Student Conductor - Plaquemine, LA

Cosmos Plaquemine SPV LLC; Plaquemine (LA); On-site; USD 29,000 - 34,000; Full time

Job summary

Watco is hiring a Student Conductor in Plaquemine, LA. This full-time role includes paid on-the-job training to learn safe rail operations and switching of railcars.

Starting pay is $21.00 per hour, with $24.50 per hour once certified. Schedule is rotating 2-2-3 days and nights, 6am–6pm or 6pm–6am, supporting a long-term career in rail operations.

Qualifications

• Must be able to pass and obtain Conductor Certification testing within a reasonable period, typically within one year.
• Valid driver's license & TWIC card.
• Willingness to obtain locomotive engineer certification following conductor certification.

Responsibilities

• Maintain reliable and timely attendance and follow all safety procedures.
• Read switching instructions and communicate with crew members and dispatchers using radios and signals.
• Operate locomotive controls and position railcars safely.
• Inspect locomotives and equipment before and after operation and report defects.
• Maintain records of railcars moved, including car numbers and destinations.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Skills

Driver's license

TWIC card

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Job description

Career Opportunities: Student Conductor - Plaquemine, LA (33971)

Requisition ID33971-Posted10/02/2026-Switching Operations

Start a Watco Career and Discover the Difference

Keep the world's supply chain moving. That's what the Watco team does every day at our short line railroads, switching sites, terminals, ports, and logistics hubs. Whether you're at one of these locations or in a support-services role, there's one thread that ties everyone together. We're all on the same team. One Watco .
Here’s what you can expect from Watco:

• Outstanding culture recognized by Forbes and Newsweek
• Competitive compensation and benefits
• Paid on-the-job training with peer trainers
• Training for conductors, engineers, mechanics, and MOW Team Members at Watco's Safe Performance Center
• Leadership and development programs offered through Watco University
• Career advancement opportunities

Job Summary

Starting pay: $21.00 ($24.50 once certified)

Schedule: R otating 2-2-3(days/nights) 6am to 6pm and 6pm to 6am

Ready to start a career in rail? Join the Watco team as a Student Conductor and receive paid on-the-job training while learning the safe operation and switching of railcars. This full-time position offers competitive starting pay, career advancement opportunities, and the chance to build a long-term career in the rail industry.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Maintain reliable and timely attendance and follow all safety, company, and customer procedures
• Follow written and verbal instructions to complete assigned work safely and on schedule
• Inspect locomotives and equipment before and after operation and report defects or needed repairs
• Read switching instructions and communicate with crew members, dispatchers, and yard personnel using radios and visual signals
• Operate locomotive controls as trained and authorized to safely move and position railcars
• Couple and uncouple railcars, connect air hoses, operate hand brakes, and throw track switches
• Monitor tracks, equipment, and work areas for hazards or obstructions
• Perform minor repairs to couplings and air hoses and report equipment requiring additional repair
• Maintain accurate records of railcars moved, including car numbers, origins, destinations, and cargo
• Perform other duties as assigned

Qualifications

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skills, and/or abilities required. Must be able to pass and obtain all reporting, testing, and certifications as required for this position.

• Ability to pass training and required Conductor Certification testing in a reasonable period of time, typically within one year
• Valid driver's license & TWIC card
• Willingness and ability to obtain locomotive engineer certification following conductor certification

Education

Must be 18 years of age or older with High School or GED equivalent