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Train Conductor Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Alstom

Passenger Conductor

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

Oversee all on-train employees in service delivery by adhering to Alstom service standards ... Conductors' certification in compliance with CFR 242 * Preference will be given to candidates who ...

Alstom

Passenger Conductor

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

Oversee all on-train employees in service delivery by adhering to Alstom service standards ... Conductors' certification in compliance with CFR 242 * Preference will be given to candidates who ...

Alstom

Passenger Conductor

Los Angeles, CA

Oversee all on-train employees in service delivery by adhering to Alstom service standards ... Conductors' certification in compliance with CFR 242 * Preference will be given to candidates who ...

Sonoma-Marin Area Rail Transit

Conductor

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$40.66 - $47.82/hr

Is in overall charge of the train, interacts with passengers, enforces the SMART fare ordinance, and other SMART rules and ordinances. * Citizen Arrests may be occasionally necessary. * Prepare ...

Herzog

Road Foreman of Engines

San Jose, CA

$131K - $155K/yr

The Road Foreman of Engines manages locomotive engineers and conductors, supervise train service crews to ensure the safe and efficient operations of locomotives and trains in specific areas. The pay ...

Herzog

Road Foreman of Engines

San Jose, CA · On-site

$131K - $155K/yr

The Road Foreman of Engines manages locomotive engineers and conductors, supervise train service crews to ensure the safe and efficient operations of locomotives and trains in specific areas. The pay ...

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All JobsTrain Conductor JobsTrain Conductor Jobs in California

Train Conductor information

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$12

$24

$32

How much do train conductor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for train conductor in California is $24.05, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.35 and $27.98 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is it hard to get hired as a train conductor?

Getting hired as a train conductor can be competitive and typically requires completing a training program, passing written and practical exams, and obtaining certification. Employers often look for good communication skills, attention to safety, and the ability to work irregular hours, which can make the hiring process challenging for some applicants.

How do you become a train conductor?

To become a train conductor, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, and must complete on-the-job training provided by the employer. Some positions require a valid driver's license and good communication skills, and candidates often need to pass background checks and medical exams before starting training programs.

What is a train conductor?

Train conductors are railroad employees responsible for the safe operation and coordination of trains. They oversee train crews, ensure passengers or cargo are secure, check tickets, and communicate with engineers and dispatchers. Conductors also manage schedules, handle emergencies, and enforce safety regulations. Their role is essential in maintaining efficient and safe rail transport.

What does a typical work schedule look like for a train conductor, and how flexible is it?

Train Conductors often work irregular hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays, as train schedules operate around the clock. Shifts can be long and may require being on call or working on short notice, especially in freight transport. While this can be challenging for work-life balance, seniority often brings more predictable and desirable shifts. It's important for candidates to be prepared for a dynamic schedule and adapt to varying work hours as part of the role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a train conductor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Train Conductor, you need strong knowledge of railway operations, safety regulations, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent, along with employer-provided training and certification. Familiarity with communication systems, signaling devices, and scheduling software is crucial for daily operations. Excellent communication, attention to detail, and the ability to stay calm under pressure are standout soft skills for this role. These abilities ensure passenger safety, smooth train operations, and effective coordination with crew and control centers.

What qualifications do you need for a train conductor?

Train conductors typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and must pass background checks and drug screenings. They often receive on-the-job training and may need to obtain certification or licensing depending on the region and employer requirements.

What is the difference between Train Conductor vs Train Engineer?

AspectTrain ConductorTrain Engineer
Required CertificationsState-specific conductor certifications, safety trainingCommercial driver’s license (CDL), engineer certification
Work EnvironmentPassenger cars, station platforms, onboard trainsLocomotive cab, train yard, tracks
Employer & Industry UsageRailroads, transit agencies, passenger and freight servicesRailroads, freight and passenger train companies
Primary ResponsibilitiesPassenger safety, ticketing, customer serviceOperating and controlling train movement

While both train conductors and train engineers work in the rail industry, conductors focus on passenger safety, ticketing, and customer service, whereas engineers operate the train's controls. Understanding these roles helps clarify career paths and job expectations in the rail industry.

More about Train Conductor jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Train Conductor jobs in California? The most popular types of Train Conductor jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Train Conductor jobs in California? For Train Conductor jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Train Conductor jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Train Conductor jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Train Conductor jobs? Cities in California with the most Train Conductor job openings:
Train Conductor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Train Conductor job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,018 per year, or $24 per hour.

Passenger Conductor

Alstom

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago

Alstom rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 49 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

265th of 487 rated machine equipment manufacturers

Job description

At Alstom, we understand transport networks and what moves people. From high-speed trains, metros, monorails, and trams, to turnkey systems, services, infrastructure, signalling and digital mobility, we offer our diverse customers the broadest portfolio in the industry. Every day, 80,000 colleagues lead the way to greener and smarter mobility worldwide, connecting cities as we reduce carbon and replace cars.
We are looking for Passenger Conductors for our Los Angeles, CA or outlying points (Palmdale, Oceanside, San Bernardino etc.) facility.Could you be the full-time Passenger Conductors we are looking for?
In your role as a Passenger Conductor, you will:
Be responsible for ensuring that train movements are executed safely and on time, in alignment with the objective of delivering the highest quality service to the public while adhering to all relevant rules and regulations.
Your duties include:
  • Be responsible for the safe movement of trains by adhering to applicable operating rules/practices.
  • Oversee all on-train employees in service delivery by adhering to Alstom service standards.
  • Overseeing the safe loading and unloading of passengers. Assist in boarding and detraining of passengers.
  • Attend to, resolve, and escalate customer service issues daily making all necessary announcements ensuring passenger comfort.
  • Responsible for collecting lost personal items for lost and found pickup.
  • Think and function independently utilizing clear and effective verbal communication skills to interact with passengers, crew members, and others jointly responsible for safe and efficient train movements and customer service.
  • Secure movement orders and ensure clear understanding by operating crew. Ensure pre-determined service requests are understood and carried out.
  • Maintain an understanding of operating characteristics and practices including physical characteristics, safety rules, air brake rules, electrical instructions, equipment trouble-shooting practices, and emergency procedures.
  • Physically move between and around train cars manipulating and lifting heavy air hoses, electric cables, and other railway equipment.
  • Safely ride the side of train equipment, getting on and off equipment, as required.
  • Responsible for submission of various reports to record movement delays, unusual occurrences, passenger inconveniences, and mechanical defects.
  • Responding promptly to any emergencies or incidents that may occur during operations.
  • 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 discuss with locomotive engineer and train crew.
  • Inspect all equipment on cars prior to departures.
  • Receive and transmit information by radio and telephone. Read and understand bulletins and notices.
  • 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.
  • Work with customers to ensure accurate movement and placement of cars.
  • Maintain awareness of the surrounding areas and suspicious activity to ensure rail safety
  • Comprehend color and/or hand signals and systems.
  • Quickly respond (with the hand, finger, or foot) to visual symbols, signals, and displays (sound, light, picture, etc.).
  • Other tasks as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications
  • High School diploma/GED.
  • 18 years of age or older.
  • Valid California Driver's License.
  • 2 years verifiable work experience and/or college.
  • No driving violations involving alcohol or drugs within the past 3 years.
  • Pass the Background check required for the position.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Secondary School or College graduate
  • Experience working on an on-call basis.
  • Experience working varying shift schedules.
  • Experience operating heavy equipment.
  • Mechanical experience.
  • Conductors' certification in compliance with CFR 242
  • Preference will be given to candidates who are familiar with the territory and have commuter railroad experience.

Physical Requirements
  • Medium to heavy work, lifting up to 50 pounds occasionally. Knuckles are 75 pounds and Passenger Conductors and Locomotive Engineers might have to replace.
  • Reach/handle/finger/feel.
  • Stoop/bend/kneel/crouch/crawl/balance/climb.
  • Work in an enclosed confined area (locomotive), climbing, lifting, walking and working outside in inclement weather.
  • Walk long distances over uneven terrain and surfaces.
  • Demonstrate auditory and visual acuity/tracking/inspection.
  • Must meet color vision requirements as described in the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) Regulations.
  • Pass physical examination required for the position.

Basic Competencies
  • Verbal comprehension (Understand oral and written communications--both general and technical).
  • Be fluent in English communication skills (written and spoken).
  • Communication skills (provide clear instructions/directions).
  • Reasoning skills (problem-solving and troubleshooting skills).

Employment Conditions
  • Work safely to prevent on the job accidents and injuries.
  • Wear protective equipment including hearing protection, safety-toe boots, or safety glasses.
  • Complete annual training and pass required tests.
  • Federal regulations require random testing for drugs and/or alcohol.
  • Must pass all required assessments.
  • Must be able to work on customer's property.
  • Successfully complete a pre-employment medical examination and drug screening. In accordance with 49 CFR Part 219. Alstom is obligated to obtain prior drug and alcohol testing records for applicants or employees who intend to perform safety-sensitive duties in covered Department of Transportation positions. If an applicant or employee refuses to provide written consent for Alstom to access these records, the individual will not be allowed to perform safety-sensitive functions.
  • In compliance with federal law regarding security checks of individuals in positions involving public transportation (Title 6 U.S.C. §1143), Alstom is required to screen applicants for any permanent or interim disqualifying criminal offenses.
  • May be considered for commuter Locomotive Engineer training in the future.
  • This position is governed by a collective bargaining agreement; membership is required.

Please note that Alstom is offering priority of employment to Amtrak employees currently assigned to the SCRRA Metrolink service. We recognize, however, that not all such employees may accept our offer to join Alstom and that other vacancies may arise. To address these contingencies, and given the amount of time it takes to complete the recruitment process and the tight training deadlines that Alstom must meet in order to successfully complete the transfer of services as scheduled, it is necessary for Alstom to begin active outside recruiting now for all positions. You may be contacted, have a phone screen or interview but offers of employment will not be made until we have extended offers of employment to the current Amtrak personnel eligible for our priority offering.
All terms and conditions of employment are subject to negotiation with the International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail, and Transportation Workers - Transportation Division.
Salary Range: Subject to negotiation with the International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail, and Transportation Workers - Transportation Division.
Alstom is a global company where our people vision and values embrace Diversity and Inclusion (D&I). Wherever we operate and across all our businesses, we want to create an inclusive culture in which diversity is welcomed and appreciated. By bringing together people from diverse backgrounds and giving everyone the opportunity to contribute with their knowledge, skills, experiences and perspectives, we also generate value for Alstom and its stakeholders.
Employment at Alstom is based solely on a person's merit and qualifications directly related to professional competence. Alstom does not discriminate against any employee or applicant because of race, creed, colour, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, national origin, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, pregnancy or related condition (including breastfeeding), or any other basis protected by law.
It is Alstom's policy to comply with all applicable national, state and local laws pertaining to non-discrimination and equal opportunity. The Company's Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) policy, as well as its affirmative action obligations, includes the full and complete support of the Company. Because it's just the right thing to do. We hope you think so, too.

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