Engineer/Conductor - KFR

Oversees the train, freight, and crew: operates track switches, couples and uncouples cars, places cars to facilitate loading and unloading, and positions cars and engines in rail yards and on the main railroad. Ensures safe train operation by complying with operating rules and train handling policies to transport freight efficiently. Executes mechanical operation of the train, including speed and handling, while maintaining clear communication with dispatchers and track authorities. Receives, relays, or acts on oral, written, or radio instructions regarding switch movements, railcar placement, or train delivery.

Responsibilities

• Ensure compliance with all railroad rules and regulations for safety, operation, and FRA standards.
• Move trains safely in yards and over roads.
• Manipulate throttle and brake controls; interpret gauges and controls.
• Operate valves and switches inside and outside the cab, including applying and releasing handbrakes.
• Operate track switches, inspect equipment on cars, and use radio communications to control train movement.
• Assist and instruct train crews in coupling/uncoupling cars, operating switches, and making minor railcar repairs (e.g., replacing couplings or air brake hoses).
• Maintain awareness of surroundings and suspicious activity to ensure rail safety.
• Review instructions from Trainmaster and discuss with train crew.
• Coordinate execution of railcar switch lists.
• Communicate with yard personnel using hand signals and/or radio protocols.
• Adhere to directions from conductors and brakemen.
• Conduct railcar and train movements; signal crew members using lanterns, hand/flag signals, or radio to indicate start/stop/back-up or brake operations.
• Observe, interpret, and relay arm, lantern, or radio signals affecting train movement.
• Operate track switches (visually checking condition and direction) to change engine or car direction within yard limits or on the main railroad; may apply/release hand brakes.
• Read and understand rulebooks, timetables, bulletins, train orders, waybills, placards, safety instructions, and other written materials.
• Prepare daily reports, switch lists (manually or via computer), and complete forms including train orders.
• Inspect train and equipment condition while in motion and stationary.
• Couple air and electrical connections between locomotives when making up trains.
• Judge speed and distance of moving objects or parts.
• Recall information required from work activity.
• Report to work as called on a 24-hour schedule.
• Work safely to prevent on-the-job accidents and injuries.
• Wear required protective equipment (e.g., hard hats, hearing protection, safety-toe boots, safety glasses).
• Perform other duties and projects as assigned.

Requirements

• High School Diploma or GED.
• 2-3 years of Train Services experience.
• Aptitude in the Transportation field and desire to learn.
• Pass post-offer job and health-related examinations, including operating rules examination, vision, and hearing tests.
• Comply with all railroad instructions regarding train operation.
• Read, comprehend, and comply with published rules, procedures, manuals, inspection checklists, government regulations, and operating/maintenance instructions.
• Basic computer skills in Microsoft Office Suite.
• Write legibly to complete routine reports and documents.
• Effectively communicate and demonstrate interpersonal skills with employees and business associates.
• Demonstrate problem-solving and troubleshooting skills for effective resolution.
• Professional integrity and accountability.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.

Qualifications

• Valid State Driver’s License.
• FRA Conductor Certified.
• FRA Locomotive Engineer Certified (required post-hire).

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous experience in Rail Transportation, Supply Chain Logistics, Manufacturing, and/or Oil & Gas industries.

Work Environment

• Exposure to hot, cold, wet, humid, or windy conditions (e.g., snow, rain, heat, sub-freezing temperatures).
• Loud noise and fumes from gas, oil, and grease.

Physical Requirements

Strength (Occasional, Frequent, Constant)

• Lifting (Knuckle Height): Up to 85 lb (Two Hands, 0–46 in).
• Pushing:
  • Auto Rack Brake: 83 lb (Two Hands, 67.5 in, Neutral Cylinder).
  • Ergo Bow Switch: 133.7 lb (Two Hands, 35 in, Neutral Cylinder).
• Pulling:
  • Pin Lifter: 86 lb (Either Hand, 25 in, Neutral Cylinder).
  • Wheel Brake (Tank Car): 129.3 lb (Right Hand, 36 in, Neutral Hook).
  • Wheel Brake (Hopper Car): 136.2 lb (Right Hand, 36 in, Neutral Hook).
  • Ground Switch: 46.8 lb (Two Hands, 5 in, Supinated Cylinder).
  • Derail: 57.5 lb (Two Hands, 7 in, Pronated Cylinder).
  • Ergo Bow Switch: 75.1 lb (Two Hands, 35 in, Neutral Cylinder).
  • High Stand Switch: 87 lb (Two Hands, 36 in, Pronated Cylinder).
  • Align Knuckle: 160.4 lb (Two Hands, 35 in, Neutral Hook).
• Grip & Pinch:
  • Hose Coupling Grip: 47 lb (Left/Right Hand, Neutral, 3-Hand Grip).

Upper Body (Occasional, Frequent, Constant)

• Reaching:
  • Below Knee: Extending hand(s) and arm(s) below knee level.
  • Over Shoulder: Extending hand(s) and arm(s) above shoulder level.
  • Knee to Shoulder: Extending hand(s) and arm(s) between knee and shoulder level.
• Handling: Seizing, holding, grasping, turning, or otherwise working with both hands.
• Fingering: Fine motor manipulation (e.g., picking, pinching, or working primarily with fingers).
• Cervical Flexion/Extension: Flexing and/or extending at the cervical spine.
• Rotation: Cervical, thoracic, and lumbar spine rotation.

Lower Body (Occasional, Frequent, Constant)

• Sitting: Remaining in a seated position.
• Standing: Remaining upright on one’s feet without moving.
• Walking: Moving about on foot.
• Climbing: Ascending or descending between two points.
• Balancing: Maintaining body equilibrium to prevent falling.
• Stooping: Bending body forward by bending spine at the waist.
• Kneeling: Bending legs at knees to rest on one or both knees.
• Crouching/Squatting: Bending body downward and forward by bending legs and spine.

Other Physical Demands

• Vision: Per FRA requirements.
• Hearing: Per FRA requirements.

Occasional: 1–33% of workday | Frequent: 34–66% of workday | Constant: 67–100% of workday.

Not all tasks required at each location. Physical demand is representative; individualized assessment may be necessary.