Train Conductor

CPKC•Elkhart, IN

5d•Onsite

About The Position

The Train Conductor is a foundational, unionized railway operations role and works as part of a train crew. Conductors assist with switching rail cars, assembling or splitting trains in rail yards, and moving rail cars between rail yards. The role requires a strong focus on personal and crew safety, readiness for unscheduled shifts, extended periods away from home, and outdoor work in varied weather. The position can provide a path to roles such as Yard Foreperson, Locomotive Engineer, or management. CPKC provides 15 weeks of paid classroom and field training covering safety practices, rules, and operations. Classroom training pays $261.72 per day, and on-the-job training pays $42.90 per hour. The posting states that the average conductor earns approximately $120,000 annually, with the ability to earn up to $139,000.

Requirements

Be at least 18 years old.
Have a high school diploma or general equivalency.
Have a valid driver's license.
Have a valid United States passport, passcard, or enhanced driver's license allowing entry to and re-entry from Canada.
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.
Be able to walk up to 6 miles per day on uneven ground, climb up and down, and lift and pull heavy objects, including up to 80 pounds on occasion.
Be willing to work outdoors for long periods in all types of weather.
Have strong focus, attention to detail, and the ability to multitask.
Have strong communication skills, including the ability to give clear and concise instructions over the radio.
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.
Successfully complete a pre-employment medical assessment, including physical, vision, and hearing assessments, and receive a negative company and/or regulated drug test result.
Pass required background checks and verifications, including criminal history, education, driver's license and driving history, passport, Social Security Number, and Department of Transportation background checks.

Responsibilities

Work in train or yard service depending on seniority.
Carry out instructions detailing a train’s route and specific movements.
Coordinate the switching of 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 about engine or train movements using prescribed signals or radio, including when 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.