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Transportation · Illinois

How to Become a Locomotive Engineers in Illinois

Locomotive Engineers in Illinois earn a median salary of $83,690/year, which is 8% above the national average. Illinois has a state income tax of ~5.0%. After taxes and rent, a locomotive engineers takes home approximately $3,848/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.

$84K
Median salary in Illinois
+8%
vs. national average
5.0%
State income tax
2,130
Employed in Illinois

What a locomotive engineers can afford in Illinois

Gross annual salary$83,690
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 5.0% state tax)$5,260/mo
Median 2BR rent (Illinois)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home26.8% (within guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$83,690/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$3,848/mo

Becoming a locomotive engineers in Illinois

1

Meet education requirements

Locomotive Engineers positions in Illinois typically require No formal educational credential. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Illinois. Research accredited programs in your area.

2

Gain required experience

Many locomotive engineers positions in Illinois require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.

3

Obtain Illinois licensure or certification

Illinois may require specific licensing or professional certification for locomotive engineerss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Illinois Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.

4

Find positions in Illinois

Illinois employs 2,130 locomotive engineers.

Locomotive Engineers salary range in Illinois

10th percentile (entry)
$72K
25th percentile
$79K
Median (50th)
$84K
75th percentile
$94K
90th percentile (senior)
$102K
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Full locomotive engineers salary breakdown in Illinois
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Locomotive Engineers careers in other states

Frequently asked questions

How much does a locomotive engineers make in Illinois?

The median locomotive engineers salary in Illinois is $83,690 per year ($40.23/hr). This is 8% above the national median of $77,400. Salaries range from $71,540 to $102,380.

What are the requirements to become a locomotive engineers in Illinois?

Locomotive Engineers positions in Illinois typically require No formal educational credential. Illinois may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Illinois licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.

Can a locomotive engineers afford to live in Illinois?

At the median salary of $83,690, a locomotive engineers in Illinois would take home approximately $5,260/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 26.8% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for locomotive engineers in Illinois?

Check our location hub pages for detailed metro area data within Illinois.

Does Illinois have state income tax for locomotive engineers?

Yes, Illinois has a state income tax rate of approximately 5.0%. On a $83,690 salary, this means roughly $4,143/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.