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Assistant Conductor Trainee Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

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Assistant Conductor Trainee information

See Minnesota salary details

$28.4K

$47.4K

$68.1K

How much do assistant conductor trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for assistant conductor trainee in Minnesota is $47,400.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,100.00 and $47,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Assistant Conductor Trainees?

Assistant Conductor Trainees are entry-level railroad employees who are learning the responsibilities necessary to become fully qualified conductors. They work under the supervision of experienced conductors, assisting with tasks such as ensuring the safe movement of trains, managing passenger boarding, collecting fares or tickets, and performing safety inspections. During their training, they receive both classroom instruction and hands-on experience to prepare them for the full conductor role. This position is essential for maintaining safe and efficient train operations, and successful trainees typically advance to become conductors after completing their program.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Assistant Conductor Trainee, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Assistant Conductor Trainee, you need a high school diploma or equivalent, strong attention to detail, and a basic understanding of railroad operations and safety regulations. Familiarity with train control systems, radio communication equipment, and completion of safety or conductor training programs are typically required. Excellent communication, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities help you adapt to dynamic situations and ensure passenger safety. These skills and qualifications are essential for maintaining safe, efficient train operations and delivering reliable service.

What are some common challenges faced by Assistant Conductor Trainees during their training period?

Assistant Conductor Trainees often face the challenge of quickly learning complex safety procedures and operating rules while adapting to irregular work hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays. The role requires strong attention to detail and the ability to remain calm under pressure, especially when dealing with unexpected situations or delays. Trainees must also develop effective communication skills to coordinate with engineers, conductors, and yard staff, fostering teamwork in a fast-paced environment. Overcoming these challenges is essential for safe and efficient train operations and successful career progression.

What is the difference between Assistant Conductor Trainee vs Assistant Conductor?

AspectAssistant Conductor TraineeAssistant Conductor
CredentialsTypically requires a conductor certification or license, relevant training programsMust hold a valid conductor license or certification
Work EnvironmentTraining environment, supervised on trains or in classroomsOperational on trains, responsible for assisting with train operations
Employer & Industry UsageUsed during training period within rail companiesFull-time role in rail transportation companies

The main difference is that an Assistant Conductor Trainee is in a training phase, working towards obtaining necessary certifications, while an Assistant Conductor is a fully qualified professional responsible for assisting with train operations. The trainee role focuses on learning and development, whereas the assistant conductor role involves active duty in train management.

What are popular job titles related to Assistant Conductor Trainee jobs in Minnesota? For Assistant Conductor Trainee jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Assistant Conductor Trainee jobs in Minnesota look for? The top searched job categories for Assistant Conductor Trainee jobs in Minnesota are:
What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Assistant Conductor Trainee jobs? Cities in Minnesota with the most Assistant Conductor Trainee job openings:
Assistant Conductor Trainee jobs near you
Conductor Trainee

Conductor Trainee

Northern Plains Railroad, Inc.

Hallock, MN • On-site

$25 - $28/hr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Looking for a New Career? We'll Train You!
No experience? No problem. We provide comprehensive on-the-job training and support to help you build the skills you need to succeed.


Summary:

The Conductor Trainee receives, relays, and /or acts upon oral or written instructions under the guidance of qualified personnel, to ensure proper placement of locomotives and cars. This role is a training position designed to develop the knowledge, skills, and abilities required to become a qualified conductor.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities are, but are not limited to:

  • Learn and understand the requirements of GCOR & OSHA/MSHA Rules and Regulations.
  • Participate in on-the-job training with qualified conductors and supervisors.
  • Observe and progressively assist with communication via train radio with Operations Manager and train crews.
  • Support the completion of Daily Track Reports and learn reporting expectations across shifts.
  • Follow all operating rules, policies, and guidelines while in training.
  • Successfully complete all required training toward conductor qualification.
  • Learn to read and interpret orders, schedules, and other written instructions discuss their contents with other crew members.
  • Assist in performing switching, assembling, and disassembling trains under supervision.
  • Learn to properly and safely engage/release hand brakes and operate rail yard switches.
  • Participate in inspections of couplings and air hoses to ensure they are securely fastened.
  • Attend and successfully complete all required rules and safety classes and ensure all rules are followed as directed by the Company, GCOR, and other governing agencies.
  • Learn to inspect freight cars, locomotives, and other equipment to ensure compliance with GCOR and Company rules.
  • Learn to monitor gauges or meters that measure speed, amperage, battery charge, or air pressure in brake lines or in main reservoirs.
  • Learn to observe & report track conditions and obstructions.
  • Learn proper use of hand signals, two-way radios and cell phones for communication with other train crew members.
  • Assist with locomotive inspections before, during, and after each run to check fuel levels, supplies, and mechanical problems.
  • Learn to prepare accurate reports as required by the Company, GCOR, and other governing agencies.
  • Any other duties assigned by the Company.
  • Shifts may include morning, afternoon, and evening.
  • Will perform work on Northern Plains Railroad as directed.


Competencies:

To perform this job successfully, an individual should demonstrate the following competencies:

  • Previous conductor experience, preferred.
  • Past knowledge of FRA or GCOR requirements specific to the operation and movement of trains, preferred.
  • Self-motivated.
  • Basic problem solving and root cause analytics.
  • Interpersonal skills: ability to solve conflict; ability to balance team and individual responsibilities.
  • Strong oral and written communication; ability to speak and write clearly and informatively.
  • Ability to maintain professionalism and approach others in a tactful manner.
  • Ability to react well under pressure in high-stressed situations; accept responsibility for own actions.
  • Dependability and follow-through on commitments & consistently at work on time.
  • Observe all safety and security procedures; determine appropriate action beyond guidelines; report potentially unsafe conditions; use equipment and materials properly.
  • Ability to judge the speed and distances of objects or moving parts.
  • Strong attention to detail and safety procedures; ability to maintain focus for the entirety of the shift.
  • Ability to build harmonious relationships with your colleagues, customers, and supervisors.
  • Ability to apply principles of rational systems to solve practical problems.
  • Interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagrammatic, or schedule form.
  • Valid driver’s license, preferred.

Physical Demands:

Reasonable accommodation may be provided to enable individuals with disabilities to meet the physical demands listed below:

  • The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to perform on uneven or slippery surfaces, platforms, ladders, equipment in all weather and temperature conditions. Most of the day could be spent standing on foot. Eye/hand coordination, hand/feet dexterity and grasping hand tools, materials & equipment is required. The employee is frequently required to perform manual labor & physical activities that require considerable use of the whole body, such as standing and lifting from various levels.
  • Additional physical demands are listed in the chart below.

Environmental:

  • Continuous: Exposure to and works in hot/cold temperatures, on-call, works outside, exposure to noise, vibration, walk on uneven or slippery surface, works with others, moving machinery & shift work.
  • Frequent: Exposure to dust/smoke & fumes/odors/grease/oil & stands on concrete.
  • Occasional: Exposure to electrical hazards, travel required, & works in wet conditions.
  • Rare: Works in cramped quarters, works inside, works alone, money handling, chemicals & toxic materials.

Education and Training:

  • GED or higher

Requirements of Joining Our Team:

Our comprehensive pre-employment process ensures the well-being and integrity of our team. To join our organization, candidates are required to:


1.    Pass a mandatory drug test to maintain a drug-free workplace. Random, reasonable suspicion and post-accident testing may also be required throughout employment.

    2.    Undergo a thorough physical examination to ensure the requirements of the position can be met.

    3.    Provide professional references to validate qualifications and character.

    4.    Complete a comprehensive background check to confirm suitability for the position.


We value transparency and the safety of our employees and customers, and these steps are essential in upholding our commitment to excellence.


Physical Demands Checklist LIFT 1

* Never (N) = Not at all * Rarely (R) = 1-5% * Occasionally (O) = 6-33% * Frequently (F) = 34-66% * Continuously (C) =

67-100%


Task

N 0%

R 1-5%

O

6-33%

F

34-66%

C

67-100%

Essential

Comments

Sitting



X





Standing




X


X


Task Continued

N 0%

R

1-5%

O

6-33%

F

34-66%

C

67-100%

Essential

Comments

Walking Distance: 600 ft




X


X


Bending/Stooping: 2 min



X



X


Sitting while twisting &

reaching above shoulder level



X



X


Crawling 10 ft


X




X


Squatting: 10 reps



X





Climbing Stairs: YMCA Step Test



X



X

NOT Pass or Fail

Climbing Ladder: 15 rungs



X



X


Balancing CTSIB-M test





X

X


Reaching- Forward




X


X


Reaching- Overhead arm’s length




X


X


Reaching Low Level




X


X


Static Push/Pull: Static push

force 50# at shoulder level



X



X


Push/Pull: 90# force at waist

level, simulate throw a switch



X



X


Shoveling



X



X


Grip Strength min. 50#



X



X


Gross & Fine coordination




X


X


Lift / Carry







Floor to Waist & Bilateral Carry

<10#



X



X


11-24 #



X



X


25-34 #



X



X


35-50 #


X






Environmental Exposure








Working around moving machinery, parts & equipment




X


X


Working outside & extreme weather

conditions




X


X


Exposure to heat /humidity




X


X


Exposure to cold




X


X


Using power equipment




X


X


Slippery surfaces



X



X


Tasks Continued

N 0%

R

1-5%

O

6-33%

F

34-66%

C

67-100%

Essential

Comments

Noise





X

X


Works with others, alone,

paperwork



X



X


Dust, Smoke, Odors, Fumes,

Grease, Oil




X


X


Hearing





X

X

Hearing acuity-MEC/Medical Examiner's Certificate DOT vs FRA-DOT vs OSHA

Speech





X

X


Vision





X

X

Vision acuity-MEC/Medical Examiner's

Certificate DOT vs FRA-DOT vs Standard

Standard Vision





X

X

Standard Vision-Snellen/Ishihara/Perimetry

Works at heights




X


X


Electrical hazards



X



X


Uneven surfaces



X



X


Inhalation Exposure



X



X


Cramped quarters



X



X


Hazardous Material


X




X


Chemical Exposure



X



X


Vibration




X


X


This job description is not intended to represent a complete, comprehensive list of all duties and responsibilities that may be required in this position. There may be unplanned activities and other duties assigned. This Job Description may change at any time as declared by Management.

NPRS is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran, or any other characteristic protected under local, state, or federal statute, ordinance, or regulation. NPRS is a tradename used by Northern Plains Railroad, Inc. (NPR), Northern Plains Services, Inc. (NPS), and All Rail, Inc. (All Rail).

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