Conductor - Toledo, OH
Toledo, OH · On-site
Conductor - Toledo, OH Job Location: Toledo-OH-43608-Toledo-43608 Office Location: Onsite Employment Type: Hourly Job Type: Full Time Start a Watco Career and Discover the Difference Keep the world ...
Conductor - Toledo, OH
Toledo, OH · On-site
Conductor - Toledo, OH Job Location: Toledo-OH-43608-Toledo-43608 Office Location: Onsite Employment Type: Hourly Job Type: Full Time Start a Watco Career and Discover the Difference Keep the world ...
Train Conductor
Salt Lake City, UT · On-site
$45K - $65K/yr
Terminal Switching Services is looking for a Conductor to join our team working at the Union Pacific Salt Lake City Terminal! No experience in required in this entry level position as we'll teach you ...
Quick apply
Train Conductor
Salt Lake City, UT · On-site
$45K - $65K/yr
Terminal Switching Services is looking for a Conductor to join our team working at the Union Pacific Salt Lake City Terminal! No experience in required in this entry level position as we'll teach you ...
Train Conductor
Winston Salem, NC · On-site
$35K - $50K/yr
PRS Auto is hiring immediately for a Railroad Conductor with NO EXPERIENCE REQUIRED to join our team working at the Norfolk Southern Walkertown, NC Terminal! This will be on the job training as we'll ...
Quick apply
Train Conductor
Winston Salem, NC · On-site
$35K - $50K/yr
PRS Auto is hiring immediately for a Railroad Conductor with NO EXPERIENCE REQUIRED to join our team working at the Norfolk Southern Walkertown, NC Terminal! This will be on the job training as we'll ...
$84K/yr
Norfolk Southern Corp. Train Conductor $5,000.00 Retention Bonus (Effective 7/1/2026) $1,000 (upon completion of on-the-job training) $1,500 (6 months after completion of on-the-job training) $2,500 ...
$84K/yr
Norfolk Southern Corp. Train Conductor $5,000.00 Retention Bonus (Effective 7/1/2026) $1,000 (upon completion of on-the-job training) $1,500 (6 months after completion of on-the-job training) $2,500 ...
Train Conductor
Fort Dodge, IA · On-site
$21.75 - $28.50/hr
Train Conductor At CN, we are committed to our pursuit of excellence. We take pride in delivering work of the highest standard, continually innovating to shape the railroad of the future. As ...
Train Conductor
Fort Dodge, IA · On-site
$21.75 - $28.50/hr
Train Conductor At CN, we are committed to our pursuit of excellence. We take pride in delivering work of the highest standard, continually innovating to shape the railroad of the future. As ...
Marion, IN Train Conductor
Marion, IN · On-site
$84K/yr
Norfolk Southern Corp. Train Conductor $5,000.00 Retention Bonus (Effective 7/1/2026) $1,000 (upon completion of on-the-job training) $1,500 (6 months after completion of on-the-job training) $2,500 ...
Marion, IN Train Conductor
Marion, IN · On-site
$84K/yr
Norfolk Southern Corp. Train Conductor $5,000.00 Retention Bonus (Effective 7/1/2026) $1,000 (upon completion of on-the-job training) $1,500 (6 months after completion of on-the-job training) $2,500 ...
Student Conductor - Plaquemine, Louisiana
Plaquemine, LA · On-site
$20/hr
Student Conductor - Plaquemine, Louisiana Job Location: Plaquemine, LA Facility-Plaquemine-70764 Office Location: Onsite Employment Type: Hourly Job Type: Full Time Start a Watco Career and Discover ...
Student Conductor - Plaquemine, Louisiana
Plaquemine, LA · On-site
$20/hr
Student Conductor - Plaquemine, Louisiana Job Location: Plaquemine, LA Facility-Plaquemine-70764 Office Location: Onsite Employment Type: Hourly Job Type: Full Time Start a Watco Career and Discover ...
Train Conductor
Ennis, TX · On-site
$30K - $45K/yr
Terminal Switching Services is looking for a Conductor to join our team working at the Union Pacific Dallas, TX Terminal! No experience is required in this entry level position as we'll teach you ...
Quick apply
Train Conductor
Ennis, TX · On-site
$30K - $45K/yr
Terminal Switching Services is looking for a Conductor to join our team working at the Union Pacific Dallas, TX Terminal! No experience is required in this entry level position as we'll teach you ...
Kankakee, IL Train Conductor
Kankakee, IL · On-site
$84K/yr
Norfolk Southern Corp. Train Conductor $5,000.00 Retention Bonus (Effective 7/1/2026) $1,000 (upon completion of on-the-job training) $1,500 (6 months after completion of on-the-job training) $2,500 ...
Kankakee, IL Train Conductor
Kankakee, IL · On-site
$84K/yr
Norfolk Southern Corp. Train Conductor $5,000.00 Retention Bonus (Effective 7/1/2026) $1,000 (upon completion of on-the-job training) $1,500 (6 months after completion of on-the-job training) $2,500 ...
Chattanooga, TN Train Conductor
Chattanooga, TN · On-site
$84K/yr
Norfolk Southern Corp. Train Conductor $5,000.00 Retention Bonus (Effective 7/1/2026) $1,000 (upon completion of on-the-job training) $1,500 (6 months after completion of on-the-job training) $2,500 ...
Chattanooga, TN Train Conductor
Chattanooga, TN · On-site
$84K/yr
Norfolk Southern Corp. Train Conductor $5,000.00 Retention Bonus (Effective 7/1/2026) $1,000 (upon completion of on-the-job training) $1,500 (6 months after completion of on-the-job training) $2,500 ...
Engineer/Conductor - PNR
Panhandle, TX · On-site
POSITION SUMMARY The Engineer/Conductor oversees the train, freight, and crew: operates track switches, couples, and uncouples cars and places cars to facilitate loading and unloading, places cars ...
Engineer/Conductor - PNR
Panhandle, TX · On-site
POSITION SUMMARY The Engineer/Conductor oversees the train, freight, and crew: operates track switches, couples, and uncouples cars and places cars to facilitate loading and unloading, places cars ...
Engineer/Conductor - PNR
Borger, TX · On-site
POSITION SUMMARY The Engineer/Conductor oversees the train, freight, and crew: operates track switches, couples, and uncouples cars and places cars to facilitate loading and unloading, places cars ...
Engineer/Conductor - PNR
Borger, TX · On-site
POSITION SUMMARY The Engineer/Conductor oversees the train, freight, and crew: operates track switches, couples, and uncouples cars and places cars to facilitate loading and unloading, places cars ...
Engineer/Conductor - OR
El Dorado, AR · On-site
POSITION SUMMARY The Engineer/Conductor oversees the train, freight, and crew: operates track switches, couples, and uncouples cars and places cars to facilitate loading and unloading, places cars ...
Engineer/Conductor - OR
El Dorado, AR · On-site
POSITION SUMMARY The Engineer/Conductor oversees the train, freight, and crew: operates track switches, couples, and uncouples cars and places cars to facilitate loading and unloading, places cars ...
Bellevue, OH Train Conductor
Bellevue, OH · On-site
$84K/yr
Norfolk Southern Corp. Train Conductor $5,000.00 Retention Bonus (Effective 7/1/2026) $1,000 (upon completion of on-the-job training) $1,500 (6 months after completion of on-the-job training) $2,500 ...
Bellevue, OH Train Conductor
Bellevue, OH · On-site
$84K/yr
Norfolk Southern Corp. Train Conductor $5,000.00 Retention Bonus (Effective 7/1/2026) $1,000 (upon completion of on-the-job training) $1,500 (6 months after completion of on-the-job training) $2,500 ...
Student Conductor - Seadrift, TX
Seadrift, TX · On-site
$20/hr
This Student Conductor description is general and illustrative of the type of duties required for this position. This description is not all inclusive and is not meant to be a detailed description of ...
Student Conductor - Seadrift, TX
Seadrift, TX · On-site
$20/hr
This Student Conductor description is general and illustrative of the type of duties required for this position. This description is not all inclusive and is not meant to be a detailed description of ...
Train Conductor
Vance, AL · On-site
$19/hr
PRS Auto is hiring immediately for a Railroad Conductor with NO EXPERIENCE REQUIRED to join our team working at the Mercedes Benz Vance, AL Terminal! This will be on the job training as we'll teach ...
Quick apply
Train Conductor
Vance, AL · On-site
$19/hr
PRS Auto is hiring immediately for a Railroad Conductor with NO EXPERIENCE REQUIRED to join our team working at the Mercedes Benz Vance, AL Terminal! This will be on the job training as we'll teach ...
Seasonal Special Events Train Conductor
Redding, CA · On-site
$18.20/hr
Seasonal Special Events Train Conductor Status: Non-Exempt Reports To: Guest Services Manager Department: Guest Services SUMMARY Turtle Bay Exploration Park is seeking Trackless Train Conductors!
Seasonal Special Events Train Conductor
Redding, CA · On-site
$18.20/hr
Seasonal Special Events Train Conductor Status: Non-Exempt Reports To: Guest Services Manager Department: Guest Services SUMMARY Turtle Bay Exploration Park is seeking Trackless Train Conductors!
Conductor in Training
Somerville, MA · On-site
$25.61/hr
Pet, Home, Auto insurance Conductor in Training The purpose of this position is to provide exceptional customer service, work as part of a team responsible for the safe movement of train passengers ...
Conductor in Training
Somerville, MA · On-site
$25.61/hr
Pet, Home, Auto insurance Conductor in Training The purpose of this position is to provide exceptional customer service, work as part of a team responsible for the safe movement of train passengers ...
POSITION SUMMARY The Engineer/Conductor oversees the train, freight, and crew: operates track switches, couples, and uncouples cars and places cars to facilitate loading and unloading, places cars ...
POSITION SUMMARY The Engineer/Conductor oversees the train, freight, and crew: operates track switches, couples, and uncouples cars and places cars to facilitate loading and unloading, places cars ...
Engineer/Conductor - DR
Russellville, AR · On-site
POSITION SUMMARY The Engineer/Conductor oversees the train, freight, and crew: operates track switches, couples, and uncouples cars and places cars to facilitate loading and unloading, places cars ...
Engineer/Conductor - DR
Russellville, AR · On-site
POSITION SUMMARY The Engineer/Conductor oversees the train, freight, and crew: operates track switches, couples, and uncouples cars and places cars to facilitate loading and unloading, places cars ...
Conductor information
See salary details
$15.63 - $17.11
13% of jobs
$17.11 - $18.60
0% of jobs
$18.60 - $20.08
0% of jobs
$20.08 - $21.57
0% of jobs
$21.57 - $23.06
0% of jobs
$23.06 - $24.54
0% of jobs
$25.02 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$24.54 - $26.03
36% of jobs
The median wage is $26.06 / hr.
$26.03 - $27.51
27% of jobs
$27.51 - $29
19% of jobs
$29 - $30.49
0% of jobs
$30.49 - $31.97
5% of jobs
$15
$25
$31
How much do conductor jobs pay per hour?
As of Sep 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for conductor in the United States is $25.86, 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 does a conductor 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 is the difference between Conductor vs Train Dispatcher?
| Aspect | Conductor | Train Dispatcher |
|---|---|---|
| Certifications | Railroad Certification, Safety Training | Railroad Operations Certification, Safety Training |
| Work Environment | Onboard trains, stations, yards | Dispatch offices, control centers |
| Primary Responsibilities | Passenger safety, ticketing, train operations | Coordinating train movements, scheduling |
| Industry Usage | Railroads, transit agencies | Railroads, 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.
Do I need a degree to be a train conductor?
A high school diploma or equivalent is typically required to become a train conductor. Formal college degrees are generally not necessary, but candidates must pass background checks, drug tests, and obtain relevant certifications or training provided by the employer or regulatory agencies.
How hard is it to get a job as a conductor?
Getting a job as a conductor typically requires relevant experience, such as working in transportation or customer service, and often involves passing background checks and training programs. Competition can be moderate, and candidates usually need good communication skills and the ability to work flexible hours. Certification or licensing may also be required depending on the transportation mode and location.
More about Conductor jobs
What cities are hiring for Conductor jobs?
Cities with the most Conductor job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Conductor jobs?
The most popular types of Conductor jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Conductor jobs?
The top employers for Conductor jobs are:
What states have the most Conductor jobs?
States with the most job openings for Conductor jobs include:
What are popular job titles related to Conductor jobs?
For Conductor jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Key responsibilities
Control and coordinate train movements while switching railcars in yard, industrial plant, or similar location.
Follow instructions to switch cars, operate track switches, couple and uncouple cars, and communicate with crew and dispatchers.
Maintain records of switched cars, observe track for obstructions, and perform minor repairs on equipment as needed.
Watco rating
6.3
Based on 57 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
Job description
Conductor - Toledo, OH
Job Location: Toledo-OH-43608-Toledo-43608
Office Location: Onsite
Employment Type: Hourly
Job Type: Full Time
Start a Watco Career and Discover the Difference
Keep the world's supply chain moving. That's what the Watco team does every day at our short line railroads, switching sites, terminals, ports, and logistics hubs. Whether you're at one of these locations or in a support-services role, there's one thread that ties everyone together. We're all on the same team. One Watco.
Here's what you can expect from Watco:
• Outstanding culture recognized by Forbes and Newsweek
• Competitive compensation and benefits
• Paid on-the-job training with peer trainers
• Training for conductors, engineers, mechanics, and MOW Team Members at Watco's Safe Performance Center
• Leadership and development programs offered through Watco University
• Career advancement opportunities
Job Summary
The conductor/switchman position will control and coordinate the train movements while switching railcars whether in the yard of a railroad, industrial plant, or similar location to facilitate the unloading and loading of railcars in a safe and efficient manner to service our customers. This position is a manual labor position which requires that the individual become proficient in the following skills, duties, and requirements within a prescribed training and introductory period.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
• Demonstrate predictable, reliable, and timely attendance
• Follow written and verbal directions to complete assigned tasks on schedule
• Read, write, and communicate in English & understand basic math
• Learn from directions, observations, and mistakes and apply procedures using good judgment
• Reads switching orders from designated person
• Supervises and coordinates the activities of train crews
• Receives oral or written instructions from Manager or Customer indicating which cars are to be switched
• Notifies engineer of switching orders and, whereby, which cars are to be moved to specified locations of yard, using radio, verbal or hand signals
• Talks to crew or other yard workers via radio to give or receive switching information
• Confers with train dispatcher via radio to issue or receive information or instructions concerning stops, delays, or oncoming trains
• Gives instructions to throw track switches and to couple and uncouple cars
• May assist workers to throw switches or perform other activities involved when performing switching operations.
• Turns hand brake wheel or ratchet type brake as well to apply and release handbrakes
• Observes track to detect obstructions
• Maintains records, number, origin, destination, and cargo of cars switched
• May coordinate activities of switching crew from locomotive cab, caboose, or control tower
• Raises coupling lever to couple or uncouple cars
• Throws track switches to facilitate shunting of cars and signals Engineer to move cars, using lantern, arm signals or radio
• Connects air hose to cars when making up trains by bending and applying force
• May set warning signals, such as flares, flags, or lanterns at front of and at rear of train during emergency stops to warn oncoming trains
• Sits or rides in cab of locomotive to observe signals from other crew members
• May make minor repairs to couplings, and air hoses and report any equipment requiring major repairs
• Talk to Dispatcher via radio to give or receive switching information
Qualifications
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Must be able to pass and or obtain all reporting, testing, and certifications as required for this position.
Education
High School or GED equivalent
Job Location: Toledo-OH-43608-Toledo-43608
Office Location: Onsite
Employment Type: Hourly
Job Type: Full Time
Start a Watco Career and Discover the Difference
Keep the world's supply chain moving. That's what the Watco team does every day at our short line railroads, switching sites, terminals, ports, and logistics hubs. Whether you're at one of these locations or in a support-services role, there's one thread that ties everyone together. We're all on the same team. One Watco.
Here's what you can expect from Watco:
• Outstanding culture recognized by Forbes and Newsweek
• Competitive compensation and benefits
• Paid on-the-job training with peer trainers
• Training for conductors, engineers, mechanics, and MOW Team Members at Watco's Safe Performance Center
• Leadership and development programs offered through Watco University
• Career advancement opportunities
Job Summary
The conductor/switchman position will control and coordinate the train movements while switching railcars whether in the yard of a railroad, industrial plant, or similar location to facilitate the unloading and loading of railcars in a safe and efficient manner to service our customers. This position is a manual labor position which requires that the individual become proficient in the following skills, duties, and requirements within a prescribed training and introductory period.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
• Demonstrate predictable, reliable, and timely attendance
• Follow written and verbal directions to complete assigned tasks on schedule
• Read, write, and communicate in English & understand basic math
• Learn from directions, observations, and mistakes and apply procedures using good judgment
• Reads switching orders from designated person
• Supervises and coordinates the activities of train crews
• Receives oral or written instructions from Manager or Customer indicating which cars are to be switched
• Notifies engineer of switching orders and, whereby, which cars are to be moved to specified locations of yard, using radio, verbal or hand signals
• Talks to crew or other yard workers via radio to give or receive switching information
• Confers with train dispatcher via radio to issue or receive information or instructions concerning stops, delays, or oncoming trains
• Gives instructions to throw track switches and to couple and uncouple cars
• May assist workers to throw switches or perform other activities involved when performing switching operations.
• Turns hand brake wheel or ratchet type brake as well to apply and release handbrakes
• Observes track to detect obstructions
• Maintains records, number, origin, destination, and cargo of cars switched
• May coordinate activities of switching crew from locomotive cab, caboose, or control tower
• Raises coupling lever to couple or uncouple cars
• Throws track switches to facilitate shunting of cars and signals Engineer to move cars, using lantern, arm signals or radio
• Connects air hose to cars when making up trains by bending and applying force
• May set warning signals, such as flares, flags, or lanterns at front of and at rear of train during emergency stops to warn oncoming trains
• Sits or rides in cab of locomotive to observe signals from other crew members
• May make minor repairs to couplings, and air hoses and report any equipment requiring major repairs
• Talk to Dispatcher via radio to give or receive switching information
Qualifications
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Must be able to pass and or obtain all reporting, testing, and certifications as required for this position.
Education
High School or GED equivalent