INFORMATION CENTRAL

Railroad Jobs Explained

What engineers, conductors, dispatchers, signal maintainers, track crews, mechanical workers, and other railroad employees actually do.

Locomotive Engineer

Operates the locomotive, controls speed and braking, and handles the train according to railroad rules, signals, and dispatcher authority.

Conductor

Responsible for the train's overall movement and paperwork, coordinates switching and crew duties, and works with the engineer.

Dispatcher

Controls train movements over assigned territory, authorizes routes, and coordinates traffic using signals, track warrants, or other systems.

Track Maintenance

Inspects, repairs, and maintains rail, ties, ballast, switches, and other parts of the track structure.

Signal Maintainer

Maintains the signal and train-control systems that help govern train movements.

Mechanical Department

Inspects and repairs locomotives and railcars, including brakes, wheels, traction systems, engines, and other equipment.

Yardmaster

Coordinates switching and car movements inside a yard so trains can be assembled and dispatched efficiently.

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