Transportation
Train Crews
Our Transportation Department is the driving force behind moving freight safely and efficiently across our system and to our customers. Train crews operate 24/7, which means working in all weather conditions, days, nights, weekends, holidays, or on an on-call basis and must be prepared to work anywhere across our system. Their responsibilities may include long-hauling freight across our system, performing switching operations in rail yards, or delivering freight directly to our customers.
Transportation Career Progression
Brakeman
Every career in transportation starts as a Brakeman, a Conductor trainee who works alongside a certified Conductor. Brakeman learn all aspects of the Conductor role through a combination of classroom instruction and on-the-job training. Upon completion, they participate in certification process to become a Conductor.
Conductor
As the leader of a freight train, Conductors oversee freight operations, including switching freight in rail yards to organize trains, long-hauling freight across the Wheeling & Lake Erie system, and delivery of freight directly to our customers. They serve as the eyes and ears of the train, relaying critical information to the Locomotive Engineer and coordinating with other employees involved in operations.
Locomotive Engineer
Locomotive Engineers are responsible for the safe operation of the powerful engines that haul freight across the system. Working closely with a certified Conductor and from behind the controls of the locomotive, they perform switching operations, long-haul freight movements, and freight deliveries to our customers. At Wheeling & Lake Erie, Conductors are promoted to Locomotive Engineers based on seniority.
