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Is being a train conductor a good fit for you?

Leads the crew on a passenger or freight train, or in a rail yard. Makes sure the train runs safely and on time.

What the work involves

  • Watches yard traffic to find which tracks are free for incoming and outgoing trains.
  • Receives instructions from dispatchers about train routes, timetables and cargo.
  • Directs and instructs workers in the yard, such as switching tracks and coupling carriages.
  • Signals drivers to start, stop or change speed using radios or hand signals.

The interests that suit it

People in this work tend to be hands-on and organising. Here is how much each of the six kinds of interest comes into it.

Hands-onStrong. Building, fixing, and working with tools, machines, animals or the outdoors.
CuriousLow. Finding things out, solving problems, and working with ideas and data.
CreativeLow. Making things: art, writing, music, design and performance.
HelpingLow. Teaching, caring for and supporting people.
PersuadingSome. Leading, selling, and making the calls.
OrganisingSome. Keeping things in order: records, numbers and systems.

What it tends to reward

Compared with other work, this job stands out for:

  • Independence. Trusted to decide how the work gets done.

How much training it needs

Fast start. Little or some training needed. Rules differ from country to country, so check locally before you commit.

Find out if it fits you

Answer quick questions about what you like doing and what keeps you going. We match you with roles from over 900 kinds of work, and you can see if a train conductor is one of yours.

Free. About 15 minutes. No account.

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