Train Conductor

Purpose of the Position

The conductor position is a foundational role in the railway and operates within the framework of the union agreement. A conductor works as a member of a train crew that assists in switching rail cars, making or splitting up trains in rail yards, or moving rail cars between rail yards. This position requires you to be vigilant about the safety of yourself and those around you. You must be prepared for unscheduled shift work, being away from home for extended periods of time and working outdoors in all types of weather.

Joining CPKC as a conductor can lead to career growth as a Yard Foreperson, Locomotive Engineer or management.

Wondering if the conductor role is right for you? Complete this Realistic Job Preview to see if you would be a good fit for the Conductor lifestyle. Watch this video to hear an employee’s perspective on what it takes to be a CPKC Conductor.

Position Requirements

• Must be able to perform work that can be physically demanding such as walking up to 10 kilometers a day on uneven ground, climbing up and down and lifting and pulling heavy objects (up to 80 pounds on occasion)
• Work unscheduled shift work in a 24/7 operating environment
• Work up to 12-hour shifts which include days, evenings, overnight, weekends and holidays
• Ability to report to work within a two-hour call window, after scheduled rest
• Excellent focus, attention to detail and ability to multitask
• Strong communication skills (provide clear and concise instructions/directions including over radio)
• Work outdoors in all types of weather conditions for long periods of time
• Must be able to pass the required physical job tasks for the job position, written examinations, read and understand safety instructions, read and understand operating rules and regulations and other written or printed material in English
• Must be at least 18 years old
• High school diploma or general equivalency diploma (GED) required
• Valid driver’s license required

Position Accountabilities

• Work in either train or yard service depending on seniority
• Carry out specific instructions detailing a train's route and specific movements
• Coordinate the switching of cars, including coupling and uncoupling cars and lifting out coupling device
• Observe, interpret, and relay signals and other indications affecting movement of train
• Signal crew members for movement of the engine or train using specific signals, or radio to indicate when to start, stop, back-up, set or release air brakes
• Maintain a thorough understanding of and follow General Code of Operating Rules (GCOR), general orders and bulletins
• Provide flag protection and relay signals to trains in an emergency situation
• Move on and off moving or stationary equipment
• Fill out forms including train orders and switch lists and prepare clear and legible reports
• Handle emergency situations and operate fire extinguishers as well as be able to apply first aid techniques

What CPKC Has to Offer

• Flexible and competitive benefits package
• Competitive company pension plan
• Employee Share Purchase Plan
• Annual Fitness Subsidy
• Part-time Studies Program

Additional Information

Training

CPKC provides 16 weeks of paid in-class and field training. Providing you with a solid understanding of our safety practices, rules and operations. You will earn 80% of the job rate upon starting classroom training $188.23 per day and then 90% of the job rate upon successful completion of the classroom portion (including Part II Exams) $211.76 per day. Earn $85,000 in your first year working as a qualified conductor.

Medical Requirements

Operating safely is a core foundation of CPKC. As this position is considered safety critical, successful candidates are required to complete a pre-employment medical that includes a physical, vision (including accurate colour vision), hearing, alcohol, and drug audit assessment. Pre-employment qualification drug test(s) are also required. Candidates will also be required to pass a drug test during the training process before receiving final qualification for the position.

Background Investigations

The successful candidate will need to successfully complete the following clearances:

• Criminal history check
• Education verification
• Driver’s License Verification

CPKC is an employment equity employer committed to the principles of employment equity and inclusion. We encourage all qualified candidates to apply including women, Black, Indigenous, People of Colour (BIPOC), members of the LGBTQ+ community, and people with disabilities. Accommodations for the job application process can be provided, as appropriate, upon request. All applicant information will be managed in accordance with the federal Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA)”.