How much does a Train Engineer make?
Train engineers play a vital role in the transportation industry. They operate trains, ensuring safe and timely travel for passengers and goods. The average yearly salary for a train engineer is $88,838. This figure reflects the skill and responsibility needed for the job.
The salary for train engineers can vary based on experience and location. Entry-level engineers may start around $40,000 per year. With more experience, salaries can rise significantly. Top earners in this field can make over $189,000 annually. Factors like location, company, and specific duties can also affect earnings. For example, engineers working in larger cities or for major railroads may see higher pay.
What are the highest paying cities for a Train Engineer?

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Dallas, TX
Average Salary: $162,179
In Dallas, train professionals enjoy a dynamic work environment. The city's robust transportation network offers many opportunities. Companies like Union Pacific Railroad provide excellent career growth.
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Hartford, CT
Average Salary: $148,565
Hartford offers a mix of urban and suburban settings for train workers. The city's historic charm meets modern infrastructure. Amtrak is a key employer, offering a stable career path.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $135,486
San Diego's scenic routes make for a pleasant work experience. The city's mild climate is ideal for outdoor work. Companies like BNSF Railway offer competitive benefits.
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Charlotte, NC
Average Salary: $130,483
Charlotte provides a growing market for train engineers. The city's expanding economy offers many job opportunities. Norfolk Southern Railway is a major employer in the area.
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Atlanta, GA
Average Salary: $127,332
Atlanta's central location makes it a hub for train operations. The city's diverse landscape offers varied experiences. CSX Transportation is a leading company in the region.
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Denver, CO
Average Salary: $114,323
Denver's high altitude provides unique challenges for train workers. The city's vibrant culture enhances the work experience. Companies like Front Range Railroad offer excellent training programs.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $105,350
Washington, DC, offers a mix of historic and modern rail systems. The city's political environment adds an interesting dynamic. Amtrak is a key player in the local job market.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $104,282
Los Angeles provides a diverse and bustling environment for train professionals. The city's extensive rail network offers many opportunities. Metrolink is a major employer in the area.
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St. Louis, MO
Average Salary: $98,935
St. Louis offers a blend of urban and rural settings. The city's rich history adds to the work experience. Companies like BNSF Railway offer stable career paths.
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Chicago, IL
Average Salary: $95,843
Chicago's bustling transportation network offers many opportunities for train workers. The city's iconic architecture adds to the charm. Metra is a key employer in the region.
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What are the best companies a Train Engineer can work for?

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Leidos
Average Salary: $170,963
Leidos offers exciting Train Engineer jobs with a focus on innovation and technology. They operate in various locations across the United States, providing a dynamic work environment.
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The Hartford
Average Salary: $147,889
The Hartford provides Train Engineer positions with a strong emphasis on safety and reliability. They have offices in major cities, offering opportunities for career growth and development.
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synchrony
Average Salary: $147,500
Synchrony offers competitive Train Engineer salaries and a supportive work culture. They operate nationwide, ensuring diverse experiences and learning opportunities.
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CPKC
Average Salary: $91,410
CPKC provides Train Engineer jobs with a focus on efficiency and teamwork. They operate across Canada and the United States, offering a wide range of experiences.
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Progress Rail
Average Salary: $69,735
Progress Rail offers Train Engineer positions with a commitment to quality and innovation. They have locations in key cities, providing opportunities for professional growth.
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Amtrak
Average Salary: $67,410
Amtrak provides Train Engineer jobs with a focus on passenger safety and comfort. They operate across the United States, offering a variety of routes and experiences.
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Genesee & Wyoming Inc.
Average Salary: $66,353
Genesee & Wyoming Inc. offers Train Engineer positions with a strong emphasis on teamwork and reliability. They operate in multiple states, providing diverse work environments.
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The Prairie Line
Average Salary: $61,188
The Prairie Line provides Train Engineer jobs with a focus on community and service. They operate in several states, offering a range of experiences and opportunities.
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Savage
Average Salary: $49,875
Savage offers Train Engineer positions with a commitment to safety and efficiency. They operate in various locations, providing a stable and rewarding work environment.
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Heidelberg Materials
Average Salary: $47,000
Heidelberg Materials provides Train Engineer jobs with a focus on sustainability and innovation. They operate in multiple locations, offering opportunities for professional development.
How to earn more as a Train Engineer?
Becoming a Train Engineer can lead to a rewarding career. To earn more in this role, consider these key factors. Each one plays a part in increasing your potential earnings. Understanding these can help you make informed decisions about your career path.
First, gaining experience is crucial. More experienced engineers often earn higher salaries. Working in different environments and with various types of trains can build your skills. This experience makes you more valuable to employers. Second, obtaining additional certifications can boost your pay. Certifications in safety, technology, or specialized equipment can set you apart. They show employers you have the skills needed for higher-paying jobs. Third, choosing the right employer can make a big difference. Some companies offer higher wages than others. Researching potential employers can help you find those that pay well. Fourth, advancing to a supervisory role can increase your earnings. Managers and lead engineers often earn more than their peers. This step requires taking on more responsibility and proving your leadership skills. Lastly, staying updated with the latest industry trends can help you earn more. Technology and methods in the rail industry change quickly. Keeping up with these changes can make you more efficient and valuable.
By focusing on these factors, you can work towards earning more as a Train Engineer. Each step builds on the last, creating a path to higher earnings.
- Gain experience in different environments and with various types of trains.
- Obtain additional certifications in safety, technology, or specialized equipment.
- Research potential employers to find those that offer higher wages.
- Advance to a supervisory role by taking on more responsibility and proving your leadership skills.
- Stay updated with the latest industry trends and technologies.



