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Freight Train Conductor Jobs in Atlanta, GA (NOW HIRING)

SVCC

Train Conductor

Mcdonough, GA · On-site

$75 - $100/hr

As a Train Conductor, you will play a pivotal role in ensuring the secure and efficientmovement of freight trains. This dynamic position encompasses a range of responsibilities,including coupling ...

New

G&W

Conductor/Switchman

Fairburn, GA · On-site

$24/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 ...

All JobsFreight Train Conductor JobsFreight Train Conductor Jobs in Atlanta, GA

Freight Train Conductor information

See Atlanta, GA salary details

$26

$31

$35

How much do freight train conductor jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for freight train conductor in Atlanta, GA is $31.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $29.38 and $33.99 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 Atlanta, GA?

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

What job categories do people searching Freight Train Conductor jobs in Atlanta, GA look for?

The top searched job categories for Freight Train Conductor jobs in Atlanta, GA are:

What cities near Atlanta, GA are hiring for Freight Train Conductor jobs?

Cities near Atlanta, GA with the most Freight Train Conductor job openings:

Freight Train Conductor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freight Train Conductor job openings in Atlanta, GA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $65,950 per year, or $31.7 per hour.

Train Conductor

SVCC

Mcdonough, GA • On-site

$75 - $100/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement

Posted 2 days ago

New

Job description

Norfolk Southern (NS) invites dedicated individuals to join our team as Train Conductors.As a Train Conductor, you will play a pivotal role in ensuring the secure and efficientmovement of freight trains. This dynamic position encompasses a range of responsibilities,including coupling railcars to construct trains, delivering railcars to local customers,and transporting trains over extended distances. The conductor position can oftenmean a significant lifestyle change as the work schedule is often non-traditionaland requires many to be available to work on a 90-minute notice.

Responsibilities
  • Prioritize safety to ensure the safe transport of freight.
  • Safely connect and disconnect railcars to assemble and disassemble trains as per the designated configuration.
  • Deliver railcars to local customers, ensuring safe, timely, and precise service.
  • Safely transport trains over long distances.
  • Maintain clear communication with other crew members, dispatchers, and relevant personnel to coordinate activities and respond to instructions.
  • Adhere to a non-traditional work schedule with availability on short notice.
Compensation
  • Conductor Trainees (CT) during training: $25 per hour with a minimum of $200 per shift.
  • After training, Conductors earn an average of $75,000 in the first year.
  • Experienced Conductors average $85,000 per year.
  • Promotion opportunities to Locomotive Engineer based on location needs and seniority.
  • Locomotive Engineers have a minimum guarantee of approximately $94,000, with the potential to earn $100,000+.
Training
  • Comprehensive 4–7-month training program including Classroom and On-The-Job (OJT)Training.
  • CT’s are required to successfully complete training and qualify for a Conductors License.
  • First 5 weeks of employment at NS Training Center in McDonough, GA.

Individuals are responsible for providing their own transportation to the area. NorfolkSouthern will provide the hotel accommodation, a mileage reimbursement, and a mealstipend during the 5-week training period in McDonough, GA. The remaining trainingwill take place at or near the hire location for on-the-job training.

Work Schedule

Irregular schedules determined by business needs. Many jobs are on-call 24/7 with a 90-minute notice when not on a scheduled off day. Minimum two rest days for every six consecutive working days. Routine time away from home, 1-2 days at a time. A CT will expect to work a schedule similar to that of a regular conductor. As a conductoryou will most likely be assigned to a conductors' extra board. Conductor extra boardshave schedules with a minimum of two rest days for every six consecutive working days. While not on your rest days, you are subject to be called to work 24 hours a day, on an as-needed basis. Extra board work schedules are irregular and are determined by business needs. You will be required to report to your work location within a 90-minute notice regardless of time of day. Reliable transportation is necessary.

Benefits
  • Medical insurance for you, your spouse, and eligible dependents is provided on thefirst day of the second calendar month of employment.
  • After one year of employment,you are eligible for dental insurance to cover yourself and eligible dependents, a$20,000 life insurance plan for yourself, and participation in the Norfolk Southern401(K) plan.
  • You are subject to Railroad Retirement taxes paid at a rate equivalentto Social Security tax plus an additional 4.9%.
  • You are also covered by Railroad Retirementbenefits and, following completion of the service requirement, you will be eligiblefor Railroad Retirement benefits.
  • Conductors can also qualify for up to 5 weeks ofpaid time off based on their work record and seniority.
  • Additional information onbenefits can be found at YourTrackToHealth.com.
Union Membership

You will be required to join a union within 60 days of becoming a conductor and establishing a seniority date.

Work Environment

A conductor should expect to work outdoors in all types ofweather conditions. Thismay mean working in poor weather conditions day or night.

Alcohol and Drug Policy

Conductors are subject to random alcohol and drug testing as per the Federal RailroadAdministration Guidelines. The Norfolk Southern Policy is ZERO TOLERANCE. We maintain a drug-free workplace and perform pre-employment substance abuse testing.

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