Train Conductor

Job Summary

The Train Conductor operates as a member of a 2 or 3‑person crew, handling the movement and assembly of trains, rail cars, and locomotives in rail yards and on the road. Duties include coordinating train assembly, performing ground‑work outside the locomotive cab, operating track switches, and conducting emergency repairs as needed.

• Flexible schedule with regular attendance in a 24/7 environment.
• Availability for night shifts, weekends, holidays, overtime, and extended travel when required.
• Physical exertion: push, pull, lift, and carry up to 50 pounds occasionally; assist with weights up to 83 pounds.
• Work outdoors under varying weather and environmental conditions.
• Operate devices on rail cars, including uncoupling levers and handbrakes.
• Climb on and off rail‑car ladders and hold objects while on the train side.
• Walk frequently, sometimes on uneven surfaces; bend, stoop, squat, and kneel regularly.

• Ensure compliance with train orders, signals, and all safety, operational, and FRA regulations.
• Communicate verbally and in writing about rail car movements.
• Assemble and dismantle trains, pick up and set off rail cars on‑route.
• Observe, interpret, and relay signals related to train and engine movement.
• Operate track switches to redirect locomotive and rail car routes.
• Inspect train and equipment conditions.
• Prepare necessary forms and reports.
• Travel as required, potentially missing more than one night at a time.
• Follow company safety procedures and maintain high safety awareness.
• Make effective decisions in unfamiliar locations or emergency situations.
• Use handheld radio to communicate with rail traffic control, other crews, and departments.

• Minimum age of 18 years.
• Valid driver's license.
• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Meet all medical fitness for duty requirements.
• Proficiency in oral and written English communication.

• Relevant work experience under similar conditions or in a regulatory/safety environment.
• Knowledge of signals or railroad operating rules.
• Post‑secondary education.
• Ability to work autonomously, adapt to varied situations, and manage stress.
• Excellent teamwork and positive interpersonal interactions.
• Adherence to operating rules and safety procedures, maintaining a high safety awareness for self and colleagues.

• Competitive wages, pension plan, and benefits.
• Paid training and career development.
• Medical, vision, and dental insurance.
• Employee Share Investment Plan.
• Educational financial assistance program.
• Employee Resource Groups.
• Extensive employee discount program.
• Employee & Family Assistance Program (EFAP).

New conductors complete a comprehensive, paid training program at CN’s campus and affiliated terminals. Training covers classroom instruction, on‑site practice, and supervised trips. Successful completion of the program, including written exams, physical assessments, and field training, is required.

• 4 weeks of classroom training at CN’s campus.
• 4 weeks working on‑site with the training team at a CN home terminal.
• 3 weeks of classroom training and knowledge checks at campus.
• 45+ supervised trips to qualify as a conductor.

As an equal opportunity employer, qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, and other protected status as required by applicable law.