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Railroad Conductor Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES CONDUCTOR • Ensure compliance with all train orders, signals, and railroad rules and regulations for safety, operations, and the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA); • ...

A Freight Conductor's primary responsibility is to safely coordinate train crews on a freight train ... It provides rail, intermodal and rail-to-truck transload services and solutions to customers across ...

A Freight Conductor's primary responsibility is to safely coordinate train crews on a freight train ... It provides rail, intermodal and rail-to-truck transload services and solutions to customers across ...

A Freight Conductor's primary responsibility is to safely coordinate train crews on a freight train ... It provides rail, intermodal and rail-to-truck transload services and solutions to customers across ...

Conductor/Engineer - Hammond, IN Job Location: Hammond, IN Facility 1-46320 Office Location: Onsite ... a railroad, industrial plant, or similar location to facilitate the unloading and loading of ...

... conductors, engineers, mechanics, and MOW Team Members at Watco's Safe Performance Center • ... a railroad, industrial plant, or similar location to facilitate the unloading and loading of ...

Inspect railroad track structure for compliance with railroad policy and federal/state regulations. Train, qualify, and work with the transportation department as Conductor as needed. Detect ...

Outside Loader

Portage, IN · On-site

$18/hr

Perform Rail switching, both conductor and ground man responsibilities. * Perform proper visual inspections of tank wagons, tank cars and BLC containers prior to loading according to procedure ...

Outside Loader

Portage, IN · On-site

$18/hr

Perform Rail switching, both conductor and ground man responsibilities. * Perform proper visual inspections of tank wagons, tank cars and BLC containers prior to loading according to procedure ...

Showing results 41-60

Railroad Conductor information

See Indiana salary details

$12

$23

$31

How much do railroad conductor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 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.

Is it hard to get hired as a railroad conductor?

Getting hired as a railroad conductor can be competitive and typically requires relevant experience, a clean background check, and passing a physical exam. Employers often look for strong communication skills, safety awareness, and the ability to work irregular hours in a team environment.

Is being a railroad conductor worth it?

Railroad conductors play a key role in coordinating train operations, ensuring safety, and managing crew communication. The job often requires working irregular hours, including nights and weekends, and involves safety training and certifications. Compensation varies by experience and location but can offer stable employment with 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.

What qualifications do you need for a railroad conductor?

Railroad conductors typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with on-the-job training provided by the employer. They must have good communication skills, the ability to work in a team, and often need to pass background checks and drug tests; some positions may require certification or licensing depending on the region.

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.

What is a railroad conductor?

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.
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:
Infographic showing various Railroad Conductor job openings in Indiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,227 per year, or $23.2 per hour.

Conductor/Engineer LTRR

Patriot Rail Company

East Chicago, IN • On-site

Other

Re-posted 3 days ago


Patriot Rail rating

5.0

Company rating: 5.0 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Description

SUMMARY OF POSITION

The primary function of the Conductor/Locomotive Engineer is to maintain responsibility over the physical operation and safety of the locomotive. All train crew employees are responsible for strict adherence to safety guidelines and for completing their duties with integrity and professionalism.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

CONDUCTOR

* Ensure compliance with all train orders, signals, and railroad rules and regulations for safety, operations, and the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA);

* Review instructions from dispatchers and yardmasters, and discuss with locomotive engineer and train crew;

* Inspect all equipment on cars prior to departures;

* Accurately receive and transmit information by radio and telephone;

* Accurately read and understand bulletins, work orders, and switch lists;

* Safely 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;

* Safely and professionally work with customers to ensure accurate movement and placement of cars;

* Safely maintain awareness of surrounding area and suspicious activity to ensure rail safety;

* Comprehend color and/or hand signals and systems;

* Safely, quickly, and repeatedly make precise adjustments in moving the controls of a machine or vehicle to exact positions;

* Accurately and quickly respond (with the hand, finger, or foot) to visual symbols, signals and displays (sound, light, picture, etc.);

* Other duties as assigned including working as a transload operator.

LOCOMOTIVE ENGINEER

* Safely maintain responsibility for safe and efficient operation of the locomotive;

* Safely perform manipulation of throttle and brake controls as well as interpreting gauges and controls;

* Safely manipulate valves and switches both inside and outside of the cab;

* Safely and efficiently apply and release handbrakes;

* Safely ascend and descend steps and ladders to get on and off the equipment;

* Takes direction from conductors and brakemen;

* Safely line switches;

* Safely perform maintenance services to the locomotive (brake shoes, oil, sand and fuel);

* Always comply with all new and outstanding railroad instructions regarding the operation of the train.;

* Always comply with all federal regulations regarding the operation of the train air brakes; and

* Perform any additional duties as assigned by operations and/or management.

* Other duties as assigned including working as a transload operator

QUALIFICATIONS:

* 18 years of age or older;

* Valid Driver's License;

* 2 years verifiable work experience and/or college; railroad industry experience strongly preferred;

* Must pass all required assessments;

* Must pass a background screening;

* Federal regulations require random testing for drugs and/or alcohol;

* No driving violations involving alcohol or drugs within the past 3 years;

* Knowledge of and skills in using hand tools, including wrenches, sockets, screwdrivers, measuring tapes, etc. and skills in using power tools and hydraulic equipment, including portable grinders, rail saws, spike pullers, track wrench machines, power drills;

* Prefer experience reading and comprehending safety manuals, operating and maintenance instructions, test materials, drawings, schematics, and procedure manuals;

* Must be able to meet physical requirements of the position;

* Position requires flexible work schedule and the need to work overtime on occasion; and

* Must report to work as called on a 24-hour schedule.

CORE COMPETENCIES

* Verbal Comprehension - Understands oral and written communications (both general and technical).

* Communication Skills - Provides clear instructions/directions. Listens and adheres to operations and management guidance.

* Reasoning Skills - Demonstrates high level of skill to effectively use his/her problem solving and troubleshooting skills.

* Time Management - Values and manages time effectively. Effectively prioritizes, manages, and organizes workload and broad range of activities.

* Excellent Interpersonal Skills - Ability to communicate and collaborate with diverse personalities.

* Exceptional Organizational Skills - Demonstrates high level of organization.

* Resourcefulness - Ability to find innovate ways to overcome obstacles, problems, and unforeseen/challenging situations.

ESSENTIAL PHYSICAL DEMANDS/WORK ENVIRONMENT

* Locomotive Engineers must meet and maintain the following physical requirements:

* Must meet and maintain color vision requirements as described in the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) Regulations; and

* Must meet and maintain all hearing requirements as described in the FRA Regulations.

* The physical nature of the work will vary from day to day based on operational needs; however, the job requires that the incumbent be able to perform the following non-exhaustive list: climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, bending, crouching, crawling, reaching, standing, walking, pushing, pulling, lifting, typing, grasping, handling, feeling, talking, hearing, seeing, and repetitive motion. Employees in this position may work in cramped, confined, enclosed, or awkward places. Employees will walk long distances over uneven terrain. Heavy work requires occasional lifting, carrying, frequent pushing and pulling of up to or greater than 80 lbs. A wide range of motion is required for throwing ground and waist-level switches. Outdoor position requiring a tolerance to extreme heat, cold and wet conditions. Employees in this position must be able to work outside in all weather conditions. Perform activities in the proximity of moving equipment. Good auditory and visual acuity/tracking/inspection, accommodation, field of vision and depth perception to successfully perform duties and for general safety. Color vision is necessary for perceiving signals. Employees must wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) including but not limited to hearing protection, safety-toe boots, and safety glasses. Must be able to work outside in all weather conditions.

* This is a Safety Sensitive Position

SAFETY

Safety is the cornerstone value in our Company. Our employees are expected to live our values on the job in how we work, how we act, and how we create value. Safety is a personal responsibility. We are professionals and our activities must reflect that professionalism. Each team member must demonstrate safety advocacy every day - regardless of their role in the Company. Compliance with safety and operating rules is required and essential to our own safety and that of others.


Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.


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