If you decide a position as a train crewman/woman is the career choice of interest to you in the railroad industry you will most likely start out as a freight train conductor. As a conductor you have full responsibility for the train, where it is headed, what it is carrying (chemicals, merchandise, bulk products, etc.) and that it arrives safely to its intended destination (or is in good hands when your shift ends).
It should also be noted that if you especially hire on as a freight conductor with a Class I railroad the chances of being promoted to engineer are very likely, usually within 5 to 10 years and once offered the promotion you must accept it.
As mentioned before, if you have never worked for a railroad or know much about the industry please let me warn you that a career such as a freight train conductor is not for the faint of heart. Railroading is tough work and takes a dedicated breed not only to handle the physical demands required but also the mental fatigue, as working 12-hour, seven-day-a-week shifts is normal (and overtime is mandatory). While a more predictable work schedule does come with seniority, don’t expect it to happen within a short period of time. Some railroaders wait 20 years or more to land a “9 to 5” workday, which usually consists of working yard or local jobs. There is a reason why railroaders say that railroading becomes a lifestyle, its not just saying! Having said that, if you are able to hire on with a shortline (Class III) or regional (Class II) railroad the opportunity for a more predictable schedule is very likely although the pay is not quite as good.
In any event, some Class Is (like CSX and Union Pacific) field their own training centers to teach you the trade of being a freight train conductor while others hire through accredited schools like the National Academy of Railroad Sciences and Modoc Railroad Academy. Many of these organizations are listed below:
If you're interested in searching for freight train conductor positions in your area please feel free to use the search box below from Indeed.com, one of the leading online career resource guides.
As time goes on I will continue to update this list with other schools and/or related organizations. Also, if you happen to know of a school or organization which offers courses and classes for freight train conductors please let me know so that I can add it to this list. Again, if you are not even sure if a career in railroading is right for you but would like to learn more about what it takes to work in the industry you might want to consider the book Working on the Railroad from noted author Brian Solomon. Solomon's book details the history of working in the railroad industry and the difficulties and hardship employees faced back then as well as today. After reading this book you should have no doubts about whether working in the industry is something you are truly interested in. In any event, if you're interested in perhaps purchasing this book please visit the link below which will take you to ordering information through Amazon.com, the trusted online shopping network.
