Railroad Conductors and Yardmasters
Railroad conductors and yardmasters coordinate train and yard operations at railroads, industrial plants, and similar facilities. Conductors manage crew activities on moving trains carrying passengers or freight. Yardmasters review schedules and switching orders to oversee workers organizing rail traffic in yards.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against railroad conductors and yardmasters and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves reviewing train schedules, switching orders, and operational reports. Conductors communicate with crew members via radio to execute coupling, uncoupling, and routing procedures. Yardmasters monitor rail traffic, assign workers to specific tasks, and ensure trains move according to schedule. Work includes both office time reviewing documentation and time on the ground or in rail yards observing operations and directing personnel.
Who this work suits
Holland code RCE. Realistic work is hands-on, practical work with tools, machines or the outdoors. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You tend to do well in this work if you prefer structured environments with clear procedures and measurable tasks. You're comfortable with hands-on responsibility, attention to detail, and working within established railroad regulations and safety protocols.
What it takes
Preparation: Some preparation (usually high school; some on-the-job training). Most people in this occupation hold a high school diploma.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oklahoma | $78,140 | $102,260 | $128,140 | 310 |
| Pennsylvania | $63,970 | $83,610 | $83,820 | 2,750 |
| Maryland | $82,060 | $83,390 | $95,640 | 300 |
| Indiana | $79,220 | $81,260 | $83,280 | 1,720 |
| Delaware | $80,410 | $80,410 | $82,330 | — |
| New York | $78,970 | $80,000 | $105,210 | 6,980 |
| Virginia | $79,750 | $79,900 | $79,900 | 900 |
| Illinois | $76,980 | $79,820 | $96,120 | 2,790 |
| Florida | $78,560 | $79,600 | $97,410 | 760 |
| Washington | $63,880 | $79,040 | $92,400 | 810 |
| Michigan | $65,610 | $78,960 | $79,890 | 760 |
| Minnesota | $78,830 | $78,930 | $90,560 | 830 |
All 33 states
Certifications people in this field hold
- Conductor Certification — United States Department of Transportation, Federal Railroad Administration (FRA)
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against railroad conductors and yardmasters and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 53-4031.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.