Conductor/Engineer – Rail Yard Operations

About the role

The Conductor/Engineer position is responsible for safely controlling and coordinating train movements and switching railcars within a yard, industrial plant, or similar facility. This manual‑labor role ensures efficient loading and unloading of railcars while adhering to railroad rules and safety regulations.

Key responsibilities

• Inspect locomotives before and after runs to verify fuel, sand, water, and compliance with FRA requirements.
• Read and execute switching orders, wayside signals, track warrants, and bulletins.
• Operate locomotive controls, hand brakes, and air hoses using radio, arm, or lantern signals.
• Communicate with crew members, yard workers, and dispatchers via radio to exchange switching information.
• Throw track switches, couple/uncouple cars, and set warning signals during emergencies.
• Maintain accurate records of car numbers, origins, destinations, and cargo.
• Assist workers with switch operations and perform minor repairs on couplings, air hoses, and journal boxes.

Required profile

• Reliable attendance and ability to follow written and verbal instructions.
• Proficiency in reading, writing, and communicating in English.
• Basic math skills for record‑keeping and calculations.
• Willingness to learn procedures, apply good judgment, and adapt from feedback.

Required skills

• Locomotive operation
• Rail switching
• Radio communication
• Basic math