Locomotive Engineer Trainee

Description

Summary
The Locomotive Engineer Trainee Program prepares individuals for a career ensuring the safe and efficient movement of trains. Locomotive Engineers must be licensed and certified by the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA). Candidates must complete formal classroom instruction, gain hands-on experience, and pass required examinations assessing operational knowledge, technical skills, hearing and vision standards, and background checks. Engineers must demonstrate knowledge of train routes and maintain certification through periodic testing, physical exams, and random drug and alcohol screenings. In addition, Engineers are required to support and complete the repair, mechanical upkeep, and troubleshooting of train and train equipment.

Responsibilities
Responsibilities may include but are not limited to:

• Ensuring the safe and efficient movement of trains.
• Qualifying and remaining qualified on Operating Department Rules, Timetable, Special Instructions, NORAC, Zone A (Amtrak), Air Brake Instructions, and all equipment including MU, Diesel, and Dual Mode equipment.
• Controlling train movements under all operating conditions and instructing/supervising Engineer Trainees.
• Troubleshooting equipment en route and performing safety checks and tests prior to trips.
• Maintaining passenger safety and comfort at all times.
• Working effectively with train crews and all team members.
• Wearing minimum Level D protective clothing as prescribed by OSHA, including safety shoes and full-length pants.
• Using all train operating controls responsibly and effectively.
• Coordinating with railroad workers and conductors to ensure schedule adherence.
• Checking mechanical conditions of trains and making necessary adjustments.
• Documenting any issues requiring further inspection.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent (GED or TASC) approved by a State Department of Education or accredited organization.
• One year of mechanical/electrical/technical trade/plumbing/technical skills training experience or CDL license or experience working on a railroad or other Transportation Industry or experience working in a 24/7 industry. Trade school training, or certifications may be considered in lieu of experience
• Demonstrated motivation and initiative.
• Strong customer service and communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team.

Preferred/Desirable Skills and Qualifications

• Successful completion of LIRR’s Introduction to Operations Rules & Procedures training (Basic Skills).
• One year of prior supervisory or leadership experience.
• College degree or college credits.

Training Program Requirements
Phase 1:
A six-week, non-compensated training program. Class schedules will be based on participant and instructor availability. Employees remain in their current positions and attend classes on their own time. Quizzes and exams must be passed to advance to Phase 2.

Phase 2:
A minimum of 14 months of full-time compensated training. Upon entering Phase 2, employees officially transfer to the Engineer Trainee position. Trainees must pass qualifying exams on operating rules, physical characteristics, air brake systems, and train handling. Failure to pass required exams results in termination from the program.

Throughout both phases, representatives from Training, Transportation Services, and the Locomotive Engineer Review Board evaluate performance. All established standards must be met to continue. Completion of the program is required to begin employment as a Locomotive Engineer.

Pay & Benefits
Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package provided.

Wage Progression — Hired on or Before February 26, 2015
(Rates as of July 16, 2026)

• Until qualified: 70% – $40.0943473/hour
• Upon qualification: 100% – $57.277639/hour

Wage Progression — Hired After February 26, 2015
(Rates as of July 16, 2026)

• First 365 days: 60% – $34.366583/hour
• Second 365 days: 80% – $45.822111/hour
• Third 365 days: 90% – $51.549875/hour
• After 1,095 days: 100% – $57.277639/hour

Fully qualified Engineers who maintain unrestricted certification licenses receive a $10.00 certification allowance per tour of duty.

Incentive Payment
Upon completion of Phase 1 and entrance into Phase 2, and promotion to Locomotive Engineer, employees receive a one-time lump sum equal to the number of hours attended during Phase 1 at the applicable entrance rate of pay.

Employees who revert to their former position for any reason may not apply for another position for two years from the date they return.

Other Information
The selection process may include pre-screening assessments (physical, written, or practical) and interviews. Failure to participate in any step disqualifies candidates; no makeup sessions will be provided. LIRR employees must have been in their current role for at least 12 months before the posting’s closing date and must have a satisfactory attendance and discipline record. More than 10 undocumented sick days in two of the last three years constitutes unsatisfactory attendance. Not all qualified applicants will receive interviews. Candidates may be required to pass a medical exam, safety-sensitive drug/alcohol test, and a physical abilities test.

Opt-Out Exam
Candidates partially qualified in Operating Rules, Timetable, Special Instructions, or Physical Characteristics may take an exam to waive Phase 1 if they pass successfully. Exam dates and times will be provided.

Equal Employment Opportunity
MTA and all subsidiary agencies are Equal Opportunity Employers, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. The MTA encourages applicants from diverse backgrounds and experiences, including military service members.