Railroad Conductors and Yardmasters — Tasks

Task statements

• Observe yard traffic to determine tracks available to accommodate inbound and outbound traffic.
• Receive instructions from dispatchers regarding trains' routes, timetables, and cargoes.
• Direct and instruct workers engaged in yard activities, such as switching tracks, coupling and uncoupling cars, and routing inbound and outbound traffic.
• Signal engineers to begin train runs, stop trains, or change speed, using telecommunications equipment or hand signals.
• Direct engineers to move cars to fit planned train configurations, combining or separating cars to make up or break up trains.
• Confirm routes and destination information for freight cars.
• Arrange for the removal of defective cars from trains at stations or stops.
• Review schedules, switching orders, way bills, and shipping records to obtain cargo loading and unloading information and to plan work.
• Receive information regarding train or rail problems from dispatchers or from electronic monitoring devices.
• Operate controls to activate track switches and traffic signals.
• 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.
• Confer with engineers regarding train routes, timetables, and cargoes, and to discuss alternative routes when there are rail defects or obstructions.
• Inspect freight cars for compliance with sealing procedures, and record car numbers and seal numbers.
• Supervise and coordinate crew activities to transport freight and passengers and to provide boarding, porter, maid, and meal services to passengers.
• Supervise workers in the inspection and maintenance of mechanical equipment to ensure efficient and safe train operation.
• Inspect each car periodically during runs.
• Instruct workers to set warning signals in front and at rear of trains during emergency stops.
• Verify accuracy of timekeeping instruments with engineers to ensure trains depart on time.
• Document and prepare reports of accidents, unscheduled stops, or delays.
• Record departure and arrival times, messages, tickets and revenue collected, and passenger accommodations and destinations.