Conductor - Dewey, OK

About the Role

Control and coordinate train movements while switching railcars in yards, industrial plants, or similar locations to facilitate the safe and efficient loading and unloading of railcars. This is a manual labor position requiring proficiency in specific skills, duties, and requirements within a prescribed training and introductory period.

Responsibilities

• Demonstrate predictable, reliable, and timely attendance.
• Follow written and verbal directions to complete assigned tasks on schedule.
• Read, write, and communicate in English and understand basic math.
• Learn from directions, observations, and mistakes, applying procedures using good judgment.
• Read switching orders from a designated person and supervise/coordinate activities of train crews.
• Receive oral or written instructions from a Manager or Customer regarding which cars to switch.
• Notify the engineer of switching orders and direct car movements to specified yard locations using radio, verbal, or hand signals.
• Communicate with crew or yard workers via radio to exchange switching information.
• Confer with train dispatchers via radio to issue or receive information about stops, delays, or oncoming trains.
• Instruct workers to throw track switches and couple/uncouple cars; may assist in these activities.
• Apply and release handbrakes using hand brake wheels or ratchet-type brakes.
• Observe tracks to detect obstructions.
• Maintain records of car numbers, origin, destination, and cargo.
• Coordinate switching crew activities from the locomotive cab, caboose, or control tower.
• Couple or uncouple cars by raising the coupling lever.
• Throw track switches to facilitate car shunting and signal the engineer using lanterns, arm signals, or radio.
• Connect air hoses to cars when making up trains, applying force as needed.
• Set warning signals (flares, flags, or lanterns) during emergency stops to warn oncoming trains.
• Sit or ride in the locomotive cab to observe signals from other crew members.
• Perform minor repairs to couplings and air hoses; report equipment requiring major repairs.
• Communicate with Dispatchers via radio to exchange switching information.

Qualifications

• Ability to perform each essential duty satisfactorily.
• Must pass all required reporting, testing, and certifications for this position.
• High School diploma or GED equivalent.

Benefits

• Outstanding culture recognized by Forbes and Newsweek.
• Competitive compensation and benefits.
• Paid on-the-job training with peer trainers.
• Training for conductors, engineers, mechanics, and MOW Team Members at Watco's Safe Performance Center.
• Leadership and development programs offered through Watco University.
• Career advancement opportunities.