Train or Locomotive Engineer

What is a Train or Locomotive Engineer?

Duties

A train or locomotive engineer is responsible for completing tasks that are highlighted below:

• Closely inspect locomotives and undertake regular maintenance services to adjust brakes, change brake shoes, add oil or water, etc.
• Coordinate with Switchman, Brakeman and Conductor on radiophone, to operate the starting signal and controls like airbrakes and throttle.
• Accurately interpret instructions such as stops, delays, railroad rules and regulations to safely handle the locomotive, on time.
• Utilize knowledge of the surrounding area such as terrains, curves and grade crossings to provide timely warning signs and ensure the safety of rail cars.
• Work as the main point of contact for yard workers like Dispatch to issue and receive important information for operating the locomotive.

Day In The Life

As a locomotive engineer, you will be driving long-distance freight or passenger trains, not subway trains, from one destination to the other. The primary role of a locomotive engineer is to operate controls efficiently, irrespective of whether the train runs on battery, electric or a diesel-electric engine. In most cases, they drive diesel-electric engines. It is up to you to monitor vital parts like power and speed of the train, while making the appropriate changes as per terrain, type of cargo and weather status.

Based on the type of goods being carried, the locomotive engineer employs different driving techniques depending on rail conditions. Since the locomotive engineer’s work requires inputs from other departments, they have to keep in touch with dispatchers or other railroad workers throughout the day to stay informed about scheduling updates, train inspection logs, etc. Thus, if a train is carrying sensitive or hazardous materials through inclement weather like hail, it will operate at a different pace versus a train that is carrying coal in rough terrain.

Work Schedule

As a locomotive engineer, you can expect to work at odd hours of the day, which includes nights, holidays and weekends. You need to be on call 24/7 for this role. If you are working beyond 8 hours daily, some railroad companies will pay you at one and one-half times the regular rates. Aspiring locomotive engineers must be comfortable adapting to tight deadlines and much travel when operating locomotives. Usually, employees get a two-hour advance notice to show up to work and receive the details of which train they will operate or take to another city as needed. When performing the duties of the job, you may be exposed to various types of weather, e.g. hot, cold, dusty, dry and humid. The noise levels can also be moderate or high due to machinery and equipment running nearby.

Growth Of The Job

The demand for professions related to rail transport is expected to grow. Employment in railroad transportation occupations is expected to increase by 1 percent, which is to say negligible change. While job growth may be slower than average, there will be adequate opportunities for individuals, due to many locomotive engineers reaching the age of retirement or leaving for more lucrative opportunities in the next few years.

Typical Employers

You can be employed at locomotive engineer roles by private railways businesses and government rail agencies. Some workers in this industry also find open positions at mining and manufacturing establishments that operate their own locomotives. Job listings are currently posted from companies such as Source Energy Services, Canadian Pacific, Trans-Global Solutions, Watco Companies and Amtrak.