Train Conductor
Not Disclosed•Full-TimeOn-site
location_onChurch Avenue Southwest, Roanoke, Virginia, 24011, United States
About the Team
At Norfolk Southern, we believe that our people power progress. Our culture is built on our SPIRIT values—Safety, Performance, Integrity, Respect, Innovation, and Teamwork—which guide how we work, lead, and grow together. As one of the nation's premier transportation companies, we invite you to join a dynamic team where your contributions directly impact the safe and efficient movement of freight across the country.
About the Role
Conductors are the backbone of our operations, responsible for the safe and efficient movement of freight trains. This role involves building trains by coupling railcars, delivering railcars to customers, transporting trains across long distances, and managing electronic documentation and inspections. You will be trained to troubleshoot train issues, report incidents, and ensure strict compliance with safety procedures.
This is a seniority-based position. You will start on the extra board, filling in where needed, until you build enough seniority to bid on a regular assignment. The role requires significant flexibility; you must be available to work on-call 24/7 with as little as 90 minutes' notice and expect to spend 2-3 days away from home weekly. Additionally, you will be required to join a union within 60 days after completing training.
Training and Development
We provide all the training you need to succeed, with no prior railroad experience required. On-the-job training lasts approximately 20 weeks, though this may extend depending on the complexity of your assigned location. The program includes classroom instruction, field training, and hands-on experience.
The first five weeks take place at the Norfolk Southern Training Center in McDonough, GA. During this period, the company provides hotel accommodations, weekly meal stipends, and travel reimbursement from your hire location. The remaining weeks are completed at your assigned location. To successfully complete the program and earn your promotion and certification, you must pass all classroom, field, and on-the-job requirements, including written exams and field evaluations covering physical characteristics, operating rules, safety, hazmat, and signal rules.
Hiring Process
Candidates must pass a pre-employment Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) drug and alcohol screening. Successful completion of the training program involves rigorous written exams and field evaluations. For more detailed information about the day-to-day realities of the role, please review the official video: Norfolk Southern Conductor Role Overview.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Norfolk Southern is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to building a diverse workforce and fostering an inclusive culture where everyone can thrive.
Work location
Work model: On-site
Church Avenue Southwest, Roanoke, Virginia, 24011, United States
Roanoke, Virginia
Key Responsibilities
- check_circleBuild and inspect trains, railcars, and equipment for safe operation
- check_circleOperate remote control locomotives and perform coupling and brake tasks
- check_circleCommunicate effectively with crews, dispatchers, and yard controllers
- check_circleMaintain accurate documentation and comply with FRA and company safety regulations
- check_circleTroubleshoot train issues and report incidents to ensure operational safety
Requirements
- verified18 years or older
- verifiedValid driver's license and reliable transportation
- verifiedAbility to report to work within 90 minutes
- verifiedClean driving record in past 36 months without drug/alcohol incidents
- verifiedNo history of diversion, probation, or guilty pleas for drug/alcohol driving incidents
- verifiedNo refusal of drug/alcohol test for motor vehicle operation
- verifiedPass pre-employment FRA drug and alcohol screening
- verifiedLegally authorized to work in the U.S.
- verifiedVisual acuity at least 20/40 in each eye
- verifiedPass FRA color vision tests
- verifiedHearing loss no greater than 40B average at 500, 1000, and 2000 Hz in better ear
Nice to Have
Experience working outdoors in various weather conditions. Experience with heavy equipment or in physically demanding roles. Experience working non-traditional shifts, on call, and/or 12+ hour shifts.
Benefits & Perks
check_circleHotel accommodations, weekly meal stipends, and travel reimbursement during trainingcheck_circleMedical insurance for employees and eligible dependents starting second monthcheck_circleDental, life insurance, and 401(k) eligibility after one yearcheck_circleCoverage under Railroad Retirement benefits and taxes
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Frequently asked questions about Train Conductor at Norfolk Southern
What does a Train Conductor at Norfolk Southern do?expand_more
In this Train Conductor at Norfolk Southern role, you will build and inspect trains, railcars, and equipment for safe operation; operate remote control locomotives and perform coupling and brake tasks; communicate effectively with crews, dispatchers, and yard controllers; and maintain accurate documentation and comply with fra and company safety regulations.
What are the requirements for this Train Conductor role?expand_more
To qualify for the Train Conductor at Norfolk Southern position, applicants should have: 18 years or older; Valid driver's license and reliable transportation; Ability to report to work within 90 minutes; Clean driving record in past 36 months without drug/alcohol incidents; No history of diversion, probation, or guilty pleas for drug/alcohol driving incidents; and No refusal of drug/alcohol test for motor vehicle operation.
Where is the Train Conductor role at Norfolk Southern located?expand_more
Train Conductor at Norfolk Southern is based in Church Avenue Southwest, Roanoke, Virginia, 24011, United States. This is a on-site role.
Is this Train Conductor job remote, hybrid, or on-site?expand_more
Norfolk Southern has listed this Train Conductor role as on-site.
How much experience is required for this Train Conductor role?expand_more
Candidates for Train Conductor at Norfolk Southern should have intern.
What skills do you need for the Train Conductor role at Norfolk Southern?expand_more
Key skills for Train Conductor at Norfolk Southern include Hazmat; Signal Rules; Operating Rules; Federal Railroad Administration; and Fra.
What category does the Train Conductor role belong to?expand_more
Train Conductor at Norfolk Southern is part of the logistics & warehouse job category on Recrutus.