Conductor/Engineer

Northern Plains Railroad, Inc.•Hallock, MN

About The Position

Northern Plains Rail Services is seeking a safety‑focused Conductor/Engineer to support rail operations through the safe movement, inspection, and operation of locomotives and rail cars. This role requires strong communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work in a demanding outdoor, industrial environment with varying schedules. The Conductor/Engineer receives, relays, and /or acts upon oral or written instructions, to ensure proper placement of locomotives and cars.

Requirements

Thorough knowledge of FRA requirements is specific to the operation and movement of trains.
Self-motivated.
Basic problem solving and root cause analytics.
Interpersonal skills: ability to solve conflicts; ability to balance team and individual responsibilities.
Strong oral and written communication; ability to speak and write clearly and informatively.
Ability to maintain professionalism and approach others in a tactful manner.
Communicate with customers and ensure a high level of customer satisfaction.
Ability to react well under pressure in high-stressed situations; accept responsibility for own actions.
Dependability and follow-through on commitments, consistently at work on time.
Observe all safety and security procedures; determine appropriate action beyond guidelines; report potentially unsafe conditions; use equipment and materials properly.
Ability to judge the speed and distances of objects or moving parts.
Strong attention to detail and safety procedures; ability to maintain focus for the entirety of the shift.
Ability to build harmonious relationships with your colleagues, customers, and supervisors.
Ability to apply principles of rational systems to solve practical problems.
Interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagrammatic, or schedule form.
3+ years Qualified Engineer & Conductor experience, preferred
GED or higher
Valid driver’s license
Must have and maintain an insurable driving status which includes but is not limited to NPR driver provisions.
Pass a mandatory drug test to maintain a drug-free workplace. Random, reasonable suspicion and post-accident testing may also be required throughout employment.
Undergo a thorough physical examination to ensure the requirements of the position can be met.
Provide professional references to validate qualifications and character.
Complete a comprehensive background check to confirm suitability for the position.

Responsibilities

Perform safe locomotive operations, switching, and train assembly/disassembly
Inspect locomotives, rail cars, couplings, air hoses, and brakes to ensure FRA and company compliance
Communicate effectively with train crews, dispatchers, and operations management via radio and other approved methods
Knows and understands the requirements of FRA & OSHA/MSHA Rules and Regulations.
Oral communication via train radio with Operations Manager and train crews.
Perform switching, assembling, and disassembling trains.
Perform safe operations of the locomotive.
Properly and safely engage/release hand brakes and operate rail yard switches.
Inspect couplings and air hoses to ensure they are securely fastened.
Attend rules and safety classes and ensure all rules are followed as directed by the Company, FRA, and other governing agencies.
Inspects freight cars, locomotives, and other equipment to ensure compliance with FRA and Company rules.
Monitor gauges or meters that measure speed, amperage, battery charge, or air pressure in brake lines or in main reservoirs.
Utilizes/understand hand signals, two-way radios, and cell phones for communication with other train crew members and dispatchers.
Inspect locomotives before, during, and after each run to check fuel levels, supplies, and mechanical problems.
Prepare accurate reports as required by the Company, FRA, and other governing agencies.
Will perform work on Northern Plains Railroad as directed.