Description
Trainmen perform ground service for freight and passenger trains, assisting conductors with switching, train makeup, and road operations. They operate switches, couple and uncouple cars, signal engineers, inspect equipment, secure trains, and handle documentation to ensure safe, efficient movements in yards and on the road.
- • Signal engineers to start, stop, or adjust speed using radios and hand signals.
- • Receive and relay train and track condition information from conductors, dispatchers, and monitoring systems.
- • Perform yard switching, coupling and uncoupling cars, and routing inbound and outbound traffic per instructions.
- • Keep records of car numbers, contents, and destinations; ensure cars are added or removed at required points.
- • Operate hand and power switches, derails, and signals to line routes.
- • Place flags, fusees, or other warning devices to protect trains during emergency stops or shoving moves.
- • Give shoving and coupling signals to position cars to make up or break up trains.
- • Follow instructions from the conductor or dispatcher regarding routes, timetables, and cargoes.
- • Review switch lists, waybills, and shipping records to plan and execute work.
- • Communicate with engineers about movements and alternative routes when track defects or obstructions exist.
- • Identify defective cars and assist with setting out or removing cars at designated locations.
- • Inspect cars, loads, and securement periodically during runs.
- • Verify track assignments and clearances to ensure tracks are available for inbound and outbound moves.
- • Document and report accidents, emergencies, unscheduled stops, or delays.
- • Confirm route and destination information for freight cars and spot cars at customer facilities.
- • Assist with passenger boarding, luggage handling, and customer service when on passenger trains.
- • Perform basic equipment checks, apply and release hand brakes, and report mechanical issues.
- • Record departure and arrival times, car placements, and operational messages as directed.
- • Inspect and record seal integrity, car numbers, and seal numbers on freight cars.
- • Assist with air brake tests and securement procedures to ensure safe train operation.
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Supply Chain & Transportation
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Tasks & skills:
O*NET occupational data (work activities, skills, knowledge).
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Last reviewed: Jan 2026
