Railroad Brake, Signal, and Switch Operators and Locomotive Firers
What is a Railroad Brake, Signal, and Switch Operators and Locomotive Firers?
Railroad Brake, Signal, and Switch Operators and Locomotive Firers are vital components of the railway transportation system, responsible for ensuring the safe and efficient movement of trains. These professionals monitor and control the operation of trains by managing signals, switches, and braking systems. They play a crucial role in preventing accidents and facilitating the timely scheduling of rail services. Their work often involves communicating with train conductors and other railroad personnel, conducting inspections, and providing support in maintaining the integrity of rail operations. They must adhere to strict safety protocols and regulations while working in various conditions, often outdoors, which may include extreme weather. The role demands a high level of attention to detail, diligence, and the ability to make quick decisions in urgent situations. As the railroad industry evolves, these operators also adapt to new technologies and systems that enhance operational efficiency and safety.
Tasks
- Observe train signals along routes and verify their meanings for engineers.
- Signal locomotive engineers to start or stop trains when coupling or uncoupling cars, using hand signals, lanterns, or radio communication.
- Pull or push track switches to reroute cars.
- Observe signals from other crew members so that work activities can be coordinated.
- Monitor trains as they go around curves to detect dragging equipment and smoking journal boxes.
Technology Skills
- Spreadsheet software
- Electronic mail software
- Expert system software
- Route navigation software
- Time accounting software
Tools Used
- Diesel freight locomotives
- Rail switching systems
- Electric freight locomotives
- Train braking systems
- Heavy rail turnout switch
Knowledge
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Transportation
Knowledge of principles and methods for moving people or goods by air, rail, sea, or road, including the relative costs and benefits.
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Public Safety and Security
Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote effective local, state, or national security operations for the protection of people, data, property, and institutions.
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Mechanical
Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
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English Language
Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
Skills
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Monitoring
Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
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Operations Monitoring
Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly.
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Active Listening
Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
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Critical Thinking
Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
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Operation and Control
Controlling operations of equipment or systems.
Abilities
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Control Precision
The ability to quickly and repeatedly adjust the controls of a machine or a vehicle to exact positions.
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Near Vision
The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
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Arm-Hand Steadiness
The ability to keep your hand and arm steady while moving your arm or while holding your arm and hand in one position.
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Far Vision
The ability to see details at a distance.
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Oral Comprehension
The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.
Work Activities
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Getting Information
Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
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Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events
Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.
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Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials
Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.
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Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings
Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems.
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Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards
Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards.
Detailed Work Activities
- Monitor traffic signals.
- Signal others to coordinate vehicle movement.
- Operate locomotives or other rail vehicles.
- Control equipment that regulates vehicle traffic.
- Observe equipment in operation to detect potential problems.
Work Interests
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Realistic
Work involves designing, building, or repairing of equipment, materials, or structures, engaging in physical activity, or working outdoors. Realistic occupations are often associated with engineering, mechanics and electronics, construction, woodworking, transportation, machine operation, agriculture, animal services, physical or manual labor, athletics, or protective services.
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Conventional
Work involves following procedures and regulations to organize information or data, typically in a business setting. Conventional occupations are often associated with office work, accounting, mathematics/statistics, information technology, finance, or human resources.
Job Outlook
Projected salary and job growth
$44350.0 - $78120.0
New job opportunities are less likely in the future. : Below Average
Assessment
Related assessments and tests
No assessment available.