Career fit quiz

Is Locomotive Engineer the Right Career for You?

A quick, free 8-question quiz to see how well the locomotive engineer career fits your personality, preferences and goals.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
How this quiz works

Rate how much you agree with each statement. The quiz compares your answers with the realities of the locomotive engineer job and gives you an honest fit score in under two minutes. Nothing is saved or sent anywhere.

Statement 1 of 8I can concentrate for many hours
Statement 2 of 8I’m comfortable with irregular schedules
Statement 3 of 8I like operating big machines
Statement 4 of 8I want strong pay without college
Statement 5 of 8I follow rules carefully
Statement 6 of 8I can be away from home
Statement 7 of 8I’m willing to spend about 1–2 years including conductor time training for this career
Statement 8 of 8A typical salary around $81,410 a year would meet my needs

What this career really involves

Locomotive engineers drive trains, controlling speed, braking and train handling while following signals, track warrants and operating rules to move freight and passengers safely.

  • Inspect locomotives and equipment before departure
  • Perform and verify air brake tests
  • Operate throttle, dynamic and air brakes
  • Follow signals, speed limits and track authorities
  • Communicate with dispatchers and the conductor

Read a full day in the life or see locomotive engineer salary data.

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