Retiree Callback - Conductor (Various Locations) 1

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Date: Nov 3, 2026

Location: Decatur, IL, US, 62521 Atlanta, GA, US, 30318 Fort Wayne, IN, US, 46803 Princeton, IN, US, 47670 Louisville, KY, US, 40218 Binghamton, NY, US, 13904 Buffalo, NY, US, 14210 Bellevue, OH, US, 44811 Cincinnati, OH, US, 45227 Toledo, OH, US, 43604-3815 Altoona, PA, US, 16602 Conway, PA, US, 15027 Elrama, PA, US, 15038 Harrisburg, PA, US, 17110 Chattanooga, TN, US, 37405 Roanoke, VA, US, 24016

Company: Norfolk Southern Corp.

Bring Your Experience Back to Norfolk Southern

You spent years developing the knowledge, judgment, and operating experience that keeps the railroad moving safely. Norfolk Southern would welcome the opportunity to have you back.
We are seeking qualified, recently retired conductors interested in returning to service at select locations for a six-month engagement. Eligible participants can earn a $60,000 return-to-service incentive, in addition to applicable compensation for work performed.

$60,000 Return-to-Service Incentive

Eligible retirees who enter into the six-month agreement will receive:
  • $15,000 within 30 days of the signed agreement
  • $45,000 upon successful completion of six months of service
  • $60,000 total incentive opportunity
The incentive is intended to recognize the experience you bring and the commitment associated with returning to active railroad service for the six-month period.

The Opportunity

As a returning conductor, you will help Norfolk Southern safely and efficiently move freight while bringing valuable railroad experience back to the operation.
Depending on assignment, responsibilities may include:
  • Building, switching, and inspecting trains, railcars, and equipment for safe operation
  • Coupling and uncoupling railcars and locomotives
  • Operating remote-control equipment when qualified and required
  • Applying and releasing hand brakes and aligning drawbars
  • Communicating with train crews, dispatchers, yardmasters, and other operating personnel
  • Completing required documentation, inspections, and operating reports
  • Following Norfolk Southern operating rules, safety requirements, and applicable Federal Railroad Administration regulations
  • Performing other conductor duties consistent with the assigned location and operation

What You Should Know

Railroad operations require flexibility and availability. Candidates considering returning should be prepared for the realities of operating service:
  • This is a six-month return-to-service engagement.
  • Returning retirees will not return with their previous seniority and will be placed on the extra board.
  • Work schedules may be irregular and can include nights, weekends, holidays, and on-call assignments.
  • Employees may be required to report for duty with limited notice based on operational needs.
  • Assignments may require time away from home.
  • This remains a safety-sensitive railroad position requiring constant awareness and strict adherence to operating and safety rules.

Qualifications

Candidates must:
  • Have previous railroad conductor experience and possess the experience necessary to return to conductor service
  • Hold a valid driver's license and have reliable transportation
  • Be able to satisfy applicable Norfolk Southern and FRA return-to-service requirements
  • Successfully complete required drug and alcohol screening
  • Meet applicable medical, physical, safety, and operating requirements
  • Be legally authorized to work in the United States
  • Be able to work an irregular, on-call schedule based on operational needs

Physical and Safety Requirements

Returning conductors must be able to safely perform the essential functions of the position, which may include:
  • Working outdoors in varying weather conditions
  • Walking significant distances on uneven railroad terrain
  • Climbing on and off railroad equipment
  • Coupling equipment and handling switches and hand brakes
  • Lifting and carrying up to 85 pounds
  • Meeting applicable FRA vision, color-vision, and hearing requirements
  • Maintaining constant alertness around moving trains, locomotives, railcars, and other heavy equipment

Why Come Back?

This opportunity is designed for experienced railroaders who may be willing to return for a defined period and make an immediate impact.
You already understand the railroad. You know what safe operations require, you know the importance of teamwork, and you know the difference experienced railroaders can make.
Six months. $60,000 in incentive opportunity. One more opportunity to put your experience to work.
If you are interested in returning to Norfolk Southern, we encourage you to apply and learn more about the opportunity available at your former home terminal.

Company Overview

 

Norfolk Southern Corporation (NYSE: NSC) is a Fortune 300 organization and one of the nation’s premier transportation companies. Its Norfolk Southern Railway Company subsidiary operates approximately 19,500 route miles in 22 states and the District of Columbia, serves every major container port in the eastern United States, and provides efficient connections to other rail carriers. Norfolk Southern is a major transporter of industrial products, including chemicals, agriculture, and metals and construction materials. In addition, the railroad operates the most extensive intermodal network in the East and is a principal carrier of coal, automobiles, and automotive parts.

 

At Norfolk Southern, we believe in celebrating our individuality. By leveraging the unique backgrounds and viewpoints of our employees, we can create a culture of innovation, respect, and inclusion. We know that employees thrive in a workplace where differing viewpoints, ideas, and experiences are freely shared and valued. As such, we encourage all employees to contribute their distinctive skills and capabilities to our organization.

 

Equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants regardless of race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetic information, veteran status, sexual orientation, and gender identity. Together, we power progress.

 


Nearest Major Market: Decatur