Engineer​/Conductor - SS

Position Summary
The Engineer/Conductor oversees the train, freight, and crew: operates track switches, couples, and uncouples cars, places cars to facilitate loading and unloading, and positions cars and engines in rail yards and on the main railroad. The engineer operates trains safely by complying with operating rules and train handling policies to transport freight satisfactorily. They execute the mechanical operation of the train, control train speed and handling, and ensure clear communication with dispatcher and track authority.

The engineer receives, relays, or acts upon oral, written, or radio instructions from dispatcher, yardmaster, or other personnel regarding switch movement, placement, or delivery of railroad cars and/or a train. All work is performed safely, effectively, and efficiently in accordance with company policies, procedures, and Federal Railroad Association rules and regulations to meet company objectives.

• Ensure compliance with all railroad rules and regulations for safety, operation, and the FRA
• Move trains safely in the yards and over roads
• Manipulate throttle and brake controls; interpret gauges and controls
• Operate valves and switches both inside and outside of the cab, including applying and releasing hand brakes
• Operate track switches, inspect equipment on cars and use radio communications to control train movement
• Assist and instruct train crews to couple and uncouple cars, operate switches, and make minor repairs to railcars: including replacing heavy couplings or air brake hoses
• Maintain awareness of surrounding area and suspicious activity to ensure rail safety
• Review instructions from Trainmaster and discuss with train crew
• Coordinate execution of railcar switch list
• Communicate with other parties in the yard using proper hand signals and/or radio communication protocol
• Adhere to directions from conductors and brakemen
• Conduct the movement of rail cars and train movements; signal crew member(s) for movement of the engine or train using lantern, hand and flag signals, or radio to indicate when to start, stop, and back‑up or set and release air brakes
• Observe, interpret, and relay arm, lantern, or radio signals and all other indications affecting movement of a train
• Operate track switches (visually check switch condition and direction) to change the direction of the engine or cars within yard limits or on the main railroad; may apply or release hand brakes to switch or perform other duties
• Read and understand the book of rules, timetables, bulletins, train orders, waybills, placards, safety instructions, and other written or printed material
• Prepare required daily reports, switch lists (manually or with a computer), and fill out forms including train orders
• Inspect the condition of the train and equipment in movement and while stationary
• May couple air and electrical connections between locomotives when making up trains
• Judge speed and distance of moving objects or parts
• Recall information required from work activity

• Report to work as called on a 24‑hour schedule
• Work safely to prevent on the job accidents and injuries
• Wear required protective equipment such as hard hats, hearing protection, safety‑toe boots or safety glasses
• Work hours may include a non‑standard workweek, overtime and various shift work
• Perform other duties and projects as assigned

• None

• High School Diploma/GED
• 2‑3 years of Train Services experience
• Aptitude in the Transportation field and desire to learn
• Pass post‑offer job and health related examinations including operating rules examination, vision and hearing test
• Comply with all new and outstanding railroad instructions regarding the operation of the train
• Read, comprehend and comply with published rules, procedures and manuals, inspection checklists, government regulations, operating and maintenance instructions, memos and other work‑related information
• Basic computer skills in Microsoft Office Suite
• Write legibly to complete routine reports and other work documents
• Effectively communicate and demonstrate interpersonal skills with all level of…