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Rail Conductor Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Ensure compliance with all railroad rules and regulations for safety, operation, and the FRA * Move ... Adhere to directions from conductors and brakemen * Conduct the movement of rail cars and train ...

Ensure compliance with all railroad rules and regulations for safety, operation, and the FRA * Move ... Adhere to directions from conductors and brakemen * Conduct the movement of rail cars and train ...

Great Western Railway of Colorado, LLC - Windsor, 2005 Howard Smith Ave E, Windsor, Colorado ... The Locomotive Engineer/Conductor demonstrates and adheres to the company values of: safety ...

Ensure compliance with all railroad rules and regulations for safety, operation, and the FRA * Move ... Adhere to directions from conductors and brakemen * Conduct the movement of rail cars and train ...

Ensure compliance with all railroad rules and regulations for safety, operation, and the FRA * Move ... Adhere to directions from conductors and brakemen * Conduct the movement of rail cars and train ...

Cog Railway - Engineer Job Pay Rate: $18.00/Hr. Job Summary: The Broadmoor is committed to creating ... The Engineer may also perform duties of the Train Conductor. Our employees represent the Broadmoor ...

... conductors, engineers, mechanics, and MOW Team Members at Watco's Safe Performance Center • ... Must re-rail cars and provide estimate damages at derailment sites, make out billing repair cards ...

Irrigation Specialist - Golf

Aurora, CO · On-site

$23.84 - $29.80/hr

Light rail station minutes away * On-site fitness center and overall employee well-being programs ... Our golf courses depend on a skilled specialist to manage water like a conductor leads an orchestra.

Rail Conductor information

See Colorado salary details

$13

$25

$34

How much do rail conductor jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for rail conductor in Colorado is $25.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.74 and $29.81 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a rail conductor?

Rail conductors are railway employees responsible for the safe operation and management of trains. They oversee train crews, coordinate with engineers, ensure passenger safety, and handle cargo documentation on freight trains. Conductors also communicate with dispatchers and other train staff to keep trains running on schedule and resolve any issues that arise during transit. Their role is essential for both passenger and freight rail services, requiring strong organizational and communication skills.

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

To excel as a Rail Conductor, you need a solid understanding of railway operations, safety regulations, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with railroad signaling systems, handheld communication devices, and, in some regions, completion of conductor certification programs is important. Strong communication, situational awareness, and decision-making skills help conductors manage train crews and respond to emergencies effectively. These abilities are critical for ensuring safe, efficient rail operations and maintaining compliance with strict industry standards.

What are some common challenges a rail conductor faces during their shifts?

Rail Conductors often encounter challenges such as adapting to irregular work hours, dealing with unexpected delays due to weather or track issues, and ensuring passenger or cargo safety under strict regulations. They must also communicate effectively with engineers, dispatchers, and other crew members to coordinate train movements smoothly. Additionally, conductors need to remain calm under pressure and be prepared to respond quickly to emergencies or operational changes.

What is the difference between Rail Conductor vs Train Dispatcher?

AspectRail ConductorTrain Dispatcher
CredentialsHigh school diploma, safety trainingHigh school diploma, communication skills
Work EnvironmentOnboard trains, rail yardsDispatch offices, control centers
Industry UsagePassenger and freight trainsTrain routing and scheduling

Rail Conductors are responsible for onboard safety, passenger service, and train operations, working directly on trains and in rail yards. Train Dispatchers coordinate train movements from control centers, ensuring safety and efficiency in scheduling. While both roles are vital in rail operations, Rail Conductors focus on train execution, whereas Train Dispatchers manage overall traffic flow and routing.

Do rail conductors make a lot of money?

Rail conductors typically earn a median annual salary of around $50,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, location, and the employer. They often work irregular hours and must pass certification and safety training to qualify for the role.

How do I get a job as a rail conductor?

To become a rail conductor, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, and must pass background checks and drug tests. Training is usually provided by the employer, covering safety procedures, operating rules, and customer service skills. Prior experience in transportation or customer service can be beneficial, and a valid driver's license may be required for some positions.

Is it hard to get hired as a rail conductor?

Getting hired as a rail conductor can be competitive, as it often requires passing written exams, background checks, and physical assessments. Relevant experience, good communication skills, and a clean safety record can improve chances of employment in this role.

What qualifications do you need for a rail conductor?

Rail conductors typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and must complete on-the-job training provided by the employer. Good communication skills, the ability to work in a team, and a valid driver's license or certification may also be required, along with passing background checks and drug tests.

What cities in Colorado are hiring for Rail Conductor jobs?

Cities in Colorado with the most Rail Conductor job openings:

Infographic showing various Rail Conductor job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,293 per year, or $25.6 per hour.

Engineer/Conductor - GWR

Windsor, CO • On-site

OmniTRAX
Rail Transportation • 201 - 500 employees

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

POSITION SUMMARY
The Engineer/Conductor oversees the train, freight, and crew: operates track switches, couples, and uncouples cars and places cars to facilitate loading and unloading, places cars and engines in rail yards and on the main railroad; operates trains safely by complying with operating rules and train handling policies to transport freight in a satisfactory manner. Executes the mechanical operation of the train, train speed, and handling. Ensures clear communication with dispatcher and track authority; receives, relays, or acts upon oral, written, or radio instructions from dispatcher, yardmaster or other personnel indicating the switch movement, placement, or delivery of railroad cars and/or a train. Performs work safely, effectively, and efficiently in accordance with company policies and procedures and Federal Railroad Association rules and regulations to meet company objectives.
The Locomotive Engineer/Conductor demonstrates and adheres to the company values of: safety, honesty, ownership, respect, and teamwork to ensure successful partnerships with customers and employees that result in OmniTRAX's continued success.
ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Ensure compliance with all railroad rules and regulations for safety, operation, and the FRA
  • Move trains safely in the yards and over roads
  • Manipulate throttle and brake controls; interprets gauges and controls
  • Operate valves and switches both inside and outside of the cab, including applying and releasing handbrakes
  • Operate track switches, inspect equipment on cars and use radio communications to control train movement
  • 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
  • Maintain awareness of surrounding area and suspicious activity to ensure rail safety
  • Review instructions from Trainmaster and discuss with train crew
  • Coordinate execution of railcar switch list
  • Communicate with other parties in the yard using proper hand signals and/or radio communication protocol
  • Adhere to directions from conductors and brakemen
  • Conduct the movement of rail cars and train movements; signal crew member(s) for movement of the engine or train using lantern, hand and flag signals, or radio to indicate when to start, stop, and back-up or set and release air brakes
  • Observe, interpret, and relay arm, lantern, or radio signals and all other indications affecting movement of a train
  • Operate track switches (visually checks switch condition and direction) to change the direction of the engine or cars within yard limits or on the main railroad; may apply or release hand brakes to switch or perform other duties
  • Read and understand the book of rules, timetables, bulletins, train orders, waybills, placards, safety instructions, and other written or printed material
  • Prepare required daily reports, switch lists (manually or with a computer), and fill out forms including train orders
  • Inspect the condition of the train and equipment in movement and while stationary
  • May couple air and electrical connections between locomotives when making up trains
  • Judge speed and distance of moving objects or parts
  • Recall information required from work activity

OTHER DUTIES
  • Report to work as called on a 24-hour schedule
  • Work safely to prevent on the job accidents and injuries
  • Wear required protective equipment such as: hard hats, hearing protection, safety-toe boots or safety glasses
  • Work hours may include a nonstandard workweek, overtime and various shift work
  • Perform other duties and projects as assigned

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES
  • None

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS, KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
  • High School Diploma/GED
  • 2-3 years of Train Services experience
  • Aptitude in the Transportation field and desire to learn
  • Pass post-offer job and health related examinations including: operating rules examination, vision and hearing test
  • Comply with all new and outstanding railroad instructions regarding the operation of the train
  • Read, comprehend and comply with published rules, procedures and manuals, inspection checklists, government regulations, operating and maintenance instructions, memos and other work-related information
  • Basic computer skills in Microsoft Office Suite
  • Write legibly to complete routine reports and other work documents
  • Effectively communicate and demonstrate interpersonal skills with all level of employees, and business associates in a clear concise and professional manner
  • Demonstrate problem solving and troubleshooting skills resulting in effective resolution
  • Professional integrity and accountability
  • Work in fast-paced, collaborative environment

REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS AND LICENSES
  • Valid State Driver's License
  • FRA Conductor Certified
  • FRA Locomotive Engineer Certified: required post hire

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS, KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
  • Previous experience in Rail Transportation, Supply Chain Logistics, Manufacturing and/or Oil & Gas industries

PREFERRED CERTIFICATIONS AND LICENSES
  • None

WORK ENVIRONMENT
  • Exposure to hot, cold, wet, humid, or windy conditions caused by the weather including: snow, rain, heat, and sub-freezing temps; loud noise and fumes from gas, oil and grease

COMPENSATION
    • Estimated Starting Annual Salary: $78,314.54
    • Exact starting salary is determined by merit; seniority; geographic location; education, training, and/or experience related to job duties and responsibilities
    • FLSA Status: Exempt, Not Eligible for Overtime

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
Strength
Occ
Freq
Cons
Weight/ Force
Side
Height From
Height To
Lifting - Knuckle
X
85 lb
Two Hands
0 in
46 in
Strength
Occ
Freq
Cons
Weight/ Force
Side
Height
Rotation
Grip Pattern
Pushing - Auto Rack Brake
X
83 lb
Two Hands
67.5 in
Neutral
Cylinder
Pushing - Ergo Bow Switch
X
133.7 lb
Two Hands
35 in
Neutral
Cylinder
Pulling - Pin Lifter
X
86 lb
Either
25 in
Neutral
Cylinder
Pulling - Wheel Brake Tank Car
X
129.3 lb
Right
36 in
Neutral
Hook
Pulling - Wheel Brake Hopper Car
X
136.2 lb
Right
36 in
Neutral
Hook
Pulling - Ground Switch
X
46.8 lb
Two Hands
5 in
Supinated
Cylinder
Pulling - Derail
X
57.5 lb
Two Hands
7 in
Pronated
Cylinder
Pulling - Ergo Bow Switch
X
75.1 lb
Two Hands
35 in
Neutral
Cylinder
Pulling - High Stand Switch
X
87 lb
Two Hands
36 in
Pronated
Cylinder
Pulling - Align Knuckle
X
160.4 lb
Two Hands
35 in
Neutral
Hook
Grip & Pinch
Occ
Freq
Cons
Weight/ Force
Side
Rotation
Grip Setting/Type
Hand Grip - Hose Coupling Grip
X
47 lb
Left
Neutral
3
Hand Grip - Hose Coupling Grip
X
47 lb
Right
Neutral
3
Upper Body
Occ
Freq
Cons
Description
Reaching - Below Knee
X
Extending hand(s) and arm(s) below the level of the knee.
Reaching - Over Shoulder
X
Extending hand(s) and arm(s) above shoulder level.
Reaching - Knee to Shoulder
X
Extending hand(s) and arm(s) between knee and shoulder level.
Handling - Both
X
Seizing, holding, grasping, turning, or otherwise working with hands.
Fingering - Fine Motor Manipulation
X
Picking, pinching, or otherwise working primarily with fingers.
Cervical Flexion/Extension
X
Flexing and/or extending at the cervical spine.
Rotation - Cervical
X
Rotating at the cervical spine.
Rotation - Thoracic & Lumbar
X
Rotating at the thoracic and lumbar spine.
Lower Body
Occ
Freq
Cons
Description
Sitting
X
Remaining in a seated position.
Standing
X
Remaining on one's feet in an upright position without moving about.
Walking
X
Moving about on foot.
Climbing
X
Ascending or descending between two points.
Balancing
X
Maintaining body equilibrium to prevent falling.
Stooping
X
Bending body forward by bending spine at the waist.
Kneeling - Two Knees
X
Bending legs at knees to come to rest on one or both knees.
Crouching/Squatting
X
Bending body downward and forward by bending legs and spine.
Other Physical Demands
Other Physical Demands
Occ
Freq
Cons
Type/Position/Description
Vision
X
Per FRA Requirements
Hearing
X
Per FRA Requirements
*Occ = Occasional; defined as 1-33% of a usual and customary workday.
*Freq = Frequent; defined as 34-66% of a usual and customary workday.
*Cons = Constant; defined as 67-100% of a usual and customary workday.
** Not all tasks required at each location. Position and physical demand is representative, but individualized assessment may be necessary.