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For most entry-level railroad jobs, you must be at least 18 years of age and have a high school diploma or equivalent. Completing high school will provide you with the basic educational background and life experience necessary for working in the railroad. A GED, or a General Education Diploma, requires passing a challenging exam. You must be at least 16 years of age to take the GED test. All entry-level railroad positions require training to learn the basics of railroad work. Many community and state colleges offer courses and even associates degrees in railroad operations and locomotive engineering. You can also find directories online that can help you locate a training center or program near you.. Look for training programs that are often run in partnership with small regional or local railroads. In addition to providing you with the training you need, these can be helpful for connecting you to job opportunities in your area. Many locomotive engineers start out as conductors, rail yard engineers, switch operators or yardmasters, where they learn about the policies, operations and routes of the railroad before moving into training to become a driver. Getting your foot in the door in a starter position will give you a chance to build familiarity with railroad work while earning a living. Applications are online through railroad websites by following links for job and career opportunities. Check out a variety of railroad jobs online on forums like the one hosted by RailServe.com. If you want to drive commuter trains or subway trains, check for jobs with area public transit authorities. Job fairs at community colleges and local universities with railroad training programs also host railroad companies.
Get your high school diploma or GED. Attend a locomotive engineer training program. Apply for beginner-level positions with a railroad.