Rail Transportation Operations.
20-Month LETP Program:
Locomotive Engineer Trainees participate in a twenty (20) month training program, which includes classroom learning, on-the-job training, knowledge of NORAC rules and regulations, and general railroad information. Trainees go through equipment orientation where they learn about airbrakes, rules of the railroad, physical characteristics of divisional railroad lines, etc. They learn in-depth knowledge of equipment and electrical operations as well as safety training before they are qualified on the lines of their assigned railroad division.
Post LETP Completion:
New Locomotive Engineer graduates are usually assigned to work the “extra list” before being able to hold a regular assignment. Assignments are chosen by employees based on seniority; therefore, preferred day shift jobs and locations are often chosen by senior employees. New employees must work assignments with irregular hours or work the “extra list” with assignments and locations changing daily. The railroad is a twenty-four (24) hour operation. Train crews are subject to duty at any time and must report to assignments within four (4) hours of being called. After becoming a Locomotive Engineer, you will be required to pass yearly examinations that test your knowledge of operating rules and other aspects of information required to successfully continue in your position.
Work Days/Hours:
After completion of the training program, the nature of the Locomotive Engineer position may require that he/she work on one train, such as the rush hour train, have a period of time off, then work the next train that is scheduled to leave. This period of time off, in between trains, is called “layover” and the Locomotive Engineer is considered “held for duty”. Employees in passenger service will be paid overtime for time “on duty”, or “held for duty” in excess of eight (8) hours. An employee held for duty will not be paid for the largest segment of time, meaning eight (8) hours pay for nine (9) hours on duty.
Salary:
Under the current labor agreement, the entry pay rate is $38.21 per hour and $54.59 per hour upon LETP promotion. Additional pay rate increases are according to the collective bargaining agreement.
Collective Bargaining Agreement:
Locomotive Engineer Trainees will be required to join the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen (BLE) union upon ninety (90) days of hire.
Performance Responsibility:
To be a successful Locomotive Engineer, you must demonstrate:
- Control Precision: The ability to quickly and repeatedly adjust the controls of a machine.
- Near & Peripheral Vision: The ability to see details at close range & the ability to see objects or movement of objects to one’s side when the eyes are looking ahead.
- Selective Attention: The ability to concentrate on a task over a period of time without being distracted.
- Reaction Time: The ability to quickly respond (hand, finger, foot) to a signal (sound, light, picture) when it appears.
- Operation Monitoring: Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure the machine is working properly.
- Problem Sensitivity: The ability to tell when something is wrong or likely to go wrong. It does not involve solving the problem, only recognizing there is a problem.
- Gross Body Equilibrium: The ability to keep or regain your body balance or stay upright when in an unstable position.
- Oral Comprehension: The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.
- Hearing Sensitivity: The ability to detect or tell the differences between sounds that vary in pitch/loudness.
- Active Listening: Giving full attention to what other people are saying.
- Critical Thinking: Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions.
Other Knowledge and Skills Necessary:
- Ability to memorize large quantities of information, (physical characteristics, operating rules and procedures, equipment operation, and terminology), that is used daily in decision making and train operating.
- Ability to read and comprehend technical and written material as well as technical drawings (i.e. operator manuals, diagrams, and flow charts, etc.). These materials are usually written at the 10th-grade reading level.
- Ability to work irregular hours and travel long distances to varied work locations.
- Ability to follow instructions and apply rules and procedures without regard to personal opinion.
Physical Factors and Work Conditions for Locomotive Engineers:
- Cramped, confined, enclosed, or awkward workspaces.
- Work that involves walking, climbing, talking, hearing, using hands to handle, feel, and/or reach with hands and arms.
- Climbing on rail equipment, walking and carrying in all weather conditions, year-round operation.
- Stooping, bending, kneeling, crouching, balancing, climbing, and sitting for long durations of time.
What we offer
- Comprehensive Family Health Insurance - Prescription, Dental, Vision
- Flexible Spending Account
- Life Insurance
- Paid Leave
Apply to become an NJ TRANSIT Locomotive Engineer today!
INDRA1
NJ TRANSIT is an Equal Opportunity Employer
Learn more about NJ TRANSIT! Sign up to receive an invitation to our next live information session at WWW.NJTRANSIT.COM/BEST
NJ TRANSIT has been recognized as Best Public Sector Recruitment Partner by NJIT, the New Jersey institute of Technology.
See All 7 Locomotive Engineer Jobs
Find roles that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find Locomotive Engineer JobsLocomotive Engineer Job Market
Who's Hiring
What Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in locomotive engineer jobs.
- Active FRA locomotive engineer certification under 49 CFR Part 240
- Minimum two to four years of verified locomotive operating experience
- Valid conductor certification or prior conductor experience preferred
- Knowledge of federal hours-of-service regulations and signal systems
- Ability to pass FRA-required medical fitness and drug screening standards
- Familiarity with positive train control systems and territory-specific operating rules
Tips for Your Locomotive Engineer Job Search
Tailor your resume for rail certifications
List your FRA locomotive engineer certification, Class I or short-line experience, and any hazardous materials endorsements near the top of your resume. Hiring managers in rail scan for these credentials before reading anything else about your background.
Target openings by railroad class and territory
Class I railroads, regional carriers, and commuter authorities hire on very different timelines and routes. Narrow your search by the type of railroad that matches your license territory and the commodity or passenger traffic you want to work with.
Apply early to roles that fit
Migrate Mate lists locomotive engineer openings from across the United States in one place, so you can find roles that match and apply directly to each listing.
Highlight your simulator and territory hours
Many rail employers require documented hours in a locomotive simulator or on a specific subdivision. Quantify your territory knowledge and simulator time explicitly on your resume so dispatchers and hiring managers can verify compliance with FRA training minimums.
Prepare for scenario-based technical interviews
Rail interviews typically include scenarios on emergency brake procedures, signal interpretation, and Federal Railroad Administration rules of the road. Practice talking through your decision-making process out loud, not just reciting regulations, so your answers reflect real operating judgment.
Negotiate your seniority entry point, not just pay
In unionized rail environments, seniority determines your run assignments, days off, and advancement timeline more than your starting rate. Ask during the offer stage how new hires establish seniority and whether prior certified experience transfers into your seniority date.
Locomotive Engineer Jobs: Frequently Asked Questions
Which companies are hiring the most locomotive engineers?
Wabtec, MxV Rail, and NJ TRANSIT are hiring the most locomotive engineers right now, with openings concentrated in Colorado, Arkansas, and Pennsylvania, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of November 2026. Activity shifts with freight volume and seasonal commuter schedules, so checking listings regularly gives you the most accurate picture.
How many locomotive engineer jobs are remote?
About 0% of locomotive engineer openings are fully remote or hybrid as of November 2026, reflecting that most operating roles require on-site presence in a cab, yard, or dispatch facility. The sub-areas with any remote component tend to be training coordination, simulator instruction, and operations planning rather than active operating assignments.
How do you become a locomotive engineer?
You typically start as a conductor or brakeman, accumulating qualifying miles and territory knowledge under a certified engineer. From there you complete an FRA-approved locomotive engineer training program, pass written and operational skills tests, and earn your Part 240 certification. Maintaining certification requires periodic re-evaluation and ongoing compliance with hours-of-service and medical fitness standards.
How do you get hired as a locomotive engineer with little experience?
Most railroads hire entry-level candidates into conductor or yard service roles first, treating that time as the pipeline into engineer training programs. Demonstrating a clean safety record, strong rule knowledge, and reliability in those early assignments is what gets you nominated for engineer training. Some regional and short-line carriers run direct-entry engineer trainee programs for candidates with commercial driving or military transportation backgrounds.
What does the locomotive engineer interview process look like?
The process typically begins with an application review against FRA certification and experience requirements, followed by a structured panel interview that includes scenario questions on emergency procedures, signal rules, and fatigue management. Many railroads add a physical agility or medical fitness screening and a territory or simulator assessment before extending a conditional offer.
Where can I find and apply to locomotive engineer jobs?
You can find and apply to locomotive engineer jobs on Migrate Mate, which lists current openings from railroads and transit authorities across the United States. Find roles that match your certification, territory experience, and schedule preferences, then apply directly to each listing from the same place.
See All 7 Locomotive Engineer Jobs
Find roles that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
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