How do they match: Railroad Conductors and Yardmasters

  • Engine Supervisor
  • Engineer
  • Locomotive Engineer

  • Coordinate activities of switch-engine crew within railroad yard, industrial plant, or similar location. Conductors coordinate activities of train crew on passenger or freight trains. Yardmasters review train schedules and switching orders and coordinate activities of workers engaged in railroad traffic operations, such as the makeup or breakup of trains and yard switching.

  • Confer with engineers regarding train routes, timetables, and cargoes, and to discuss alternative routes when there are rail defects or obstructions.
  • Direct engineers to move cars to fit planned train configurations, combining or separating cars to make up or break up trains.
  • Direct and instruct workers engaged in yard activities, such as switching tracks, coupling and uncoupling cars, and routing inbound and outbound traffic.
  • Instruct workers to regulate air conditioning, lighting, and heating in passenger cars to ensure passengers' comfort.
  • Instruct workers to set warning signals in front and at rear of trains during emergency stops.
  • Review schedules, switching orders, way bills, and shipping records to obtain cargo loading and unloading information and to plan work.
  • Signal engineers to begin train runs, stop trains, or change speed, using telecommunications equipment or hand signals.
  • Supervise workers in the inspection and maintenance of mechanical equipment to ensure efficient and safe train operation.
  • Verify accuracy of timekeeping instruments with engineers to ensure trains depart on time.

  • Receive information or instructions for performing work assignments.
  • Review work orders or schedules to determine operations or procedures.