Train Conductor

CPKC•Baton Rouge, LA

5d•Onsite

About The Position

The Train Conductor is a foundational, unionized railway position working as part of a train crew. Conductors assist with switching rail cars, assembling and splitting trains in rail yards, and moving rail cars between yards. The role requires vigilance about personal and crew safety, unscheduled shift work, outdoor work in all types of weather, and periods away from home. The position may involve train or yard service depending on seniority. CPKC provides 15 weeks of paid classroom and field training, with opportunities for advancement to Yard Foreperson, Locomotive Engineer, or management.

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 daily on uneven ground, climbing, and lifting or pulling objects up to 80 pounds on occasion.
Be willing to work unscheduled shifts in a 24/7 operating environment, including shifts of up to 12 hours on days, evenings, overnight, weekends, and holidays.
Be able to report to work within a two-hour call window after scheduled rest.
Have strong focus, attention to detail, and multitasking ability.
Have strong communication skills, including the ability to give clear, concise instructions over the radio.
Be willing to work outdoors for extended periods in all types of weather.
Pass required physical job tasks and written examinations, and be able to read and understand safety instructions, operating rules and regulations, and other written or printed material in English.
Pass a pre-employment medical assessment, including physical, vision, and hearing assessments, and a negative company and/or regulated drug test.
Successfully complete required background checks, including criminal history, education, driver's license and driving history, Social Security Number, and Department of Transportation background verification.

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 that affect train movement.
Signal crew members about engine or train movement using designated 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 such as train orders and switch lists, and prepare clear, legible reports.
Handle emergencies, operate fire extinguishers, and apply first aid techniques.