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Transportation · South Dakota

How to Become a Locomotive Engineers in South Dakota

Locomotive Engineers in South Dakota earn a median salary of $67,950/year, which is 12% below the national average. South Dakota has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a locomotive engineers takes home approximately $3,270/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.

$68K
Median salary in South Dakota
-12%
vs. national average
None
State income tax
150
Employed in South Dakota

What a locomotive engineers can afford in South Dakota

Gross annual salary$67,950
Est. monthly take-home (no state tax)$4,682/mo
Median 2BR rent (South Dakota)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home30.2% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$67,950/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$3,270/mo

Becoming a locomotive engineers in South Dakota

1

Meet education requirements

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

2

Gain required experience

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

3

Obtain South Dakota licensure or certification

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

4

Find positions in South Dakota

South Dakota employs 150 locomotive engineers.

Locomotive Engineers salary range in South Dakota

10th percentile (entry)
$62K
25th percentile
$68K
Median (50th)
$68K
75th percentile
$68K
90th percentile (senior)
$88K
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Frequently asked questions

How much does a locomotive engineers make in South Dakota?

The median locomotive engineers salary in South Dakota is $67,950 per year ($32.67/hr). This is 12% below the national median of $77,400. Salaries range from $61,750 to $87,600.

What are the requirements to become a locomotive engineers in South Dakota?

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

Can a locomotive engineers afford to live in South Dakota?

At the median salary of $67,950, a locomotive engineers in South Dakota would take home approximately $4,682/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 30.2% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for locomotive engineers in South Dakota?

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

Does South Dakota have state income tax for locomotive engineers?

No, South Dakota does not have a state income tax. This means locomotive engineers keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.