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Railroad Conductor Jobs in Nebraska (NOW HIRING)

Summary Description Guardian Rail is proud to operate one of the country's leading freight rail ... Our Conductor/Engineers are responsible for the operation and movement of locomotives and railcars ...

Summary Description Guardian Rail is proud to operate one of the country's leading freight rail ... Our Conductor/Engineers are responsible for the operation and movement of locomotives and railcars ...

Railroad Conductor information

See Nebraska salary details

$12

$23

$31

How much do railroad conductor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for railroad conductor in Nebraska is $23.23, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.62 and $27.07 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Railroad Conductor jobs in Nebraska?

The most popular types of Railroad Conductor jobs in Nebraska are:

What are popular job titles related to Railroad Conductor jobs in Nebraska?

For Railroad Conductor jobs in Nebraska, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What are popular job titles related to Railroad Conductor jobs in NE?

For Railroad Conductor jobs in NE, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Railroad Conductor job openings in Nebraska as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,323 per year, or $23.2 per hour.

Conductor/Engineer

Guardian Rail, LLC

Grand Island, NE • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 28 days ago


Job description

Summary Description

Guardian Rail is proud to operate one of the country’s leading freight rail services and transportation companies with a large network of freight and tank car repair facilities, a nationwide network of running repair agents, and a rail services division that operates short line railroads and contract switching and transloading sites.

Our Conductor/Engineers are responsible for the operation and movement of locomotives and railcars and other railroad equipment in full compliance with all FRA, AAR, and company rules and regulations. 

Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Perform work in a safe efficient manner and wear all required PPE while performing job duties.
  • Must be able to operate locomotives, interpret train orders, railroad rules, and pass written tests to verify competency.
  • Monitors the speed, brakes, and other gauges to make sure the ride is smooth and is operating correctly.
  • Monitors track conditions for anomalies (such as broken rails, defective switches, and weather-related problems), inspects railcars in compliance with Federal Railroad Administration regulations of 49 CFR.
  • Responsible for safely and efficiently operating locomotives and trains (of primarily freight railcars).
  • Works as a conductor, or with conductors to obtain information related to train movement and track authority, acts on instructions received by means of various communication.
  • Provides information on train stops, reports, and explains accidents and unscheduled stops and delays.
  • Assemble/Switch trains per work orders, and service customers with zero errors.
  • Operate locomotives in a safe efficient manner in compliance with GCOR, ABTH, and Safety Book.
  • Conducts the movement of rail cars and train movements; signals crew member(s) for movement of the engine or train using lantern, hand and/or flag signals, or radio to indicate when to start, stop, and back up or set and release air brakes.
  • Observes, interprets, and relays arm, lantern, or radio signals and all other indications affecting the movement of a train.
  • Operates track switches (visually checks switch condition and direction) to change the direction of the engine or cars within yard limits or on the main track; may apply or release hand brakes to switch or perform other duties.
  • Reads and understands the book of rules, timetables, bulletins, train orders, waybills, placards, safety instructions, and other written or printed material.
  • Prepares required daily reports, switch lists (manually or with a computer), and fills out forms including train orders and inspection forms.
  • Inspects the condition of the train and equipment in movement and while stationary.
  • May couple air and electrical connections between locomotives when making up trains.
  • Will be cross-trained to do other rail-related duties, such as but not limited to minor track repair, servicing locomotives, and General Labor.

#Indeed123

REQUIRED EDUCATION AND CREDENTIALS:

  • High school diploma or GED
  • Valid Driver’s License
  • FRA 240 and 242 Certification

REQUIRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

  • Two years of work experience; three years of relevant experience preferred.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced, ever-changing work environment with all outdoor working conditions.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Position involves performing heavy work, lifting (up to 100 pounds), frequent or constant bending, reaching, and climbing.  Must have excellent eye-hand coordination as well as the ability to grasp. Able to operate common and specialized hand tools in performing assigned tasks. Must be able to stand or sit for extended periods of time; walking about on foot to accomplish tasks, particularly for longer distances; maintain body equilibrium to prevent falling when walking, standing, or moving about on uneven and/or slippery ground or equipment.

Must be able to pass a pre-employment Physical and Drug Screen. Must pose at least 20/40 in each eye with or without corrective lenses. An average hearing threshold (in the better ear) of 40 decibels at 500 HZ 1000 HZ and 2000 HZ, aided or unaided.  Must be able to recognize and distinguish colors displayed by signals, signs, etc.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

The location of work performed (out-of-doors) and the tools and material used in the surrounding workplace, expose the incumbent to the following conditions on a regular basis; Weather, noise (from Locomotives, air compressors, and other noisy equipment), vibrations, dust, pollen (seasonal exposure to ragweed and other vegetation).

The job requires the individual to follow standard safety procedures, be alert, and take necessary precautions (e.g., wearing/using protective clothes and equipment) to avoid injuries or health problems that may result from:

--          walking on irregular ground

--          climbing railcars

--          exposure to irritants/chemicals

--          working on/around moving equipment and other types of equipment

--          working at heights and elevations.

--          exposure to extreme cold and heat for periods of more than one hour.

--          subject to noise; loud enough to cause a worker to shout to be heard.