Locomotive Engineer

As a Locomotive Engineer at Brightline, you will play a critical role in delivering a safe, reliable, and exceptional travel experience for our Guests. Your responsibilities include operating locomotives with precision, adhering to strict safety and compliance standards, and maintaining constant situational awareness to ensure smooth and efficient train movement. This position directly impacts operational excellence and Guest satisfaction by upholding the highest standards of performance and communication. You will collaborate closely with Passenger Conductors, Dispatchers, and other team members to manage real‑time decisions, respond to unexpected conditions, and keep our Guests informed and comfortable throughout their journey. Your expertise ensures that Brightline continues to set the benchmark for modern rail travel. If you’re a people‑person looking for a role where you’ll be empowered to own your zone, inspired to learn, and have the confidence to bounce back from setbacks, this is the perfect opportunity! Your Role Operate Brightline trains to transport Guests while delivering the highest level of ride comfort. Perform all required procedures prior to train operation, including reviewing daily dispatcher bulletins, train makeup, restrictions, and tonnage. Receive starting signals from Passenger Conductors and move hand‑operated controls such as throttles and air brakes to drive diesel‑electric locomotives. Inspect locomotives for operational readiness, mechanical functions, and complete inspection checklists. Ensure proper brake examinations, inspections, and tests are conducted in compliance with federal regulations and company standards. Interpret train orders, signals, and railroad rules and regulations governing locomotive operation while maintaining focus and eliminating distractions. Monitor gauges, meters, and safety devices that measure speed, amperage, battery charge, and system air pressures, including Automatic Train Control (ATC) and Positive Train Control (PTC) systems. Observe tracks to detect obstructions and anticipate operating problems, remaining alert to unusual conditions or circumstances. Communicate frequently with Passenger Conductors and Train Dispatchers to issue or receive information regarding stops, delays, or oncoming trains, and relay signals, warnings, and other critical information to train personnel. Document operational and service‑related issues accurately by preparing reports on accidents, signaling problems, unscheduled stops, mechanical failures, delays, or any guest‑impacting concerns, and completing end‑of‑duty reports as required. Lead guest interactions with professionalism and hospitality while collaborating with the onboard team to provide clear public announcements, a welcoming experience at stations, resolve guest issues using discretion, and offer assistance and information during service disruptions. Respond promptly to emergency conditions or breakdowns by following established safety protocols. Inspect, identify, and record locomotive defects and trip irregularities, notifying appropriate parties as required. Prepare detailed reports on issues encountered, including accidents, signaling problems, unscheduled stops, delays, or any matters affecting Guests. Drive Brightline vehicles between the yard and the station as needed. Monitor and review all Brightline communication channels, including the company intranet (bConnected), during work hours to ensure timely awareness of company and department notifications. Experience & Qualifications Required Education and Experience: 1–3 years of railroad experience. Certified Conductor (CFR Title 49, Part 242) with a minimum of 2 years of total railroad experience and at least 3 months of experience as a certified Conductor for Brightline, or Certified Locomotive Engineer (CFR Title 49, Part 240) with a minimum of 1 year of experience. Successfully trained and qualified in FECR/Brightline Operating Rules and Physical Characteristics. Knowledge, Skills & Abilities: This is a physical position. You must have full mobility in the seated position facing forward and to the side; physical agility to easily get off/on train equipment, manipulate between cars, bend, reach, stoop, easily and safely ride the side of trains, and lift a variety of equipment. Our trains operate 365 days a year. You must be able to work weekends and nights, and possibly more than 40 hours a week. Brightline trains will operate on a continuous, set schedule. On‑call availability is a necessity. Sound judgment, independent thinking, and effective verbal communication to interact with guests, crew members, and others. Strong multi‑tasking, interpersonal and communication skills, outstanding listening, verbal, written, and reading comprehension. Careful attention to detail and time management. Ability to work effectively as a team member. Capability to demonstrate self‑management, self‑control, trustworthiness, adaptability, and conscientiousness. Ability to learn, recall, and apply technical information. Show accountability and dependability, with a positive attitude during stressful situations. Make logical and prompt decisions based on information provided, especially in emergency situations. Must pass various assessments, including but not limited to medical qualifications, knowledge, and practical tests. History of a safe driving record that meets Brightline Vehicle Operator Policy. Operate with integrity, solid work ethics, and complete tasks without direct supervision. Live and breathe operating rules and practices, including physical characteristics, safety rules, air brake rules, equipment troubleshooting, and emergency procedures. Managerial Responsibility None Work Environment Frequent exposure to fumes or airborne particles, moving mechanical parts, vibration, and occasional extreme conditions. Noise level can be loud. Physical Demands Regular use of hands to finger, handle or feel; reach with hands and arms; talk or hear. The position is very active, requiring standing, walking, stooping, kneeling, crouching, or crawling all day. Must lift or move objects up to 10 pounds regularly, up to 50 pounds frequently, and above 100 pounds occasionally. Requires close, distance, color, peripheral, depth perception and ability to adjust focus. Reasonable accommodations may be made. Travel 75% of duties may require travel. Combine your experience, innovation, and entrepreneurial spirit by joining our growing team in Florida. Brightline offers a competitive compensation and benefits package, and the opportunity to make a difference while making history. Brightline is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, Brightline will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer. #J-18808-Ljbffr Brightline Trains