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Freight Conductor Jobs in New York (NOW HIRING)

Conduct Operational Testing audits of Conductor-Flags and M of W Department employees for ... Work with the tenant freight railroads for compliance and review of current Operating Rules and ...

Rules Examiner

New York, NY · On-site

$140K/yr

Conduct Operational Testing audits of Conductor-Flags and M of W Department employees for ... Work with the tenant freight railroads for compliance and review of current Operating Rules and ...

Freight Conductor information

See New York salary details

$30

$36

$40

How much do freight conductor jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for freight conductor in New York is $36.07, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $33.41 and $38.65 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a freight conductor?

Freight Conductors are railroad employees responsible for coordinating and overseeing the movement of freight trains. Their duties include managing railcars, ensuring correct cargo loading and unloading, communicating with engineers and dispatchers, and ensuring safety regulations are followed. They play a crucial role in making sure that goods are delivered efficiently and safely across the rail network. Freight Conductors often work irregular hours and must be prepared for outdoor work in various weather conditions.

What are some typical challenges freight conductors face while coordinating train operations?

Freight Conductors often encounter challenges such as managing tight schedules, adapting to unexpected delays (like weather or track issues), and ensuring clear communication between engineers, yard crews, and dispatchers. The role requires quick problem-solving and attention to detail to safely direct the movement of trains and handle cargo documentation. Additionally, conductors must remain vigilant for safety hazards and be prepared for physically demanding tasks during long or irregular shifts.

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

To thrive as a Freight Conductor, you need strong knowledge of train operations, safety regulations, and logistics, usually supported by a high school diploma and completion of railroad training programs. Familiarity with electronic dispatch systems, radio communication equipment, and safety inspection tools is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for coordinating train movements and ensuring safety. These skills and qualifications are critical to maintaining efficient, safe, and timely rail operations.

What is the difference between Freight Conductor vs Rail Yard Clerk?

AspectFreight ConductorRail Yard Clerk
CredentialsHigh school diploma, safety training, railroad certificationsHigh school diploma, clerical skills, railroad certifications
Work EnvironmentOn trains, in rail yards, outdoorsIn rail yards, offices, indoors
Job DutiesSupervises train operations, ensures cargo safety, communicates with crewManages yard operations, schedules, and documentation

Freight Conductors and Rail Yard Clerks both work within the railroad industry, but Freight Conductors focus on train supervision and cargo safety on the move, while Rail Yard Clerks handle yard operations and administrative tasks. Both roles require railroad certifications and involve working in rail yard environments, but their daily responsibilities differ significantly.

Do freight conductors make a lot of money?

Freight conductors typically earn a median annual salary of around $70,000, with experienced workers and those in certain regions earning higher wages. Their compensation can include benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans, and the job often requires working irregular hours and safety certifications.

How hard is it to become a freight conductor?

Becoming a freight conductor typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent, on-the-job training, and passing a background check. Candidates often need to learn safety procedures, operate communication tools, and may need to obtain certification such as a freight conductor license, with some positions requiring prior experience in rail or transportation industries.
More about Freight Conductor jobs

What job categories do people searching Freight Conductor jobs in New York look for?

The top searched job categories for Freight Conductor jobs in New York are:

What cities in New York are hiring for Freight Conductor jobs?

Cities in New York with the most Freight Conductor job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Freight Conductor jobs in NY?

For Freight Conductor jobs in NY, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Freight Conductor job openings in New York as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $75,028 per year, or $36.1 per hour.

$140K/yr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago


Metropolitan Transportation Authority rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 135 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

57th of 101 rated public transport


Job description

Description
Position at Metro-North Railroad

Job Title: Rules Examiner

Department: Safety

MTA Agency: Metro-North Railroad

Primary Location(s): Various

Salary Range: $140,022.84

Regulated/Safety Sensitive: Non-DOT Regulated/Safety Sensitive

Union Affiliation: Non-agreement

Closing Date (if applicable)Until Filled

Shift (if applicable):

Title 55-a (yes or no): Not Applicable

Other: Telework eligible

  

ABOUT THE AGENCY 

MTA Metro-North Railroad is a dynamic organization, operating out of the jewel of New York City, Grand Central Terminal. We provide service to over 86.5 million customers, traveling in and out of New York and Connecticut. A subsidiary of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority, Metro-North Railroad is one of the busiest commuter railroads in the nation. MTA Metro-North Railroad strives to provide a safe and reliable commute, excellent customer service, and rewarding opportunities for its employees.

Metro-North Railroad reserves the right to remove this posting before the Application Deadline.

JOB SUMMARY 

The Rules Examiner is responsible for ensuring compliance with Metro-North Railroad operating rules and applicable regulatory requirements through the conduct of field audits, employee instruction, and testing. This role supports the qualification and certification of employees in roadway worker protection and operating rules. The position also manages the delivery of training programs, including coordination with client departments, scheduling of trainees, management of resource needs, maintenance of required records, and completion of associated administrative responsibilities in support of safe and compliant railroad operations.


DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Instruct annual qualification classes for Locomotive Engineers, Conductor Flags and Maintenance of Way employees in the instruction, interpretation, testing, examination, and qualification of Operating Rules, with emphasis on Roadway Worker Protection and compliance to the Federal regulation. Conduct Operational Testing audits of Conductor-Flags and M of W Department employees for compliance to Federal regulations governing Roadway Worker Protection.
  • Provide other Operating and Engineering Department employees, Supervisors, Training Officers, and employees of freight tenant railroads with the instruction, interpretation, examination and qualification of Operating Rules, Special Instructions, Electrical Instructions for Operating Employees, Equipment Operating Instructions, Emergency Instructions, and applicable Federal Regulations.
  • Work with the tenant freight railroads for compliance and review of current Operating Rules and Special Instructions including Positive Train Control. Conduct Operational Testing of tenant railroad employees for compliance with MNR Operating Rules and Federal Regulation
  • Coordinate with Metro-North and CDOT Project Management to ensure compliance to the Roadway Worker Protection regulation.
  • Select, develop, and motivate staff and provide career development for team members. Provide effective coaching and counseling.  Manage team and individual performance.  Create a professional environment that respects individual differences and enables staff to develop and contribute to their full potential.
  • Performs other duties as assigned
  • Complies with all policies and standards
  • May be required to work hours outside regular work hours, as applicable
  • Observes the work performed by contractors, as applicable
  • Reviews invoices and approves them if the work has contractual standards, as applicable
  • Addresses performance issues with the contractor when possible, as applicable
  • Escalates issues to other parties when needed, as applicable
     

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES 

  • Must be proficient in creating and delivering PowerPoint presentations on Operating Rules instruction in a classroom and field setting.
  • Ability to effectively evaluate and interpret operationally critical documents and generate concise reports
  • Must be able to communicate effectively and have excellent presentation, written and verbal communication skills
  • Must have proficient time management, planning, analytical and organizational skills
  • Must have working knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Microsoft Teams, SharePoint)
  • Must be available to work various days and hours, including nights and weekends
  • Must be available to work along Metro-North Railroad territory.

The following is/are preferred: 

  • Familiarity with Code of Federal Regulations Part 49: 214, 217, 218, 236
  • Freight Railroad experience.
  • Ability to identify potential risks and hazards to train operation.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Power BI
  • Experience in developing and delivering training
  • Supervisory experience
  • Familiarity with foreign/tenant railroad's operating rules (NORAC, GCOR, CSX, NS, etc.)

REQUIRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE 

  • Bachelor's degree in arts/sciences (BA/BS) in Business Administration or related field. Demonstrated equivalent experience, education and/or technical credentials to include four (4) additional years of related experience may be considered in lieu of degree.
  • Minimum 5 years of experience as a Rules Examiner, Conductor, Engineer or RTC in a Transportation/Operations environment.

The following is/are preferredNone

LICENSES AND CERTIFICATIONS 

Required:

  • Valid Driver's License
  • Ability to qualify on Roadway Worker Protection within 60 Days
  • Qualified on MNR Operating Rules and Special Instructions, Emergency Instructions, Electrical Instructions for Operating Employees, Equipment Operating Instructions. If from another railroad must be qualified on Metro-North Railroad's Rules of the Operating Department within 60 Days

OTHER INFORMATION 

  • Pursuant to the New York State Public Officers Law & the MTA Code of Ethics, all employees who hold a policymaking position must file an Annual Statement of Financial Disclosure (FDS) with the NYS Commission on Ethics and Lobbying in Government (the "Commission").
  • Final salary is determined experience, skillset, and alignment with compensation practices. The posted range reflects expected compensation and may be updated as market or business needs evolve.
  • Employees driving company vehicles will be subject to License Monitoring and must complete defensive driver training once every three years for current MTA drivers; or within 180 days of hire or transfer for an employee entering an authorized driving position.
  • To be eligible for consideration for a new role, current MTA employees must complete at least one year of service in their current role prior to applying. Additionally, eligibility to interview is contingent upon maintaining a satisfactory record of job performance, attendance, and disciplinary conduct.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY/ADA DISCLAIMER 

MTA and its subsidiary and affiliated agencies are Equal Opportunity Employers and encourage qualified applicants from diverse backgrounds, experiences, and abilities, including military service members, to apply.

If you seek a reasonable accommodation for a medical condition or disability, or for a religious practice or observance, to participate in the job application or interview process, please notify your MTA representative once you have been contacted regarding the role.

HOW TO APPLY: 

For Internal Applicants: Log in to the My MTA Portal, click on the My Job Search tile, select the Careers link, search for the desired position, click Apply, and follow the on-screen instructions.

For External Applicants: Visit www.mta.info, click the "Careers" link located in the footer under the "The MTA" section, then click on "See All Open MTA Positions". Search for the desired position, click Apply, and follow the instructions.


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