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Train Conductor Jobs in Racine, WI (NOW HIRING)

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Train Conductor information

See Racine, WI salary details

$11

$22

$30

How much do train conductor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for train conductor in Racine, WI is $22.85, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.29 and $26.59 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
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Train Conductor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Train Conductor job openings in Racine, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,523 per year, or $22.8 per hour.

Certified Conductor - $15,000 Bonus! Waukegan, Harvard, Crystal Lake and Kenosha

Metra

Waukegan, IL • On-site

$8.1K - $10K/mo

Other

Posted 2 days ago

New

Job description

Salary Range
$29.78
-
$37.23
Description

Metra is one of the largest and most complex commuter rail systems in North America, serving Cook, DuPage, Will, Lake, Kane, and McHenry counties. The agency is linking communities in Northeastern Illinois by providing safe, reliable and efficient service.

Conductor positions are paid on a semi-monthly guaranteed basis. The monthly salary minimum is between $8,128.80 and $10,838.40. The exact amount is dependent on years of service as a Conductor at a previous railroad. There is opportunity to earn more than the monthly salary minimum once training is completed, but that is dependent on assignments worked

The Transportation Department is responsible for providing safe, efficient and dependable transportation to commuters on all Metra-operated lines: Milwaukee North and West, Rock Island, Metra Electric, Southwest Service, North Central Service and Heritage Corridor and those lines operating under purchase of service agreements' and Union Pacific.

The primary duties include:

  • You must be available to work seven (7) days per week.
  • You may not have any regularly scheduled days off (including weekends and holidays) unless holding a regular assignment.
  • Your work hours may vary from day to day based on your seniority.
  • While marked to the Extra Board, you may be called to protect assignments in one of our Yard Facilities, where you will be working outside for long periods of time and in all types of weather conditions. Employees must be able to work outside, and you will be exposed to all weather conditions (heat, rain, ice, snow, cold).
  • Employees called to work assignments in one of Metra's yard facilities. Our yard(s) are a system of tracks within defined limits where:
    • Trains may be rearranged, (adding and/or removing cars from a train consist);
    • A location for the storage of train cars;
    • Throwing switches and lining trains onto designated tracks.
  • Employees on the Extra Board may be called to protect assignments in Commuter Service working as an Assistant Conductor, Conductor or Collector.
  • Conductors are tasked with the safe performance of switching operations ensuring on-time performance,switch alignment(s), correct car routing, delivery and pickup.

The following are descriptions of the various job functions a Train Service employee (Conductor) must be able to perform:

Train Operation and Movement:

  • Perform your duties while assuring you and your Crew are operating safely and being mindful of on-time performance. Take appropriate action when conditions threaten the safety of a Crew and/or Passengers.
  • Verbally communicate information in-person or by using radio(s), telephone(s), Public Announcement System;
  • Physically communicate by using of hand signals;
  • Receive, relay to others and act upon directives given to you by Transportation Officials, Train Dispatchers and Customer Service Personnel;
  • Communicate with Police and Emergency Response Personnel.

Switching Operations:

  • Detrain and board stationary and/or moving equipment.
  • Couple and uncouple air hoses.
  • Ride on moving equipment by holding onto grab irons, standing on platforms, and standing on ladder steps in all types of weather.
  • Adjust and align knuckles for coupling.
  • Read and align switches for train movement.
  • Understand track numbers and locations.
  • Operate various track switches and derails in order to change the routing of trains or cars.
  • Apply and release hand brakes.

Conduct Train Inspections:

  • Inspect condition(s) of a train and/or equipment by performing radio tests, brake tests, operating doors.
  • Ensure you have proper job tools and necessary inventory onboard and/or with you (uniform, company provided material (i.e. iPad, iPhone, Ticket Punch, Keys), radio, flagging kit, fire extinguisher, first aid kits.).
  • Must also inspect exterior of the train by walking the entire length of the train consist in inclement weather.

Communicate and Report Information:

  • Communicate information in-person and/or using radios, telephone, hand signals.
  • Must receive, relay and act upon directives given to you by Transportation Officials, Train Dispatchers and Customer Service personnel.
  • Communicate with police and emergency response personnel.
  • Communicate with passengers delays, fare information, and travel questions using Metra System, along with the ability deescalate disputes which may arise onboard.

Cash Fare Collection:

  • Responsible for the auditing of tickets; and collecting and remitting ticket sale monies from fare purchasing passengers.

All individuals in train service are subject to random drug testing as required by the Federal government. These are conducted during your duty hours when your name is selected by computer.

This is a Union position. Starting pay rates may vary based on entry rates in the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA).

Metra is a railroad employer subject to the provisions of the Railroad Retirement Tax Act, not the Social Security Administration.

Requirements
  • High school degree or GED or railroad experience.
  • Ability to submit work reports using electronic device(s).
  • Ability to read and understand all instructions including operating and safety rules, bulletins, special instructions, and federal regulatory documents.
  • Proficient verbal and written communication skills to deliver information to coworker(s), supervisor(s), railroad employees, and customers.

Physical Requirements

  • Ability to push, pull, lift and carry objects weighing up to 25 lbs.
  • Must have normal color vision, be able to detect and interpret different visual color signals and displays, and determine the speed of moving objects at near or far distances.
  • Have the capacity to walk, climb, and maintain balance on railcars, locomotives, stairs, ladders, uneven terrain, moving equipment, rails and ballast in a safe manner (occasionally work at heights of twelve (12) feet or more).
  • Able to perform physical work while occasionally bending, stooping, and/or kneeling.
  • Must have normal depth perception to judge the speed and distance of locomotives being moved in the service area.

Work Conditions

  • 18 years of age or older.
  • Agree to wear personal protective equipment such as safety glasses, safety boots, hard hats, and hearing protection where the company requires.
  • Agree to wear a company issued uniform while working in Commuter Service.
  • Typically required to report to your assigned work location within a 2-hour timeframe.
  • Willingness to practice safe work habits.

Preferred:

  • Experience working with, on, and around moving heavy equipment.
  • Experience working outdoors in variable weather conditions.
  • Completed a Railroad Conductor Training Course or Program.

Please note: Regardless of any state laws that legalize marijuana, Metra prohibits applicants andemployees' use or possession of marijuana (or marijuana paraphernalia), or having detectable amounts of marijuana in their bodies, including synthetic and/or non-synthetic substances such as THC for any reason for preemployment screening purposes, while on duty, subject to duty, on Metra property, or in Metra work equipment and vehicles.

Metra is committed to ensuring that our career website and recruiting process are accessible to all individuals. If you encounter difficulties or limitations in using or accessing our online application, or if you require reasonable accommodations to complete this application, participate in interviews, complete any pre-employment testing, or engage in any other aspect of the employee selection process, please direct your inquiries to RAC@Metrarr.com.

Metra is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. It is our policy to fill vacant positions with qualified candidates without regard to race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age, gender identity, disability, or any protected categories, assuming an individual can perform the essential functions of the job with or without accommodation.

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