Railway Conductor

Qualified Rate: $53.61 per hour. Please note that new hires in this role may be paid a lower hourly rate during their qualifying period. In addition, CN employees are also eligible to an employee share investment plan (ESIP), Pension, Benefits, Railroad Retirement Benefits (RRB) and other perks.

Train Conductor

At CN, we are committed to our pursuit of excellence. We take pride in delivering work of the highest standard, continually innovating to shape the railroad of the future. As responsible railroaders, we make the right decisions every time, putting safety first, acting with unwavering integrity, and holding ourselves accountable for our actions. We believe in succeeding together—by fostering inclusivity and collaboration, we sustainably deliver exceptional results for our customers.

If you enjoy working outdoors in a safety-focused environment, a rewarding career as a Train Conductor might be right for you! With a dynamic 24/7 schedule, no two days working look alike. You can expect exciting challenges, paid training, and supportive colleagues who share your passion for motion. The careers we offer are meaningful because the work we do matters. Join us and get your career moving!

Job Summary

The Train Conductor acts as a member of a 2 or 3-person train crew and performs duties associated with the movement of trains, rail cars, and locomotives in rail yards and on the road. The incumbent coordinates the assembly of trains and completes any ground‑work outside the locomotive cab while in the yard or on‑route (operating track switches, picking up rail cars and making emergency repairs).

Working Conditions

Work a flexible schedule with regular and predictable attendance, in line with the 24/7 railroading environment.

Available to work night shifts, weekends, holiday work hours, some overtime and be away from home for extended periods of time when required.

Push, pull, lift and carry up to 50 pounds occasionally and assist in the infrequent movement of weights of up to 83 pounds.

Primarily work outdoors in varying weather and environmental conditions.

Operate various devices on rail cars and locomotives, such as an uncoupling lever and handbrake.

Climb on and off ladders of rail cars.

Grasp and hold objects while riding the side of a train.

Walk for frequent extended periods, sometimes on uneven surfaces.

Bend, stoop, squat and kneel frequently.

Major Responsibilities

Ensuring compliance with all train orders, signals, and railroad rules and regulations related to safety, operation and the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA).

Providing and receiving various forms of oral and printed communication concerning the movement and placement of rail cars.

Assemble and dismantle trains in the rail yard, and pick up and set off rail cars on‑route.

Observe, interpret, and relay signals concerning train and engine movement.

Operate track switches to change locomotive and rail car routes.

Inspect the condition of a train and equipment.

Prepare necessary forms and reports.

Conductors may also be required to travel and may be away from home for more than one night at a time.

Follow company safety procedures, use common sense, and maintain an overall level of safety awareness when operating in the work environment.

Make effective decisions when in unfamiliar locations or emergency situations.

Communicate effectively with the Rail Traffic Control center, other train crews and other departments on a regular basis via handheld radio.

Requirements

Must be at least 18 years of age.

Valid driver's license.

High School Diploma or equivalence.

Meet all medical fitness for duty requirements for the position.

Proficiency in both oral and written communications (English).

Assets

Relevant work experience in similar working conditions or regulatory/safety environment.

Knowledge of signals or Railroad Operating Rules.

Post‑secondary education.

Ability to work autonomously, adapt to different situations and manage stressful situations.

Demonstrate good teamwork and maintain positive interactions with others.

Conform to operating rules and safety procedures and maintain a high level of safety awareness in the work environment, both for themselves and their colleagues.

What We Offer

Competitive wages, benefits, and pension plan.

Paid training and career development.

Medical, vision, and dental insurance.

24/7 telemedicine service.

Employee share investment plan.

Educational financial assistance program.

Employee resource groups.

Extensive employee discount program.

Employee & family assistance program.

Paid Training

Newly hired CN Conductors participate in a comprehensive paid training program at the CN Campus in Homewood, IL. Expenses related to transportation, accommodation and meals while at Campus are covered by CN.

Successful completion of the entire training program, including written exams, physical assessments, and field training, is required to work as a CN Conductor.

Successful Candidate Process

Medical assessment (including drug, hearing, and vision).

Criminal background check.

Offer letter.

Paid Training Structure

4 weeks at CN’s Campus (classroom training).

4 weeks at a CN home terminal (working on‑site with training team).

3 weeks at Campus (classroom training & knowledge checks).

45+ trips to qualify as a conductor (supervised train trips).

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement

As an equal opportunity employer, qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, and other protected status as required by applicable law.

#J-18808-Ljbffr