Railway brake, signal and switch operators

Railway brakers, signallers and shunters take charge of and safeguard railway freight trains during runs, control the movement of railway traffic by operating signals, switch rolling stock and make up trains in railway yards, make up trains for hauling in mines and control their movement.

Job Responsibilities

• Taking charge of and safeguarding freight train during runs
• Controlling the flow of railway traffic over sections of line by operating signals and switches from control panels or signal boxes
• Switching and coupling rolling stock in railway yards and sidings in accordance with orders about loading, unloading and make-up of trains
• Making up trains for hauling by locomotive or cable and directing their movement along haulage ways in a mine or quarry
• Checking train systems and equipment such as air-conditioning and heating systems, brakes and brake hoses prior to train run