Norfolk Southern Railway is looking for conductors — not people to walk the aisle of a passenger train checking tickets and calling out next stops — but people to build and shepherd freight trains.
It’s looking hard enough that it’s offering a $5,000 sign-on bonus — nearly 10% of the starting annual pay — for newcomers in its three target markets in Ohio and Indiana.
Both Birmingham and Sheffield are in the second-tier group of cities.
“Norfolk Southern conductors are responsible for the safe and efficient movement of freight trains,” the company announcement says. “A conductor’s job can include coupling railcars to build trains, delivering railcars to local customers, and transporting trains hundreds of miles. Applicants only need to be 18 years of age and successfully complete a standard background check.”
Conductors earn at least $52,000 a year, plus added benefits, and the chance to earn promotion to engineer with a guaranteed minimum wage of $94,000.
“Our conductors move the goods that power our nation’s economy,” said Brad Dodd, director talent acquisition at Norfolk Southern. “Norfolk Southern is a great fit for those who want responsibility, autonomy, and pride in the work they do. We offer competitive compensation, best-in-class healthcare benefits, technical training, and professional growth opportunities.”
