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Railroad Conductor Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Watco

Conductor/Engineer - Kalamazoo, MI

Kalamazoo, MI · On-site

Conductor/Engineer - Kalamazoo, MI Job Location: Kalamazoo, MI Depot-49048 Office Location: Onsite ... a railroad, industrial plant, or similar location to facilitate the unloading and loading of ...

Watco

Conductor/Engineer - Kalamazoo, MI

Kalamazoo, MI · On-site

... 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 ...

Watco

Conductor/Engineer - Owosso, MI

Owosso, MI

... 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 ...

New

Watco

Trainmaster - Kalamazoo, MI

Kalamazoo, MI · On-site

... conductors, engineers, mechanics, and MOW Team Members at Watco's Safe Performance Center • ... railroad cars within rail yard, industrial plant, or similar locations. Facilitate loading and ...

Watco

Trainmaster - Kalamazoo, MI

Kalamazoo, MI · On-site

... conductors, engineers, mechanics, and MOW Team Members at Watco's Safe Performance Center • ... railroad cars within rail yard, industrial plant, or similar locations. Facilitate loading and ...

Watco

Chief Mechanical Officer - Owosso, MI

Owosso, MI · On-site

... conductors, engineers, mechanics, and MOW Team Members at Watco's Safe Performance Center • ... Railroad Administration reports pertaining to CMO position responsibilities • Must become ...

Watco

Track Laborer - Kalamazoo, MI

Kalamazoo, MI · On-site

$22/hr

... conductors, engineers, mechanics, and MOW Team Members at Watco's Safe Performance Center • ... railroad track infrastructure to ensure safe and efficient service for our customers. The Track ...

Watco

Track Laborer - Kalamazoo, MI

Kalamazoo, MI

$22/hr

... conductors, engineers, mechanics, and MOW Team Members at Watco's Safe Performance Center • ... railroad track infrastructure to ensure safe and efficient service for our customers. The Track ...

Watco

Chief Mechanical Officer - Owosso, MI

Owosso, MI · On-site

... conductors, engineers, mechanics, and MOW Team Members at Watco's Safe Performance Center • ... the Railroad and is responsible for daily reports, parts inventory and ordering, locomotive ...

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Showing results 21-32

All JobsRailroad Conductor JobsRailroad Conductor Jobs in Michigan

Railroad Conductor information

See Michigan salary details

$11

$21

$28

How much do railroad conductor jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for railroad conductor in Michigan is $21.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.85 and $24.71 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 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.

How many hours a day does a railroad conductor work?

Railroad conductors typically work 10 to 12 hours per day, often including overnight shifts and weekends, due to the nature of train schedules. They may work irregular hours and be on call for emergencies or delays, requiring flexibility and alertness during their shifts.

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.

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. Some positions may require a commercial driver's license or certification, and strong communication, problem-solving, and safety skills are essential for the role.
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Railroad Conductor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Railroad Conductor job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,174 per year, or $21.2 per hour.

CERTIFIED ONLY - Engineers & Conductors

Lake State Railway Company

Flint, MI • On-site

$302.18 - $323.07/day

Full-time

PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

Hello and Thank You for your interest in joining Lake State Railway Company!
LSRC is seeking applicants for that are certified as a Locomotive Engineer or Conductor.
Please see the following Train Service job description for requirements. Applicant must possess a valid FRA Locomotive Engineer or Conductor certification.
IF YOU HAVE VERIFIABLE RRB CREDIBLE SERVICE SEE BELOW FOR PTO ALLOWANCE:
LSRC offers a competitive benefit package, including credit for prior railroad experience (maximum 5 years) that can increase your personal time allotment! PTO (personal time off) is prorated for the first year of service and is then based upon calendar years of service.
Years of Service
Number of PTO Days
1st Calendar Year
Prorated by the month of hire as follows: Jan-Mar = 7 days, Apr-Jun = 5 days, Jul-Sep = 3 days, Oct = 2 days, Nov = 1 day, Dec = 0 days
2nd Calendar Year
10 Days
3rd & 4th Calendar Year
12 Days
5th - 9th Calendar Year
17 Days
10th - 14th Calendar Year
19 Days
15th - 19th Calendar Year
22 Days
20th + Calendar Year
25 Days
This safety-sensitive position will be subject to drug and alcohol screening.

Apply