Locomotive Engineers

Typical tasks

From O*NET 31.0. Core tasks first. Few of these tasks have a benchmark today.

• Receive starting signals from conductors and use controls such as throttles or air brakes to drive electric, diesel-electric, steam, or gas turbine-electric locomotives.
• Monitor gauges or meters that measure speed, amperage, battery charge, or air pressure in brake lines or in main reservoirs.
• Interpret train orders, signals, or railroad rules and regulations that govern the operation of locomotives.
• Observe tracks to detect obstructions.
• Confer with conductors or traffic control center personnel via radiophones to issue or receive information concerning stops, delays, or oncoming trains.
• Inspect locomotives to verify adequate fuel, sand, water, or other supplies before each run or to check for mechanical problems.
• Operate locomotives to transport freight or passengers between stations or to assemble or disassemble trains within rail yards.
• Respond to emergency conditions or breakdowns, following applicable safety procedures and rules.
• Check to ensure that brake examination tests are conducted at shunting stations.
• Inspect locomotives after runs to detect damaged or defective equipment.
• Call out train signals to assistants to verify meanings.
• Check to ensure that documentation, such as procedure manuals or logbooks, are in the driver's cab and available for staff use.