Railroad engineers, also called locomotive engineers, are responsible for the safe operation of the train's locomotive. Engineers can work either in freight and passenger service or as yard engineers. In freight and passenger service, engineers run the trains that carry freight or passengers either across the country or locally. Yard engineers operate locomotives in the railroad yard. They operate automated systems that move passenger and freight cars into place before a train is run and separate the cars after a run. In addition, they use a locomotive to switch cars around for loading and unloading freight.
Engineers must be able to run any locomotive that the train line uses. They must have enough knowledge of diesel engines to make minor repairs or locate and disconnect a faulty piece of equipment. If a locomotive engine is not running well, the engineer must return it to the yard for servicing. Before and after each run of the train, engineers must check carefully for any mechanical problems.
Engineers must have knowledge of all operating rules, including how signals are used. They must know the locations of rail sidings (platforms) and the number of cars each siding holds. However, much of the information for which engineers were traditionally held responsible, such as knowing the proper speeds at curves and bridges along the routes, is now communicated to the engineer by computers and telephones. For example, if a train is approaching a curve or a platform that requires a slower speed, information is sent from the central railroad station to the monitor in the operating car, and the engineer slows the speed of the train. If the train is not operating at the correct speed, this device will alert the engineer, and the engineer will make the necessary adjustment. In addition, computerized devices alert engineers to train malfunctions and other concerns.
Education and Training
It takes several years to become a railroad engineer. Engineers are the highest ranked workers in the railroad industry. They must be high school graduates and at least 21 years of age. Federal regulations require that beginning engineers complete a formal training program, including classroom and hands on instruction. These programs are usually administered by the rail company that is employing the worker. At the end of the program, workers must pass comprehensive exams to obtain an engineering license. Frequently, trainees have experience in other railroad occupations such as those in the rail yard or freight service.
Getting the Job
You must apply directly to railroad companies to be accepted into their training programs. Job openings are sometimes listed by state or private employment agencies.
Employment Outlook
Although conductors are the foremen and forewomen of trains, railroad engineers are also at the top of their field. By accumulating seniority over n any years, engineers can progress to a more desirable job. For example, they may move to road service from an assignment in the yard.
The employment outlook for railroad engineers is fair. The demand for railroad freight service and engineers will grow as the economy and the inter modal transportation of goods expand. Unlike other railroad occupations, the employment of engineers will be less affected by technological change.
Working Conditions
Working conditions vary according to the kind of service an engineer performs. Engineers often move around much more than other railroad workers. New engineers may wait years for a regular assignment. In the meantime they work when and where the company needs them. They are on call 24 hours a day to go where they are needed.
The work is demanding and irregular. It often requires long hours, so strength and endurance are essential. Many railroad engineers are unionized.
Earnings and Benefits
Railroad engineers are generally well paid. Engineers working in passenger service average $65,400 a year. Freight and yard engineers average $52,900 a year, with higher wages going to those who work longer hours. New engineers do not work every day, so they make much less money. On many lines there are mileage limitations agreed on by the unions and the railroad company that limit earnings. Engineers' benefits may include paid vacations, sick leave, health insurance, and pensions.
