There are many different job descriptions that are available in railway operations, one of the most common being a railway operations crewmember. Railway senior sergeant’s are also in demand. A railway operations crewmember not only operates diesel electric locomotives, they can serve as a brakeman, as well as dispatch trains, operate signals and switches, and control train movements.

A railroad senior sergeant is responsible for supervising maintenance of equipment and other technical aspects involved in any railway operations. He or she will also advise on equipment repair, training materials, and all matters relating to the operation of a railway.

Railway operations crewmember job descriptions are divided into four different skill levels. These levels range from interpreting train orders to establishing communications between civilian and military railroad procedures and operations.

A railway senior sergeant needs to be trained and able to perform duties in locomotive repair, section repair and be able to assign and schedule track repair maintenance crews, consult timetables and train dispatchers and determine the need and coordination of repair units.

Of course, there are many other designations under the military occupational specialty of railway operations, and requirements and physical demands for various job positions will differ depending upon job description.

The basic requirements for a recruit to become a railway operations crewmember are to complete a physical profile, have normal color vision, and receive formal training from the Transportation School or be able to meet civilian-acquired skills criteria.

Railway senior sergeant requirements will also need to meet minimum scores on aptitude tests, and receive formal training according to Transportation School guidelines. For further information on working on the railroad in the Reserves or National Guard, contact your local National Guard unit or headquarters.