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Railroad Conductor Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

L. G. Everist, Inc.

Conductor

Sioux City, IA · On-site

$22.25 - $29.25/hr

D & I Railroad Reports to: Operations Manager Job Summary: The Conductor is responsible for managing all aspects of their train and works directly with the locomotive engineer to ensure the safe ...

Patriot Rail

Engineer/Conductor KJRY

Keokuk, IA · On-site

To always ensure compliance with all train orders, signals, and railroad rules and regulations for ... To takes directions from conductors and brakemen; To safely line switches; To safely perform ...

Patriot Rail

Engineer/Conductor KJRY

Keokuk, IA · On-site

To always ensure compliance with all train orders, signals, and railroad rules and regulations for ... To takes directions from conductors and brakemen; To safely line switches; To safely perform ...

All JobsRailroad Conductor JobsRailroad Conductor Jobs in Iowa

Railroad Conductor information

See Iowa salary details

$11

$22

$30

How much do railroad conductor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for railroad conductor in Iowa is $22.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.34 and $26.63 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.
More about Railroad Conductor jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Railroad Conductor jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Railroad Conductor jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Railroad Conductor jobs in Iowa? For Railroad Conductor jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Railroad Conductor jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Railroad Conductor jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Railroad Conductor jobs in IA? For Railroad Conductor jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Railroad Conductor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Railroad Conductor job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,604 per year, or $22.9 per hour.

Conductor

L. G. Everist, Inc.

Sioux City, IA • On-site

$22.25 - $29.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

Conductor
Job Description


Department: D & I Railroad
Reports to: Operations Manager
Job Summary:
The Conductor is responsible for managing all aspects of their train and works directly with the locomotive engineer to ensure the safe movement of the train.
Supervisory Responsibilities:
Does not have any direct reports.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
• Perform switching, make-up, and break-up trains.
• Perform ground tasks of coupling and uncoupling cars, operating switches, etc.
• Maintain accurate records of cars handled, repairs performed, and track conditions encountered.
• Assist with the management of the train and daily work.
• Communicate with management, customer service, crew members, and connecting railroads.
• Follows all company safety and environmental policies and all federal regulations (OSHA, MSHA, FRA, EPA, DOT, and SDDANR, IADENR).
o Report any accidents, injuries, or near misses as soon as possible.
o Report unsafe conditions and acts, and/or correct them if within the employee’s ability.
o Request help when unsure about how to perform a job safely.
o Attend company safety meetings and get necessary safety training.
o Check-in when entering a site – and learn site-specific safety rules prior to working on site.
• All other duties assigned.


Required Skills and Abilities:
• Valid Driver’s license is required.
• Must have excellent communication skills and the ability to work with others.
• Must be detail-oriented, self-starting and able to solve problems in stressful situations.
• Must comply with all new and outstanding railroad instructions regarding the operation of train.
• Must comply with all federal regulations regarding the operation of the train air brakes.
• Must be able to pass a pre-employment drug screen.
• As an absolute condition of employment, employees are required to adhere to a nicotine, drug, and alcohol-free work environment.


Education and Experience:
• High School diploma or GED.
• FRA Certified Conductor preferred.


Physical Requirements:
• Ability to perform a variety of assigned duties in a rail yard environment.
• Ability to perform assigned job duties under time constraints and adverse conditions.
• Must pass all job and health related examinations including color vision and hearing.
• Must be able to stoop, bend, kneel, crouch, crawl, balance, climb/descend ladders.
• Must be able to ride on the outside of rail equipment for long distances.
• Must be able to walk long distances on uneven terrain.
• Must be able to lift 50 pounds occasionally and up to 85 pounds rarely.


Working Environment and Conditions:
• This position must report to work as called on a 24-hour basis, possibly away from home.
• Must be able to work in all types of weather conditions.
• Conductor will eventually be required to become locomotive engineer certified.
L. G. Everist, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer, we do not discriminate. We embrace a diverse workforce and opportunities for all qualified applicants. We are committed to having a team that represents the communities where we operate with a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, merit, and business need.
All job offers are contingent upon passing a pre-employment drug test and background check.


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