Freight Conductor

A&K Railroad Materials Inc; Natchez (MS); On-site; USD 42,000 - 68,000; Full time

Job summary

Natchez Railway is seeking dependable, safety-minded individuals to join as Conductors in the railroad industry. You will work with train crews to move and position railcars, inspect equipment, and operate switches, contributing to safe, efficient freight movements.

The role starts with a 6-week Conductor training program, followed by advancement toward a Locomotive Engineer. Expect physical outdoor work, variable schedules, and adherence to FRA regulations.

Qualifications

• Must be 18 years of age or older.
• High school diploma or GED.
• At least 1 year of related work experience.
• Ability to read and understand written instructions, operating rules, safety procedures, and regulatory information.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Experience in construction, farming, heavy equipment, industrial work, or other outdoor environments is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate with train crews, yardmasters, dispatchers, and customers to safely move and position railcars.
• Inspect railcars and equipment before departure.
• Couple and uncouple railcars, operate switches, and assist with minor railcar repairs.
• Communicate by radio and telephone and accurately follow work orders, bulletins, and operating instructions.
• Follow all railroad safety rules and Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) regulations.
• Assist with track crew activities, equipment inspections, and general railroad maintenance as needed.
• Work as an Employee in Charge (EIC) to supervise track crews when assigned.

Skills

Safety-minded

Dependable

Physically capable

Communication skills

Education

High school diploma or GED

Job description

Description

Looking for a career that keeps you moving, offers specialized training, and gives you the opportunity to build a future in the railroad industry? Natchez Railway is looking for dependable, safety-focused individuals to join our team as Conductors.

As a Freight Conductor, you'll play an important role in the safe and efficient movement of freight trains. You'll work with train crews to move and position railcars, build and break down trains, inspect equipment, operate switches, communicate with railroad personnel and customers, and help ensure railcars are safely placed where they need to be.

What You'll Do

• Coordinate with train crews, yardmasters, dispatchers, and customers to safely move and position railcars
• Inspect railcars and equipment before departure
• Couple and uncouple railcars, operate switches, and assist with minor railcar repairs
• Communicate by radio and telephone and accurately follow work orders, bulletins, and operating instructions
• Follow all railroad safety rules and Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) regulations
• Assist with track crew activities, equipment inspections, and general railroad maintenance as needed
• Work as an Employee in Charge (EIC) to supervise track crews when assigned

Requirements

What We're Looking For

You don't need extensive railroad experience to get started. We're looking for people who are dependable, safety-minded, physically capable, and willing to learn.

Required:

• 18 years of age or older
• High school diploma or GED
• At least 1 year of related work experience
• Ability to read and understand written instructions, operating rules, safety procedures, and regulatory information
• Strong verbal and written communication skills

Experience in construction, farming, heavy equipment, industrial work, or other outdoor environments is a plus.

Training & Career Growth

Your railroad career starts with a 6-week Conductor training program that includes classroom instruction, computer-based learning, hands-on simulations, and physical training.

New hires must successfully complete the program and achieve an 85% or higher score on the final examination and qualifying trip to obtain their Conductor qualification. Successful Conductors will then be required to advance toward becoming a Locomotive Engineer.

Know What You're Signing Up For

This is a physically demanding, safety-sensitive outdoor position. Conductors may work nonstandard schedules, overtime, weekends, and holidays as operational needs require.

You must be comfortable working in varying weather conditions, climbing on and around rail equipment, walking long distances over uneven terrain, working in confined or awkward spaces, and frequently lifting up to 80 pounds.

Employees must meet applicable FRA hearing and color-vision requirements, complete required safety training and assessments, and participate in federally required random drug and alcohol testing.