What is the salary of a Locomotive Engineer?

The typical salary range is $54,180 - $108,360 per year.

Automotive, Aviation, & MaritimeStable

Locomotive Engineer

Operational-level

Also known as: Diesel Engine Operator, Diesel Engineer, Diesel Locomotive Engineer, Engine Pilot

Automotive, Aviation, & MaritimeBachelor's Degree

Job Description

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.

Locomotive EngineeringRail TransportTrain OperationsRailway SignalingTransportationOperations ManagementEngineeringAutomotiveOil and GasEnergy

Skills employers are looking for in 2027

Software and technologies flagged by O*NET as Hot or In-Demand for this role.

Hot technologies

Microsoft Excel Microsoft Word

Future Perspective

Stable Job Market

This field maintains steady employment levels with consistent demand. Job opportunities remain available with moderate competition.

Impact of AI on this Job

AI will increasingly support locomotive engineers through advanced predictive maintenance, optimized route planning, and enhanced safety systems. While fully autonomous trains are on the horizon, human oversight will remain crucial for complex decision-making, emergency response, and passenger safety for the next 5-10 years. Engineers may transition to monitoring and supervisory roles, managing automated systems rather than direct operation.

Salary

$54,180 - $108,360 per year

Estimated for US-wide average

Required Education

Bachelor's Degree

Minimum educational requirement for this position