Locomotive Engineer Apprentice

About LEAP (Locomotive Engineer Apprenticeship Program)

• Recruiting 5 candidates for a 24-month training program starting September 2026 in Eastern region (Ottawa to Capreol to Campbellton).
• Training includes classroom, simulation, on-the-job training, and examinations.
• Successful completion qualifies operation of passenger trains across Eastern Canada.

Work Location and Training Clause

• Training at Montréal or Toronto training facility.
• Post-training assignments anywhere within the district (Ottawa to Campbellton to Montréal) based on operational needs and seniority.

About the Training Program

• 24-month full-time program with theoretical and practical training.
• Initial 6-week classroom training (40 hours/week) plus study outside class.
• Job shadowing and on-the-job training with mentors.
• Reinforcement activities using simulators and equipment.

Working Conditions

• Available to work night, early morning, evening shifts, weekends, holidays.
• Able to be away from home for extended periods.
• Working outdoors in various weather conditions.
• Frequent climbing ladders, walking, bending, lifting, sitting, kneeling.
• Meet medical fitness requirements initially and ongoing.
• Able to recognize and distinguish signal colors.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Minimum 3 years work experience (fields requiring vigilance an asset).
• Excellent spoken and written communication in English and French.
• Meet testing, selection, background check, and medical criteria.
• Valid driver's licence with good record.
• Transportation sector experience considered an asset.

Successful Selection Process

• Communication primarily by email.
• CV sorting with notification.
• Two computer tests from home.
• Phone interview.
• Linguistic competency test in both official languages.
• Information session in Montréal.
• In-person interview in Montréal.
• Pre-employment checks including medical test.
• Program begins September 2026.
• All tests paid by VIA Rail Canada.

What VIA Rail Offers

• Apprentice salary: $77,000 year 1, $115,000 year 2.
• Starting salary over $150,000 upon program completion.
• Uniform and Personal Protective Equipment.
• Employee wellness program.
• iPad to stay connected and updated.

Equal Opportunity

• VIA Rail is an employment-equity employer.
• Strives for diversity and inclusion.
• Aims to remove barriers to employment accessibility and provide an equitable work environment.