How do they match: Railroad Conductors and Yardmasters

  • 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.

  • Arrange for the removal of defective cars from trains at stations or stops.
  • 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.
  • Keep records of the contents and destination of each train car, and make sure that cars are added or removed at proper points on routes.
  • Review schedules, switching orders, way bills, and shipping records to obtain cargo loading and unloading information and to plan work.
  • Supervise workers in the inspection and maintenance of mechanical equipment to ensure efficient and safe train operation.

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