Miscellaneous transportation workers, including bridge and lock tenders and traffic technicians
Job Zones group occupations into one of five categories based on the education, experience, and training typically needed to perform them.
Tasks
Specific duties and responsibilities regularly performed in this occupation.
- Observe yard traffic to determine tracks available to accommodate inbound and outbound traffic.94
- Receive instructions from dispatchers regarding trains' routes, timetables, and cargoes.90
- Inspect freight cars for compliance with sealing procedures, and record car numbers and seal numbers.90
- Direct and instruct workers engaged in yard activities, such as switching tracks, coupling and uncoupling cars, and routing inbound and outbound traffic.89
- Signal engineers to begin train runs, stop trains, or change speed, using telecommunications equipment or hand signals.88
- Direct engineers to move cars to fit planned train configurations, combining or separating cars to make up or break up trains.87
- Confirm routes and destination information for freight cars.86
- Arrange for the removal of defective cars from trains at stations or stops.85
- Review schedules, switching orders, way bills, and shipping records to obtain cargo loading and unloading information and to plan work.83
- Receive information regarding train or rail problems from dispatchers or from electronic monitoring devices.81
- Supervise and coordinate crew activities to transport freight and passengers and to provide boarding, porter, maid, and meal services to passengers.81
- Operate controls to activate track switches and traffic signals.80
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- Supervise workers in the inspection and maintenance of mechanical equipment to ensure efficient and safe train operation.79
- Keep records of the contents and destination of each train car, and make sure that cars are added or removed at proper points on routes.76
- Inspect each car periodically during runs.76
- Instruct workers to set warning signals in front and at rear of trains during emergency stops.76
- Confer with engineers regarding train routes, timetables, and cargoes, and to discuss alternative routes when there are rail defects or obstructions.75
- Verify accuracy of timekeeping instruments with engineers to ensure trains depart on time.67
- Document and prepare reports of accidents, unscheduled stops, or delays.66
- Record departure and arrival times, messages, tickets and revenue collected, and passenger accommodations and destinations.—
Skills
Developed capacities that facilitate learning or the more rapid acquisition of knowledge.
- Coordination69
Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.
- Monitoring69
Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
- Speaking69
Talking to others to convey information effectively.
- Critical Thinking66
Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
- Active Listening63
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.
- Judgment and Decision Making63
Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
- Time Management63
Managing one's own time and the time of others.
- Operations Monitoring60
Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly.
- Complex Problem Solving56
Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
- Operation and Control56
Controlling operations of equipment or systems.
- Reading Comprehension53
Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
- Active Learning50
Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
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- Management of Personnel Resources50
Motivating, developing, and directing people as they work, identifying the best people for the job.
- Persuasion50
Persuading others to change their minds or behavior.
- Quality Control Analysis50
Conducting tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate quality or performance.
- Systems Analysis50
Determining how a system should work and how changes in conditions, operations, and the environment will affect outcomes.
- Systems Evaluation50
Identifying measures or indicators of system performance and the actions needed to improve or correct performance, relative to the goals of the system.
- Writing50
Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
- Instructing47
Teaching others how to do something.
- Service Orientation47
Actively looking for ways to help people.
- Social Perceptiveness47
Being aware of others' reactions and understanding why they react as they do.
- Learning Strategies44
Selecting and using training/instructional methods and procedures appropriate for the situation when learning or teaching new things.
- Negotiation38
Bringing others together and trying to reconcile differences.
- Mathematics31
Using mathematics to solve problems.
- Troubleshooting31
Determining causes of operating errors and deciding what to do about it.
- Management of Material Resources22
Obtaining and seeing to the appropriate use of equipment, facilities, and materials needed to do certain work.
- Operations Analysis22
Analyzing needs and product requirements to create a design.
- Management of Financial Resources19
Determining how money will be spent to get the work done, and accounting for these expenditures.
- Programming13
Writing computer programs for various purposes.
- Science13
Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.
- Technology Design10
Generating or adapting equipment and technology to serve user needs.
- Equipment Maintenance3
Performing routine maintenance on equipment and determining when and what kind of maintenance is needed.
- Equipment Selection0
Determining the kind of tools and equipment needed to do a job.
- Installation0
Installing equipment, machines, wiring, or programs to meet specifications.
- Repairing0
Repairing machines or systems using the needed tools.
Knowledge
Organized sets of principles and facts that apply in general domains.
- Public Safety and Security75
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.
- Transportation74
Knowledge of principles and methods for moving people or goods by air, rail, sea, or road, including the relative costs and benefits.
- English Language62
Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, and rules of composition and grammar.
- Education and Training53
Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.
- Law and Government50
Knowledge of laws, legal codes, court procedures, precedents, government regulations, executive orders, agency rules, and the democratic political process.
- Customer and Personal Service49
Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.
- Mechanical47
Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
- Telecommunications47
Knowledge of transmission, broadcasting, switching, control, and operation of telecommunications systems.
- Computers and Electronics45
Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
- Mathematics42
Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
- Administration and Management41
Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, resource allocation, human resources modeling, leadership technique, production methods, and coordination of people and resources.
- Chemistry37
Knowledge of the chemical composition, structure, and properties of substances and of the chemical processes and transformations that they undergo. This includes uses of chemicals and their interactions, danger signs, production techniques, and disposal methods.
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- Physics36
Knowledge and prediction of physical principles, laws, their interrelationships, and applications to understanding fluid, material, and atmospheric dynamics, and mechanical, electrical, atomic and sub-atomic structures and processes.
- Geography35
Knowledge of principles and methods for describing the features of land, sea, and air masses, including their physical characteristics, locations, interrelationships, and distribution of plant, animal, and human life.
- Administrative34
Knowledge of administrative and office procedures and systems such as word processing, managing files and records, stenography and transcription, designing forms, and workplace terminology.
- Psychology33
Knowledge of human behavior and performance; individual differences in ability, personality, and interests; learning and motivation; psychological research methods; and the assessment and treatment of behavioral and affective disorders.
- Communications and Media32
Knowledge of media production, communication, and dissemination techniques and methods. This includes alternative ways to inform and entertain via written, oral, and visual media.
- Personnel and Human Resources30
Knowledge of principles and procedures for personnel recruitment, selection, training, compensation and benefits, labor relations and negotiation, and personnel information systems.
- Engineering and Technology28
Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.
- Therapy and Counseling27
Knowledge of principles, methods, and procedures for diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of physical and mental dysfunctions, and for career counseling and guidance.
- Production and Processing25
Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods.
- Sales and Marketing23
Knowledge of principles and methods for showing, promoting, and selling products or services. This includes marketing strategy and tactics, product demonstration, sales techniques, and sales control systems.
- Sociology and Anthropology22
Knowledge of group behavior and dynamics, societal trends and influences, human migrations, ethnicity, cultures, and their history and origins.
- Medicine and Dentistry21
Knowledge of the information and techniques needed to diagnose and treat human injuries, diseases, and deformities. This includes symptoms, treatment alternatives, drug properties and interactions, and preventive health-care measures.
- Biology17
Knowledge of plant and animal organisms, their tissues, cells, functions, interdependencies, and interactions with each other and the environment.
- Economics and Accounting16
Knowledge of economic and accounting principles and practices, the financial markets, banking, and the analysis and reporting of financial data.
- Design15
Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.
- History and Archeology14
Knowledge of historical events and their causes, indicators, and effects on civilizations and cultures.
- Philosophy and Theology14
Knowledge of different philosophical systems and religions. This includes their basic principles, values, ethics, ways of thinking, customs, practices, and their impact on human culture.
- Building and Construction12
Knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or repair of houses, buildings, or other structures such as highways and roads.
- Food Production11
Knowledge of techniques and equipment for planting, growing, and harvesting food products (both plant and animal) for consumption, including storage/handling techniques.
- Foreign Language8
Knowledge of the structure and content of a foreign (non-English) language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition and grammar, and pronunciation.
- Fine Arts7
Knowledge of the theory and techniques required to compose, produce, and perform works of music, dance, visual arts, drama, and sculpture.
Abilities
Enduring attributes of the individual that influence performance.
- Oral Expression75
The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.
- Oral Comprehension72
The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.
- Problem Sensitivity72
The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does not involve solving the problem, only recognizing that there is a problem.
- Far Vision66
The ability to see details at a distance.
- Near Vision66
The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
- Speech Clarity66
The ability to speak clearly so others can understand you.
- Speech Recognition66
The ability to identify and understand the speech of another person.
- Information Ordering63
The ability to arrange things or actions in a certain order or pattern according to a specific rule or set of rules (e.g., patterns of numbers, letters, words, pictures, mathematical operations).
- Deductive Reasoning60
The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense.
- Inductive Reasoning60
The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusions (includes finding a relationship among seemingly unrelated events).
- Reaction Time56
The ability to quickly respond (with the hand, finger, or foot) to a signal (sound, light, picture) when it appears.
- Written Comprehension56
The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.
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- Auditory Attention53
The ability to focus on a single source of sound in the presence of other distracting sounds.
- Category Flexibility53
The ability to generate or use different sets of rules for combining or grouping things in different ways.
- Control Precision53
The ability to quickly and repeatedly adjust the controls of a machine or a vehicle to exact positions.
- Perceptual Speed53
The ability to quickly and accurately compare similarities and differences among sets of letters, numbers, objects, pictures, or patterns. The things to be compared may be presented at the same time or one after the other. This ability also includes comparing a presented object with a remembered object.
- Selective Attention53
The ability to concentrate on a task over a period of time without being distracted.
- Visualization53
The ability to imagine how something will look after it is moved around or when its parts are moved or rearranged.
- Written Expression53
The ability to communicate information and ideas in writing so others will understand.
- Depth Perception50
The ability to judge which of several objects is closer or farther away from you, or to judge the distance between you and an object.
- Flexibility of Closure50
The ability to identify or detect a known pattern (a figure, object, word, or sound) that is hidden in other distracting material.
- Time Sharing50
The ability to shift back and forth between two or more activities or sources of information (such as speech, sounds, touch, or other sources).
- Arm-Hand Steadiness47
The ability to keep your hand and arm steady while moving your arm or while holding your arm and hand in one position.
- Hearing Sensitivity47
The ability to detect or tell the differences between sounds that vary in pitch and loudness.
- Multilimb Coordination47
The ability to coordinate two or more limbs (for example, two arms, two legs, or one leg and one arm) while sitting, standing, or lying down. It does not involve performing the activities while the whole body is in motion.
- Rate Control47
The ability to time your movements or the movement of a piece of equipment in anticipation of changes in the speed and/or direction of a moving object or scene.
- Finger Dexterity44
The ability to make precisely coordinated movements of the fingers of one or both hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble very small objects.
- Gross Body Equilibrium44
The ability to keep or regain your body balance or stay upright when in an unstable position.
- Manual Dexterity44
The ability to quickly move your hand, your hand together with your arm, or your two hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble objects.
- Speed of Closure44
The ability to quickly make sense of, combine, and organize information into meaningful patterns.
- Trunk Strength44
The ability to use your abdominal and lower back muscles to support part of the body repeatedly or continuously over time without "giving out" or fatiguing.
- Visual Color Discrimination44
The ability to match or detect differences between colors, including shades of color and brightness.
- Fluency of Ideas41
The ability to come up with a number of ideas about a topic (the number of ideas is important, not their quality, correctness, or creativity).
- Originality41
The ability to come up with unusual or clever ideas about a given topic or situation, or to develop creative ways to solve a problem.
- Response Orientation41
The ability to choose quickly between two or more movements in response to two or more different signals (lights, sounds, pictures). It includes the speed with which the correct response is started with the hand, foot, or other body part.
- Static Strength41
The ability to exert maximum muscle force to lift, push, pull, or carry objects.
- Extent Flexibility38
The ability to bend, stretch, twist, or reach with your body, arms, and/or legs.
- Gross Body Coordination38
The ability to coordinate the movement of your arms, legs, and torso together when the whole body is in motion.
- Spatial Orientation38
The ability to know your location in relation to the environment or to know where other objects are in relation to you.
- Speed of Limb Movement38
The ability to quickly move the arms and legs.
- Stamina38
The ability to exert yourself physically over long periods of time without getting winded or out of breath.
- Mathematical Reasoning35
The ability to choose the right mathematical methods or formulas to solve a problem.
- Number Facility35
The ability to add, subtract, multiply, or divide quickly and correctly.
- Glare Sensitivity31
The ability to see objects in the presence of a glare or bright lighting.
- Memorization31
The ability to remember information such as words, numbers, pictures, and procedures.
- Peripheral Vision31
The ability to see objects or movement of objects to one's side when the eyes are looking ahead.
- Dynamic Strength25
The ability to exert muscle force repeatedly or continuously over time. This involves muscular endurance and resistance to muscle fatigue.
- Night Vision22
The ability to see under low-light conditions.
- Sound Localization22
The ability to tell the direction from which a sound originated.
- Wrist-Finger Speed22
The ability to make fast, simple, repeated movements of the fingers, hands, and wrists.
- Dynamic Flexibility0
The ability to quickly and repeatedly bend, stretch, twist, or reach out with your body, arms, and/or legs.
- Explosive Strength0
The ability to use short bursts of muscle force to propel oneself (as in jumping or sprinting), or to throw an object.
Work Activities
General types of job behaviors occurring on multiple jobs.
- Getting Information84
Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
- Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials80
Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.
- Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates75
Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
- Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events74
Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.
- Performing General Physical Activities73
Performing general physical activities includes doing activities that require considerable use of your arms and legs and moving your whole body, such as climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and handling materials.
- Documenting/Recording Information71
Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.
- Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards68
Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards.
- Handling and Moving Objects66
Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials, and manipulating things.
- Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings65
Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems.
- Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work63
Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your work.
- Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge63
Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
- Controlling Machines and Processes59
Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines or processes (not including computers or vehicles).
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- Making Decisions and Solving Problems56
Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
- Working with Computers55
Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
- Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others53
Getting members of a group to work together to accomplish tasks.
- Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships52
Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and maintaining them over time.
- Processing Information49
Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.
- Training and Teaching Others46
Identifying the educational needs of others, developing formal educational or training programs or classes, and teaching or instructing others.
- Analyzing Data or Information44
Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.
- Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or Equipment44
Running, maneuvering, navigating, or driving vehicles or mechanized equipment, such as forklifts, passenger vehicles, aircraft, or watercraft.
- Assisting and Caring for Others41
Providing personal assistance, medical attention, emotional support, or other personal care to others such as coworkers, customers, or patients.
- Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information41
Estimating sizes, distances, and quantities; or determining time, costs, resources, or materials needed to perform a work activity.
- Coaching and Developing Others40
Identifying the developmental needs of others and coaching, mentoring, or otherwise helping others to improve their knowledge or skills.
- Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others40
Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used.
- Judging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or People39
Assessing the value, importance, or quality of things or people.
- Performing Administrative Activities39
Performing day-to-day administrative tasks such as maintaining information files and processing paperwork.
- Scheduling Work and Activities38
Scheduling events, programs, and activities, as well as the work of others.
- Communicating with People Outside the Organization37
Communicating with people outside the organization, representing the organization to customers, the public, government, and other external sources. This information can be exchanged in person, in writing, or by telephone or e-mail.
- Performing for or Working Directly with the Public37
Performing for people or dealing directly with the public. This includes serving customers in restaurants and stores, and receiving clients or guests.
- Developing Objectives and Strategies36
Establishing long-range objectives and specifying the strategies and actions to achieve them.
- Guiding, Directing, and Motivating Subordinates35
Providing guidance and direction to subordinates, including setting performance standards and monitoring performance.
- Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with Others33
Handling complaints, settling disputes, and resolving grievances and conflicts, or otherwise negotiating with others.
- Developing and Building Teams31
Encouraging and building mutual trust, respect, and cooperation among team members.
- Providing Consultation and Advice to Others29
Providing guidance and expert advice to management or other groups on technical, systems-, or process-related topics.
- Thinking Creatively29
Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, systems, or products, including artistic contributions.
- Monitoring and Controlling Resources24
Monitoring and controlling resources and overseeing the spending of money.
- Drafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and Equipment22
Providing documentation, detailed instructions, drawings, or specifications to tell others about how devices, parts, equipment, or structures are to be fabricated, constructed, assembled, modified, maintained, or used.
- Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical Equipment19
Servicing, repairing, adjusting, and testing machines, devices, moving parts, and equipment that operate primarily on the basis of mechanical (not electronic) principles.
- Staffing Organizational Units19
Recruiting, interviewing, selecting, hiring, and promoting employees in an organization.
- Repairing and Maintaining Electronic Equipment13
Servicing, repairing, calibrating, regulating, fine-tuning, or testing machines, devices, and equipment that operate primarily on the basis of electrical or electronic (not mechanical) principles.
- Selling or Influencing Others13
Convincing others to buy merchandise/goods or to otherwise change their minds or actions.
Work Styles
Personal characteristics that can affect how well someone performs a job.
- Dependability88
A tendency to be reliable, responsible, and consistent in meeting work-related obligations.
- Cautiousness87
A tendency to be careful, deliberate, and risk-avoidant when making work-related decisions or doing work.
- Attention to Detail79
A tendency to be detail-oriented, organized, and thorough in completing work.
- Leadership Orientation75
A tendency to lead, take charge, offer opinions, and provide direction at work.
- Stress Tolerance74
A tendency to cope and function effectively in stressful situations at work.
- Integrity70
A tendency to be honest and ethical at work.
- Self-Control64
A tendency to remain calm and composed and to manage emotions effectively in response to criticism or difficult situations at work.
- Cooperation61
A tendency to be pleasant, helpful, and willing to assist others at work.
- Perseverance59
A tendency to exhibit determination and resolve to perform or complete tasks in the face of difficult circumstances or obstacles at work.
- Adaptability56
A tendency to be open to and comfortable with change, new experiences, or ideas at work.
- Self-Confidence54
A tendency to believe in one's work-related capabilities and ability to control one's work-related outcomes.
- Social Orientation44
A tendency to seek out, enjoy, and be energized by social interaction at work.
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- Achievement Orientation42
A tendency to establish and maintain personally challenging work-related goals, set high work-related standards, and exert high effort toward meeting those goals and standards.
- Initiative35
A tendency to be proactive and take on extra responsibilities and tasks that may fall outside of one's required work role.
- Tolerance for Ambiguity30
A tendency to be comfortable with ambiguity and uncertainty at work.
- Optimism26
A tendency to exhibit a positive attitude and positive emotions at work, even under difficult circumstances.
- Sincerity23
A tendency to be genuine and sincere in interactions with others at work, without concern for personal gain or self-interest.
- Empathy9
A tendency to show concern for others and be sensitive to others' needs and feelings at work.
- Intellectual Curiosity9
A tendency to seek out and acquire new work-related knowledge and obtain a deep understanding of work-related subjects.
Interests (RIASEC)
Holland's six occupational interest types (RIASEC) this work tends to attract.
- Realistic80
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.
- Conventional65
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.
- Enterprising46
Work involves managing, negotiating, marketing, or selling, typically in a business setting, or leading or advising people in political and legal situations. Enterprising occupations are often associated with business initiatives, sales, marketing/advertising, finance, management/administration, professional advising, public speaking, politics, or law.
- Investigative16
Work involves studying and researching non-living objects, living organisms, disease or other forms of impairment, or human behavior. Investigative occupations are often associated with physical, life, medical, or social sciences, and can be found in the fields of humanities, mathematics/statistics, information technology, or health care service.
- Social14
Work involves helping, teaching, advising, assisting, or providing service to others. Social occupations are often associated with social, health care, personal service, teaching/education, or religious activities.
- Artistic0
Work involves creating original visual artwork, performances, written works, food, or music for a variety of media, or applying artistic principles to the design of various objects and materials. Artistic occupations are often associated with visual arts, applied arts and design, performing arts, music, creative writing, media, or culinary art.
Work Context
Physical and social factors that influence the nature of work.
Face-to-Face Discussions with Individuals and Within Teams
- Every day93%
Consequence of Error
- Extremely serious88%
Contact With Others
Health and Safety of Other Workers
Exposed to Contaminants
- Every day83%
Exposed to Sounds, Noise Levels that are Distracting or Uncomfortable
Determine Tasks, Priorities and Goals
Frequency of Decision Making
Work With or Contribute to a Work Group or Team
Exposed to Hazardous Equipment
- Every day83%
Wear Common Protective or Safety Equipment such as Safety Shoes, Glasses, Gloves, Hearing Protection, Hard Hats, or Life Jackets
- Every day68%
Duration of Typical Work Week
- More than 40 hours67%
- 40 hours33%
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Work Outcomes and Results of Other Workers
Impact of Decisions on Co-workers or Company Results
- Very important results35%
- Important results63%
Freedom to Make Decisions
Coordinate or Lead Others in Accomplishing Work Activities
- Very important26%
Time Pressure
- Once a week or more but not every day11%
Importance of Being Exact or Accurate
- Very important23%
E-Mail
- Every day32%
- Once a year or more but not every month13%
Importance of Repeating Same Tasks
- Very important22%
In an Enclosed Vehicle or Operate Enclosed Equipment
Conflict Situations
- Once a month or more but not every week14%
Outdoors, Exposed to All Weather Conditions
- Once a week or more but not every day11%
- Never24%
Dealing With Unpleasant, Angry, or Discourteous People
- Once a week or more but not every day33%
Indoors, Environmentally Controlled
Exposed to Very Hot or Cold Temperatures
Telephone Conversations
Exposed to Extremely Bright or Inadequate Lighting Conditions
Physical Proximity
- Slightly close (e.g., shared office)31%
Spend Time Standing
- Less than half the time40%
Written Letters and Memos
- Every day24%
- Once a year or more but not every month35%
Spend Time Making Repetitive Motions
Spend Time Sitting
- More than half the time22%
Indoors, Not Environmentally Controlled
Spend Time Walking or Running
Spend Time Using Your Hands to Handle, Control, or Feel Objects, Tools, or Controls
- Continually or almost continually15%
- Less than half the time12%
- Never24%
Pace Determined by Speed of Equipment
- Very important14%
Deal With External Customers or the Public in General
- Extremely important11%
- Important31%
Exposed to Whole Body Vibration
Level of Competition
- Highly competitive14%
Exposed to Hazardous Conditions
- Every day30%
Exposed to Minor Burns, Cuts, Bites, or Stings
- Once a year or more but not every month28%
- Never26%
Exposed to Cramped Work Space, Awkward Positions
Spend Time Kneeling, Crouching, Stooping, or Crawling
Outdoors, Under Cover
Public Speaking
- Every day20%
Spend Time Climbing Ladders, Scaffolds, or Poles
- About half the time13%
Exposed to High Places
Spend Time Bending or Twisting Your Body
- Less than half the time25%
Work Schedules
In an Open Vehicle or Operating Equipment
Degree of Automation
- Moderately automated24%
Wear Specialized Protective or Safety Equipment such as Breathing Apparatus, Safety Harness, Full Protection Suits, or Radiation Protection
Spend Time Keeping or Regaining Balance
Dealing with Violent or Physically Aggressive People
Exposed to Disease or Infections
Exposed to Radiation
Typical Education Levels Reported
Education levels O*NET survey respondents in this occupation most often reported having.
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Post-secondary certificate
- Associate’s degree or other 2-year degree
Technology Skills
Specific software and technology tools commonly used on the job.
Spreadsheet software
Microsoft Excel
Presentation software
Microsoft PowerPoint
Industrial control software
Automated equipment identification AEI software, RailComm DocYard, SAIC government services and IT support software, Softrail AEI Automatic Yard Tracking System
Materials requirements planning logistics and supply chain software
Bourque Data Systems YardMaster, Freight reservation software
Inventory management software
Inventory tracking software, Softrail AEI Rail & Road Manager
Electronic mail software
Microsoft Outlook
Expert system software
Positive train control PTC systems
Office suite software
Microsoft Office software
Word processing software
Microsoft Word
Professional Associations
Organizations related to this occupation, such as industry and licensing bodies.
Related Occupations
Occupations that call for similar work and worker requirements.
- Locomotive Engineers and Operators
- Subway, streetcar, and other rail transportation workers
- Locomotive Engineers and Operators
- Subway, streetcar, and other rail transportation workers
- Dispatchers
- Supervisors of Transportation and Material Moving Workers
- Air Traffic Controllers and Airfield Operations Specialists
- Transportation Inspectors
- Supervisors of Transportation and Material Moving Workers
- Air Traffic Controllers and Airfield Operations Specialists
- Transportation Inspectors
- Miscellaneous installation, maintenance, and repair workers, including wind turbine service technicians
- Police officers
- Bus Drivers
- Driver/Sales Workers and Truck Drivers
- Power Plant Operators, Distributors, and Dispatchers
- Supervisors of Transportation and Material Moving Workers
- Driver/Sales Workers and Truck Drivers
- Highway Maintenance Workers
Detailed Work Activities
More specific, granular versions of the Work Activities above.
- Monitor vehicle movement or location.
- Receive information or instructions for performing work assignments.
- Inspect locomotives or other railroad equipment.
- Record operational or production data.
- Direct passenger or freight transport activities.
- Signal others to coordinate vehicle movement.
- Review work orders or schedules to determine operations or procedures.
- Arrange maintenance activities.
- Control equipment that regulates vehicle traffic.
- Direct maintenance or repair activities.
- Record operational details of travel.
- Direct emergency management activities.
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- Communicate with others to coordinate vehicle movement.
- Verify information or specifications.
- Prepare accident or incident reports.
Apprenticeship Occupations
Registered apprenticeship program titles associated with this occupation.
- Railroad Conductor
This page incorporates information from O*NET Web Services by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA).
Based on federal labor and demographic data. Data source & methodology