Student locomotive engineer- Conductor

Location:

TORONTO, ON, CA, M8V 4B5

Reference Number : 1171

Status : Permanent - Full-time

Annual Salary / Hourly Rate : 1650$/week

Number of positions to be filled : 3

Application Deadline : 01/30/2026

Did you know that VIA Rail is carrying out ambitious projects to modernize its services and infrastructure? From our new ultramodern train fleet to ongoing improvement of our infrastructure, we’re building the future of transportation in Canada. Working for VIA Rail is being a part of a collective effort in sustainable mobility.

VIA Rail is currently seeking qualified Train Conductors from the Canadian railway industry who are interested in becoming Locomotive Engineers. Positions will be available in April 2026 in the Central Ontario region.

Training Program

The full training program will span approximately 10 months, including:

2 months of classroom training (in English)
Delivered at our Toronto Maintenance Centre
Approximately 8 months of practical, hands-on training
Conducted in the Toronto area
Successful candidates will have Toronto as their home terminal

Role of the Locomotive Engineer

The Locomotive Engineer is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of VIA Rail trains, ensuring the secure transportation of passengers and employees. This key safety-related position plays a vital role in the continuity of VIA Rail operations and in providing exceptional service to customers.

This position requires:

A variable work schedule
Extended periods away from home
The ability to perform under pressure
The capacity to manage demanding and stressful operational situations

Job Requirements

Education & Experience

High school diploma or higher level of education
Valid Train Conductor qualification from a Canadian railway
Minimum two (2) years of experience as a Train Conductor (or equivalent), currently employed in this role by a Canadian railway
Up-to-date certification under the Canadian Rail Operating Rules (CROR)

Competencies & Conditions

Exemplary safety record
Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English
No criminal record
Valid driver’s licence
Ability to meet all physical requirements of the position
Strong technical and mechanical aptitude

Essential Competencies

Strong commitment to safety, attention to detail, and rigour
Decision-making and problem‑solving skills
Ability to work effectively under pressure
Multitasking skills and ability to prioritize in a fast-paced environment
Sense of responsibility
Customer‑oriented approach
Flexibility, adaptability, and a positive attitude toward change
Teamwork and collaboration

At VIA Rail, we are proud to be an employment-equity employer and we strive to form teams that reflect the diversity of Canadian society. We aim to remove barriers to employment accessibility and aspire to provide an inclusive and equitable work environment where everyone is valued, regardless of their identity or differences, to enable them to reach their full potential.

If you need assistance in making the recruitment process or the position you are applying for more accessible, please let us know. Alternate arrangements may be offered to individuals who request them at any stage of the recruitment process. All information received in relation to arrangements will be kept confidential.

Note that we will only contact those who are selected for an interview.

Join our 3,000 other employees in helping provide Canadians with a safe, accessible, environmentally sustainable way to travel!