Train Conductor

Overview

Join CPKC, North America s first transnational railroad connecting the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, where your career drives progress and safety is paramount. We connect communities, fuel economic growth, and provide meaningful work in a culture that values diversity, accountability, and pride. With opportunities for training, development, and advancement, you re not just building a career—you re part of something bigger.

Together, we move goods, connect people, and create lasting change. Your future starts here.

CPKC is hiring for November - December 2025.

Signing bonus: $5,000 for new hires.

The conductor position is a foundational role in the railway and operates within the framework of the union agreement. A conductor works as a member of a train crew that assists in switching rail cars, making or splitting up trains in rail yards, or moving rail cars between rail yards. This role requires vigilance for safety and readiness for unscheduled shift work, extended time away from home, and outdoor work in all weather.

Joining CPKC as a conductor can lead to career growth as a Yard Foreperson, Locomotive Engineer, or in management.

Wondering if the conductor role is right for you? Complete this Realistic Job Preview to see if you would be a good fit for the Conductor lifestyle. Watch this video to hear an employee s perspective on what it takes to be a CPKC Conductor.

• Must be able to perform physically demanding work such as walking up to 6 miles a day on uneven ground, climbing, and lifting or pulling heavy objects (up to 80 pounds on occasion)
• Willingness to work unscheduled shift work in a 24/7 operating environment
• Working up to 12-hour shifts including days, evenings, overnight, weekends, and holidays
• Ability to report to work within a two-hour call window after scheduled rest
• Excellent focus, attention to detail, and ability to multitask
• Strong communication skills (clear and concise instructions/directions including over radio)
• Willingness to work outdoors in all weather conditions for long periods
• Must be able to pass required physical job tasks, written examinations, and read/understand safety instructions, operating rules, and other materials in English
• Must be at least 18 years old
• High school diploma or GED
• Valid driver s license

• Work in either train or yard service depending on seniority
• Carry out instructions detailing a train s route and movements
• Coordinate switching of cars, including coupling/uncoupling and lifting of coupling devices
• Observe, interpret, and relay signals and indications affecting movement
• Signal crew members for movement using signals or radio to start, stop, back up, set or release air brakes
• Maintain understanding of GCOR, general orders, and bulletins
• Provide flag protection and relay signals in emergencies
• Move on and off moving or stationary equipment
• Fill out forms including train orders and switch lists; prepare clear, legible reports
• Handle emergencies and operate fire extinguishers; apply first aid techniques

• Flexible and competitive benefits package
• Competitive pension/retirement plans
• Employee share purchase plan
• Annual fitness subsidy
• Part-time studies program

CPKC provides 15 weeks of paid in-class and field training. You ll gain a solid understanding of our safety practices, rules, and operations. You will earn $237.67 per day in classroom training and $38.84 per hour in on-the-job training. The average conductor earns approximately $117,000 annually, with the potential to earn up to $133,000.

Medical and Drug Testing

This is a safety-critical position and requires successful pre-employment medical assessment (physical, vision, hearing) and a negative company or regulated drug test. Post-hire drug testing may also be required.

Background Investigation

• Criminal history check
• Education verification
• Driver s license verification and driving history
• Social Security Number verification
• Department of Transportation background check (40.25 form)

For U.S. applicants, CPKC is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer, inclusive of protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. For Canadian applicants, CPKC is an employment equity employer committed to inclusion. We encourage all qualified candidates to apply, including women, Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC), members of the LGBTQ+ community, and people with disabilities. Accommodations for the job application process can be provided upon request.

All applicant information will be managed in accordance with PIPEDA.

• Req
• Department:
  Operations Southern Region
• Job Type: Full-Time
• Position Type:
  Union
• Location:
  
  Davenport, Iowa
• Country:
  United States
• % of Travel: 80-90%
• # of Positions: 12
• Job Available to:
  Internal & External

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