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Freight Conductor Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Maintenance Electrician

Salem, VA · On-site

$28 - $30/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

... conductors? * Can you use a personal computer to research pertinent issues and order materials ... Whether it's freight, transit, ports, logistics, mining, industrial, or marine, our expertise ...

Electrician - Manufacturing

Salem, VA · On-site

$28 - $30/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

... conductors? * Can you use a personal computer to research pertinent issues and order materials ... Whether it's freight, transit, ports, logistics, mining, industrial, or marine, our expertise ...

Maintenance Electrician

Salem, VA · On-site

$30/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

... conductors? * Can you use a personal computer to research pertinent issues and order materials ... Whether it's freight, transit, ports, logistics, mining, industrial, or marine, our expertise ...

Maintenance Electrician

Salem, VA

$28 - $30/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

... conductors? * Can you use a personal computer to research pertinent issues and order materials ... Whether it's freight, transit, ports, logistics, mining, industrial, or marine, our expertise ...

... conductors? * Can you use a personal computer to research pertinent issues and order materials ... Whether it's freight, transit, ports, logistics, mining, industrial, or marine, our expertise ...

Maintenance Electrician

Salem, VA · On-site

$28 - $30/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

... conductors? * Can you use a personal computer to research pertinent issues and order materials ... Whether it's freight, transit, ports, logistics, mining, industrial, or marine, our expertise ...

Electrician - Hiring Now

Salem, VA · On-site

$28 - $30/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

... conductors? * Can you use a personal computer to research pertinent issues and order materials ... Whether it's freight, transit, ports, logistics, mining, industrial, or marine, our expertise ...

Showing results 21-29

Freight Conductor information

See Virginia salary details

$27

$32

$36

How much do freight conductor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for freight conductor in Virginia is $32.69, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $30.29 and $35.05 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 protocols, signaling, and operating procedures, with some positions requiring certification or experience in rail operations. The job can involve irregular hours and physical work, but entry is generally accessible with proper training and qualifications.

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.

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.

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.
More about Freight Conductor jobs
What are popular job titles related to Freight Conductor jobs in Virginia? For Freight Conductor jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What are popular job titles related to Freight Conductor jobs in VA? For Freight Conductor jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Freight Conductor job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,991 per year, or $32.7 per hour.

Maintenance Electrician

Wabtec

Salem, VA • On-site

$28 - $30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 18 days ago


Job description

Company Description
Job Description
Who will you be working with?
You will work with a broad range of talented individuals to deliver quality products in a timely manner. You'll work alongside the maintenance team and partner with professionals across multiple departments.
How will you make a difference?
As a member of the Maintenance team, you will perform repairs and preventive maintenance on various types of equipment throughout the facility. You will work to optimize the performance of the equipment and communicate issues, as necessary.
What do we want to know about you?
  • Do you have a minimum of 3 years industrial electrical experience. Journeyman license is preferred but not required?
  • Do you have knowledge, skills and abilities to perform installations, repairs and identify items in this category. Ability to run conduit, wire electric motors (1ø and 3ø), troubleshoot and repair 1ø and 3ø distribution and equipment circuits, wire control panels, design and install 1ø and 3ø circuits, and properly size conductors?
  • Can you use a personal computer to research pertinent issues and order materials. Also, able to use CMMS?
  • Do you possess personal computer skills with ability to fully utilize CMMS?
  • Do you have working knowledge of contactors, starters, transformers, electrical prints, disconnect switches, fuses, cable drops, limit switches, wiring terminals, buss duct, safety skills, MSDS skills, math skills?
  • Do you have a general understanding of National Electrical Code is desired. Must demonstrate knowledge and ability to apply GW Hazardous Energy Policy consistently?

What will your typical day look like?
  • Must have appropriate tools to perform repairs and installations.
  • Analyzes and corrects electrical problems.
  • Repairs/overhauls electrical equipment and controls.
  • Installs new service drops and circuit breaker panels.
  • Wires machinery circuits.
  • All done according to wiring diagrams, specifications and NEC.
  • Knowledge of the occupational hazards and safety precautions of the trade.
  • Other duties as required by management.

What about the physical demands of the job?
  • Frequent standing, walking, handling, reaching outward, reaching up/over shoulder, squatting/kneeling, bending, lifting up to 50lbs. Frequent exposure to dust or vapors within OSHA limits, heat/humidity, and loud noises
  • Occasional sitting, climbing, and lifting 50lbs or more. Occasional exposure to cold

You may also be asked to perform other duties outside of your function or trade, for which adequate training will be provided if necessary.
The hourly rate for this role is in the range of $28-30/hr.
The actual salary offered to a candidate may be influenced by a variety of factors, such as: training, transferable skills, work experience, education, business needs, market demands and work location. The base pay range is subject to change and may be modified in the future. More information on offered benefits, which include health, welfare, and retirement, are available at mywabtecbenefits.com.
Wabtec will only employ those who are legally authorized to work in the U.S. for this opening. Any offer of employment is conditioned upon the successful completion of a drug screen (as applicable) and fitness for duty test (as applicable).
Qualifications
Additional Information
Our job titles may span more than one career level. The salary rate for this role is currently $28-$30 The actual salary offered to a candidate may be influenced by a variety of factors, such as: training, transferable skills, work experience, education, business needs, market demands and work location. The base pay range is subject to change and may be modified in the future. More information on offered benefits, which include health, welfare, and retirement, are available at mywabtecbenefits.com. Other benefit offerings for this role may include annual bonus, if eligible.
What could you accomplish in a place that puts People First?
At Wabtec, it's not just about a job - it's about the impact you make. When our people come together, we're Expanding the Possible by continuously improving what we do and how we do it - for our clients and each other.
If you're ready to revolutionize how the world moves for future generations, Wabtec is the place for you.
Who are we?
Wabtec is a leading global provider of equipment, systems, digital solutions, and value-added services for the freight and transit rail sectors. Drawing on more than 150 years of experience, we are leading the way in safety, efficiency, reliability, innovation, and productivity. Whether it's freight, transit, ports, logistics, mining, industrial, or marine, our expertise, technologies, and people together - are accelerating the future of transportation. With roots that date back to George Westinghouse, Thomas Edison, and Louis Faiveley, Wabtec has always built technologies and implemented solutions for a variety of sectors that are critical to meeting the needs of customers and governments alike.
Our global team of about 30,000 employees worldwide delivers performance that moves the world forward. We're lifelong learners, obsessed with better. Learn more at www.WabtecCorp.com.
Culture powers us and the possibilities.
We believe the best ideas come from a mix of experiences and backgrounds. At Wabtec, we strive every day to create a place where everyone belongs. We're building a culture where leadership, inclusion and your unique perspective fuel progress.
We're proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We welcome talent of all backgrounds, experiences, and identities, including race, gender, age, disability, veteran status and more.
Need accommodation? Just let us know - we've got you.