If you are a train engineer or considering choosing this career path, you will be among the hundreds of locomotive engineers in the US.
A train engineer is in charge of trains that pull freight and passengers between cities and states.
Being a train engineer is an excellent career path because you have the assurance of a huge paycheck.
So if you are curious to know how much a train engineer makes, then it is time to answer your question for good.
In this article, we are going to break down a train engineer’s earnings according to salary review websites to give you realistic earnings in an hour, a day, a week, a month, and annually.
How Much Does A Train Engineer Make?
A Train engineer makes roughly $50,000 to $133,000 a year.
Those that make as low as $50,000 are those that are among the bottom 10%, while the top 10% make up to $133,000.
From research, they make around $26 to $60 per hour.
So let’s make use of the average of the estimated amount that is made per hour which is $43 and do a little calculation.
For those who work 40 hours total in a week, this works out to be:
- $344 per day for 8 hours of work.
- $1,720 a week for 5 days and 8 hours a day of work.
- $6,688 a month for 20 days of work.
How Much Does A Train Engineer Make – According To Salary Data
One of the best ways of finding out how much a train engineer makes is through salary data.
Below are what some of the reputable salary review websites say;
ZipRecruiter
According to ZipRecruiter, the average pay of a train engineer is $58 per hour and $464 per day if you work up to 8 hours a day.
They make an average of $2,328 a week, $10,091 per month, and $121,101 yearly.
Salary.com
According to Salary.com, a Railroad Engineer makes an average of $95,140 annually in the United States but typically falls between $85,681 and $106,144.
However, salary can vary depending on so many factors like education, certifications, additional skills, and the number of years you have spent in your profession.
Zippia
According to Zippia.com, a locomotive engineer makes $82,531 per year on average with a $39.68 per hour salary in the United States.
Location influences the amount you make as a train engineer. Train engineers make the most in Washington, Nevada, Utah, Alaska, and Maine.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions that may relate to the amount a train engineer makes and the duties of the different train crew.
What Does An Engineer Do On A Train?
Locomotive engineers are in charge of monitoring speed, air pressure, battery use, and other instruments to ensure that the locomotive runs smoothly.
They also observe the track for obstructions, such as fallen tree branches, and use a variety of controls, such as throttles and airbrakes, to operate the train.
What’s The Difference Between A Conductor And An Engineer?
Locomotive engineers are in charge of monitoring speed, air pressure, battery use, and other instruments to ensure that the locomotive runs smoothly, while conductors manage the activities of the crew and passengers on the train.
Conductors may take payments or tickets from passengers and assist them when they have any difficulties. They may also oversee the loading and unloading of cargo.
How Much Does The Average Canadian Engineer For Trains Wage?
According to ca.talent.com, an average Canadian engineer earns about $95,382 per year.
However Entry-level positions start at $87,425 per year, while most experienced workers make up to $154,500 per year.
Conclusion
A typical Train Engineer’s salary is higher than the nationwide average salary across all occupations.
Trains in the United States are scheduled to run 24 hours a day and as such, some Engineers may decide to work at night, during the day, or even more than 50 hours a week.
Therefore you have higher chances of making lots of money if you choose this career path
This article typically breaks down the amount you can make if you are in this career path or planning to pursue a path as a train engineer and I hope it is to your liking.
