Locomotive Engineers
Also called: Locomotive Engineer, Conductor, Transportation Specialist, Passenger Locomotive Engineer
What they do:
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.
On the job, you would:
- Monitor gauges or meters that measure speed, amperage, battery charge, or air pressure in brakelines or in main reservoirs.
- Observe tracks to detect obstructions.
- Interpret train orders, signals, or railroad rules and regulations that govern the operation of locomotives.
Knowledge
Transportation
- movement of people or goods by air, rail, sea, or road
Safety and Government
- public safety and security
Arts and Humanities
- English language
Skills
Basic Skills
- listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions
- keeping track of how well people and/or groups are doing in order to make improvements
Problem Solving
- noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it
Abilities
Controlled Movement
- quickly change the controls of a machine, car, truck or boat
- quickly decide if you should move your hand, foot, or other body part
Attention
- pay attention to something without being distracted
- do two or more things at the same time
Hand and Finger Use
- hold or move items with your hands
- keep your arm or hand steady
Visual Understanding
- quickly compare groups of letters, numbers, pictures, or other things
Personality
People interested in this work like activities that include
practical, hands-on problems and solutions.
practical, hands-on problems and solutions.
They do well at jobs that need:
- Stress Tolerance
- Concern for Others
- Attention to Detail
- Dependability
- Cooperation
- Integrity
Technology
You might use software like this on the job:
Expert system software
- Electronic train management systems ETMS
Route navigation software
- Route mapping software
Time accounting software
- Time tracking software
Education
high school diploma or
some college
usually needed
some college
usually needed
These apprenticeships may have sponsors in your area:
- Locomotive Engineer
Job Outlook
New job opportunities are less likely in the future.
$49,380
per year, on average
This work is part of the green economy.
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