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What does a Railroad Conductor do?

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Brenna Goyette
Certified Professional Resume Writer, Career Expert

Published 3 min read

A railroad conductor is responsible for the safety of passengers and crew on a train. They make sure that the train is on schedule and that all of the passengers have tickets.

Railroad Conductor job duties include:

  • Check tickets to ensure passengers are boarding the correct train.
  • Greet passengers as they board and provide them with any information they may need.
  • Collect tickets from passengers.
  • Make announcements over the PA system regarding upcoming stops, arrival times, and other important information.
  • Keep an eye on passengers throughout the ride, making sure they remain seated and safe.
  • Help passengers disembark at their destination safely.
  • Signal the engineer when it is time to depart.
  • Perform visual checks of the train before departure and during stops.
  • Report any safety concerns or incidents to the proper authorities.

Railroad Conductor Job Requirements

Most railroad conductors have a high school diploma or equivalent, although some jobs may require postsecondary education, and most railroads provide on-the-job training. Some railroads may require certification from the Association of American Railroads. Conductors typically have several years of experience working as a brake, signal, or switch operator.

Railroad Conductor Skills

  • Time management
  • Communication
  • Organizational
  • Interpersonal
  • Leadership
  • Problem solving
  • Flexibility/adaptability
  • Stress management
  • Physical fitness
  • Manual dexterity
  • Attention to detail
  • Customer service

Related: Top Railroad Conductor Skills: Definition and Examples

How to become a Railroad Conductor

There are many different ways to become a railroad conductor. The most common way is to be hired by a railroad company. Some companies require applicants to have a high school diploma or equivalent, while others may require more experience, such as a bachelor's degree or previous experience working on a railroad. Some railroads also offer conductor training programs that can last up to two years.

Once hired, new conductors typically undergo a period of on-the-job training, which can last several months. During this time, they learn about the company's operating procedures and safety protocols. They also shadow experienced conductors and learn how to operate the train and its various systems.

After completing their training, conductors are responsible for the safe operation of their train and its passengers. They must adhere to strict schedules and ensure that all cargo is properly loaded and secured. In the event of an emergency, conductors must be able to take charge and safely evacuate the train.

Becoming a railroad conductor can be a rewarding career for those who are passionate about trains and rail travel. It is important to remember that safety is always the top priority, and conductors must be prepared to handle any situation that may arise.

Related: Railroad Conductor Resume Example

Related: Railroad Conductor Interview Questions (With Example Answers)

Editorial staff

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Editor

Brenna Goyette

Expert Verified

Brenna is a certified professional resume writer, career expert, and the content manager of the ResumeCat team. She has a background in corporate recruiting and human resources and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. Brenna has experience in recruiting for tech, finance, and marketing roles and has a passion for helping people find their dream jobs. She creates expert resources to help job seekers write the best resumes and cover letters, land the job, and succeed in the workplace.

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