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How much do freight train conductor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for freight train conductor in the United States is $32.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $30.53 and $35.34 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.

How much does a CSX train conductor make per hour?

A CSX train conductor typically earns around $25 to $35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and union agreements. The role requires safety training, certification, and the ability to work irregular hours and in various weather conditions.

How much do freight conductors get paid?

Freight train conductors typically earn between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, with experienced conductors and those working in high-demand regions earning higher wages. Compensation often includes benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans, and the job requires knowledge of safety protocols and train operations.

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 fitness and good communication skills are also important. Certification or licensing is generally not required but may vary by employer and region.

Is it hard to get hired as a train conductor?

Becoming a freight train conductor typically requires completing a training program, passing a background check, and gaining on-the-job experience. Competition can be moderate, and employers often seek candidates with good communication skills, reliability, and the ability to work in a team environment.

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.
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Freight Train Conductor jobs near you
Meridian, MS Train Conductor

Meridian, MS Train Conductor

Norfolk Southern Corp.

Meridian, MS

$84K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Description 

At Norfolk Southern, we believe that our people power progress. Our culture is built on our SPIRIT values-Safety, Performance, Integrity, Respect, Innovation, and Teamwork-which guide how we work, lead, and grow together. If you're ready to be part of a dynamic team and contribute to one of the nation's premier transportation companies, we invite you to explore the conductor role. 

Conductors are responsible for the safe and efficient movement of freight trains. This includes building trains by coupling railcars, delivering railcars to customers, transporting trains across long distances, and managing electronic documentation and inspections. You'll be trained to troubleshoot train issues, report incidents, and ensure compliance with safety procedures. No prior railroad experience is required-we provide all the training you need to succeed. 

What You Should Know 

  • This is a seniority-based job. You'll start out on the extra board, filling in where needed, until you build enough seniority to bid on a regular assignment. 

  • You must be available to work on-call, 24/7, with as little as 90 minutes' notice. 

  • Expect to spend 2-3 days away from home weekly. 

  • You will be required to join a union within 60 days after completing training. 

Training 

On the job training lasts about 20 weeks, depending on the complexity of your assigned location, this training can go beyond 20 weeks. Training includes classroom instruction, field training, and on-the-job experience. The first 5 weeks take place at the Norfolk Southern Training Center in McDonough, GA. During this time, the company provides hotel accommodations, weekly meal stipends, and travel reimbursement from your hire location. The remaining weeks of training will be completed at your assigned location. 

To successfully complete the program and earn your promotion and certification, you must pass all classroom, field, and on-the-job requirements. This includes written exams and field evaluations covering physical characteristics, operating rules, safety, hazmat, and signal rules. 

Job Responsibilities 

  • Build and inspect trains, railcars, and equipment for safe operation. 

  • Operate remote control locomotives and perform tasks such as coupling, aligning drawbars, applying hand brakes, and riding railcars. 

  • Communicate effectively with crews, dispatchers, and yard controllers. 

  • Maintain accurate documentation and comply with all FRA and company safety regulations. 

  • Perform additional duties as assigned. 

  • Additional information about roles and responsibilities are detailed in this video: https://vimeo.com/reviews/e66af4a7-0a87-4a01-91d4-55810ce8a147/videos/1199770035

Qualifications - Required 

  • Must be 18 years or older. 

  • Must hold a valid driver's license and have reliable transportation. 

  • Ability to report to work within 90 minutes. 

  • Clean driving record in the past 36 months, without any suspension, revocation, cancellation, or denial of your driver's license resulting from a drug or alcohol-related incident. 

  • Must not have been involved in diversion or probation or pleaded guilty to a drug or alcohol-related driving incident. 

  • Must not have refused to undergo a drug or alcohol test related to the operation of a motor vehicle. 

  • Must pass pre-employment Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) drug and alcohol screening. 

  • Must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. 

Qualifications - Preferred 

  • Experience working outdoors in various weather conditions. 

  • Experience with heavy equipment or in physically demanding roles. 

  • Experience working non-traditional shifts, on call, and/or 12+ hour shifts. 

Physical and Mental Job Requirements 

  • Ability to lift and carry up to 85 lbs. 

  • Must pass physical standards which may include but are not limited to: 

  • Hang Test 

  • Ability to hang from a rail car ladder with 3 points of contact (2 feet & 1 hand) for 1 minute 15 seconds per side. 

  • Ability to walk up to several miles per shift on uneven terrain. 

  • Ability to meet FRA medical requirements: 

  • Visual acuity (at least 20/40 in each eye separately and both together with or without corrective lenses). 

  • Color vision-ability to pass specific FRA color vision tests (lenses used to improve color vision are not permitted). 

  • Hearing-no hearing loss greater than 40B average, at 500, 1000, and 2000 in better ear (can be met with hearing aid). 

Work Conditions 

  • Work outdoors in all weather conditions. 

  • Irregular schedules, including on-call, nights, weekends, and holidays. 

  • Must be available for call 24/7. 

  • This is a safety-sensitive position requiring constant alertness while working around heavy, moving, potentially hazardous locomotive engines. 

Compensation and Benefits 

  • Conductor Trainees earn a minimum of $240 per shift during on-the-job training, with overtime at $30/hour. 

  • First-year conductors average $70,000 annually; experienced conductors average $84,000. 

  • Locomotive engineers earn a guaranteed minimum of $94,000, with potential to exceed $100,000. 

  • Medical insurance for employees and eligible dependents begins the second calendar month of employment. 

  • After one year: dental, life insurance, and 401(k) eligibility. 

  • Covered under Railroad Retirement benefits and taxes. 

Vacation Eligibility 

  • Years of Service / Weeks of Vacation *  

  • 1 year - 1 week. 

  • 2 years - 2 weeks. 

  • 8 years - 3 weeks. 

  • 17 years - 4 weeks. 

  • 25 years - 5 weeks. 

*must meet qualifying days minimum 

Company Overview

Norfolk Southern Corporation (NYSE: NSC) is a Fortune 300 organization and one of the nation's premier transportation companies. Its Norfolk Southern Railway Company subsidiary operates approximately 19,500 route miles in 22 states and the District of Columbia, serves every major container port in the eastern United States, and provides efficient connections to other rail carriers. Norfolk Southern is a major transporter of industrial products, including chemicals, agriculture, and metals and construction materials. In addition, the railroad operates the most extensive intermodal network in the East and is a principal carrier of coal, automobiles, and automotive parts.

At Norfolk Southern, we believe in celebrating our individuality. By leveraging the unique backgrounds and viewpoints of our employees, we can create a culture of innovation, respect, and inclusion. We know that employees thrive in a workplace where differing viewpoints, ideas, and experiences are freely shared and valued. As such, we encourage all employees to contribute their distinctive skills and capabilities to our organization.

Equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants regardless of race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetic information, veteran status, sexual orientation, and gender identity. Together, we power progress.

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