Train Conductor

Position Overview

CPKC, North America’s first transnational railroad connecting the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, is hiring a conductor. The conductor is a foundational role in the railway, operating within the framework of the union agreement. This position requires vigilance for safety, readiness for unscheduled shift work, extended periods away from home, and work outdoors in all weather.

The conductor assists in switching rail cars, making or splitting up trains in rail yards, and moving rail cars between yards. This role supports the safe and efficient movement of goods across the network.

• Must be able to perform physically demanding work, including walking up to 10 km a day on uneven ground, climbing, and lifting or pulling objects up to 80 pounds on occasion.
• Willingness to work unscheduled shift work in a 24/7 operating environment.
• Ability to work up to 12‑hour shifts that may include 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 multitasking abilities.
• Strong communication skills, including clear and concise instructions via radio.
• Willingness to work outdoors in all types of weather conditions for long periods.
• Must pass required physical job tasks, written examinations, and understand safety instructions, operating rules, and regulations in English.
• Must be at least 18 years old.
• High school diploma or general equivalency required.
• Valid driver’s license required.

• Work in train or yard service depending on seniority.
• Carry out specific instructions detailing a train’s route and movements.
• Coordinate switching of cars, including coupling, uncoupling, and lifting coupling devices.
• Observe, interpret, and relay signals and other indications affecting train movement.
• Signal crew members for engine or train movement using specific signals or radio.
• Maintain a thorough understanding of 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 safely.
• Fill out forms, including train orders and switch lists, and prepare clear and legible reports.
• Handle emergency situations and operate fire extinguishers as needed; apply first aid techniques.

• Flexible and competitive benefits package.
• Competitive company pension and/or retirement plans.
• Employee Share Purchase Plan.
• Annual fitness subsidy.
• Part‑time studies program.
• $5,000 relocation assistance for new hires moving to Revelstoke.
• Temporary lodging also available.

CPKC provides sixteen weeks of paid in‑class and field training. Trainees receive a solid understanding of safety practices, rules, and operations. Initial earnings are 80% of the job rate ($205.69 per day) during classroom training; upon completion, earnings increase to 90% of the job rate ($231.40 per day). Qualified conductors can earn $85,000 in the first year.

A successful pre‑employment medical assessment—including vision, hearing, alcohol, and drug audits—and a negative company drug test are required. Post‑hire drug testing may also be required.

• Criminal history check.
• Education verification.
• Driver’s license verification and driving history.

CPKC is an equal‑opportunity/affirmative‑action employer for U.S. applicants, inclusive of protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. For Canadian applicants, CPKC is an employment equity employer committed to the principles of employment equity and inclusion. All qualified candidates are encouraged 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 as appropriate upon request.

All applicant information will be managed in accordance with the federal Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA).