Build rail yard switching skills with Watco as a Student Conductor, learning locomotive movements, signals, and crew communication on rotating day and night shifts.

Paid on-the-job training supports your path toward required conductor certification and railroad operations experience.

In this trainee role, you will work alongside managers, peer trainers, and train crews during switching operations.

You will learn to move cars using locomotive power, lanterns, hand signals, and radio communication while following company and customer rules.

The work also includes paperwork, inspections, switches, handbrakes, air hoses, and coupling activities.

Key Responsibilities: Throw track switches to facilitate railcar movements
Operate controls for locomotive movements under direction




Apply and release handbrakes during switching operations
Connect air hoses and raise coupling levers
Identify obstructions, defects, and equipment needing repair
Requirements: Ability to read, write, and communicate in English
Understanding of basic math
Ability to follow written and verbal directions
Reliable, predictable, and timely attendance
Ability to pass required reports, tests, and certifications
Develop practical rail yard capabilities with Watco through supervised training in locomotive movements, switching equipment, signals, and communication.

📌 Rail Yard Switching Conductor Trainee (Canada)
🏢 Recognized
📍 Canada