Career overview

Rail Yard Engineers, Dinkey Operators, and Hostlers

O*NET-SOC 53-4013.00

Median pay / yr$58,030

OutlookBelow Average

Drive switching or other locomotive or dinkey engines within railroad yard, industrial plant, quarry, construction project, or similar location.

What it takes

The skills, knowledge, and credentials employers look for in Rail Yard Engineers, Dinkey Operators, and Hostlers.

Operation and ControlControlling operations of equipment or systems.
MonitoringMonitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
Operations MonitoringWatching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly.
SpeakingTalking to others to convey information effectively.
Active ListeningGiving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.

TransportationKnowledge of principles and methods for moving people or goods by air, rail, sea, or road, including the relative costs and benefits.
Public Safety and SecurityKnowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote effective local, state, or national security operations for the protection of people, data, property, and institutions.
Administration and ManagementKnowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, resource allocation, human resources modeling, leadership technique, production methods, and coordination of people and resources.
MechanicalKnowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
English LanguageKnowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, and rules of composition and grammar.