Train Conductor at CN
Fort St John, BC V1J5T8
Every year, CN moves about $250 billion of goods across its nearly 20,000-mile network. And it takes a dedicated team of railroaders to help get our freight to destination safely.
Conductors work as members of two or three person train crews and perform duties associated with the movement of trains, rail cars, and locomotives in rail yards and on the road. They coordinate the assembly of trains and execute any ground work outside the locomotive cab while in the yard or en-route (ex: operating track switches, picking up rail cars, making emergency repairs, etc.).
Why you want this job
Railroading is a 24/7 business and that doesn't scare you; you enjoy working different shifts and being outdoors.
Most importantly, you walk the talk when it comes to safety. With such big equipment comes even bigger responsibility, and you can be counted on to keep yourself and those around you safe.
The statements in this section are essential job functions that an employee must be able to perform with or without accommodations in order to achieve the objectives of the Conductor job.
Ensuring compliance with all train orders, signals, railroad rules and regulations related to safety and operations
Providing and receiving various forms of oral and printed instructions concerning the movement and placement of rail cars
Assembling/dismantling trains in the rail yard, and picking up/setting off rail cars en-route
Observing, interpreting, and relaying signals to ensure safe train and locomotive movement
Operating track switches to change locomotive and rail car routes
Inspecting the condition of a train and equipment
Making effective decisions when in unfamiliar locations or emergency situations
Communicating effectively with the Rail Traffic Control centre, other train crews and other departments on a regular basis via handheld radio
Successful applicants will participate in an intensive paid training program that includes 7 weeks (5 weeks classroom and 2 weeks field training) at the CN Campus in Winnipeg, MB. Expenses related to transportation, accommodation and meals while in Winnipeg are covered by the company.
After these initial 7 weeks, candidates will complete a minimum of 45 trips as an extra person on a crew to enhance their knowledge and skills. Successful completion of the entire training program is mandatory in order to work as a Conductor, and includes written exams and field training (including physical requirements).
Working Conditions and Physical Requirements
Working a flexible schedule with regular and predictable attendance, in line with the 24/7 railroading environment (includes night, weekend, holiday work hours, some overtime, and being away from home for extended periods of time)
Pushing, pulling, lifting and carrying up to 90 pounds
Working outdoors in varying weather and environmental conditions
Operating various devices on rail cars and locomotives, such as uncoupling levers and handbrakes
Climbing on and off ladders of moving rail cars
Grasping and holding objects while riding the side of a train
Walking for frequent extended periods
Bending, stooping, squatting, and kneeling frequently
Meeting medical fitness requirements for the position, including those established by the Railway Association of Canada, such as the ability to recognize and distinguish between the colors of signals
Writing and passing safety and rules exams. (Note: As per collective agreement, subsequent mandatory Locomotive Engineer qualification to retain seniority/employment.)
Obtaining and maintaining Conductors Rule Card
Possessing and maintaining a valid driver's license
Possessing and maintaining a passport allowing entry/re-entry to the Canada and the United States (in certain specific locations)
Proficiency in both oral and written communications
Completion of college or vocational/technical school and/or Freight Conductor experience
Relevant work experience in similar working conditions or regulatory/safety environment
CN is an employment equity employer and we encourage all qualified candidates to apply. We thank all applicants for their interest, however, only candidates under consideration will be contacted. Please monitor your email on a regular basis, as communication is primarily made through email.
Fort St John