How do you get a job as a locomotive engineer?

Question

I have a US CDL (land transport, GVW +26,000lb), a recent, 2007, 50 ton marine Captain's license, and a Private Aircraft certificate. I fly a Cessna 150.

I am unemployed and looking for some sort of transportation pilot/driver vocation.

Will any of these qualifications help me secure a job as a Engineer (pilot/driver) of a locomotive? What other studies should I pursue? How whould I apply?

Thank You.

Answer 1

Well really, to my knowledge, I know that the Minnesota commercial railway (MNNR) requires education school.  After working there for about a year, they will have you qualify for an engineer.  And then, they will decide what you do from there.That or you can bid on the job.  After awhile they have you train for yard master, which is mainly what to do on the computer.

Answer 2

Most of the U.S. class 1 railroads make applying on line available. Or, where ever a major terminal is located, that city's employment center should  take applications as well. If you fill out an application, your qualifications should get you noticed. Apply for "Train Service".  And mention your ambitions to become an Engineer. The railroads like to see this because they want all their trainmen to be Engineers sooner than later. But you have to work your way up the ranks. The good news is, it doesn't take that long. When I hired out, we were tested on communication skills, and mechanical aptitude. Seems like you shouldn't need to prepare much for these areas. It's just a heads up. Once you get an application in, and if you wish, get back with us here. And we can coach you for the next steps. We've done it for others before. Good luck.

Answer 3

www.Jobsonline.net

Railroad and Locomotive careers, jobs and employment information for aspiring Railroad and Locomotive professionals.

www.careeroverview.com/railroad-locomo...

Railroad Employment

How to Get a Railroad Job

and Make up to $75,000 per Year!

www.GetaRailroadJob.com/Employment

Locomotive Engineers53-4011 Locomotive Engineers. Drive electric, diesel-electric, steam, ... Employment estimate and mean wage estimates for this occupation: ...

www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes534011.htm

MTA LIRR - Employment Opportunities - Training Specialist ...Employment Opportunity. Training Specialist - Locomotive Engineer Human Resources. Position Posting # 07-056. Position Summary: ...

www.mta.info/lirr/Employment/07-056.ht...

Answer 4

With a private pilots license you'd definitely have a leg up.  Not that the license will do you any good on the job, but the same types of skills, like eye-hand coordination and thinking in three dimensions, the study habits and cognitive skills that got you your license and allows you to fly an aircraft, are precisely the tools needed to become not just a locomotive engineer, but a very proficient one as well.

The bad news is, most class 1 railroads, with perhaps an exception or two here and there for non-union short lines, no longer hire "off the street" for engine service.  They will promote out of the ranks of current employees, considering applicants from all crafts, but with first choice usually going to conductors.

So, the key is to get on in any capacity with whatever railroad you can.  Your CDL may help with an application for MOW (Maintenance of Way) employment.

Of course, poor hearing, poor eyesight or a bad back will be a hinderance.  The back is automatic disqualification.  It also goes without saying that any substance abuse problems will disqualify you from even standing on the property.

The rest will be on you, your record and with the help of a rabbit's foot.  Locomotive engineers' positions are the most desirous of operating positions, for most, which allows the carriers to be very picky when choosing who enters engine service, there never being a shortage of applicants.

But, you're definitely qualified.  Start following the links above, make phone calls and, whenever possible, knock on doors.  And, do it repeatedly.  If you're a big enough nuisance, an interviewer will give ya the job just to be rid of you....

Good luck !