Train Conductor: On-the-Job Training + $5K Retention

Norfolk Southern; Normal (IL); On-site; USD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Dental insurance

Life insurance

401(k) eligibility

Railroad Retirement benefits

Retention bonus

Job summary

Norfolk Southern is seeking a Train Conductor in Illinois to support safe, efficient movement of freight trains. Conductors build trains, couple railcars, deliver to customers, and inspect for safety. Training is provided with no prior railroad experience required.

Role requires 24/7 on-call availability, 2–3 days away from home weekly, and eventual union membership. Compensation includes on-the-job training pay, with strong first-year earnings and a $5,000 retention bonus after 7/1/2026.

Qualifications

• Must be 18 years or older.
• Must hold a valid driver's license and have reliable transportation.
• Ability to report to work within 90 minutes.
• Clean driving record in the past 36 months, without any suspension, revocation, cancellation, or denial of your driver's license resulting from a drug or alcohol-related incident.
• Must not have been involved in diversion or probation or pleaded guilty to a drug or alcohol-related driving incident.
• Must not have refused to undergo a drug or alcohol test related to the operation of a motor vehicle.
• Must pass pre-employment Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) drug and alcohol screening.
• Must be legally authorized to work in the U.S.

Responsibilities

• Build and inspect trains, railcars, and equipment for safe operation.
• Operate remote control locomotives and perform tasks such as coupling, aligning drawbars, applying hand brakes, and riding railcars.
• Communicate effectively with crews, dispatchers, and yard controllers.
• Maintain accurate documentation and comply with all FRA and company safety regulations.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.
• Additional information about roles and responsibilities are detailed in this video: https://next.frame.io/share/ee753722-c41b-45c7-b14c-8a77fff0cbcc/view/d60b2ce8-7039-4ff7-8015-a6f76356e46c

Job description

Norfolk Southern is seeking a Train Conductor in Illinois to support safe, efficient movement of freight trains. Conductors build trains, couple railcars, deliver to customers, and inspect for safety. Training is provided with no prior railroad experience required.

Role requires 24/7 on-call availability, 2–3 days away from home weekly, and eventual union membership. Compensation includes on-the-job training pay, with strong first-year earnings and a $5,000 retention bonus after 7/1/2026.