Locomotive Conductor & Engineer – Safety-First Lead

Patriot Branding 2026; White Pigeon (MI); On-site; USD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Patriot is seeking a Conductor to oversee the safe, efficient operation of locomotives and to ensure strict adherence to railroad rules and safety standards. You will review dispatch instructions, inspect equipment, and communicate clearly with engineers and crews to ensure accurate movements of railcars.

The role requires physical fitness, the ability to work a flexible schedule, and the capacity to perform maintenance tasks as needed.

Qualifications

• 18 years of age or older.
• Valid Driver's License.
• 2 years verifiable work experience and/or college; railroad industry experience strongly preferred.
• Must pass all required assessments.
• Must pass a background screening.
• Federal regulations require random testing for drugs and/or alcohol.
• No driving violations involving alcohol or drugs within the past 3 years.
• Knowledge of and skills in using hand tools, including wrenches, sockets, screwdrivers, measuring tapes, etc. and skills in using power tools and hydraulic equipment, including portable grinders, rail saws, spike pullers, track wrench machines, power drills.
• Prefer experience reading and comprehending safety manuals, operating and maintenance instructions, test materials, drawings, schematics, and procedure manuals.
• Must be able to meet physical requirements of the position.
• Position requires flexible work schedule and the need to work overtime on occasion; and
• Must report to work as called on a 24-hour schedule.

Responsibilities

• Maintain responsibility over the locomotive's physical operation and safety.
• Ensure compliance with all train orders, signals, and railroad rules and regulations (FRA).
• Review dispatch instructions and discuss with locomotive engineer and train crew.
• Inspect equipment on cars prior to departures.
• Accurately receive and transmit information by radio and telephone.
• Read and understand bulletins, work orders, and switch lists.
• Assist and instruct crews to couple/uncouple cars, operate switches, and perform minor repairs to railcars.
• Work with customers to ensure correct movement and placement of cars.
• Comply with railroad safety requirements and federal regulations.

Skills

Verbal Comprehension

Communication Skills

Reasoning Skills

Time Management

Interpersonal Skills

Organizational Skills

Resourcefulness

Tools

Hand tools

Job description

Patriot is seeking a Conductor to oversee the safe, efficient operation of locomotives and to ensure strict adherence to railroad rules and safety standards. You will review dispatch instructions, inspect equipment, and communicate clearly with engineers and crews to ensure accurate movements of railcars.

The role requires physical fitness, the ability to work a flexible schedule, and the capacity to perform maintenance tasks as needed.