How do they match: Railroad Brake, Signal, and Switch Operators and Locomotive Firers

  • Operate or monitor railroad track switches or locomotive instruments. May couple or uncouple rolling stock to make up or break up trains. Watch for and relay traffic signals. May inspect couplings, air hoses, journal boxes, and hand brakes. May watch for dragging equipment or obstacles on rights-of-way.

  • Inspect couplings, air hoses, journal boxes, and handbrakes to ensure that they are securely fastened and functioning properly.
  • Inspect locomotives to detect damaged or worn parts.
  • Inspect tracks, cars, and engines for defects and to determine service needs, sending engines and cars for repairs as necessary.
  • Adjust controls to regulate air-conditioning, heating, and lighting on trains for comfort of passengers.
  • Ride atop cars that have been shunted, and turn handwheels to control speeds or stop cars at specified positions.

  • Inspect locomotives or other railroad equipment.
  • Control equipment that regulates vehicle traffic.
  • Record operational or production data.