How do they match: Rail Yard Engineers, Dinkey Operators, and Hostlers

  • Rail Yard Engineers, Dinkey Operators, and Hostlers

  • Work Car Operator

  • Ride on moving cars by holding onto grab irons and standing on ladder steps.
  • Apply and release hand brakes.
  • Confer with conductors and other workers via radiotelephones or computers to exchange switching information.
  • Inspect track for defects such as broken rails and switch malfunctions.
  • Operate track switches, derails, automatic switches, and retarders to change routing of train or cars.
  • Read switching instructions and daily car schedules to determine work to be performed, or receive orders from yard conductors.
  • Report arrival and departure times, train delays, work order completion, and time on duty.
  • Signal crew members for movement of engines or trains, using lanterns, hand signals, radios, or telephones.

  • Maintain locomotives or other rail equipment in good working condition.
  • Position material handling equipment.
  • Receive information or instructions for performing work assignments.
  • Review work orders or schedules to determine operations or procedures.