Rail Yard Engineers, Dinkey Operators, and Hostlers
Also known as: Car Barn Laborer, Car Mover, Carman (+44 more)
Drive switching or other locomotive or dinkey engines within railroad yard, industrial plant, quarry, construction project, or similar location.
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What You'll Do
- Confer with conductors and other workers via radiotelephones or computers to exchange switching information.
- Signal crew members for movement of engines or trains, using lanterns, hand signals, radios, or telephones.
- Observe and respond to wayside and cab signals, including color light signals, position signals, torpedoes, flags, and hot box detectors.
- Drive engines within railroad yards or other establishments to couple, uncouple, or switch railroad cars.
- Inspect engines before and after use to ensure proper operation.
- Apply and release hand brakes.
- Read switching instructions and daily car schedules to determine work to be performed, or receive orders from yard conductors.
- Inspect the condition of stationary trains, rolling stock, and equipment.
- Observe water levels and oil, air, and steam pressure gauges to ensure proper operation of equipment.
- Spot cars for loading and unloading at customer locations.
Essential Skills
Career Fit Overview
Use this summary to sense whether the day to day rhythm and focus of this path line up with what energizes you.
Top passions
- Maker: Building and fixing energizes you. You like tangible results and practical tools.
- Organizer: Bringing order to data and processes satisfies you.
- Analyst: Investigating problems and finding patterns keeps you engaged.
Common styles
Attention to Detail, Dependability, Cooperation, Adaptability/Flexibility, Concern for Others
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Key Abilities
This career demands strong capabilities in the following areas:
Technologies & Tools
Work Environment & Style
Common Styles for This Career
- Attention to Detail (High importance: 4.65/5)
- Dependability (High importance: 4.57/5)
- Cooperation (High importance: 4.41/5)
- Adaptability/Flexibility (High importance: 4.38/5)
- Concern for Others (High importance: 4.32/5)
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Some previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience may be helpful but is usually not required. Training is often provided on the job.
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Also Known As
This career is known by many different job titles across industries. Here are all the variations:
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