The primary field supervisor for a railroad division or terminal. Trainmasters oversee train movements, enforce safety rules, manage crew assignments, and respond to derailments or delays. They are the direct link between higher management and the operating craft employees.
Heard on the job
The trainmaster is hiding in the weeds by the yard lead, doing radar checks on the switching crews.
Insider tip
Trainmasters are often viewed with suspicion by train crews, as a major part of their job involves conducting unannounced rule compliance tests.