Conductor Trainee (Alaska Railroad

Alaska Railroad Conductor Job

Performs as a member of a train crew, operates track switches and derails, observes track conditions, applies/releases hand brakes and connects/disconnects air hoses and electrical connections. Assignments may be on freight trains (fuel, gravel, coal, miscellaneous freight), passenger trains, or in the rail yard. May work out of Anchorage, Seward, Whittier, Healy, or Fairbanks terminals. Employees are not guaranteed any home terminal.

To learn the trade of a Conductor/Locomotive Engineer. Once training has been successfully completed, trainees are on a career path that requires advancement to certified Conductor, then to a certified Locomotive Engineer (approximately four to six years, dependent on ARRC manpower needs). This is the mandatory entry point for those desiring a career as a Conductor/Locomotive Engineer. Most applicants will work on a seasonal basis (approximately May 1 - Oct
1). This is a seniority based position. Please note that training is expected to begin approximately October 19, 2026.

Participates in job and safety briefings. Performs tasks involved in applying operational rules and safety practices. Participates in pre-trip "Job Briefing" reviewing all general orders, special instructions, authorities, track bulletins and notices, and in additional job briefings as situations change during the shift. Reviews bulletin board for all information pertinent to operation of train and safety information. Acts as part of a crew where communication and cooperation are critical to the safety and well-being of the crew, passengers, the general public, as well as the train, obtains, receives, relays and/or acts upon written and verbal instructions.

Observes, interprets, and relays hand, lantern, and other signals affecting movements. Delivers and picks up rail cars from customer facilities. Classifies rail cars in terminal operations. May work rail barges with extremely close clearances. Operates various designs of track switches and derails in order to change the route of engines or cars in yards or on the road. Checks switch points to make sure switch is properly lined.

Observes and monitors track conditions (i.e., broken rails, defective switches, weather-related problems). Inspects train cars or other equipment before leaving the yard or when required. Applies and releases hand brakes. Inspects passing trains and reports results to appropriate personnel. Gets on and off equipment while train or engine is performing various types of switching activities to apply/release hand brakes or other duties.

Rides moving equipment by maintaining three-points of contact with grab irons, handholds, or ladders for extended periods of time. Connects and disconnects air hoses and electrical connections. Determines the speed and clearance distance of cars. Complies with operating rules, special instructions, airbrake and train handling rules, notices, bulletins, timetable, and special instructions. Complies with CTC and track warrant authority. Follows safety rules, regulations, instructions and security operations for the protection of passengers, personnel and property.

Follows Alaska Railroad policies, procedures and practices applicable to train operations. Acts in a positive and professional manner at all times while interacting with ARRC employees, customers, and the general public. May be required to drive company vehicles. Ensures compliance with all applicable FRA regulations covering, but not limited to, certification, locomotive inspections, hazardous materials, and air brake requirements.

Skill and Knowledge:
Must be able to read, understand, and follow written instructions, rules, and procedures. Must be able to operate track switches/derails and perform switching activities. Must be able to apply/release hand brakes and connect/disconnect air hoses and electrical connections. Must be able to fill out required reports and forms in a comprehendible and legible manner. Must become General Code of Operating Rules (GCOR) qualified.

Must pass advancement/certification tests; failure to do so will result in termination of employment.

Responsibility:
Must be…