Coordinate activities of switch-engine crew within railroad yard, industrial plant, or similar location. Conductors coordinate activities of train crew on passenger or freight trains. Yardmasters review train schedules and switching orders and coordinate activities of workers engaged in railroad traffic operations, such as the makeup or breakup of trains and yard switching.
Railroad Conductors and Yardmasters
SOC: 53-4031 O*NET: 53-4031.00
Median Salary
$74,080
per year
Job Growth
➡️ 1.1%
Average (2024-2034)
Annual Openings
3.1
projected jobs/year
Education Level
High school diploma or equivalent
Job Zone 2
Coordinate activities of switch-engine crew within railroad yard, industrial plant, or similar location. Conductors coordinate activities of train crew on passenger or freight trains. Yardmasters review train schedules and switching orders and coordinate activities of workers engaged in railroad traffic operations, such as the makeup or breakup of trains and yard switching.
Overview
Compensation & Benefits
Salary Distribution by Percentile
Understanding where you might fall in the salary range based on experience and location.
10th
$44,448
25th
$59,264
50th (Median)
$74,080
75th
$88,896
90th
$111,120
Percentile Explained: If you're in the 75th percentile, you earn more than 75% of workers in this occupation. Entry-level positions typically fall in the 10th-25th percentile range, while experienced professionals often reach the 75th-90th percentile.
Typical Benefits Package
Health & Wellness
- ✓Health Insurance
- ✓Dental Insurance
- ✓Vision Insurance
- ✓Mental Health Support
- ✓Wellness Programs
Financial Benefits
- ✓401(k) Retirement Plan
- ✓Employer Match (typically 3-6%)
- ✓Profit Sharing
- ✓Stock Options
- ✓Performance Bonuses
Work-Life Balance
- ✓Paid Time Off (15-25 days)
- ✓Paid Sick Leave
- ✓Flexible Work Arrangements
- ✓Remote Work Options
- ✓Parental Leave
Professional Development
- ✓Tuition Reimbursement
- ✓Professional Certifications
- ✓Conference Attendance
- ✓Training Programs
- ✓Mentorship Opportunities
Note: Benefits vary widely by employer, company size, and location. Large corporations and tech companies often offer more comprehensive packages, while small businesses may offer fewer benefits but more flexibility. Always review the complete compensation package, not just base salary.
Job Market Intelligence
Job Market Intelligence
Medium Demand
Market demand
Medium Risk
Automation risk
Current Employment
National Employment:36,800
10-Year Outlook
Growth Rate:+1.1%
Annual Openings:3,100
Employment Projections
2024 (Current)36,800
Current
2034 (Projected)37,200
+1.1%
+400
Employment Change
+1.1%
Growth Rate
10
Year Projection
Growth Category: More slowly than average
Key Growth Factors
Standard growth expectations for this occupation
Top Skills
✓
Coordination
Coordination
✓
Monitoring
Monitoring
✓
Speaking
Speaking
✓
Critical Thinking
Critical Thinking
✓
Active Listening
Active Listening
✓
Time Management
Time Management
✓
Judgment and Decision Making
Judgment and Decision Making
✓
Operations Monitoring
Operations Monitoring
✓
Complex Problem Solving
Complex Problem Solving
✓
Operation and Control
Operation and Control
Key Knowledge Areas
✓
Public Safety and Security
✓
Transportation
✓
English Language
✓
Education and Training
✓
Law and Government
Education & Training
Education Required
High school diploma or equivalent
Experience Required
Some previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience may be helpful
Job Training
Training of a few months to a year