O*NET Career Intelligence

Locomotive Engineers

SOC 53-4011.00

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.

Green Occupation Zone 2 Transportation and Material Moving

Skills

Knowledge

Job Zone

Yes

Green

Top Skills 8

Operation and Control

4.1

Operation Monitoring

4.0

Active Listening

3.8

Speaking

3.6

Critical Thinking

3.6

Monitoring

3.6

Reading Comprehension

3.4

Judgment and Decision Making

3.4

Knowledge Areas 8

Transportation

4.5

Public Safety and Security

3.6

English Language

3.3

Education and Training

3.3

Customer and Personal Service

3.0

Mechanical

3.0

Administration and Management

2.8

Law and Government

2.4

Key Tasks

1Interpret train orders, signals, or railroad rules and regulations that govern the operation of locomotives.

2Confer with conductors or traffic control center personnel via radiophones to issue or receive information concerning stops, delays, or oncoming trains.

3Receive starting signals from conductors and use controls such as throttles or air brakes to drive electric, diesel-electric, steam, or gas turbine-electric locomotives.

4Monitor gauges or meters that measure speed, amperage, battery charge, or air pressure in brakelines or in main reservoirs.

5Observe tracks to detect obstructions.

Also Known As

Conductor Conductor/Engineer Diesel Engine Operator Diesel Engineer Diesel Locomotive Engineer Engine Pilot Engineer/Conductor Engineman Freight Engineer Fuel Pilot Engineer