What does a railroad yard master do?

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.

What was the yardmaster for a railway?

The yardmaster is the railroad employee in charge of the rail yard. They manage and coordinate all activities in combining rolling stocks into trains, and breaking down trains into individual railroad cars, and switching trains from track-to-track in the rail yard.

What does a switchman do?

A switchman (North America) or pointsman (British Isles) is a rail transport worker whose original job was to operate various railway switches or points on a railroad. It also refers to a person who assists in moving cars in a railway yard or terminal.

How do you become a yardmaster?

A railroad yardmaster must have a high school diploma or GED, and may be required to have a commercial driver’s license. Mechanical aptitude, strong communication skills, and good hand-eye coordination are all essential skills for these professionals.

What’s a Yardmaster?

Definition of yardmaster : the person in charge of operations in a railroad yard.

How do you become a railroad switchman?

To become a switchman, you must be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or equivalent, and complete on-the-job training. Most railroad companies prefer applicants with previous experience at a railyard or military training.

What are the duties of a train engineer?

Common responsibilities of a train engineer include:

  • Using a variety of controls to operate the train.
  • Monitoring speed, air pressure, battery use and other instruments to ensure the train runs efficiently.
  • Collaborating with other railroad workers and train conductors to ensure the train remains on schedule.

Do train conductors sleep?

Two decades after federal officials identified fatigue as a top safety concern, the problem continues to haunt the railroad industry, especially the largest carriers responsible for moving the vast majority of the nation’s rail-borne freight. “Engineers and conductors sleep on trains.