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Conductor Jobs in Delaware (NOW HIRING)

Conductor

Harrington, DE · On-site

$21.50 - $28/hr

The Conductor is responsible for coordinating the activities of train crew on freight trains and is responsible for the safe switching of railcars and movements across the network. General Duties:

Newark, DE Train Conductor

Wilmington, DE · On-site

$21.75 - $28.75/hr

Conductors are responsible for the safe and efficient movement of freight trains. This includes building trains by coupling railcars, delivering railcars to customers, transporting trains across long ...

Conductor

Newark, DE

$15.25 - $19/hr

Como conductor de un equipo de excavación, ¡estará haciendo algo importante! En Mr. Rooter Plumbing, no necesita experiencia previa en la industria para unirse a nuestro equipo. (¡Pero si tienes ...

Conductor

Newark, DE · On-site

$15.25 - $19/hr

Como conductor de un equipo de excavación, ¡estará haciendo algo importante! En Mr. Rooter Plumbing, no necesita experiencia previa en la industria para unirse a nuestro equipo. (¡Pero si tienes ...

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Showing results 1-20

Conductor information

See Delaware salary details

$15

$25

$31

How much do conductor jobs pay per hour?

As of May 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for conductor in Delaware is $25.88, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.48 and $27.40 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Do Conductors Do?

Train, or railroad, conductors oversee all train operations, cargo, and crew. They inspect the train to make sure it functions correctly and complies with all regulations. In addition to operating the train and making sure it reaches its final destination, they must maintain communication with railroad crew members and stations by radio and/or telephone.

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

To thrive as a Conductor, you need a deep understanding of musical theory, excellent baton technique, and typically formal education in music or conducting. Familiarity with digital score-reading software, audio equipment, and sometimes certification in music education are commonly required. Leadership, strong communication, and the ability to inspire and coordinate musicians are standout soft skills for this role. These skills ensure precise musical performances, effective rehearsals, and cohesive orchestral collaboration.

What are some common challenges conductors face when leading an orchestra or ensemble?

Conductors often face the challenge of balancing the artistic vision with the technical abilities of their musicians. They must communicate their interpretation of the music clearly, manage rehearsal time efficiently, and address any conflicts or misunderstandings within the ensemble. Additionally, conductors need to adapt quickly to unexpected changes during performances, such as tempo fluctuations or missed cues, while maintaining the overall cohesion and energy of the group. Building trust and rapport with musicians is key to overcoming these challenges and achieving a successful performance.

What does a conductor do?

A conductor is responsible for directing a musical ensemble, such as an orchestra, choir, or band. They interpret the music, set the tempo, and guide musicians through rehearsals and performances using hand gestures and a baton. Conductors also work closely with composers and musicians to ensure the desired artistic expression and cohesion. Their role is crucial in achieving a unified, expressive performance from the group.

What is the difference between Conductor vs Train Dispatcher?

AspectConductorTrain Dispatcher
CertificationsRailroad Certification, Safety TrainingRailroad Operations Certification, Safety Training
Work EnvironmentOnboard trains, stations, yardsDispatch offices, control centers
Primary ResponsibilitiesPassenger safety, ticketing, train operationsCoordinating train movements, scheduling
Industry UsageRailroads, transit agenciesRailroads, freight companies

While both Conductor and Train Dispatcher work within the railroad industry, conductors focus on onboard operations, passenger safety, and ticketing, whereas train dispatchers coordinate train movements and schedules from control centers. Both roles require safety certifications and are essential for smooth rail operations, but they differ in work environment and daily responsibilities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Conductor jobs in Delaware? The most popular types of Conductor jobs in Delaware are:
What are popular job titles related to Conductor jobs in Delaware? For Conductor jobs in Delaware, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Delaware are hiring for Conductor jobs? Cities in Delaware with the most Conductor job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Conductor jobs in DE? For Conductor jobs in DE, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Conductor job openings in Delaware as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $53,831 per year, or $25.9 per hour.
Newark, DE Train Conductor

$84K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

Description 

At Norfolk Southern, we believe that our people power progress. Our culture is built on our SPIRIT values-Safety, Performance, Integrity, Respect, Innovation, and Teamwork-which guide how we work, lead, and grow together. If you're ready to be part of a dynamic team and contribute to one of the nation's premier transportation companies, we invite you to explore the conductor role. 

Conductors are responsible for the safe and efficient movement of freight trains. This includes building trains by coupling railcars, delivering railcars to customers, transporting trains across long distances, and managing electronic documentation and inspections. You'll be trained to troubleshoot train issues, report incidents, and ensure compliance with safety procedures. No prior railroad experience is required-we provide all the training you need to succeed. 

 

What You Should Know 

  • This is a seniority-based job. You'll start out on the extra board, filling in where needed, until you build enough seniority to bid on a regular assignment. 

  • You must be available to work on-call, 24/7, with as little as 90 minutes' notice. 

  • Expect to spend 2-3 days away from home weekly. 

  • You will be required to join a union within 60 days after completing training. 

Training 

On the job training lasts about 20 weeks, depending on the complexity of your assigned location, this training can go beyond 20 weeks. Training includes classroom instruction, field training, and on-the-job experience. The first 5 weeks take place at the Norfolk Southern Training Center in McDonough, GA. During this time, the company provides hotel accommodations, weekly meal stipends, and travel reimbursement from your hire location. The remaining weeks of training will be completed at your assigned location. 

To successfully complete the program and earn your promotion and certification, you must pass all classroom, field, and on-the-job requirements. This includes written exams and field evaluations covering physical characteristics, operating rules, safety, hazmat, and signal rules. 

 

Job Responsibilities 

  • Build and inspect trains, railcars, and equipment for safe operation. 

  • Operate remote control locomotives and perform tasks such as coupling, aligning drawbars, applying hand brakes, and riding railcars. 

  • Communicate effectively with crews, dispatchers, and yard controllers. 

  • Maintain accurate documentation and comply with all FRA and company safety regulations. 

  • Perform additional duties as assigned. 

  • Additional information about roles and responsibilities are detailed in this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-ZdUABU2g_k 

Qualifications - Required 

  • Must be 18 years or older. 

  • Must hold a valid driver's license and have reliable transportation. 

  • Ability to report to work within 90 minutes. 

  • Clean driving record in the past 36 months, without any suspension, revocation, cancellation, or denial of your driver's license resulting from a drug or alcohol-related incident. 

  • Must not have been involved in diversion or probation or pleaded guilty to a drug or alcohol-related driving incident. 

  • Must not have refused to undergo a drug or alcohol test related to the operation of a motor vehicle. 

  • Must pass pre-employment Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) drug and alcohol screening. 

  • Must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. 

Qualifications - Preferred 

  • Experience working outdoors in various weather conditions. 

  • Experience with heavy equipment or in physically demanding roles. 

  • Experience working non-traditional shifts, on call, and/or 12+ hour shifts. 

 

Physical and Mental Job Requirements 

  • Ability to lift and carry up to 85 lbs. 

  • Must pass physical standards which may include but are not limited to: 

  • Hang Test 

    • Ability to hang from a rail car ladder with 3 points of contact (2 feet & 1 hand) for 1 minute 15 seconds per side. 

    • Ability to walk up to several miles per shift on uneven terrain. 

  • Ability to meet FRA medical requirements: 

    • Visual acuity (at least 20/40 in each eye separately and both together with or without corrective lenses). 

    • Color vision-ability to pass specific FRA color vision tests (lenses used to improve color vision are not permitted). 

    • Hearing-no hearing loss greater than 40B average, at 500, 1000, and 2000 in better ear (can be met with hearing aid). 

Work Conditions 

  • Work outdoors in all weather conditions. 

  • Irregular schedules, including on-call, nights, weekends, and holidays. 

  • Must be available for call 24/7. 

  • This is a safety-sensitive position requiring constant alertness while working around heavy, moving, potentially hazardous locomotive engines. 

Compensation and Benefits 

  • Conductor Trainees earn a minimum of $200 per shift during on-the-job training, with overtime at $25/hour. 

  • First-year conductors average $70,000 annually; experienced conductors average $84,000. 

  • Locomotive engineers earn a guaranteed minimum of $94,000, with potential to exceed $100,000. 

  • Medical insurance for employees and eligible dependents begins the second calendar month of employment. 

  • After one year: dental, life insurance, and 401(k) eligibility. 

  • Covered under Railroad Retirement benefits and taxes. 

  • Vacation Eligibility: 

Years of Service 

Vacation* 

17 

25 

*must meet qualifying days minimum 

Company Overview

Norfolk Southern Corporation (NYSE: NSC) is a Fortune 300 organization and one of the nation's premier transportation companies. Its Norfolk Southern Railway Company subsidiary operates approximately 19,500 route miles in 22 states and the District of Columbia, serves every major container port in the eastern United States, and provides efficient connections to other rail carriers. Norfolk Southern is a major transporter of industrial products, including chemicals, agriculture, and metals and construction materials. In addition, the railroad operates the most extensive intermodal network in the East and is a principal carrier of coal, automobiles, and automotive parts.

At Norfolk Southern, we believe in celebrating our individuality. By leveraging the unique backgrounds and viewpoints of our employees, we can create a culture of innovation, respect, and inclusion. We know that employees thrive in a workplace where differing viewpoints, ideas, and experiences are freely shared and valued. As such, we encourage all employees to contribute their distinctive skills and capabilities to our organization.

Equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants regardless of race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetic information, veteran status, sexual orientation, and gender identity. Together, we power progress.