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Train Conductor Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

Optical Technician

Victor, NY · On-site

$18 - $25/hr

... conductor, and energy industries. Expectations: • Produce high quality, complex optical ... to supervisor. • Cross train and assist team members. Qualifications: • Technical and ...

New

Train Conductor information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$12

$24

$32

How much do train conductor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for train conductor in Rochester, NY is $24.04, 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.

How much money does a conductor on a train make?

Train conductors typically earn a median annual salary of around $60,000, with salaries ranging from approximately $40,000 to $80,000 depending on experience, location, and employer. Conductors often work irregular hours and may need certification or training to qualify for the role.

Is it hard to get hired as a train conductor?

Getting hired as a train conductor can be competitive and typically requires meeting age and education requirements, passing background checks, and completing training programs. Candidates often need good communication skills, the ability to work irregular hours, and sometimes prior experience in transportation or customer service.

How do you become a train conductor?

To become a train conductor, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by on-the-job training provided by the employer. Some positions require a valid driver's license and good communication skills; additional certifications or safety training may also be necessary depending on the employer and region.

What are train conductors?

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 is the highest paying railroad job?

The highest paying railroad jobs are typically senior management positions such as railroad executives, as well as specialized roles like railroad engineers and signal maintainers with extensive experience. These roles often require advanced technical skills, certifications, and years of experience, and can offer salaries exceeding six figures annually.

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.

What are popular job titles related to Train Conductor jobs in Rochester, NY? For Train Conductor jobs in Rochester, NY, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Train Conductor jobs in Rochester, NY look for? The top searched job categories for Train Conductor jobs in Rochester, NY are:
What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Train Conductor jobs? Cities near Rochester, NY with the most Train Conductor job openings:

Full-time

Re-posted 28 days ago


Job description

Conductor

Join the Livonia, Avon & Lakeville Railroad Team as a Conductor. The Railroad has been serving our freight customers with pride and distinction since 1965. We are looking for someone for someone with a positive attitude and a desire to join our team. Our main office is located in Lakeville, NY, northeastern Livingston County, at the northern end of Conesus Lake, one of New York’s Finger Lakes. This reporting location for this position is Lakeville, NY.


Position Overview: Conductors/Engineers are responsible for ensuring the smooth transit of freight between destinations and working to keep the train in good condition so that everything stays on schedule.

Key Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Ensures compliance with all train orders, signals, and railroad rules and regulations for safety, operations, and the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA)
  • Develops and maintains positive working relationships with coworkers, supervisors, contractors and/or customers and effectively handle high-pressure situations
  • Operates track switches, couple cars and work on freight trains in yard operations and on the road
  • Reviews and understands instructions from dispatchers and yardmasters
  • Receives and transmits information by radio and telephone
  • Reads and understands bulletins, work orders, and switch lists
  • Works with customer service and dispatch to ensure accurate movement and placement of cars
  • Maintains awareness of surrounding area and suspicious activity to ensure rail safety

Qualifications:

Required

  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • 18 years of age or older
  • Clean motor vehicle record (MVR) in the past ten (10) years with no DUI, DWI, or reckless driving convictions
  • Must meet color vision requirements as described in the FRA Regulation
  • Demonstrate auditory and visual acuity/tracking/inspection
  • Always be alert and aware of surrounding operating environment
  • Understand oral and written communications
  • Quickly respond to visual symbols, signals and displays (sound, light, picture, etc)
  • Work a flexible schedule, which can include working various days, hours, and shifts
  • Complete annual training and pass safety operating rules examinations

Preferred

  • Previous Railroad experience
  • Experience working outdoors in variable weather conditions


Working Conditions/Physical Requirements

  • Wear protective equipment including, but not limited to, hearing protection, work boots, safety glasses, and high-visibility clothing
  • Ability to work in all weather conditions and ride on the outside of rail equipment for long periods of time
  • Availability to report to work with 2-hour advance notice
  • Federal regulations require random testing for drugs and/or alcohol
  • Bend, stoop, reach, twist, climb and work at heights up to 20 feet
  • Access confined areas
  • Push/pull up to 50 pounds, floor to waist lift 80 pounds, waist to shoulder 50 pounds and shoulder to overhead 40 pounds
  • Frequently exposed to extreme heat from equipment
  • Regularly exposed to loud noise, moving mechanical parts, diesel, grease and oil smells
  • Ability to stand and sit for an extended length of time and walk long distances for long periods of time on uneven terrain to include railroad ballast and icy ground
  • Potential exposure to high voltages

Salary range $25-$28 dollars per hour

The Livonia, Avon & Lakeville Railroad embraces diversity and equal opportunity in a serious way. We are committed to building a team that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. The more inclusive we are, the better our work will be. We do not discriminate in any employment decisions based on race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service, or other non-merit factors. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.