Locomotive Engineer Trainee
Description
Job Title: Locomotive Engineer Trainee | Department: Transportation |
MTA Agency: LIRR | Primary Location(s): Various |
100% Hourly Rate of Pay: $49.917 * (See Wage Progression Chart) | Regulated/ Safety Sensitive: Safety Sensitive |
Union Affiliation: BLET | Closing Date (if applicable): 10/10/25 |
Shift (if applicable): Various | |
About your agency: Chartered in 1834, the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) is the largest, busiest, and oldest continuously operating commuter railroad in the United States. In 2024, this 24/7/365 operation served 75.5 million riders on a system that stretches nearly 120 miles – from Penn Station and Grand Central Madison in Manhattan to Montauk on the eastern tip of Long Island. | |
JOB SUMMARY:
Responsible for safe and efficient movement of trains.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
Responsibilities may include but are not limited to:
- Ensure the safe and efficient movement of trains.
- Required to qualify and remain qualified on the Rules of the Operating Department, Timetable, Special Instructions and Physical Characteristics of the entire Railroad and Zone A (Amtrak) and NORAC, Air Brake Instructions, and all equipment including MU, Diesel and Dual Mode.
- Control the movement of trains under all operating conditions as well as instruct and supervise Engineer Trainees.
- Road trouble-shoot all equipment and perform safety checks and tests before starting trips.
- Maintain customer safety and comfort at all times.
- Work effectively with all team members, especially train crews.
- Required to wear minimum Level D type protective clothing (as prescribed by OSHA regulations) which includes, but is not limited to, safety shoes and full length pants.
REQUIRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:
- A four-year high school diploma or its educational equivalent (GED or TASC) approved by a State's Department of Education or recognized accredited organization.
- Must demonstrate high motivation and initiative.
- Must possess strong customer service and communication skills.
- Demonstrated ability to work as part of a team.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
- Successful completion of the LIRR's Introduction to Operations Rules & Procedures Training class (Basic Skills).
- Prior supervisory or leadership experience.
- Demonstrated mechanical/electrical background.
- College degree or some college credits.
Training Program:
Phase 1: Training consists of a six (6) week non-compensated training program. Class days and times will be determined, in part, based on availability of class participants and instructors. For the duration of Phase 1, participating LIRR employees will remain in their current position and must attend training classes on their own time and NOT on Company time. Phase 1 training will include quizzes and examinations which must be passed in order to move on to the next phase of training.
Phase 2: Training consists of a minimum of 14 months full-time compensated training. Upon commencement of Phase 2, current LIRR employees will officially transfer to the position of Engineer Trainee. Phase 2 Training will include qualifying exams on the operating rules, physical characteristics of the LIRR Transportation Services Department, air brake, and train handling. Failure to obtain a passing grade on the mandatory exams will result in termination from the Training Program.
The representatives of the Training and Transportation Services Departments and the Locomotive Engineer Review Board will evaluate applicants throughout the program. Pre-established expectations and standards must be met in order to continue as a trainee. Successful completion of the Engineer Trainee Program is mandatory to commence employment as a Locomotive Engineer.
Wage Progression for Employees Hired On or Before February 26, 2015:
(Rates as of November 11, 2022)
Until qualified 70% $34.942/Hour
Upon qualification 100% $49.917/Hour
New Wage Progression for Employees Hired After February 26, 2015:
(Rates as of November 11, 2022)
1st 365 days 60% $29.950/Hour
2nd 365 days 80% $39.934/Hour
3rd 365 days 90% $44.925/Hour
After 1,095 days 100% $49.917/Hour
Fully qualified Engineers who maintain unrestricted certification licenses will be allowed a ten-dollar ($10.00) certification allowance per tour of duty.
Phase 1: Training consists of a six (6) week non-compensated training program. Class days and times will be determined, in part, based on availability of class participants and instructors. For the duration of Phase 1, participating LIRR employees will remain in their current position and must attend training classes on their own time and NOT on Company time. Phase 1 training will include quizzes and examinations which must be passed in order to move on to the next phase of training.
Phase 2: Training consists of a minimum of 14 months full-time compensated training. Upon commencement of Phase 2, current LIRR employees will officially transfer to the position of Engineer Trainee. Phase 2 Training will include qualifying exams on the operating rules, physical characteristics of the LIRR Transportation Services Department, air brake, and train handling. Failure to obtain a passing grade on the mandatory exams will result in termination from the Training Program.
The representatives of the Training and Transportation Services Departments and the Locomotive Engineer Review Board will evaluate applicants throughout the program. Pre-established expectations and standards must be met in order to continue as a trainee. Successful completion of the Engineer Trainee Program is mandatory to commence employment as a Locomotive Engineer.
Wage Progression for Employees Hired On or Before February 26, 2015:
(Rates as of November 11, 2022)
Until qualified 70% $34.942/Hour
Upon qualification 100% $49.917/Hour
New Wage Progression for Employees Hired After February 26, 2015:
(Rates as of November 11, 2022)
1st 365 days 60% $29.950/Hour
2nd 365 days 80% $39.934/Hour
3rd 365 days 90% $44.925/Hour
After 1,095 days 100% $49.917/Hour
Fully qualified Engineers who maintain unrestricted certification licenses will be allowed a ten-dollar ($10.00) certification allowance per tour of duty.
INCENTIVE PAYMENT:
Upon successful completion of Phase 1 and entrance into Phase 2 of the Training Program, promotion to Locomotive Engineer and commencement of service as a Locomotive Engineer, employees will receive a one-time lump sum equivalent to the hours they attended Phase 1 of the training program at the applicable entrance rate of pay.
As per the "Filling of Represented Positions" Corporate Policy & Procedures, employees selected for the position and who revert to their former position for any reason (including during the probationary period) may not be considered for another position for two years after the date of their return to their former craft.
BENEFITS:
- Commuting Assistance – based on operating MTA agency (complimentary transportation pass within the MTA’s jurisdiction and tax-advantaged accounts)
- Low Premium – High Quality Health Insurance Plans (lifetime coverage for eligible retirees and their dependents)
- Pension plans and retirement savings accounts for eligible employees
- Generous Paid Time Off and Holidays provided.
- Tuition Reimbursement for eligible employees
- Employee Assistance Programs
- MTA Exclusive Employee Discount Programs
- Work Life Services team and Office of the Chaplains unit
- Employee Resource Groups
- Layout 1 (mta.info)
OTHER INFORMATION:
- Pursuant to the New York State Public Officers Law & the MTA Code of Ethics, all employees who hold a policymaking position must file an Annual Statement of Financial Disclosure (FDS) with the NYS Commission on Ethics and Lobbying in Government (the “Commission”).
- Actual salary offers may vary based on individual work experience. The annual salary range is subject to change and may be modified at the company’s discretion.
- Employees driving company vehicles must complete defensive driver training once every three years for current MTA drivers; or within 180 days of hire or transfer for an employee entering an authorized driving position.
- Current employees must be in their current position for the 12 months immediately preceding the close date of this posting and must possess a satisfactory work history, including attendance and discipline record.
- Candidates selected for this position may be placed in a competitive or non-competitive class position based on their qualifications. Qualified candidates who are placed in a competitive class position are eligible for the 55-a Program. Please indicate in your cover letter and in the upper right corner of your resume that you would like to be considered for the position under the 55-a Program. For detailed information regarding the 55-a Program, please visit the following link https://www1.nyc.gov/site/dcas/employment/55-a-program.page
- LIRR:
- In addition to meeting the minimum requirements of the position, the selection process may include but is not limited to, a pre-screening assessment (i.e., physical, written, and/ or practical evaluation) and interview. Candidates forfeit further consideration in the process if they fail to participate in any step of the process when scheduled. Make-up dates/times will not be given. In addition, LIRR employee applicants must be in their current position for the 12 months immediately preceding the close date of this posting and must possess a satisfactory work history, including attendance and discipline record. A record of more than ten sick days without medical documentation in two of the last three years is considered unsatisfactory attendance. Not all qualified applicants are guaranteed an interview due to the competitive selection process. A medical examination and safety-sensitive drug/alcohol test may also be required.
- Opt Out Exam - Candidates who are partially qualified on the Rules of the Operating Department, Timetable, Special Instructions and/or Physical Characteristics, will have the option to take an exam to waive participation in Phase 1 of the training program, if they successfully pass. Exam test and times will be determined.
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EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY/ADA DISCLAIMER:
MTA and its subsidiary and affiliated agencies are Equal Opportunity Employers, including those concerning veteran status and individuals with disabilities.
The MTA encourages qualified applicants from diverse backgrounds, experiences, and abilities, including military service members, to apply.
If you require reasonable accommodation for a medical condition or disability to participate in the job application or interview process, please notify your MTA representative once you have been contacted regarding the role.