ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Freight Train Conductor Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

Genesee & Wyoming Inc.

$16.50 - $21.75/hr

With a network of 100+ individual freight railroads and 4,000 employees across North America, we ... Climb on and off equipment and walk the length of the train or rail yard to support train ...

Genesee & Wyoming Inc.

$26/hr

Transportation and Train Crew Requisition Number : CONDU008818 * Posted : August 25, 2026 ... With a network of 100+ individual freight railroads and 4,000 employees across North America, we ...

Iowa Interstate Railroad, LLC

$95K - $110K/yr

... in freight damage through the training and education of crews on the most progressive train ... Minimum of two years as a qualified locomotive engineer and/or conductor preferred. Broad knowledge ...

New

previous page

Showing results 21-29

All JobsFreight Train Conductor JobsFreight Train Conductor Jobs in Kentucky

Freight Train Conductor information

See Kentucky salary details

$24

$28

$32

How much do freight train conductor jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for freight train conductor in Kentucky is $28.64, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $26.54 and $30.67 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.

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.

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.

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 obtaining a certification such as a freight rail conductor license can be beneficial. Physical fitness and the ability to work irregular hours are also important for this 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.

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. Conductors are responsible for overseeing train operations, ensuring safety, and coordinating with crew members, often working irregular hours and requiring certification and training. Salaries can increase with seniority and additional responsibilities.

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

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

What job categories do people searching Freight Train Conductor jobs in Kentucky look for?

The top searched job categories for Freight Train Conductor jobs in Kentucky are:

Freight Train Conductor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freight Train Conductor job openings in Kentucky as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,563 per year, or $28.6 per hour.

Conductor - Lexington, KY / Louisville, KY

Louisville, KY • On-site

RJ Corman Railroad Group
Rail Transportation • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about RJ Corman Railroad Groupexternal

$21.50 - $28.25/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Assist in all phases of the safe daily operation of trains, including equipment and track maintenance.

  • Operate equipment, track switches, and perform yard operations to build and move trains according to company policies and safety regulations.

  • Perform multiple tasks safely, including pulling, controlling, and maneuvering onto and off of equipment, and handle increasing responsibilities such as locomotive engineering duties.

Job description

Conductor Position

R. J. Corman Railroad Company is seeking dynamic Conductors in Lexington, KY and Louisville, KY. If you are ambitious and dependable, apply now!

Accountability: Performs on-ground duties, equipment and track maintenance and other assigned duties to assist in an efficient railroad operation. Expected to progress in skill and responsibilities of train operations over time.

Responsibilities:

  • Assists in all phases of the safe daily operation of trains.
  • Operates equipment according to company policies, procedures and practices in all areas, including equipment usage and maintenance, safety (FRA and OSHA), and DOT requirements.
  • Will operate track switches, couple cars and work on freight trains in yard operations.
  • Will move and align various parts of rail equipment to create or build trains.
  • Multi-tasking must be able to perform several tasks safely that will require pulling, controlling and maneuvering onto and off of equipment.
  • Required to work on-call basis, and expected to be available to work 24 hours a day, seven days a week, in all weather conditions.
  • Irregular work schedules determined by rotation.
  • Home daily position.
  • Telephone required in order to be contacted.
  • Increasing responsibilities expected and required, including the ability to handle locomotive engineering duties.
  • Train Crew Members are subject to random alcohol and drug testing as per the Federal Railroad Administration Guidelines.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Education and Experience: FRA Conductor and/or Engineer certification preferred. Must be mechanically inclined, and have basic reading and math skills. Must have the ability to develop teamwork and work with all levels of personnel in achieving train-handling objectives.

Physical Requirements: Mobility to participate in frequent travel along the assigned short line and within the region encompassing the operations. Requires pulling, controlling, and maneuvering onto and off of equipment. Occasional lifting of at least 80lbs to perform essential job functions. Must be able to walk long distances over uneven surfaces. Requires 24/7 on-call duty.

Environmental Conditions: Performs duties in primarily outside environments, in and around moving locomotives, railcars, vehicles, and equipment. Frequent exposure to weather elements: appropriate PPE required.

Benefits: R. J. Corman Railroad Group, LLC is committed to providing its full-time employees and their families with quality benefits. R. J. Corman offers the following:

Full-Time Team Members:

  • Railroad retirement benefits
  • Immediate Eligibility Starting Day One of Employment:
    • Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance
    • PTO (Paid Time Off) Accrual
    • 8 Paid Holidays Per Year
      • Veteran's Day is a Paid Holiday for US Veterans
    • Voluntary Supplemental Life Insurance
    • Voluntary Short and Long-Term Disability
    • Voluntary Accident Insurance
  • FSA and HSA Options
  • 401K Employer Match
  • Paid Maternity Leave
  • Group Life Insurance

All Team Members:

  • 401K Retirement Savings Plan
  • Referral Bonuses
  • Employee Discounts from Various Suppliers
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Annual Boot Voucher
  • Company Provided PPE
  • Prescription Safety Glasses Allowance

R. J. Corman Railroad is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer that is committed to a safe and drug-free workplace. R. J. Corman performs pre-employment criminal background checks and substance abuse testing, which includes a urine drug test to detect the presence of illegal drugs. We appreciate your cooperation in keeping R. J. Corman a safe and drug-free company.

Equal Opportunity Employer This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

Apply