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Entry Level Railroad Freight Conductor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Freight Railroad Conductor - South Jersey

Camden, NJ · On-site

$33.15 - $44.20/hr

... valid Conductor/Engineer Certification under CFR 240/242. Candidate must reside within two (2) ... rail cars: operate track switches, couple and uncouple cars, works on freight trains in yard and ...

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Entry Level Railroad Freight Conductor information

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How much do entry level railroad freight conductor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level railroad freight conductor in the United States is $32.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $30.53 and $35.34 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an Entry Level Railroad Freight Conductor do?

An Entry Level Railroad Freight Conductor is responsible for coordinating and overseeing the movement of freight trains. Their duties typically include assembling and disassembling trains, ensuring railcars are securely coupled, communicating with engineers and dispatchers, and enforcing safety procedures. Conductors play a key role in ensuring that cargo is delivered safely and on schedule, and they often work outdoors in various weather conditions. The job also involves performing inspections, handling documentation, and troubleshooting minor technical issues.

What are some of the most common challenges new Entry Level Railroad Freight Conductors face when starting the role?

New Entry Level Railroad Freight Conductors often find adjusting to irregular work hours and shift schedules to be a significant challenge, as rail operations run 24/7 and may require working nights, weekends, and holidays. Additionally, learning to operate safely in all weather conditions and handling the physical demands of coupling and uncoupling freight cars can be demanding at first. However, comprehensive on-the-job training and mentorship from experienced conductors help new hires build the necessary skills and confidence over time.

What is the difference between Entry Level Railroad Freight Conductor vs Entry Level Railroad Yard Clerk?

AspectEntry Level Railroad Freight ConductorEntry Level Railroad Yard Clerk
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, safety training, certification in railroad operationsHigh school diploma, clerical skills, basic computer proficiency
Work EnvironmentOn trains, in the field, outdoors, and in rail yardsIn offices, rail yards, and administrative areas
Employer & Industry UsageRailroad companies, freight transportation industryRailroad companies, logistics, and freight handling
Common Search & ComparisonYesNo

The Entry Level Railroad Freight Conductor primarily works on trains and in the field, focusing on safety and train operations, while the Entry Level Railroad Yard Clerk handles administrative tasks in rail yards. Both roles are essential in freight transportation but differ in work environment and responsibilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Railroad Freight Conductor, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Railroad Freight Conductor, you need a high school diploma or GED, physical stamina, strong attention to safety, and the ability to follow detailed instructions. Familiarity with train control systems, hand-held radios, and safety protocols is typically required, and some positions may require certification from the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA). Excellent communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills help conductors coordinate with crew members and respond effectively to unexpected situations. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring the safe, efficient, and timely movement of freight across the rail network.
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Entry Level Railroad Freight Conductor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Railroad Freight Conductor job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 10% Internship, 83% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 2% Contract, 1% Nights, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 90% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $68,580 per year, or $33 per hour.

Railroad Freight Train Conductor - Southeastern Massachusetts

MASSACHUSETTS COASTAL RAILROAD LLC

Taunton, MA

$25 - $33/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

The Railroad Freight Conductor is an at-will position governed by the Massachusetts Coastal Railroad (MCRR) Employee Handbook, NORAC, Federal Railroad Administration (FRA), and any other applicable rules and regulations in effect. All work at Mass Coastal is performed in accordance with FRA, industry, and company standards and guidelines, procedures, and specifications. Mass Coastal offers complete and detailed training for this position, competitive pay, as well as the opportunity for professional growth and advancement.

Operating in a safe manner will take place over any other job function. This position reports to the Trainmaster. Conductor Primary Activities and Responsibilities: Performs Daily Locomotive Inspections.Prepares required daily reports; switch lists manually or with a computer.Applies knowledge of territory, including terrain, grades, curves, and grade crossings, in order to give prescribed warning signals and to otherwise operate the train in a safe manner.Solid understanding of NORAC, operating practices, safety rules, air brake rules, emergency procedures and equipment troubleshooting.Acts as a main point of contact to Dispatch and other yard workers to issue and receive information concerning stops, delays, switching, etc.Reads and interprets wayside signals, bulletins, and railroad rules and regulations to operate locomotive, following safety rules and regulations and time schedule.Provides assistance in maintaining infrastructure at railroad facilities and along tracks.Ability to cross-train with other departments; may be asked to Flag/RWIC.Other duties as assignedCurrent reporting locations: Onset, MA; Taunton, MA; Hyannis, MA.Pay Range: $25-33 depending on experience Benefits: Health, Dental, and Vision InsuranceLife Insurance; Short-Term and Long-Term DisabilityHRA (Health Reimbursement Arrangement)Employee Assistance ProgramEarned Paid Time Off and Paid HolidaysRailroad Retirement Additional Information: All positions require pre-employment background check verification, a pre-employment physical and a pre-employment drug screen with random and for-cause screenings after employment begins

Marijuana usage will disqualify you for hire and/or for continued employment.We are an EEO/Affirmative Action Minority/Female employer, and we welcome all to apply. We consider candidates regardless of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, sexual orientation, and sexual expression), ethnicity, age, disability, veteran status, marital status, ancestry, genetic information, citizenship, and any other personal characteristics protected by law.

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