Jobs at W&LE Railway
Conductors
Wheeling & Lake Erie Railway Company is seeking dedicated individuals to train to work as Conductors. We plan to start our next class in mid-October. During our Conductor training program, you will learn how to operate freight trains safely and efficiently. If you enjoy challenging work where you are responsible for your train, enjoy physical work outdoors in all weather conditions, and are able to work irregular hours, then this career may be a good fit for you.
During the three-month training period, trainees are classified as Brakemen and earn $15.25 hr. Following the training period, when working as a Conductor, the rate of pay is $16.75 hr. Overtime work is required. The annual earnings potential ranges from the upper $30k to mid $60K depending upon the number of hours worked. The average is about $60k yr. On top of this, we provide a very generous benefit package.
Specific functions of the Conductor include, but are not limited to, obtaining information from the dispatcher, yardmaster, or other personnel in person, in writing, or by communication devices including radio and telephone. They observe, interpret, and relay hand and lantern signals, and they use radio communication. They operate track switches and derails in order to change the route of trains within yards or on the road. They frequently climb ladders on freight cars, operate hand brakes, couple and uncouple air hoses, inspect freight cars, and observe and monitor track conditions. They get on and off moving equipment. They ride moving cars by hanging on grab irons or ladders, sometimes for extended periods of time. They judge and control the speed and clearance distance of cars. They prepare required reports and read and interpret work orders and instructions. Employees must be also able to sit for extended periods of time, reach overhead to lift objects, and meet hearing and vision acuity standards.
Conductors must be able to walk on uneven and irregular surfaces for long distances. They must be able to lift and carry objects weighing up to 85 pounds.
This is not a typical 40-hour workweek; the position consists of variable and irregular work hours with irregularly scheduled days off. Employees work weekdays, weekends and holidays on an “on call” basis, 24 hours a day. Travel is required. Our employees must be willing and able to work any hours at any location on the railroad in OH, WV, and PA. Current on-duty locations include Brewster, OH; Canton, OH; Akron, OH; Jewett, OH; Mingo Jct., OH; Medina, OH; Willard, OH; Spencer, OH; Norwalk, OH; Carey, OH; and Pittsburgh, PA. Employees may be away from home for days at a time. Employees must be able to report to work two hours after notification. Employees may have to drive long distances to get to work; this travel is at the employee’s own expense. To see a map of our railroad, visit www.wlerwy.com.
Wheeling & Lake Erie provides paid training. Training consists of classroom and field training. The training program lasts for approximately three months. Upon successful completion of the training, employees will be qualified Conductors. Conductors are the primary source from which W&LE selects candidates for future Engineer training. Employees must accept promotion to the position of Locomotive Engineer. Locomotive Engineers typically earn $18.96 hr.; up to the low $70k on an annual basis.
A high school diploma or GED equivalent is required.
A DUI or OVI conviction within the last three years will disqualify you from consideration for this position.
W&LE is a drug-free workplace and maintains a zero tolerance policy. Employees are subject to pre-employment and frequent drug and alcohol testing.
Wheeling & Lake Erie Railway Company provides a comprehensive benefit package including excellent medical, dental, vision, dental, life insurance, short-term disability, railroad retirement, 401(k) plan, profit sharing, paid holidays, paid vacation, paid personal leave, and college scholarships for dependents. The deductibles for our health plan are exceptionally low; $200 individual, $400 family. Conductors contribute about $26 wk. for family health coverage. (No, that’s not a misprint!) Railroad Retirement provides for employees with 30 years of service to retire at age 60 with excellent benefits. After one year of service, you are eligible for profit sharing. In 2017, a full share of profit sharing totaled over $8,900!
If you would like to be considered for the Conductor position, email your resume to jburley@wlerwy.com. We look forward to hearing from you!