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Trainee Conductor Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

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Trainee Conductor information

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$13

$20

$34

How much do trainee conductor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for trainee conductor in Indiana is $20.12, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.62 and $23.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How do you get a job as a Train Conductor?

To become a train conductor, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, and must pass background checks and drug tests. Relevant skills include good communication, attention to detail, and the ability to work flexible hours; some employers also require completion of on-the-job training or certification programs. Experience in customer service or transportation can be advantageous.

Can you be a Train Conductor with no experience?

Train conductors typically require some prior experience or training in transportation or customer service, but entry-level positions may be available for candidates willing to complete company-specific training programs. Having a valid driver's license and good communication skills can be beneficial, and some employers offer on-the-job training for new hires. Prior experience is not always mandatory, but completing relevant training is essential to qualify for the role.

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

To thrive as a Trainee Conductor, you need strong attention to detail, safety awareness, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with train operating systems, safety protocols, and sometimes certifications like Personal Track Safety (PTS) are typically required. Excellent communication, problem-solving, and customer service skills help you manage passenger interactions and unexpected situations. These skills are crucial for ensuring passenger safety, maintaining efficient rail operations, and delivering a positive travel experience.

What are some common challenges faced by Trainee Conductors during their initial training period?

Trainee Conductors often encounter challenges such as adapting to irregular work hours, learning complex safety procedures, and quickly developing strong communication skills. The training period can be intensive, requiring attention to detail and the ability to handle stressful situations, such as unexpected service disruptions or customer concerns. However, most employers provide comprehensive support and mentorship, helping trainees gain confidence and proficiency in both operational and customer service aspects of the role.

Is it hard to get hired as a Train Conductor?

Getting hired as a train conductor can be competitive, as it often requires passing written exams, background checks, and physical assessments. Candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, good communication skills, and sometimes prior experience in transportation or customer service.

What are trainee conductors?

Trainee conductors are individuals who are in the process of learning to become fully qualified train conductors. They typically undergo a structured training program that includes both classroom instruction and hands-on experience on trains. During this period, they learn about train operations, safety protocols, customer service, and fare collection. The goal is to prepare them for the responsibilities of ensuring the safe and efficient operation of passenger trains. Once they successfully complete their training and any required exams, they are promoted to the position of conductor.

What does a conductor trainee do?

A conductor trainee assists experienced conductors by learning to operate trains, manage safety procedures, and understand railway operations. They typically undergo on-the-job training, develop skills in communication and safety protocols, and may work towards certification or licensing required for full conductor roles.

What is the difference between Trainee Conductor vs Conductor?

AspectTrainee ConductorConductor
Required CertificationsBasic safety and operational training, learner permitsFull certification, license to operate trains
Work EnvironmentSupervised training on trains and stationsOperating trains independently
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting with train operations, learning safety protocolsDriving trains, ensuring passenger safety

The main difference between a Trainee Conductor and a Conductor is experience and certification level. Trainee Conductors are in training, working under supervision, while Conductors are fully certified professionals responsible for train operation and passenger safety.

What are the most commonly searched types of Conductor jobs in Indiana? The most popular types of Conductor jobs in Indiana are:
What cities in Indiana are hiring for Trainee Conductor jobs? Cities in Indiana with the most Trainee Conductor job openings:
Trainee Conductor jobs near you
Fort Wayne, IN Train Conductor

Fort Wayne, IN Train Conductor

Norfolk Southern Corp.

Andrews, IN • On-site

$84K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

Description 

At Norfolk Southern, we believe that our people power progress. Our culture is built on our SPIRIT values-Safety, Performance, Integrity, Respect, Innovation, and Teamwork-which guide how we work, lead, and grow together. If you're ready to be part of a dynamic team and contribute to one of the nation's premier transportation companies, we invite you to explore the conductor role. 

Conductors are responsible for the safe and efficient movement of freight trains. This includes building trains by coupling railcars, delivering railcars to customers, transporting trains across long distances, and managing electronic documentation and inspections. You'll be trained to troubleshoot train issues, report incidents, and ensure compliance with safety procedures. No prior railroad experience is required-we provide all the training you need to succeed. 

What You Should Know 

  • This is a seniority-based job. You'll start out on the extra board, filling in where needed, until you build enough seniority to bid on a regular assignment. 

  • You must be available to work on-call, 24/7, with as little as 90 minutes' notice. 

  • Expect to spend 2-3 days away from home weekly. 

  • You will be required to join a union within 60 days after completing training. 

Training 

On the job training lasts about 20 weeks, depending on the complexity of your assigned location, this training can go beyond 20 weeks. Training includes classroom instruction, field training, and on-the-job experience. The first 5 weeks take place at the Norfolk Southern Training Center in McDonough, GA. During this time, the company provides hotel accommodations, weekly meal stipends, and travel reimbursement from your hire location. The remaining weeks of training will be completed at your assigned location. 

To successfully complete the program and earn your promotion and certification, you must pass all classroom, field, and on-the-job requirements. This includes written exams and field evaluations covering physical characteristics, operating rules, safety, hazmat, and signal rules. 

Job Responsibilities 

  • Build and inspect trains, railcars, and equipment for safe operation. 

  • Operate remote control locomotives and perform tasks such as coupling, aligning drawbars, applying hand brakes, and riding railcars. 

  • Communicate effectively with crews, dispatchers, and yard controllers. 

  • Maintain accurate documentation and comply with all FRA and company safety regulations. 

  • Perform additional duties as assigned. 

  • Additional information about roles and responsibilities are detailed in this video: https://vimeo.com/reviews/e66af4a7-0a87-4a01-91d4-55810ce8a147/videos/1199770035

Qualifications - Required 

  • Must be 18 years or older. 

  • Must hold a valid driver's license and have reliable transportation. 

  • Ability to report to work within 90 minutes. 

  • Clean driving record in the past 36 months, without any suspension, revocation, cancellation, or denial of your driver's license resulting from a drug or alcohol-related incident. 

  • Must not have been involved in diversion or probation or pleaded guilty to a drug or alcohol-related driving incident. 

  • Must not have refused to undergo a drug or alcohol test related to the operation of a motor vehicle. 

  • Must pass pre-employment Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) drug and alcohol screening. 

  • Must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. 

Qualifications - Preferred 

  • Experience working outdoors in various weather conditions. 

  • Experience with heavy equipment or in physically demanding roles. 

  • Experience working non-traditional shifts, on call, and/or 12+ hour shifts. 

Physical and Mental Job Requirements 

  • Ability to lift and carry up to 85 lbs. 

  • Must pass physical standards which may include but are not limited to: 

  • Hang Test 

  • Ability to hang from a rail car ladder with 3 points of contact (2 feet & 1 hand) for 1 minute 15 seconds per side. 

  • Ability to walk up to several miles per shift on uneven terrain. 

  • Ability to meet FRA medical requirements: 

  • Visual acuity (at least 20/40 in each eye separately and both together with or without corrective lenses). 

  • Color vision-ability to pass specific FRA color vision tests (lenses used to improve color vision are not permitted). 

  • Hearing-no hearing loss greater than 40B average, at 500, 1000, and 2000 in better ear (can be met with hearing aid). 

Work Conditions 

  • Work outdoors in all weather conditions. 

  • Irregular schedules, including on-call, nights, weekends, and holidays. 

  • Must be available for call 24/7. 

  • This is a safety-sensitive position requiring constant alertness while working around heavy, moving, potentially hazardous locomotive engines. 

Compensation and Benefits 

  • Conductor Trainees earn a minimum of $240 per shift during on-the-job training, with overtime at $30/hour. 

  • First-year conductors average $70,000 annually; experienced conductors average $84,000. 

  • Locomotive engineers earn a guaranteed minimum of $94,000, with potential to exceed $100,000. 

  • Medical insurance for employees and eligible dependents begins the second calendar month of employment. 

  • After one year: dental, life insurance, and 401(k) eligibility. 

  • Covered under Railroad Retirement benefits and taxes. 

Vacation Eligibility 

  • Years of Service / Weeks of Vacation *  

  • 1 year - 1 week. 

  • 2 years - 2 weeks. 

  • 8 years - 3 weeks. 

  • 17 years - 4 weeks. 

  • 25 years - 5 weeks. 

*must meet qualifying days minimum 

Company Overview

Norfolk Southern Corporation (NYSE: NSC) is a Fortune 300 organization and one of the nation's premier transportation companies. Its Norfolk Southern Railway Company subsidiary operates approximately 19,500 route miles in 22 states and the District of Columbia, serves every major container port in the eastern United States, and provides efficient connections to other rail carriers. Norfolk Southern is a major transporter of industrial products, including chemicals, agriculture, and metals and construction materials. In addition, the railroad operates the most extensive intermodal network in the East and is a principal carrier of coal, automobiles, and automotive parts.

At Norfolk Southern, we believe in celebrating our individuality. By leveraging the unique backgrounds and viewpoints of our employees, we can create a culture of innovation, respect, and inclusion. We know that employees thrive in a workplace where differing viewpoints, ideas, and experiences are freely shared and valued. As such, we encourage all employees to contribute their distinctive skills and capabilities to our organization.

Equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants regardless of race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetic information, veteran status, sexual orientation, and gender identity. Together, we power progress.

#IND

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