Occupational Category: 53-4031.00 Railroad Conductors and Yardmasters

The conductors are responsible for the safe and efficient movement of freight trains. A conductor’s job includes operating track switches, couples and uncouples cars and performs other duties associated with the movement of trains, cars and engines in rail yards and on the main railroad. The conductor also receives, relays, or acts upon oral, written, or radio instructions from the dispatcher, yardmaster, or other personnel indicating switch movement, placement or delivery of railroad cars and/or train.

Primary Activities and Responsibilities

Conduct railcar and train movements; signal crew members for movement of the engine or train using hand, radio or flag signals to indicate when to start, stop, backup or set or release air brakes.

Operate track switches to change the direction of the engine or cars within yard limits or on the main railroad; apply or release hand brakes to switch or perform other duties.

Recognize sounds and colors.

Climb on/off equipment, set/release hand brakes, couple/uncouple air hoses, remove/replace broken railcar knuckle, ride moving cars by holding onto grab irons or ladders.

Judge speed and/or distance of moving objects/parts.

Getting information- observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.

Operate track switches and derails to change train routing within yards or on road.

Check switch points for proper alignment.

Observe and monitor track conditions (broken rails, defective switches, weather related problems).

Inspect cars per federal regulations.

Work in inclement weather.

Ability to work adverse shifts if necessary.

Use of Railroad radios.

Read and understand the book of rules, timetables, bulletins, train orders, waybills, placards, safety instructions, and other written or printed materials.

Required Skills/Abilities

18 years of age or older

Must be able to read, write, comprehend, and communicate (speak, hear and understand) English.

Must be able to work on and around heavy equipment.

Must be able to follow written and oral directions.

Comply with all company and FRA safety procedures, policies, and rules, including wearing required safety equipment.

Physical Requirements

Must be able to lift and carry up to 80 pounds.

Must be able to walk, stand, bend, stoop, kneel, stretch, balance, and sit for extended periods of time.

Must be able to operate tools and equipment safely and efficiently.

Must be able to use hands to hold, grasp, turn and pull.

Must be able work with loud noices, chemicals, fumes, dirt and dust.

Must be able to use phone and radios.

Must be able to perform heavy manual labor.

Must be able to work outdoors in all weather conditions, including inclement and extreme temperatures.

Valid Driver’s License

Education

High school diploma or GED

The statement in this job description reflect the general details as ncessary to describe the basic function, essential job duties/responsibilities, and job requirements typically required, and should not be considered an all-inclusive-listing of the job. Individuals may perform other duties as assigned; including work in other funtional areas to cover absences or relief, to equalize peak work periods or otherwise balance the workload.