Railroad engineer

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A railroad engineer, railway engineer, locomotive engineer, train operator, train driver or engine driver is a person who operates a railroad locomotive and train. The engineer is the person in charge of and responsible for the locomotive(s). He or she is also in charge of the mechanical operation of the train, the speed of the train and all train handling. The engineer shares with the conductor/guard, who is in charge of the train, responsibility for the safe operation of the train and application of the rules and procedures of the railway company.
On many railroads, the career progression is one that starts as an assistant conductor (brakeman), conductor and finally, engineer. In the United States the engineer is required to be certified and re-certified every 2-3 years. [1]

In India, an engine driver begins his career as a Diesel Assistant or Electrical Assistant (in case of electric locomotives). He would then get promoted on a scale B,A and A Special. 'A Special' Drivers drive one of the most fast and important trains on the route. [2]

[edit] Duties

An engineer is responsible for preparing equipment for service, checking paperwork and the condition of the locomotives. His duties require that he control acceleration, braking and handling of the train underway. He must know the physical characteristics of the railroad, including passenger stations, the incline and decline of the right-of-way and speed limits. Along with the conductor, the engineer monitors time to not fall behind schedule, nor leave stations early. The train's speed must be reduced when following other trains, approaching route diversions, or regulating time over road to avoid arriving too early. The engineer assumes the duties of the conductor if he or she should be incapacitated.