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Railroad Conductor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Conductor is responsible for the movement of rail equipment to ensure the accurate placement of rail cars that will facilitate the loading and unloading of trains in the rail yard. Starting Rate ...

Train Conductor

Ennis, TX · On-site

$30K - $45K/yr

The Conductor is responsible for the movement of rail equipment to ensure the accurate placement of rail cars that will facilitate the loading and unloading of trains in the rail yard. Starting Rate ...

Conductor

Ferndale, WA · On-site

$30 - $34/hr

Cando provides specialized rail operating services. We provide a wide range of rail services ... Conductors with Cando are responsible for providing safe and efficient rail car switching services.

Conductor

Ferndale, WA · On-site

$30 - $34/hr

Cando provides specialized rail operating services. We provide a wide range of rail services ... Conductors with Cando are responsible for providing safe and efficient rail car switching services.

Conductor

Harrington, DE · On-site

$21.50 - $28/hr

The Conductor is responsible for coordinating the activities of train crew on freight trains and is ... Conducts the movement or rail cars and train movements * Climb on and off equipment, set or release ...

Conductor

Orlando, FL · On-site

$21 - $27.50/hr

Must be Certified as a Train Conductor (CFR Title 49, Part 242) OR three (3) or more years operational railroad experience*** Your Purpose: As an essential member of the Transportation Team, you will ...

Seasonal Conductor WMSR

Lincoln, NH · On-site

$22.25 - $29.25/hr

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES Conductor ... To always ensure compliance with all train orders, signals, and railroad rules and regulations for ...

Train Conductor

Decatur, IL · 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 ...

Train Conductor

Roanoke, VA · 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

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$12

$24

$32

How much do railroad conductor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for railroad conductor in the United States is $24.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.63 and $28.37 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.
What cities are hiring for Railroad Conductor jobs? Cities with the most Railroad Conductor job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Railroad Conductor jobs? The most popular types of Railroad Conductor jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Railroad Conductor jobs? The top employers for Railroad Conductor jobs are:
What states have the most Railroad Conductor jobs? States with the most job openings for Railroad Conductor jobs include:
What are popular job titles related to Railroad Conductor jobs? For Railroad Conductor jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Railroad Conductor job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,682 per year, or $24.4 per hour.
Train Conductor

$120K/yr

Other

Retirement

Posted 11 days ago


Canadian Pacific rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

213th of 425 rated business services


Job description

Posting Start Date: 5/18/26 Join CPKC, North America's first transnational railroad connecting U.S. Canada and Mexico, where your career drives progress and safety is paramount. We connect communities, fuel economic growth, and provide meaningful work in a culture that values diversity, accountability, and pride.

With opportunities for training, development, and advancement, you're not just building a career-you're part of something bigger. Together, we move goods, connect people, and create lasting change. Your future starts here. CPKC is hiring for September 2026. PURPOSE OF THE POSITION: The conductor position is a foundational role in the railway and operates within the framework of the union agreement.

A conductor works as a member of a train crew that assists in switching rail cars, making or splitting up trains in rail yards, or moving rail cars between rail yards. This position requires you to be vigilant about the safety of yourself and those around you. You must be prepared for unscheduled shift work, being away from home for extended periods of time and working outdoors in all types of weather. Joining CPKC as a conductor can lead to career growth as a Yard Foreperson, Locomotive Engineer or management. Wondering if the conductor role is right for you?

Complete this Realistic Job Preview to see if you would be a good fit for the Conductor lifestyle. Watch this video to hear an employee's perspective on what it takes to be a CPKC Conductor. POSITION REQUIREMENTS: * Must be able to perform work that can be physically demanding such as walking up to 6 miles a day on uneven ground, climbing up and down and lifting and pulling heavy objects (up to 80 pounds on occasion) * Willingness to work unscheduled shift work in a 24/7 operating environment * Working up to 12 hour shifts which include days, evenings, overnight, weekends and holidays * Ability to report to work within a two hour call window, after scheduled rest * Excellent focus, attention to detail and ability to multitask * Strong communication skills (provide clear and concise instructions/directions including over radio) * Willingness to work outdoors in all types of weather conditions for long periods of time * Must be able to pass the required physical job tasks for the job position, written examinations, read and understand safety instructions, read and understand operating rules and regulations and other written or printed material in English * Must be at least 18 years old * High school diploma or general equivalency * Valid driver's license * Valid United States passport, passcard or enhanced driver's license; allowing entry/re-entry to Canada POSITION ACCOUNTABILITIES: * Work in either train or yard service depending on seniority * Carry out specific instructions detailing a train's route and specific movements * Coordinate the switching of cars, including coupling and uncoupling cars and lifting out coupling device * Observe, interpret, and relay signals and other indications affecting movement of train * Signal crew members for movement of the engine or train using specific signals, or radio to indicate when to start, stop, back-up, set or release air brakes * Maintain a thorough understanding of and follow General Code of Operating Rules (GCOR), general orders and bulletins * Provide flag protection and relay signals to trains in an emergency situation * Move on and off moving or stationary equipment * Fill out forms including train orders and switch lists and prepare clear and legible reports * Handle emergency situations and operate fire extinguishers as well as be able to apply first aid techniques WHAT CPKC HAS TO OFFER: * Flexible and competitive benefits package * Competitive company pension and/or retirement plans * Employee share purchase plan * Annual fitness subsidy * Part-time studies program TRAINING PROGRAM: CPKC provides 15 weeks of paid in-class and field training. Providing you with a solid understanding of our safety practices, rules and operations.

You will earn $261.72 per day in classroom training and $42.90 per hour in on-the-job training. The average conductor earns approximately $120,000 annually, with the ability to make up to $139,000. PRE-EMPLOYMENT REQUIREMENTS: Medical and Drug Testing This is a safety critical position and a successful pre-employment medical assessment including physical, vision, hearing, and a negative company and/or regulated drug test is required. Post hire qualification drug testing may also be required. Background Investigation * Criminal history check * Education verification * Driver's license verification and driving history * Passport verification * Social Security Number verification * Department of Transportation Background Check 40.25 form CULTURE OF INCLUSION: For our U.S.

applicants, CPKC is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer, inclusive of protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. For Canadian applicants CPKC is an employment equity employer committed to the principles of employment equity and inclusion. We encourage all qualified candidates to apply including: women, Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC), members of the LGBTQ+ community and people with disabilities.

Accommodations for the job application process can be provided, as appropriate, upon request. All applicant information will be managed in accordance with the federal Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA). * Req ID: 105985 * Department: Operations Southern Region * Job Type: Full-Time * Position Type: Union * Location: St. Paul, Minnesota * Country: United States * % of Travel: 80-90% * # of Positions: 4 * Job Available to: Internal & External #LI-ONSITE #LI-HN2