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Railroad Conductor Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Norfolk Southern Corp.

Peru, IN Train Conductor

Peru, IN · On-site

$84K/yr

Conductors are responsible for the safe and efficient movement of freight trains. This includes ... No prior railroad experience is required-we provide all the training you need to succeed. What You ...

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Railroad Conductor information

See Indiana salary details

$12

$23

$31

How much do railroad conductor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for railroad conductor in Indiana is $23.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.58 and $26.97 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What railroad pays conductors the most?

Major freight railroads such as BNSF Railway, Union Pacific, and Norfolk Southern tend to offer higher salaries for conductors compared to regional or short-line railroads. Salaries can vary based on experience, location, and union agreements, with conductors at larger companies often earning higher wages and benefits.

What Does a Railroad Conductor Do?

As a railroad conductor, your job is to direct train and passenger activities, coordinate vehicle movement, and ensure everything runs on schedule. You may need to lead passengers on and off the train, ensure all freight is attached, oversee the loading and unloading of baggage, and handle any special cargo needs. Railroad conductors often work closely with yardmasters to ensure the entire train network continues to function safely and to oversee the jobs of the rest of the crew. Railroad conductors should not be confused with locomotive engineers, who operate the train under the conductor's guidance. Railroad conductors must be able to work irregular hours as well as on nights, holidays, and weekends.

Is it hard to get hired as a train conductor?

Getting hired as a train conductor can be competitive and typically requires completing a training program, passing written and practical exams, and obtaining certification. Employers often look for candidates with good communication skills, attention to safety, and the ability to work irregular hours in a team environment.

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

To thrive as a Railroad Conductor, you need knowledge of train operations, safety regulations, and communication protocols, often supported by a high school diploma and on-the-job training. Familiarity with handheld communication devices, train control systems, and safety equipment is essential for daily responsibilities. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and the ability to remain calm under pressure help conductors manage schedules and respond to emergencies. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and timely train operations.

How do you become a railroad conductor?

To become a railroad conductor, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by on-the-job training provided by the railroad company. Some employers prefer candidates with prior experience in transportation or customer service, and obtaining certification or licensing may be required depending on the region and company policies.

What qualifications do you need for a train conductor?

To become a railroad conductor, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, good communication and problem-solving skills, and the ability to pass background checks and drug tests. Some employers require completion of safety training and on-the-job experience, and a valid driver's license may be necessary for certain roles.

What are railroad conductors?

Railroad conductors are responsible for overseeing train operations, managing crew members, and ensuring the safe and timely transport of passengers or freight. They coordinate train movements, communicate with engineers and dispatchers, and check tickets or cargo documentation. Conductors also handle emergencies, enforce safety protocols, and may assist with loading and unloading cargo or passengers. Their role is vital to the smooth and secure operation of trains.

What is the difference between Railroad Conductor vs Train Engineer?

AspectRailroad ConductorTrain Engineer
CredentialsHigh school diploma, safety training, certificationsHigh school diploma, technical training, certifications
Work EnvironmentOnboard trains, switching yards, stationsLocomotive cab, train yard, tracks
Employer & IndustryRailroads, freight and passenger servicesRailroads, freight and passenger services
Primary ResponsibilitiesManaging train operations, safety, customer serviceOperating the locomotive, controlling speed and movement

While both Railroad Conductors and Train Engineers work in the rail industry, Conductors focus on managing train operations and safety onboard, whereas Train Engineers operate the locomotive itself. Both roles require safety certifications and industry experience, but their daily tasks differ significantly.

What are some common challenges faced by railroad conductors during their shifts?

Railroad conductors often encounter challenges such as managing tight schedules, coordinating with multiple crew members, and ensuring compliance with strict safety regulations. They must stay alert to changing track conditions, communicate effectively with engineers and dispatchers, and handle unexpected delays or emergencies. Adaptability, strong organizational skills, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are essential for overcoming these challenges and ensuring safe, efficient train operations.
More about Railroad Conductor jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Railroad Conductor jobs in Indiana? The most popular types of Railroad Conductor jobs in Indiana are:
What are popular job titles related to Railroad Conductor jobs in Indiana? For Railroad Conductor jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Railroad Conductor jobs in Indiana look for? The top searched job categories for Railroad Conductor jobs in Indiana are:
What cities in Indiana are hiring for Railroad Conductor jobs? Cities in Indiana with the most Railroad Conductor job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Railroad Conductor jobs in IN? For Railroad Conductor jobs in IN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Railroad Conductor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Railroad Conductor job openings in Indiana as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $48,227 per year, or $23.2 per hour.
Fort Wayne, IN Train Conductor

Fort Wayne, IN Train Conductor

Norfolk Southern

Fort Wayne, IN

$84K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 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. 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 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. 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. #J-18808-Ljbffr

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