Job Information
Norfolk Southern Meridian, MS Train Conductor in Meridian, Mississippi
Description
At Norfolk Southern, we believe that ourpeoplepowerprogress. Our culture is built on our SPIRIT values-Safety, Performance, Integrity, Respect, Innovation, and Teamwork-which guide how we work, lead, and grow together. Ifyou'reready to be part of a dynamic team and contribute to one of the nation's premier transportation companies, we invite you to explore theconductorrole.
Conductorsare responsible forthe safe and efficient movement of freight trains. This includes building trains by coupling railcars, delivering railcars to customers, transporting trains across long distances, and managing electronic documentation and inspections.You'llbe trained to troubleshoot train issues, report incidents, and ensure compliance with safety procedures. No prior railroad experience isrequired-we provide all the training you need to succeed.
What You Should Know
This is aseniority-based job.You'llstart out on the extra board, filling in where needed, until you build enough seniority to bid on a regular assignment.
You must be available to workon-call, 24/7, with as little as90 minutes' notice.
Expect to spend2-3days away from home weekly.
You willbe requiredto join a union within60 daysafter completing training.
Training
On the job training lasts about20weeks, depending on the complexity of your assignedlocation,this training can go beyond20weeks.Trainingincludes classroom instruction, field training, and on-the-job experience. The first 5 weeks take place at the Norfolk Southern Training Center in McDonough, GA. During this time, the company provideshotelaccommodations, weekly meal stipends, and travel reimbursement from your hire location. The remaining weeks of training will be completed at your assigned location.
To successfully complete the program and earn your promotion and certification, you must pass all classroom, field, and on-the-job requirements. This includes written exams and field evaluations covering physical characteristics, operating rules, safety, hazmat, and signal rules.
Job Responsibilities
Build and inspect trains, railcars, and equipment for safe operation.
Operate remote control locomotives and perform tasks such as coupling, aligning drawbars, applying hand brakes, and riding railcars.
Communicate effectively with crews, dispatchers, and yard controllers.
Maintainaccuratedocumentation andcomply withall FRA and company safety regulations.
Performadditionalduties as assigned.
Additionalinformation about roles andresponsibilitiesare detailed in this video:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-ZdUABU2g_k
Qualifications - Required
Mustbe 18 years or older.
Must hold a valid driver's license and have reliable transportation.
Ability to report to work within90 minutes.
Clean driving record in the past36 months, without any suspension, revocation, cancellation, or denial of your driver's license resulting from a drug or alcohol-related incident.
Must nothave been involved in diversion or probation or pleaded guilty to a drug or alcohol-related driving incident.
Must nothave refused to undergo a drug or alcohol test related to he operation of a motor vehicle.
Must pass pre-employment Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) drug and alcohol screening.
Must be legally authorized to work in the U.S.
Qualifications - Preferred
Experience working outdoors in various weather conditions.
Experience with heavy equipment or in physically demanding roles.
Experience working non-traditional shifts, on call, and/or 12+ hour shifts.
Physical and Mental Job Requirements
Ability to lift and carry up to 85 lbs.
Must pass physical standards which may include but are not limited to:
Hang Test
Ability to hang from a rail car ladder with 3 points of contact (2 feet & 1 hand) for 1 minute 15 seconds per side.
Ability to walk up to several miles per shift on uneven terrain.
Ability to meet FRA medical requirements:
Visual acuity (at least 20/40 in each eye separately and both together withorwithout corrective lenses).
Color vision-ability to pass specific FRA color vision tests (lenses used to improve color vision are notpermitted).
Hearing-no hearing loss greater than 40B average, at 500, 1000, and 2000 in better ear (can be met with hearing aid).
Work Conditions
Work outdoors in all weather conditions.
Irregular schedules, including on-call, nights, weekends, and holidays.
Must be available for call 24/7.
This is a safety-sensitive position requiring constant alertness while working around heavy, moving, potentially hazardous locomotive engines.
Compensation and Benefits
Conductor Trainees earn a minimum of $200 per shift during on-the-job training, with overtime at $25/hour.
First-year conductors average $70,000 annually; experienced conductors average $84,000.
Locomotive engineers earn a guaranteed minimum of $94,000, with potential to exceed $100,000.
Medical insurance for employees and eligible dependents begins the second calendar month of employment.
After one year: dental, life insurance, and 401(k) eligibility.
Covered under Railroad Retirement benefits and taxes.
Vacation Eligibili