Railroad Conductors and Yardmasters Salary 2025: $78,000 Median, Slow Growth
The median salary for railroad conductors and yardmasters in the United States is $78,000, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The mean annual wage is $79,100, which works out to about $38 per hour. Pay typically ranges from $58,740 at the 10th percentile to $109,770 at the 90th percentile. With 46,440 people employed in the occupation, these figures represent the national picture for 2025.
How much Railroad Conductors and Yardmasters earn
The median annual wage of $78,000 places this occupation well above the national average for all jobs. The typical range—from $58,740 to $109,770—means most workers earn between $29 and $53 per hour. Top earners, those at the 90th percentile, take home over $109,000 annually.
Pay by state
Where you work significantly affects your paycheck. The highest-paying state for railroad conductors and yardmasters is Oklahoma, with an average annual wage of $102,260. Pennsylvania comes next at $83,610, followed by Maryland ($83,390), Indiana ($81,260), and Delaware ($80,410).
On the lower end, North Carolina averages $58,930, West Virginia $55,180, and Kentucky $52,380. That's a gap of nearly $50,000 between the highest and lowest states.
How to become Railroad Conductors and Yardmaster
Most railroad conductors and yardmasters start with a high school diploma or equivalent. The typical path is to get hired by a railroad company and complete on-the-job training, which can last several months to a year. Federal regulations require conductors to be certified under the Federal Railroad Administration's training program, including a written exam and skills test. Some companies prefer or require an associate's degree in railroad operations or a related field. Key skills include attention to safety, communication, and the ability to follow complex rules.
Job outlook
Employment of railroad conductors and yardmasters is projected to grow only 1.1% from 2024 to 2034, slower than the average for all occupations. Despite the slow growth, about 3,100 openings are expected each year, mostly to replace workers who retire or leave the occupation. Automation and efficiency improvements may limit new jobs, but steady demand for freight rail should sustain the workforce.
Frequently asked questions
What is the salary for railroad conductors and yardmasters in 2025?
The national median salary is $78,000, with a typical range of $58,740 to $109,770. The mean wage is $79,100, or about $38 per hour.
How do I become a railroad conductor or yardmaster?
You typically need a high school diploma and on-the-job training. Then you must get certified by the Federal Railroad Administration, which involves passing a written exam and a skills test. Some employers prefer an associate's degree.
What is the job growth for railroad conductors and yardmasters?
Employment is expected to grow 1.1% from 2024 to 2034, slower than average. However, about 3,100 openings per year are projected due to retirements and turnover.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Railroad Conductors and Yardmasters data.