Locomotive Engineer salary in United States

Average Yearly Salary of Locomotive Engineer in United States is approximately 109,664 USD (109,656 USD). Data is for 2025 and indicates a pre-tax value. The salary itself depends on multiple factors such as seniority, job performance, certifications, experience or any other bonuses. The value indicated is an average amount based on records we have in database. Real values may vary. The data is for orientational purposes.

What does Locomotive Engineer do?

A locomotive engineer is responsible for operating and controlling locomotives, ensuring the safe and efficient transportation of goods and passengers. They are skilled professionals who work in the rail industry, primarily for freight and passenger train companies. Locomotive engineers follow specific routes, schedules, and speed limits, while also monitoring signals and track conditions to ensure a smooth and secure journey. Their duties include inspecting and maintaining locomotives, coupling and uncoupling cars, and operating various controls and instruments. Locomotive engineers must have a deep understanding of train operations, safety regulations, and emergency procedures. They need to communicate effectively with other crew members and dispatchers to coordinate activities and respond to any unforeseen circumstances.

Skills: Locomotive engineer, Train operator, Railway engineer, Railroad engineer, Transportation professional, Rail industry
Job industry: Transportation

How much does Locomotive Engineer make?

Difference in salary year over year or average salary increase is approximately 4 %


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Salary comparison to National average

Is Locomotive Engineer a well paid job?

Yes, our data shows that Locomotive Engineer is a well paid job. With years and experience the salary might increase even further, resulting in higher satisfaction.

What is considered a high salary for Locomotive Engineer?

High salary for Locomotive Engineer would be somewhere between 120,630 USD and 159,013 USD. However this is an estimation based on Gaussian Distribution.

How much can you save working as Locomotive Engineer in United States?

Living in United States the approximate monthly expenses are: 2,280 USD. This amount covers basic needs such as food, housing, clothing, healthcare and education costs for a single person. No luxury expenses such as traveling, leisure, hobbies are included in the estimation.

Estimated Yearly Salary: 109,664 USD
Estimated Monthly Salary: 9,139 USD
Estimated Weekly Salary: 2,109 USD per week
Estimated Hourly Salary: 53 USD per hour
By working as Locomotive Engineer a person can save up to 6,858 USD per month or 82,296 USD yearly. Values are pre-tax.

NOTE: These values are estimates and are averaged for the whole country. Furthermore the value is likely exaggerated as no other expenses are taken into account in the projection. Unessential expenses are very subjective and are difficult to assess. Most likely the previously estimated number is significantly lower for majority of people. Expenses in different cities across the country may vary. Above values accuracy is low and is based on limited set of data obtained.

For more information regarding expenses in United States, see costs of living in United States.

Salary comparison to region and neighbouring coutries

Country's neighbours are: Canada, Mexico.
To make it easier for comparison a conversion from local currency to USD has been made (conversion rates may vary).

Estimated Yearly Salary for Locomotive Engineer

Last revision of data: 2025-01-04

Salary increase per years of experience

Based on data available the salary increase per years of experience is as following

0 years (beginner) equals base salary

1 to 5 years of experience yields +12% salary increase

6 to 10 years of experience yields +25% salary increase

11 to 15 years of experience yields +16% salary increase

16 to 25 years of experience yields +9% salary increase

more than 25 years of experience yields +10% salary increase

NOTE: Details based on limited set of data. Percentages may vary. The salary increase over years of experience can vary widely based on factors such as job industry, job role, location, company size, and individual performance. To gain even larger increase in salary one is advised to switch jobs and / or employer.

Top 10 highest salaries in United States

Data as of 2025

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