Railroad Brake, Signal, and Switch Operators

Signal locomotive engineers to start or stop trains when coupling or uncoupling cars, using hand signals, lanterns, or radio communication.

Operate and drive locomotives, diesel switch engines, dinkey engines, flatcars, and railcars in train yards and at industrial sites.

Pull or push track switches to reroute cars.

Observe signals from other crew members so that work activities can be coordinated.

Inspect couplings, air hoses, journal boxes, and handbrakes to ensure that they are securely fastened and functioning properly.

Raise levers to couple and uncouple cars for makeup and breakup of trains.

Receive oral or written instructions from yardmasters or yard conductors indicating track assignments and cars to be switched.

Climb ladders to tops of cars to set brakes.

Refuel and lubricate engines.

Watch for and relay traffic signals to start and stop cars during shunting.

Set flares, flags, lanterns, or torpedoes in front and at rear of trains during emergency stops to warn oncoming trains.

Monitor oil, air, and steam pressure gauges, and make sure water levels are adequate.

Inspect tracks, cars, and engines for defects and to determine service needs, sending engines and cars for repairs as necessary.

Ride atop cars that have been shunted, and turn handwheels to control speeds or stop cars at specified positions.

Adjust controls to regulate air-conditioning, heating, and lighting on trains for comfort of passengers.

Record numbers of cars available, numbers of cars sent to repair stations, and types of service needed.

Provide passengers with assistance entering and exiting trains.

Make minor repairs to couplings, air hoses, and journal boxes, using hand tools.

Connect air hoses to cars, using wrenches.

Answer questions from passengers concerning train rules, stations, and timetable information.