... conductors, engineers, mechanics, and MOW Team Members at Watco's Safe Performance Center • ... of railroad rolling stock • Inspect wheels according to wheel inspection report • Basic ...
... conductors, engineers, mechanics, and MOW Team Members at Watco's Safe Performance Center • ... of railroad rolling stock • Inspect wheels according to wheel inspection report • Basic ...
No rail experience required just a strong work ethic and the drive to learn. Why This Role Is a ... From there, you can advance to Conductor ($23$25/hr), Engineer ($24$26/hr), and beyond. If $18/hr ...
New
Quick apply
No rail experience required just a strong work ethic and the drive to learn. Why This Role Is a ... From there, you can advance to Conductor ($23$25/hr), Engineer ($24$26/hr), and beyond. If $18/hr ...
New
No rail experience required -- just a strong work ethic and the drive to learn. Why This Role Is a ... From there, you can advance to Conductor ($23-$25/hr), Engineer ($24-$26/hr), and beyond. If $18/hr ...
New
Quick apply
No rail experience required -- just a strong work ethic and the drive to learn. Why This Role Is a ... From there, you can advance to Conductor ($23-$25/hr), Engineer ($24-$26/hr), and beyond. If $18/hr ...
New
Complete all rail documentation requirements timely, accurately and legibly. * Assist in the communication/coordination of rail movements with other operators and railroads. * Use signals and ...
Complete all rail documentation requirements timely, accurately and legibly. * Assist in the communication/coordination of rail movements with other operators and railroads. * Use signals and ...
Complete all rail documentation requirements timely, accurately and legibly. * Assist in the communication/coordination of rail movements with other operators and railroads. * Use signals and ...
Complete all rail documentation requirements timely, accurately and legibly. * Assist in the communication/coordination of rail movements with other operators and railroads. * Use signals and ...
... conductors, engineers, mechanics, and MOW Team Members at Watco's Safe Performance Center • ... Must re-rail cars and provide estimate damages at derailment sites, make out billing repair cards ...
... conductors, engineers, mechanics, and MOW Team Members at Watco's Safe Performance Center • ... Must re-rail cars and provide estimate damages at derailment sites, make out billing repair cards ...
... conductors, engineers, mechanics, and MOW Team Members at Watco's Safe Performance Center • ... of railroad rolling stock • Inspect wheels according to wheel inspection report • Basic ...
... conductors, engineers, mechanics, and MOW Team Members at Watco's Safe Performance Center • ... of railroad rolling stock • Inspect wheels according to wheel inspection report • Basic ...
Operator - Queens, NY
Queens, NY · On-site
$23/hr
... conductors, engineers, mechanics, and MOW Team Members at Watco's Safe Performance Center • ... 98 Railroad Ave, Long Island City, NY 11101 Job Summary The Operator position is an entry level ...
Operator - Queens, NY
Queens, NY · On-site
$23/hr
... conductors, engineers, mechanics, and MOW Team Members at Watco's Safe Performance Center • ... 98 Railroad Ave, Long Island City, NY 11101 Job Summary The Operator position is an entry level ...
... conductors, engineers, mechanics, and MOW Team Members at Watco's Safe Performance Center • ... 98 Railroad Ave, Long Island City, NY 11101 Job Summary The Operator position is an entry level ...
... conductors, engineers, mechanics, and MOW Team Members at Watco's Safe Performance Center • ... 98 Railroad Ave, Long Island City, NY 11101 Job Summary The Operator position is an entry level ...
Entry Level Railroad Conductor information
See salary details
$12.74 - $14.55
3% of jobs
$14.55 - $16.37
7% of jobs
$16.37 - $18.18
4% of jobs
$18.18 - $20
6% of jobs
$20 - $21.81
3% of jobs
$22 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$21.81 - $23.62
7% of jobs
The median wage is $24.89 / hr.
$23.62 - $25.44
26% of jobs
$25.44 - $27.25
14% of jobs
$27.84 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$27.25 - $29.06
11% of jobs
$29.06 - $30.88
16% of jobs
$30.88 - $32.69
2% of jobs
$12
$24
$32
How much do entry level railroad conductor jobs pay per hour?
As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level railroad conductor in the United States is $24.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.63 and $28.37 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What is an Entry Level Railroad Conductor job?
An Entry Level Railroad Conductor is responsible for assisting in the safe and efficient operation of freight or passenger trains. Duties include coordinating train movement, ensuring cargo is secure, operating track switches, and communicating with dispatchers and crew members. Conductors must follow strict safety regulations and schedules while working in various weather conditions and shifts. This role serves as an introduction to railroad operations, with training provided by the employer. Over time, conductors may progress to more advanced positions within the railroad industry.
Is it hard to get hired as a train conductor?
Getting hired as an entry-level railroad conductor can be competitive, as it often requires passing background checks, drug tests, and physical assessments. Candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, good communication skills, and sometimes completion of safety training or certification programs. Experience in related fields or a strong work ethic can improve chances of employment.
What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?
Entry level railroad conductor positions typically do not pay $4,000 per week; they usually offer lower starting wages. High-paying jobs that can reach this level without a degree are rare and often require specialized skills, extensive experience, or certifications in fields like sales, real estate, or certain trades. Most roles paying this much without a degree are in management or entrepreneurial ventures.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Entry Level Railroad Conductor position, and why are they important?
To thrive as an Entry Level Railroad Conductor, you need a solid understanding of safety procedures, mechanical aptitude, physical stamina, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with train control systems, handheld radios, and the ability to obtain certifications such as FRA safety training are typically required. Strong communication, attention to detail, and teamwork skills are highly valued to ensure safe and efficient operations. These abilities are crucial for maintaining safety, minimizing operational errors, and collaborating effectively in a dynamic, safety-critical environment.
What are entry-level BNSF positions?
Entry-level BNSF positions for railroad conductors typically include roles such as Conductor Trainee or Assistant Conductor. These roles involve safety procedures, train operations, and teamwork, often requiring a high school diploma or equivalent and on-the-job training. Advancement opportunities may include additional certifications and experience in rail operations.
Can you become a train conductor with no experience?
Entry level railroad conductors typically do not need prior experience, as companies provide on-the-job training and may require a high school diploma or equivalent. Candidates often need to pass background checks, drug tests, and obtain safety certifications before starting the role.
What are some common challenges faced by Entry Level Railroad Conductors?
Entry Level Railroad Conductors often work irregular hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays, which can pose challenges for work-life balance. The job is physically demanding and requires working outdoors in various weather conditions, as well as staying alert to ensure strict adherence to safety protocols. New conductors may also need to quickly learn and adapt to changing schedules, routes, and operational procedures. Despite these challenges, many find the work rewarding due to the sense of responsibility, teamwork, and opportunities for career advancement within the railroad industry.
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Railroad Conductor jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Railroad Conductor job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Railroad Conductor jobs? The most popular types of Railroad Conductor jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Railroad Conductor jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Railroad Conductor jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Railroad Conductor jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Railroad Conductor jobs are:
Full-time
Posted 19 days ago
Watco rating
6.7
Based on 52 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
250th of 355 rated logistics
Job description
Entry Level Locomotive Mechanic - Plankinton, SD
Job Location: RWRR - Chamberlain Depot-Plankinton-57368
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 or 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 Locomotive Mechanic Apprentice inspects, repairs, and maintains locomotives consistent with company policies and FRA regulations, and perform mechanical related maintenance as required.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
• Provide a level of customer service consistent with company expectations
• Obtain working knowledge and proper use of gauges and testing equipment
• Complete written documents for any necessary FRA reports pertaining to mechanist job duties
• Able to become qualified service engineer certificate related to FRA inspections and regulations
• Interpret instructions in written, oral, diagram, or schedule form
• Observe mechanical devices in operation to identify issues
• Dismantle devices using hoists, cranes, hand tools, and power tools to remove, repair or replace defective parts
• Record hour meter readings for inspections and preventative maintenance repair
• Check locomotives for air-fuel, oil, water, exhaust leaks, etc. Clean as needed
• Inspect safety equipment, securing bolts and pins as required
• Clean and lube screens, strainers and traps
• Check locomotives for defects, damage, leaks, etc, in accordance with company standards
• Perform main bearing checks and air brake tests according to specifications
• Perform emergency repairs and re-railing of railroad rolling stock
• Inspect wheels according to wheel inspection report
• Basic knowledge of welders, torches, hammers, jacks, pneumatic, hand tools, forklifts and cranes
Qualifications
Must be able to pass and or obtain all reporting, testing, and certifications required for this position, such as troubleshooting and repair of motors, generators, and transformers.
Must possess valid driver's license and be insurable by company insurance provider
Have or be able to obtain Class B CDL
Have the ability to become a qualified Service Engineer according to FRA regulations Able to complete a three-year Railroad Apprenticeship, if required.
Education
High School or GED equivalent
Job Location: RWRR - Chamberlain Depot-Plankinton-57368
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 or 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 Locomotive Mechanic Apprentice inspects, repairs, and maintains locomotives consistent with company policies and FRA regulations, and perform mechanical related maintenance as required.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
• Provide a level of customer service consistent with company expectations
• Obtain working knowledge and proper use of gauges and testing equipment
• Complete written documents for any necessary FRA reports pertaining to mechanist job duties
• Able to become qualified service engineer certificate related to FRA inspections and regulations
• Interpret instructions in written, oral, diagram, or schedule form
• Observe mechanical devices in operation to identify issues
• Dismantle devices using hoists, cranes, hand tools, and power tools to remove, repair or replace defective parts
• Record hour meter readings for inspections and preventative maintenance repair
• Check locomotives for air-fuel, oil, water, exhaust leaks, etc. Clean as needed
• Inspect safety equipment, securing bolts and pins as required
• Clean and lube screens, strainers and traps
• Check locomotives for defects, damage, leaks, etc, in accordance with company standards
• Perform main bearing checks and air brake tests according to specifications
• Perform emergency repairs and re-railing of railroad rolling stock
• Inspect wheels according to wheel inspection report
• Basic knowledge of welders, torches, hammers, jacks, pneumatic, hand tools, forklifts and cranes
Qualifications
Must be able to pass and or obtain all reporting, testing, and certifications required for this position, such as troubleshooting and repair of motors, generators, and transformers.
Must possess valid driver's license and be insurable by company insurance provider
Have or be able to obtain Class B CDL
Have the ability to become a qualified Service Engineer according to FRA regulations Able to complete a three-year Railroad Apprenticeship, if required.
Education
High School or GED equivalent