Conductor Engineer

Sierra Railroad Company•Fort Bragg, CA

10d•$19 - $22•Onsite

About The Position

Mendocino Railway, owner/operator of the California Western Railroad / Skunk Train and the River Fox Train, is seeking a Conductor or Train Engineer to join their team. The successful candidate must already hold Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) Engineer and/or Conductor certification. This role is responsible for the safe, efficient, and professional operation of a train, requiring strong situational awareness, sound judgment, teamwork, and strict adherence to FRA regulations, other applicable laws, operating rules, and company safety standards. As guest-facing roles, Conductors and Train Engineers will professionally communicate with and welcome passengers and guests to ensure an exceptional rail experience. Both full-time and part-time positions are available, with work including evenings, weekends, and holidays.

Requirements

Must currently hold FRA Locomotive Engineer certification (49 CFR Part 240) and/or FRA Conductor certification (49 CFR Part 242), in good standing.
Ability to receive, understand, communicate and follow verbal and written instructions in the English language.
Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting skills in a fast-paced environment.
Strong situational awareness and ability to remain focused while working in a dynamic, safety-sensitive environment.
Ability to clearly read, write, speak, hear, and understand English in person and when using radios, electronic devices, and other communication equipment.
Ability to respond calmly and effectively to changing operating conditions.
Ability to work effectively as part of a train crew and communicate professionally with coworkers, leadership, and guests.
Strong commitment to safety, regulatory compliance, and established operating procedures.
Ability to provide professional and courteous service in a guest-facing environment.
Ability to frequently lift and carry up to 30 pounds and occasionally up to 50 pounds.
Must possess a valid state-issued Driver’s License or be able to obtain one within 60 days of employment.
No DUI/DWI conviction within the previous five (5) years, per 49 CFR Part 240.111.
Must be reliable, punctual, and professional in appearance and demeanor.
Must be available to work weekends, evenings, and holidays.
Must meet all FRA vision and hearing requirements, including the ability to see and interpret hand signals from near and far, distinguish red, blue, green, yellow, and white colors, judge speed and distance of moving objects, see at night and hear auditory signals, and hear and appropriately respond to required auditory signals and communications.
Ability to work outdoors in extreme and all-weather conditions.
Ability to stand for extended periods and walk on uneven surfaces (train platforms, gravel, etc.).
Must be able to lift up to 50lbs. safely.
Ability to bend, reach, stoop, push, pull, and use hand tools.
Comfortable working in both indoor and outdoor environments and around moving rail equipment (with provided safety training).
Must be able to perform duties safely while on the tracks and a moving train.

Nice To Haves

Familiarity with FRA rules and railroad operating practices (training provided; no prior experience required).
Basic mechanical or technical experience preferred.

Responsibilities

Safely operating locomotives and trains in accordance with applicable certification, FRA regulations, company operating rules, timetable instructions, and established safety procedures.
Working closely with, taking instruction and direction from senior crew members, dispatchers, and the management team to ensure the safe movement of passengers and trains.
Maintaining continuous awareness and familiarity of train location, speed, operating conditions, operating practices, signals, track conditions, other equipment, passengers, crew members, and other potential obstructions and/or hazards, and all safety procedures.
Observing and appropriately responding to signals, signs, operating instructions, speed restrictions, and changing conditions.
Immediately reporting unsafe conditions, equipment concerns, operating irregularities, incidents, injuries, or other safety concerns in accordance with company procedures.
Maintaining all required FRA certifications and qualifications applicable to Conductors and Engineers including recurrent training, testing, certification, and qualification activities.
Performing switching of passenger and freight cars as required.
Completing required air brake tests, inspections, and other pre-departure and operational safety checks in accordance with FRA regulations and company rules.
Verifying that required inspections, tests, and safety procedures have been completed before train movement or passenger service and reporting any defects or mechanical concerns.
Coupling and uncoupling rail equipment and assisting with the movement and positioning of locomotives and railcars.
Coordinating with maintenance, mechanical, and operations personnel when equipment issues require additional attention; assisting with minor troubleshooting within training and qualifications.
Interacting in a professional and friendly manner with passengers/guests including, but not limited to, collecting tickets, assisting with passenger boarding and unloading to ensure all enter and exit trains safely, providing clear information for a welcoming onboard experience.
Monitoring passenger activity and responding appropriately to situations that could affect guest or crew safety.
Maintaining clear and timely communication regarding train movements, passenger conditions, equipment issues, and operational changes.
Using radios and other communication equipment appropriately and in accordance with established procedures.
Remaining attentive and responsive throughout the assigned shift and promptly communicating conditions that could affect safe operations.
Contributing to a positive, safe, and engaging environment for passengers and crew.
Communicating effectively with guests, crew members and supervisors to ensure seamless service.
Ensuring the safety and comfort of all passengers.
Traveling to company locations and project sites as required.
Performing other duties as assigned.