Railway Conductor Trainee

Position Description Tacoma Rail has provided rail transportation as a public entity since 1914. With 16 locomotives, more than 100 employees and about 43 miles of track in two operating divisions within Pierce County, Tacoma Rail provides key freight connections for customers in the greater Tacoma Washington area, handling in excess of 100,000 freight shipments per year. Tacoma Rail is establishing a hiring roster for Railway Conductor Trainees . This entry-level position is designed to prepare candidates for a career as a Railway Conductor through a combination of classroom instruction, hands-on field training, and practical experience in rail operations. Under direct supervision, the Conductor Trainee will learn safe train operations, switching procedures, and compliance with federal, state, and local railway regulations. Successful candidates will develop the knowledge, skills, and certifications required to progress into a Railway Conductor position. Railroading requires a willingness to spend significant time outdoors in often challenging conditions; candidates should be flexible, willing to learn, and able to perform multiple tasks while maintaining a strong focus on safety and efficiency. One of Tacoma Rail's keys to success is providing a safe work environment for our employees. We believe that our employees are our most valuable asset and that every accident or injury is preventable. We promote a culture that makes safety our highest priority. Responsibilities Include: Assist the Railway Conductor in the safe and efficient switching of railcars, spotting operations, and revenue train movements. Operate switches and derails; apply and release hand brakes; couple and uncouple railcars and air hose connections; mount and dismount rail equipment; and perform air brake tests under the direction of a Railway Conductor. Place railcars at designated customer locations and assist with interchange operations involving Class I railroads. Communicate with Locomotive Engineers and train crews using standard hand signals, lantern signals, and radio communications to direct train movements, including starting, stopping, and reversing operations. Learn and apply railroad operating rules, safety procedures, and regulatory requirements while participating in classroom and field training programs. Maintain routine records and reports, including switch lists, customer requests, and time reports. Successfully complete required training programs, examinations, and certifications necessary to qualify for advancement to Railway Conductor. This position is subject to federally regulated safety-sensitive requirements and all applicants shall be required to meet those standards. Rate of pay is contingent upon qualifications and experience. Terms of the collective bargaining unit shall apply. Outdoor Conditions: This position is subject to working in severe weather conditions, around noise, fumes and dust. Use of personal protective equipment is required. Working Conditions: Lifting up to 75 pounds, climbing, squatting, pushing, pulling and walking on uneven surfaces, bending, stooping, and twisting motions. Incumbents in this position will be responsible for safely handling hazardous material shipments in railcars. Shifts/hours: This is a full-time position; subject to call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, including nights, weekends, and holidays. Must be able to report to work 2 hours after notification and be able to work up to 12 hours per shift. Qualifications Minimum Qualification: High School Diploma or equivalent No prior railroad experience is necessary, but any work experience in a transportation or logistics environment is beneficial LICENSING, CERTIFICATIONS AND OTHER LEGAL REQUIREMENTS: Must be at least 18 years of age by date of hire Non-DOT Medical review Pre-employment DOT drug and alcohol screening Physical agility test Valid Washington State Driver’s License at time of appointment, with maintenance thereafter Department of…

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