Rolling stock engine tester
Also known as: locomotive engine tester, diesel engine tester, rail vehicle engine tester, railcar engine tester, railway vehicle engine tester, multiple unit engine tester
About this occupation
Rolling stock engine testers test the performance of diesel and electric engines used for locomotives. They position or give directions to workers positioning engines on the test stand. They use hand tools and machinery to position and connect the engine to the test stand. They use computerised equipment to enter, read and record test data such as temperature, speed, fuel consumption, oil and exhaust pressure.
A specialisation of mechanical engineering technician.
Essential skills and knowledge
- use testing equipment
- evaluate engine performance
- record test data
- use technical documentation
- control compliance of railway vehicles regulations
- engine components
- read engineering drawings
- operate precision measuring equipment
- perform test run
- mechanics
- create solutions to problems
- operation of different engines
Typical tasks and preparation
From the related US occupation profile Engineering Technologists and Technicians, Except Drafters, All Other (O*NET 17-3029.00). Linked by an official crosswalk: related, not identical; details vary by country.
US median pay: US$78,350 a year (2025), 59,930 employed. Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics.