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Freight Train Conductor Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

Florida East Coast Railway

Conductor

Fort Lauderdale, FL · On-site

$39.86 - $44.42/hr

Overview Supervise train crews on a freight train and coordinate switch engine crews. Place cars to ... Conductors will return to their home Miami terminal for on-the-job training in all levels of ...

Florida East Coast Railway

Conductor

Fort Lauderdale, FL · On-site

$39.86 - $44.42/hr

Overview Supervise train crews on a freight train and coordinate switch engine crews. Place cars to ... Conductors will return to their home Miami terminal for on-the-job training in all levels of ...

Florida East Coast Railway

Conductor

Fort Lauderdale, FL · On-site

$39.86 - $44.42/hr

Overview Supervise train crews on a freight train and coordinate switch engine crews. Place cars to ... Conductors will return to their home Miami terminal for on-the-job training in all levels of ...

Florida East Coast Railway

Conductor

Fort Lauderdale, FL · On-site

$39.86 - $44.42/hr

Supervise train crews on a freight train and coordinate switch engine crews. Place cars to ... Conductors will return to their home Miami terminal for on-the-job training in all levels of ...

All JobsFreight Train Conductor JobsFreight Train Conductor Jobs in Florida

Freight Train Conductor information

See Florida salary details

$20

$24

$27

How much do freight train conductor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for freight train conductor in Florida is $24.64, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.84 and $26.39 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a freight train conductor do?

A Freight Train Conductor is responsible for coordinating and overseeing the movement of freight trains. Their duties include ensuring the safety of the train, its crew, and its cargo, communicating with dispatchers, and managing train documentation. They also inspect equipment, couple and uncouple railcars, and help resolve any issues that arise during transit. Conductors play a crucial role in keeping rail operations efficient and on schedule.

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

To thrive as a Freight Train Conductor, you need a solid understanding of railroad operations, safety regulations, and logistics, typically supported by a high school diploma and on-the-job training. Familiarity with control systems, radio communication devices, and train dispatch software is important for daily operations. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and effective communication skills help conductors manage schedules and respond to unexpected situations. These skills and qualities are essential for ensuring safety, maintaining efficient transport, and minimizing delays in freight rail operations.

How do you become a freight train conductor?

To become a freight train conductor, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, and must complete on-the-job training provided by the railroad company. Some employers prefer candidates with prior experience in transportation or logistics, and a valid driver's license may be required; physical stamina and the ability to work irregular hours are also important.

What does a freight train conductor make?

A freight train conductor typically earns between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the company. They are responsible for overseeing train operations, ensuring safety, and coordinating with crew members, often working irregular hours and requiring certification and safety training.

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

AspectFreight Train ConductorRail Yard Clerk
CredentialsHigh school diploma, positive background check, on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma or equivalent, clerical skills, on-the-job training
Work EnvironmentOn moving trains, outdoors, variable weatherRail yard offices, indoor environment, administrative setting
Industry UsageOperating and overseeing freight trainsManaging yard operations, scheduling, and documentation

While both roles are essential in rail transportation, a Freight Train Conductor primarily oversees train operations and safety on the move, whereas a Rail Yard Clerk handles administrative tasks within the rail yard. The two jobs differ in work environment, credentials, and daily responsibilities, but both are vital for efficient rail industry operations.

What are some typical challenges faced by freight train conductors, and how can they be managed?

Freight train conductors often face challenges such as irregular work hours, varying weather conditions, and the need to remain alert for long periods. They may also encounter unexpected delays, equipment issues, and the responsibility of coordinating with engineers and yard crews to ensure safety and efficiency. Adapting to these challenges requires strong communication skills, a commitment to safety protocols, and effective time management. Many rail companies offer support through training and mentorship programs to help new conductors acclimate and succeed in the role.

Is it hard to get hired as a freight train conductor?

Becoming a freight train conductor typically requires completing a training program, gaining on-the-job experience, and passing background checks and drug tests. Competition can be moderate, but having relevant skills such as safety awareness and communication can improve chances of employment.
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Freight Train Conductor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freight Train Conductor job openings in Florida as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,249 per year, or $24.6 per hour.

Conductor

Florida East Coast Railway

Fort Lauderdale, FL • On-site

$39.86 - $44.42/hr

Other

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

Overview
Supervise train crews on a freight train and coordinate switch engine crews. Place cars to facilitate loading and unloading and the makeup and breakdown on trains in a rail yard, industrial plant, or similar location. Start date scheduled for October 5, 2026. Paid training will commence in New Smyrna Beach, Florida for three (3) weeks; thereafter, new hire Conductors will return to their home Miami terminal for on-the-job training in all levels of Conductor service (Yard, Local, Through Freight).
Starting pay is $29.34/hr. Salary will increase between $39.86 - $44.42/hr once qualified (after the probationary period ends) per collective bargaining agreement
Responsibilities
  • Ensure compliance with all train orders, signals, and railroad rules and regulations for safety, operations, and the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA)
  • Review instructions from dispatchers and yardmasters, and discuss with locomotive engineer and train crew
  • Inspect all equipment on cars prior to departures
  • Receive and transmit information by radio and telephone
  • Read and understand bulletins, work orders, and switch lists
  • 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
  • Work with customers to ensure accurate movement and placement of cars
  • Maintain awareness of surrounding area and suspicious activity to ensure rail safety
  • Operate locomotive equipment through the use of remote control device.
  • Comprehend color and/or hand signals and systems
  • Quickly and repeatedly make precise adjustments in moving the controls of a machine or vehicle to exact positions
  • Quickly respond (with the hand, finger, or foot) to visual symbols, signals and displays (sound, light, picture, etc.)
  • Assist other employees when and where instructed

Qualifications
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
  • High school diploma or general education degree (GED)
  • Must have a valid driver's license
  • 2 years verifiable work experience and/or college
  • No driving violations involving alcohol or drugs within the past 3 years

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Outside work experience
  • Mechanical aptitude
  • Experience working on an on-call basis
  • Experience working varying shift schedules
  • Heavy equipment experience

KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS:
  • Verbal comprehension (Understand oral and written communications-both general and technical)
  • Communication skills (provide clear instructions/directions)
  • Reasoning skills (problem solving and troubleshooting skills)
  • Demonstrate auditory and visual acuity
  • Basic Math
  • Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals

JOB REQUIREMENTS:
  • Work hours may include a nonstandard workweek, overtime, and various shift work, including on-call 7 days a week, 24 hours per day, with extended periods of time away from home and short rest between assignments in accordance with the hours of service regulation
  • Advance to engineer position when required, based on seniority
  • Work hours are based on seniority - new hires will work primarily nights, weekends, and holidays
  • Must be able to report to work safely with two-hour notice
  • Strict disciplinary policy regarding inability to report to work within proper time frame, or failure to accept a call for work
  • Lift up to 90 pounds occasionally
  • Stoop/bend/kneel/crouch/balance/climb on an occasional basis
  • Work outside in all weather conditions and on occasion at elevated heights
  • Work safely to prevent on the job accidents and injuries
  • Wear protective equipment such as hard hat, hearing protection, safety-toe boots, or safety glasses
  • Walk long distances over uneven terrain
  • Work in cramped, confined, enclosed, or awkward places
  • Ride on the outside of rail equipment for long periods of time
  • Work hours may include a nonstandard workweek, overtime, and various shift work
  • Complete annual training and pass safety rules examinations
  • Must successfully complete probationary period
  • May require random testing for drugs and/or alcohol
  • Must pass all required assessments
  • Must pass a background and drug screening
  • Requires a medical examination, including physical capabilities, audio and vision testing
  • Must meet color vision requirements as described in the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) Regulations
  • Active employees must complete one year in current position or craft before applying for positions
  • An active or furloughed employee who changes to a new craft may be required to permanently relinquish his/her seniority in the former craft unless otherwise provided for in the applicable collective bargaining agreement or other governing agreement.
  • This position is governed by a collective bargaining agreement, membership is required

Our company provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics.

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