Train Conductor

CPKC•Pittsburg, KS

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Train Conductor is a foundational, unionized railway role working as a member of a train crew. Conductors assist with switching rail cars, assembling and splitting trains in rail yards, and moving rail cars between rail yards. The work requires close attention to the safety of the crew and others, outdoor work in all types of weather, unscheduled shifts, and the possibility of being away from home for extended periods. Conductors may work in train or yard service depending on seniority. The role can offer career growth to Yard Foreperson, Locomotive Engineer, or management. CPKC provides 15 weeks of paid classroom and field training covering safety practices, rules, and operations. During classroom training, the rate is $29.71 per hour; during on-the-job training, it is $38.84 per hour. Once qualified, the rate is $46.34 per hour, or $43.16 per hour when working as a brakeman or road switchman. Labor agreement provisions govern if they differ from the listed rates. This is a safety-critical position requiring a successful pre-employment medical assessment, including physical, vision, and hearing assessments, and a negative company and/or regulated drug test. Post-hire qualification drug testing may also be required. Background checks include criminal history, education, driver's license and driving history, Social Security Number, and a Department of Transportation Background Check 40.25 form.

Requirements

Be at least 18 years old.
Have a high school diploma or general equivalency.
Have a valid driver's license.
Be able to perform physically demanding work, including walking up to 6 miles per day on uneven ground, climbing, and lifting or pulling heavy objects weighing up to 80 pounds on occasion.
Be willing to work unscheduled shifts in a 24/7 operating environment, including shifts up to 12 hours on days, evenings, and overnights, as well as weekends and holidays.
Be able to report to work within a two-hour call window after scheduled rest.
Have excellent focus, attention to detail, and multitasking ability.
Have strong communication skills, including the ability to give clear, concise instructions and directions over the radio.
Be willing to work outdoors for long periods in all types of weather.
Pass the required physical job tasks and written examinations.
Be able to read and understand safety instructions, operating rules and regulations, and other written or printed material in English.
Pass the required pre-employment medical assessment, including physical, vision, and hearing assessments, and a negative company and/or regulated drug test.
Complete required background investigations, including criminal history, education, driver's license and driving history, Social Security Number, and Department of Transportation Background Check 40.25 form.

Responsibilities

Work in train or yard service depending on seniority.
Carry out instructions detailing a train's route and specific movements.
Coordinate switching cars, including coupling and uncoupling cars and lifting out coupling devices.
Observe, interpret, and relay signals and other indications affecting train movement.
Signal crew members for engine or train movement using specified signals or radio, including instructions to start, stop, back up, and set or release air brakes.
Understand and follow the General Code of Operating Rules (GCOR), general orders, and bulletins.
Provide flag protection and relay signals to trains in emergency situations.
Move on and off moving or stationary equipment.
Complete forms, including train orders and switch lists, and prepare clear, legible reports.
Handle emergency situations, operate fire extinguishers, and apply first aid techniques.