ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Railroad Conductor Trainee Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Genesee & Wyoming Inc

Conductor

Patterson, CA

$30.26/hr

Are you ready to build a rewarding career in the railroad industry? Join the Genesee & Wyoming Inc ... Conductor trainee $30.26 per hr., Qualified conductor $33.62 per hr. This position is employed by ...

New

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsRailroad Conductor JobsRailroad Conductor Trainee Jobs

Railroad Conductor Trainee information

See salary details

$13

$21

$36

How much do railroad conductor trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for railroad conductor trainee in the United States is $21.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $24.28 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What should I expect during the training period as a Railroad Conductor Trainee?

As a Railroad Conductor Trainee, you can expect a comprehensive training program that combines classroom instruction with hands-on, on-the-job experience under the guidance of experienced conductors. Training typically covers topics such as safety regulations, operating procedures, emergency response, and the proper use of signaling equipment. You will participate in field exercises, shadow seasoned professionals, and be evaluated on your ability to communicate effectively and make critical decisions in a dynamic environment. This period is essential for building a solid understanding of railroad operations and prepares you for greater responsibility as you progress toward becoming a certified conductor.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Railroad Conductor Trainee position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Railroad Conductor Trainee, you need strong attention to detail, physical stamina, and a high school diploma or equivalent as a foundation. Familiarity with train operation protocols, safety procedures, and sometimes certification in railroad operations or rules (like FRA certification) is often required. Excellent communication, situational awareness, and the ability to work well under pressure are key soft skills for this position. These skills and qualifications are vital to ensure the safe, efficient, and coordinated movement of trains and crews.

What is a Railroad Conductor Trainee job?

A Railroad Conductor Trainee is an entry-level position where individuals learn to operate trains, manage railcar movement, and ensure safety procedures are followed. Trainees work under experienced conductors, assisting with switching, coupling, and inspecting railcars. The role involves outdoor work in various weather conditions and irregular hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays. Successful completion of the training program can lead to a full-time railroad conductor position.

More about Railroad Conductor Trainee jobs
What cities are hiring for Railroad Conductor Trainee jobs? Cities with the most Railroad Conductor Trainee job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Railroad Conductor jobs? The most popular types of Railroad Conductor jobs are:
What states have the most Railroad Conductor Trainee jobs? States with the most job openings for Railroad Conductor Trainee jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Railroad Conductor Trainee jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Railroad Conductor Trainee jobs are:
Railroad Conductor Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Railroad Conductor Trainee job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 8% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,990 per year, or $21.1 per hour.
Conductor Trainee

Conductor Trainee

Northern Plains Railroad, Inc.

Hallock, MN • On-site

$25 - $28/hr

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

Looking for a New Career? We'll Train You!
No experience? No problem. We provide comprehensive on-the-job training and support to help you build the skills you need to succeed.


Summary:

The Conductor Trainee receives, relays, and /or acts upon oral or written instructions under the guidance of qualified personnel, to ensure proper placement of locomotives and cars. This role is a training position designed to develop the knowledge, skills, and abilities required to become a qualified conductor.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities are, but are not limited to:

  • Learn and understand the requirements of GCOR & OSHA/MSHA Rules and Regulations.
  • Participate in on-the-job training with qualified conductors and supervisors.
  • Observe and progressively assist with communication via train radio with Operations Manager and train crews.
  • Support the completion of Daily Track Reports and learn reporting expectations across shifts.
  • Follow all operating rules, policies, and guidelines while in training.
  • Successfully complete all required training toward conductor qualification.
  • Learn to read and interpret orders, schedules, and other written instructions discuss their contents with other crew members.
  • Assist in performing switching, assembling, and disassembling trains under supervision.
  • Learn to properly and safely engage/release hand brakes and operate rail yard switches.
  • Participate in inspections of couplings and air hoses to ensure they are securely fastened.
  • Attend and successfully complete all required rules and safety classes and ensure all rules are followed as directed by the Company, GCOR, and other governing agencies.
  • Learn to inspect freight cars, locomotives, and other equipment to ensure compliance with GCOR and Company rules.
  • Learn to monitor gauges or meters that measure speed, amperage, battery charge, or air pressure in brake lines or in main reservoirs.
  • Learn to observe & report track conditions and obstructions.
  • Learn proper use of hand signals, two-way radios and cell phones for communication with other train crew members.
  • Assist with locomotive inspections before, during, and after each run to check fuel levels, supplies, and mechanical problems.
  • Learn to prepare accurate reports as required by the Company, GCOR, and other governing agencies.
  • Any other duties assigned by the Company.
  • Shifts may include morning, afternoon, and evening.
  • Will perform work on Northern Plains Railroad as directed.


Competencies:

To perform this job successfully, an individual should demonstrate the following competencies:

  • Previous conductor experience, preferred.
  • Past knowledge of FRA or GCOR requirements specific to the operation and movement of trains, preferred.
  • Self-motivated.
  • Basic problem solving and root cause analytics.
  • Interpersonal skills: ability to solve conflict; ability to balance team and individual responsibilities.
  • Strong oral and written communication; ability to speak and write clearly and informatively.
  • Ability to maintain professionalism and approach others in a tactful manner.
  • Ability to react well under pressure in high-stressed situations; accept responsibility for own actions.
  • Dependability and follow-through on commitments & consistently at work on time.
  • Observe all safety and security procedures; determine appropriate action beyond guidelines; report potentially unsafe conditions; use equipment and materials properly.
  • Ability to judge the speed and distances of objects or moving parts.
  • Strong attention to detail and safety procedures; ability to maintain focus for the entirety of the shift.
  • Ability to build harmonious relationships with your colleagues, customers, and supervisors.
  • Ability to apply principles of rational systems to solve practical problems.
  • Interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagrammatic, or schedule form.
  • Valid driver’s license, preferred.

Physical Demands:

Reasonable accommodation may be provided to enable individuals with disabilities to meet the physical demands listed below:

  • The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to perform on uneven or slippery surfaces, platforms, ladders, equipment in all weather and temperature conditions. Most of the day could be spent standing on foot. Eye/hand coordination, hand/feet dexterity and grasping hand tools, materials & equipment is required. The employee is frequently required to perform manual labor & physical activities that require considerable use of the whole body, such as standing and lifting from various levels.
  • Additional physical demands are listed in the chart below.

Environmental:

  • Continuous: Exposure to and works in hot/cold temperatures, on-call, works outside, exposure to noise, vibration, walk on uneven or slippery surface, works with others, moving machinery & shift work.
  • Frequent: Exposure to dust/smoke & fumes/odors/grease/oil & stands on concrete.
  • Occasional: Exposure to electrical hazards, travel required, & works in wet conditions.
  • Rare: Works in cramped quarters, works inside, works alone, money handling, chemicals & toxic materials.

Education and Training:

  • GED or higher

Requirements of Joining Our Team:

Our comprehensive pre-employment process ensures the well-being and integrity of our team. To join our organization, candidates are required to:


1.    Pass a mandatory drug test to maintain a drug-free workplace. Random, reasonable suspicion and post-accident testing may also be required throughout employment.

    2.    Undergo a thorough physical examination to ensure the requirements of the position can be met.

    3.    Provide professional references to validate qualifications and character.

    4.    Complete a comprehensive background check to confirm suitability for the position.


We value transparency and the safety of our employees and customers, and these steps are essential in upholding our commitment to excellence.


Physical Demands Checklist LIFT 1

* Never (N) = Not at all * Rarely (R) = 1-5% * Occasionally (O) = 6-33% * Frequently (F) = 34-66% * Continuously (C) =

67-100%


Task

N 0%

R 1-5%

O

6-33%

F

34-66%

C

67-100%

Essential

Comments

Sitting



X





Standing




X


X


Task Continued

N 0%

R

1-5%

O

6-33%

F

34-66%

C

67-100%

Essential

Comments

Walking Distance: 600 ft




X


X


Bending/Stooping: 2 min



X



X


Sitting while twisting &

reaching above shoulder level



X



X


Crawling 10 ft


X




X


Squatting: 10 reps



X





Climbing Stairs: YMCA Step Test



X



X

NOT Pass or Fail

Climbing Ladder: 15 rungs



X



X


Balancing CTSIB-M test





X

X


Reaching- Forward




X


X


Reaching- Overhead arm’s length




X


X


Reaching Low Level




X


X


Static Push/Pull: Static push

force 50# at shoulder level



X



X


Push/Pull: 90# force at waist

level, simulate throw a switch



X



X


Shoveling



X



X


Grip Strength min. 50#



X



X


Gross & Fine coordination




X


X


Lift / Carry







Floor to Waist & Bilateral Carry

<10#



X



X


11-24 #



X



X


25-34 #



X



X


35-50 #


X






Environmental Exposure








Working around moving machinery, parts & equipment




X


X


Working outside & extreme weather

conditions




X


X


Exposure to heat /humidity




X


X


Exposure to cold




X


X


Using power equipment




X


X


Slippery surfaces



X



X


Tasks Continued

N 0%

R

1-5%

O

6-33%

F

34-66%

C

67-100%

Essential

Comments

Noise





X

X


Works with others, alone,

paperwork



X



X


Dust, Smoke, Odors, Fumes,

Grease, Oil




X


X


Hearing





X

X

Hearing acuity-MEC/Medical Examiner's Certificate DOT vs FRA-DOT vs OSHA

Speech





X

X


Vision





X

X

Vision acuity-MEC/Medical Examiner's

Certificate DOT vs FRA-DOT vs Standard

Standard Vision





X

X

Standard Vision-Snellen/Ishihara/Perimetry

Works at heights




X


X


Electrical hazards



X



X


Uneven surfaces



X



X


Inhalation Exposure



X



X


Cramped quarters



X



X


Hazardous Material


X




X


Chemical Exposure



X



X


Vibration




X


X


This job description is not intended to represent a complete, comprehensive list of all duties and responsibilities that may be required in this position. There may be unplanned activities and other duties assigned. This Job Description may change at any time as declared by Management.

NPRS is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran, or any other characteristic protected under local, state, or federal statute, ordinance, or regulation. NPRS is a tradename used by Northern Plains Railroad, Inc. (NPR), Northern Plains Services, Inc. (NPS), and All Rail, Inc. (All Rail).

Apply