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Assistant Conductor Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Patriot Rail

Conductor/Engineer LTRR

East Chicago, IN · On-site

... assist and instruct train crews to couple and uncouple cars, operate switches, and make minor ... Takes direction from conductors and brakemen; • Safely line switches; • Safely perform ...

Patriot Rail

Conductor/Engineer LTRR

East Chicago, IN · On-site

... assist and instruct train crews to couple and uncouple cars, operate switches, and make minor ... Takes direction from conductors and brakemen; · Safely line switches; · Safely perform ...

Watco

Conductor/Engineer - Hammond, IN

Hammond, IN · On-site

$25 - $29/hr

Conductor/Engineer - Hammond, IN Job Location: Hammond, IN Facility 1-46320 Office Location: Onsite ... assist workers to throw switches or perform other activities involved when performing switching ...

Watco

Conductor/Engineer - Hammond, IN

Hammond, IN · On-site

$25 - $29/hr

... conductors, engineers, mechanics, and MOW Team Members at Watco's Safe Performance Center • ... assist workers to throw switches or perform other activities involved when performing switching ...

Village of Winnetka, IL

Electric Lineworker

Winnetka, IL · On-site

$134K - $138K/yr

String conductors between erected poles and adjust slack; secure new wires to crossarm insulators ... Confer with and assist other specialized work crews, departments, utilities, or contractors in the ...

Village of Winnetka

Electric Lineworker

Winnetka, IL

$134K - $138K/yr

In addition to normal line work, electric lineworkers also assist with the construction, operation ... String conductors between erected poles and adjust slack; secure new wires to crossarm insulators.

Road & Rail Services

Traveling Railroad Carman

Chicago, IL · On-site

$28 - $34/hr

Lubricate components, apply required stenciling, and assist with railcar preparation * Operate company vehicles and equipment as needed * Maintain a clean work area and follow all safety procedures ...

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All JobsConductor JobsAssistant Conductor JobsAssistant Conductor Jobs in Chicago, IL

Assistant Conductor information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$9

$22

$41

How much do assistant conductor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant conductor in Chicago, IL is $22.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.54 and $24.92 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Assistant Conductor vs Conductor?

AspectAssistant ConductorConductor
Required CredentialsMusic degree or equivalent, certification in conductingSame as Assistant Conductor, often with additional experience
Work EnvironmentAssist in rehearsals and performances, support main conductorLead performances, make artistic decisions
Employer & Industry UsageOrchestras, choirs, musical ensemblesMajor orchestras, ensembles, opera houses

In summary, an Assistant Conductor supports the main Conductor by assisting during rehearsals and performances, often requiring similar credentials. The Conductor leads the ensemble, making artistic decisions and directing performances. Both roles are essential in orchestral settings, with the Assistant Conductor serving as a key support role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an assistant conductor, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Assistant Conductor, you need comprehensive knowledge of railroad operations, safety protocols, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with train control systems, handheld radios, and regulatory compliance documentation is essential. Strong attention to detail, effective communication, and teamwork are vital soft skills for this role. These skills and qualifications ensure the safe, timely, and efficient movement of trains while maintaining compliance with industry regulations.

What is an assistant conductor?

Assistant conductors are musicians who support the principal conductor of an orchestra, choir, or opera company. Their responsibilities often include rehearsing the ensemble, preparing scores, assisting with administrative tasks, and sometimes leading performances or sections of rehearsals. Assistant conductors serve as understudies to the main conductor and play a key role in ensuring smooth operations during concerts and rehearsals. This position is often a stepping stone for aspiring conductors to gain experience and develop professional skills. They must possess strong musical knowledge, leadership abilities, and excellent communication skills.

What are the typical collaboration dynamics between an assistant conductor and the rest of the train crew?

As an Assistant Conductor, you'll frequently collaborate with the Conductor, engineers, and onboard service staff to ensure passenger safety, efficient train operations, and timely departures. Communication is key, as you'll relay important information between team members, assist with boarding procedures, and help resolve passenger concerns. This role requires adaptability and teamwork, especially during unexpected events or schedule changes, to maintain smooth and safe operations.
What are the most commonly searched types of Conductor jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Conductor jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Assistant Conductor jobs in Chicago, IL? For Assistant Conductor jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Assistant Conductor jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Assistant Conductor jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Assistant Conductor jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Assistant Conductor job openings:
Assistant Conductor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Assistant Conductor job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, and 17% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $46,640 per year, or $22.4 per hour.

Certified Conductor - $15,000 Bonus! Waukegan, Harvard, Crystal Lake and Kenosha

Metra

Crystal Lake, IL • On-site

$8.1K - $10K/mo

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Description
Metra is one of the largest and most complex commuter rail systems in North America, serving Cook, DuPage, Will, Lake, Kane, and McHenry counties. The agency is linking communities in Northeastern Illinois by providing safe, reliable and efficient service.
Conductor positions are paid on a semi-monthly guaranteed basis. The monthly salary minimum is between $8,128.80 and $10,838.40. The exact amount is dependent on years of service as a Conductor at a previous railroad. There is opportunity to earn more than the monthly salary minimum once training is completed, but that is dependent on assignments worked
The Transportation Department is responsible for providing safe, efficient and dependable transportation to commuters on all Metra-operated lines: Milwaukee North and West, Rock Island, Metra Electric, Southwest Service, North Central Service and Heritage Corridor and those lines operating under purchase of service agreements' and Union Pacific.
The primary duties include:
  • You must be available to work seven (7) days per week.
  • You may not have any regularly scheduled days off (including weekends and holidays) unless holding a regular assignment.
  • Your work hours may vary from day to day based on your seniority.
  • While marked to the Extra Board, you may be called to protect assignments in one of our Yard Facilities, where you will be working outside for long periods of time and in all types of weather conditions. Employees must be able to work outside, and you will be exposed to all weather conditions (heat, rain, ice, snow, cold).
  • Employees called to work assignments in one of Metra's yard facilities. Our yard(s) are a system of tracks within defined limits where:
    • Trains may be rearranged, (adding and/or removing cars from a train consist);
    • A location for the storage of train cars;
    • Throwing switches and lining trains onto designated tracks.
  • Employees on the Extra Board may be called to protect assignments in Commuter Service working as an Assistant Conductor, Conductor or Collector.
  • Conductors are tasked with the safe performance of switching operations ensuring on-time performance, switch alignment(s), correct car routing, delivery and pickup.

The following are descriptions of the various job functions a Train Service employee (Conductor) must be able to perform:
Train Operation and Movement:
  • Perform your duties while assuring you and your Crew are operating safely and being mindful of on-time performance. Take appropriate action when conditions threaten the safety of a Crew and/or Passengers.
  • Verbally communicate information in-person or by using radio(s), telephone(s), Public Announcement System;
  • Physically communicate by using of hand signals;
  • Receive, relay to others and act upon directives given to you by Transportation Officials, Train Dispatchers and Customer Service Personnel;
  • Communicate with Police and Emergency Response Personnel.

Switching Operations:
  • Detrain and board stationary and/or moving equipment.
  • Couple and uncouple air hoses.
  • Ride on moving equipment by holding onto grab irons, standing on platforms, and standing on ladder steps in all types of weather.
  • Adjust and align knuckles for coupling.
  • Read and align switches for train movement.
  • Understand track numbers and locations.
  • Operate various track switches and derails in order to change the routing of trains or cars.
  • Apply and release hand brakes.

Conduct Train Inspections:
  • Inspect condition(s) of a train and/or equipment by performing radio tests, brake tests, operating doors.
  • Ensure you have proper job tools and necessary inventory onboard and/or with you (uniform, company provided material (i.e. iPad, iPhone, Ticket Punch, Keys), radio, flagging kit, fire extinguisher, first aid kits.).
  • Must also inspect exterior of the train by walking the entire length of the train consist in inclement weather.

Communicate and Report Information:
  • Communicate information in-person and/or using radios, telephone, hand signals.
  • Must receive, relay and act upon directives given to you by Transportation Officials, Train Dispatchers and Customer Service personnel.
  • Communicate with police and emergency response personnel.
  • Communicate with passengers delays, fare information, and travel questions using Metra System, along with the ability deescalate disputes which may arise onboard.

Cash Fare Collection:
  • Responsible for the auditing of tickets; and collecting and remitting ticket sale monies from fare purchasing passengers.

All individuals in train service are subject to random drug testing as required by the Federal government. These are conducted during your duty hours when your name is selected by computer.
This is a Union position. Starting pay rates may vary based on entry rates in the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA).
Metra is a railroad employer subject to the provisions of the Railroad Retirement Tax Act, not the Social Security Administration.
Requirements
  • High school degree or GED or railroad experience.
  • Ability to submit work reports using electronic device(s).
  • Ability to read and understand all instructions including operating and safety rules, bulletins, special instructions, and federal regulatory documents.
  • Proficient verbal and written communication skills to deliver information to coworker(s), supervisor(s), railroad employees, and customers.

Physical Requirements
  • Ability to push, pull, lift and carry objects weighing up to 25 lbs.
  • Must have normal color vision, be able to detect and interpret different visual color signals and displays, and determine the speed of moving objects at near or far distances.
  • Have the capacity to walk, climb, and maintain balance on railcars, locomotives, stairs, ladders, uneven terrain, moving equipment, rails and ballast in a safe manner (occasionally work at heights of twelve (12) feet or more).
  • Able to perform physical work while occasionally bending, stooping, and/or kneeling.
  • Must have normal depth perception to judge the speed and distance of locomotives being moved in the service area.

Work Conditions
  • 18 years of age or older.
  • Agree to wear personal protective equipment such as safety glasses, safety boots, hard hats, and hearing protection where the company requires.
  • Agree to wear a company issued uniform while working in Commuter Service.
  • Typically required to report to your assigned work location within a 2-hour timeframe.
  • Willingness to practice safe work habits.

Preferred:
  • Experience working with, on, and around moving heavy equipment.
  • Experience working outdoors in variable weather conditions.
  • Completed a Railroad Conductor Training Course or Program.

Please note: Regardless of any state laws that legalize marijuana, Metra prohibits applicants and employees' use or possession of marijuana (or marijuana paraphernalia), or having detectable amounts of marijuana in their bodies, including synthetic and/or non-synthetic substances such as THC for any reason for preemployment screening purposes, while on duty, subject to duty, on Metra property, or in Metra work equipment and vehicles.
Metra is committed to ensuring that our career website and recruiting process are accessible to all individuals. If you encounter difficulties or limitations in using or accessing our online application, or if you require reasonable accommodations to complete this application, participate in interviews, complete any pre-employment testing, or engage in any other aspect of the employee selection process, please direct your inquiries to RAC@Metrarr.com.
Metra is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. It is our policy to fill vacant positions with qualified candidates without regard to race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age, gender identity, disability, or any protected categories, assuming an individual can perform the essential functions of the job with or without accommodation.

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