Sugar Express Fireman

Requisition
849
-Posted
10/12/2026

- Operations

- Sugar Express, LLC

- Sugar Express, LLC

- Railroad Operations
- Job Location (Country/Region) (1) - State (1)

Employees are our most valuable asset. When we succeed, our employees succeed. Many have an ownership stake in our privately held business through the Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). As we grow, we hire new employees who are knowledgeable, energetic and committed to keeping us on the cutting-edge of our industry. We reward them with challenging work, opportunities to learn and grow, competitive compensation, a comprehensive benefits package and a supportive work environment where safety is our top priority.

Position Status: Part-Time

Job Description

The Fireman will maintain adequate steam pressure for the operation of the locomotive. The Fireman is a skilled technical position that is responsible for the precise management of fuel and water to generate steam power sufficient to safely operate a Steam Locomotive satisfactorily upon the railroad, which it is being operated. Unlike coal firing, which requires manual shoveling, oil firing uses a burner system that must be meticulously adjusted to avoid thermal shock or firebox damage.

The Fireman will fire the engine in a responsible manner and shall at all times assure that an adequate amount of water is in the boiler for safe operation and the tender is sufficiently filled with water and fuel. The Fireman will work with the Engineer to ensure the safety of the public at all times during operation of the train.

This includes watching crossings for vehicle and foot traffic and/or any obstructions within the crossings. Firemen shall familiarize themselves with the use of the engine and train brake controls for their use in emergency situations. They are directly responsible for and shall receive directions from the Engineer and Conductor.

Job Responsibilities

• Assist the locomotive engineer during excursion operations
• Maintain proper steam pressure and monitor locomotive systems
• Manage fuel, water, and firebox operations during trips
• Assist with locomotive preparation, servicing, and inspections
• Monitor gauges, injectors, and other locomotive operating components
• Support safe train operations and compliance with railroad safety procedures
• Assist with cleaning and maintaining locomotive appearance
• Support themed excursions, special events, and seasonal operations
• Periodically introducing sand into the firebox under heavy load to scour soot and carbon deposits from the boiler tubes, ensuring efficient heat transfer.
• Serving as the "co-pilot" by monitoring signals, curves, and track obstructions on the left-hand side and communicating them to the Engineer.
• Assisting with the pre-trip preparation, including oiling / greasing moving parts and checking for leaks or mechanical safety failures.
• Assisting in loading fuel oil and taking on water during station stops.

Qualifications

• Excellent organizational, time management, and multitasking abilities.
• Must be 18 years or older.
• High school diploma or GED preferred
• Must have a thorough understanding of locomotive appliances, including brake systems, injectors, and combustion controls.
• The ability to work in a high-pressure, hot cab environment as a synchronized team with the Engineer.
• Candidates must pass a specific railroad rulebook or safety test
• Have strong oral communication skills for coordinating crew movements and explaining engine features to the public.
• Ability to demonstrate operational awareness
• Must be able to exercise good judgement about the needs of the public, needs of the train crew, operation of the train, and the importance of safety.
• Must be able to safely respond to unexpected conditions that may arise
• The Fireman MUST have a thorough knowledge of the locomotive appliances but not limited to the brake system, combustion system, methods of proper lubrication, electrical generation, and proper use of the water delivery and monitoring system including the injector, gauge glasses, blower, burner, and atomizer
• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods
• Ability to work flexible schedules including, nights, weekends and holidays
• Ability to work in a fast-paced passenger environment
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Detailed-oriented with the ability to follow protocols.
• Be knowledgeable about railroad operations, equipment and rolling stock.
• Ability to read, speak and write English.
• Ability to follow instructions and…