Conductor/Engineer

Job Description

Conductor/Engineer is responsible for the safe operation and movement of locomotives and railcars and other railroad equipment following all FRA, AAR and Cathcart rules and regulation.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Conducts the movement of rail cars and train movements.
• Operates track switches
• Reads and understands the operating rules, train orders, safety instructions and other written or printed material
• Prepares required daily reports
• Inspects the condition of the train and equipment in movement and while stationary
• Coupling air and electrical connections between locomotives when making up trains
• Any other duties as assigned such as special projects

• High School Diploma or equivalent, preferred, but not required
• 2 years of experience in railroad related work, if available. Will train.
• Thorough knowledge of AAR Office & Field Manual rules along with FRA rules
• Understanding oral communications
• Recognizing colors
• Understanding printed/written information
• Making oneself understood orally
• Judging speed and/or distance of moving objects/parts
• Understanding visual displays
• Taking actions and/or making decisions affecting security and well-being of others
• Climbing and balancing
• Recalling information required from work activity
• Judging condition or status of objects/parts
• Exercising physical strength and endurance (able to lift 50 pounds)
• Must be able to pass a DOT physical, breath alcohol and drug screening, and a criminal background check

Working Conditions

With the exception of clerical, administrative, and some management positions, which require indoor work, the physical environment requires the employee to work both inside and outside in heat/cold, wet/humid, dry/arid and dusty conditions. The environment requires working in close proximity to moving mechanical parts, moving vehicles, in high and low precarious places, confined spaces.

The work type is best described as heavy, hands-on mechanical work. Work is very physical , and without proper work planning can result in out of position pushing, pulling and lifting. Proper body mechanics, positioning and lifting techniques can be very important. Employees are urged to seek help when needed with heavier tasks, and to use lifting equipment where necessary. The positioning of the work being performed can change very frequently. Work involves extensive walking over plant grounds to facilitate railcar movement.

Tools used: Various heavier air and electric powered tools such as car jacks, impact wrenches, and grinders may be used. Work also requires frequent use of hand wrenches, hammers, chisels, socket wrenches, and ladders.

Physical Requirement

• Climbing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, reaching, standing, walking, pushing, pulling, lifting, grasping, talking, hearing, smelling and visual acuity, with color and depth perception
• Ability to work in a confined space
• Required to use personal protective equipment as environmental conditions dictate

Various heavier air and electric powered tools such as car jacks, impact wrenches, and grinders are used daily. Work also requires frequent use of hand wrenches, hammers, chisels, socket wrenches, and ladders. Cutting torches are also used, with welding equipment used upon qualification of employee.

• Climbing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, reaching, standing, walking, pushing, pulling, lifting, grasping, talking, hearing, smelling and visual acuity, with color and depth perception
• Ability to work in a confined space
• Required to use personal protective equipment as environmental conditions dictate
• Dual certification required