Monitor locomotive instruments and watch for dragging equipment, obstacles on rights-of-way, and train signals during run. Watch for and relay traffic signals from yard workers to yard engineer in railroad yard.

Other names for Locomotive Firers: Diesel Locomotive Firer/Fireman, Dinkey Engine Firer/Fireman, Donkey Engine Firer/Fireman, Electric Locomotive Firer/Fireman, Engineer Assistant, Fireman, Firer, Locomotive Firer/Fireman, Railroad Firer/Fireman, Roundhouse Firer/Fireman, Shop Firer/Fireman, Steam Locomotive Firer/Fireman,

• Monitor trains as they go around curves to detect dragging equipment and smoking journal boxes.
• Observe tracks from left sides of locomotives to detect obstructions on tracks.
• Observe train signals along routes and verify their meanings for engineers.
• Receive signals from workers in rear of train and relay that information to engineers.
• Signal other workers to set brakes and to throw track switches when switching cars from trains to way stations.
• Check to see that trains are equipped with supplies such as fuel, water, and sand.
• Inspect locomotives to detect damaged or worn parts.
• Operate locomotives in emergency situations.
• Start diesel engines to warm engines before runs.
• Monitor oil, temperature, and pressure gauges on dashboards to determine if engines are operating safely and efficiently.