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Freight Conductor Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

S. railroads transporting the nation's freight across 28 western states and 3 Canadian provinces ... Conductor trainees are integral to this department, learning to manage train operations, ensure ...

S. railroads transporting the nation's freight across 28 western states and 3 Canadian provinces ... Conductor trainees are integral to this department, learning to manage train operations, ensure ...

S. railroads transporting the nation's freight across 28 western states and 3 Canadian provinces ... Conductor trainees are integral to this department, learning to manage train operations, ensure ...

S. railroads transporting the nation's freight across 28 western states and 3 Canadian provinces ... Conductor trainees are integral to this department, learning to manage train operations, ensure ...

Conductor Trainee- Enid, OK

Waco, TX · On-site

$70K - $82K/yr

S. railroads transporting the nation's freight across 28 western states and 3 Canadian provinces ... Conductor trainees are integral to this department, learning to manage train operations, ensure ...

S. railroads transporting the nation's freight across 28 western states and 3 Canadian provinces ... Conductor trainees are integral to this department, learning to manage train operations, ensure ...

... conductors, engineers, mechanics, and MOW Team Members at Watco's Safe Performance Center • ... This position has various responsibilities including freight sales, customer spot pricing, carrier ...

... conductors, engineers, mechanics, and MOW Team Members at Watco's Safe Performance Center • ... This position has various responsibilities including freight sales, customer spot pricing, carrier ...

Warehouse Technician I

Houston, TX · On-site

$19 - $22/hr

Prepares freight bills and monitors accuracy of completion * Works closely with freight carriers ... semi-conductor, and/or distribution industry * Warehouse management system experience (TWL ...

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Freight Conductor information

See Texas salary details

$25

$30

$34

How much do freight conductor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for freight conductor in Texas is $30.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.46 and $32.93 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is it hard to become a freight conductor?

Becoming a freight conductor typically requires completing a training program, gaining on-the-job experience, and passing certification exams. The job involves working in a physically demanding environment with irregular hours, but it generally does not require a college degree. Success depends on safety awareness, communication skills, and the ability to work in a team.

What is the job of a freight conductor?

A freight conductor is responsible for overseeing the safe and efficient operation of freight trains, including coordinating loading and unloading, inspecting equipment, and communicating with train crews and dispatchers. They often work outdoors in various weather conditions and need good communication and safety skills. Certification and knowledge of railway operations are typically required.

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.

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 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.

How much does a freight train conductor get paid?

A freight train conductor typically earns between $50,000 and $70,000 annually, with some experienced conductors making over $80,000. Compensation varies based on experience, location, and the company, and the role often requires working irregular hours and safety certifications.

What are Freight Conductors?

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.

How much do CSX freight conductors make?

CSX freight conductors typically earn an average annual salary of around $70,000 to $80,000, depending on experience, location, and shift schedules. They are responsible for overseeing train operations, ensuring safety, and coordinating with crew members, often working irregular hours and requiring safety certifications.
More about Freight Conductor jobs
What are popular job titles related to Freight Conductor jobs in Texas? For Freight Conductor jobs in Texas, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What are popular job titles related to Freight Conductor jobs in TX? For Freight Conductor jobs in TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Freight Conductor job openings in Texas as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 91% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 90% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,892 per year, or $30.7 per hour.
Engineer/Conductor-BRG

Engineer/Conductor-BRG

omnitrax

Brownsville, TX • On-site

Other

Posted 26 days ago


Job description

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 and engines in rail yards and on the main railroad; operates trains safely by complying with operating rules and train handling policies to transport freight in a satisfactory manner.  Executes the mechanical operation of the train, train speed, and handling.  Ensures clear communication with dispatcher and track authority; receives, relays, or acts upon oral, written, or radio instructions from dispatcher, yardmaster or other personnel indicating the switch movement, placement, or delivery of railroad cars and/or a train.  Performs work safely, effectively, and efficiently in accordance with company policies and procedures and Federal Railroad Association rules and regulations to meet company objectives.

The Locomotive Engineer/Conductor demonstrates and adheres to the company values of: safety, honesty, ownership, respect, and teamwork to ensure successful partnerships with customers and employees that result in OmniTRAX’s continued success.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Ensure compliance with all railroad rules and regulations for safety, operation, and the FRA
  • Move trains safely in the yards and over roads
  • Manipulate throttle and brake controls; interprets gauges and controls
  • Operate valves and switches both inside and outside of the cab, including applying and releasing handbrakes
  • Operate track switches, inspect equipment on cars and use radio communications to control train movement
  • Assist and instruct train crews to couple and uncouple cars, operate switches, and make minor repairs to railcars: including replacing heavy couplings or air brake hoses
  • Maintain awareness of surrounding area and suspicious activity to ensure rail safety
  • Review instructions from Trainmaster and discuss with train crew
  • Coordinate execution of railcar switch list
  • Communicate with other parties in the yard using proper hand signals and/or radio communication protocol
  • Adhere to directions from conductors and brakemen
  • Conduct the movement of rail cars and train movements; signal crew member(s) for movement of the engine or train using lantern, hand and flag signals, or radio to indicate when to start, stop, and back-up or set and release air brakes
  • Observe, interpret, and relay arm, lantern, or radio signals and all other indications affecting movement of a train
  • Operate track switches (visually checks switch condition and direction) to change the direction of the engine or cars within yard limits or on the main railroad; may apply or release hand brakes to switch or perform other duties
  • Read and understand the book of rules, timetables, bulletins, train orders, waybills, placards, safety instructions, and other written or printed material
  • Prepare required daily reports, switch lists (manually or with a computer), and fill out forms including train orders
  • Inspect the condition of the train and equipment in movement and while stationary
  • May couple air and electrical connections between locomotives when making up trains
  • Judge speed and distance of moving objects or parts
  • Recall information required from work activity
OTHER DUTIES
  • Report to work as called on a 24-hour schedule
  • Work safely to prevent on the job accidents and injuries
  • Wear required protective equipment such as: hard hats, hearing protection, safety-toe boots or safety glasses
  • Work hours may include a nonstandard workweek, overtime and various shift work
  • Perform other duties and projects as assigned
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES
  • None
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS, KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
  • High School Diploma/GED
  • 2-3 years of Train Services experience
  • Aptitude in the Transportation field and desire to learn
  • Pass post-offer job and health related examinations including: operating rules examination, vision and hearing test
  • Comply with all new and outstanding railroad instructions regarding the operation of the train
  • Read, comprehend and comply with published rules, procedures and manuals, inspection checklists, government regulations, operating and maintenance instructions, memos and other work-related information
  • Basic computer skills in Microsoft Office Suite
  • Write legibly to complete routine reports and other work documents
  • Effectively communicate and demonstrate interpersonal skills with all level of employees, and business associates in a clear concise and professional manner
  • Demonstrate problem solving and troubleshooting skills resulting in effective resolution
  • Professional integrity and accountability
  • Work in fast-paced, collaborative environment
REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS AND LICENSES
  • Valid State Driver’s License
  • FRA Conductor Certified  
  • FRA Locomotive Engineer Certified: required post hire
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS, KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
  • Previous experience in Rail Transportation, Supply Chain Logistics, Manufacturing and/or Oil & Gas industries
PREFERRED CERTIFICATIONS AND LICENSES
  • None
WORK ENVIRONMENT
  • Exposure to hot, cold, wet, humid, or windy conditions caused by the weather including: snow, rain, heat, and sub-freezing temps; loud noise and fumes from gas, oil and grease
 PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Strength

Occ

Freq

Cons

Weight/ Force

Side

Height From

Height To

Lifting - Knuckle

X

85 lb

Two Hands

0 in

46 in

Strength

Occ

Freq

Cons

Weight/ Force

Side

Height

Rotation

Grip Pattern

Pushing - Auto Rack Brake

X

83 lb

Two Hands

67.5 in

Neutral

Cylinder

Pushing - Ergo Bow Switch

X

133.7 lb

Two Hands

35 in

Neutral

Cylinder

Pulling - Pin Lifter

X

86 lb

Either

25 in

Neutral

Cylinder

Pulling - Wheel Brake Tank Car

X

129.3 lb

Right

36 in

Neutral

Hook

Pulling - Wheel Brake Hopper Car

X

136.2 lb

Right

36 in

Neutral

Hook

Pulling - Ground Switch

X

46.8 lb

Two Hands

5 in

Supinated

Cylinder

Pulling - Derail

X

57.5 lb

Two Hands

7 in

Pronated

Cylinder

Pulling - Ergo Bow Switch

X

75.1 lb

Two Hands

35 in

Neutral

Cylinder

Pulling - High Stand Switch

X

87 lb

Two Hands

36 in

Pronated

Cylinder

Pulling - Align Knuckle

X

160.4 lb

Two Hands

35 in

Neutral

Hook

Grip & Pinch

Occ

Freq

Cons

Weight/ Force

Side

Rotation

Grip Setting/Type

Hand Grip - Hose Coupling Grip

X

47 lb

Left

Neutral

3

Hand Grip - Hose Coupling Grip

X

47 lb

Right

Neutral

3

Upper Body

Occ

Freq

Cons

Description

Reaching - Below Knee

X

Extending hand(s) and arm(s) below the level of the knee.

Reaching - Over Shoulder

X

Extending hand(s) and arm(s) above shoulder level.

Reaching - Knee to Shoulder

X

Extending hand(s) and arm(s) between knee and shoulder level.

Handling - Both

X

Seizing, holding, grasping, turning, or otherwise working with hands.

Fingering - Fine Motor Manipulation

X

Picking, pinching, or otherwise working primarily with fingers.

Cervical Flexion/Extension

X

Flexing and/or extending at the cervical spine.

Rotation - Cervical

X

Rotating at the cervical spine.

Rotation - Thoracic & Lumbar

X

Rotating at the thoracic and lumbar spine.

Lower Body

Occ

Freq

Cons

Description

Sitting

X

Remaining in a seated position.

Standing

X

Remaining on one’s feet in an upright position without moving about.

Walking

X

Moving about on foot.

Climbing

X

Ascending or descending between two points.

Balancing

X

Maintaining body equilibrium to prevent falling.

Stooping

X

Bending body forward by bending spine at the waist.

Kneeling - Two Knees

X

Bending legs at knees to come to rest on one or both knees.

Crouching/Squatting

X

Bending body downward and forward by bending legs and spine.

Other Physical Demands

Occ

Freq

Cons

Type/Position/Description

Vision

X

Per FRA Requirements

Hearing

X

Per FRA Requirements

*Occ = Occasional; defined as 1-33% of a usual and customary workday.

*Freq = Frequent; defined as 34-66% of a usual and customary workday.   

*Cons = Constant; defined as 67-100% of a usual and customary workday.

** Not all tasks required at each location. Position and physical demand is representative, but individualized assessment may be necessary. 

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