Passenger Rail

SMART represents workers on Amtrak, the largest passenger rail operator in the United States, as well as other smaller regional and local passenger carriers. Rail remains one of the most sustainable and efficient ways of safely transporting travelers to their destination, and recent national legislation has reaffirmed its key role in national infrastructure going forward.

Passenger engineers, like their freight rail counterparts, operate the locomotive in the cab and control starting, stopping and train speed, and keep in touch with other members of the crew as well as traffic control centers.

Passenger conductors receive and communicate train orders to other crew members, collect tickets and cash fares, help passengers board and exit and assist with safety checks. They also ensure safety and comfort and make announcements to keep passengers informed. During emergencies, all other employees are subject to the conductor’s instructions, as he or she serves as the initial responder before emergency personnel arrive. Passenger conductors must be able to handle complaints from customers in a tactful and pleasant manner.

Some train crews also have assistant conductors who help perform many of the same jobs as conductors.

Our Careers

Take a look at some of the job areas SMART is proud to represent!

  • Architectural Sheet Metal
  • Bus Operators & Mechanics
  • CAD, Drafting & Detailing
  • Freight Rail
  • HVAC Installation
  • HVAC Shop/Fabrication
  • Lagging
  • Passenger Rail
  • Production / Manufacturing
  • Rail Mechanical
  • Residential HVAC
  • Service and Refrigeration
  • Roofing
  • Shipyard
  • Sign Fabrication & Installation
  • Indoor Air Quality and Energy Efficiency (TAB)
  • Transit & Commuter Rail
  • Industrial and Shop Welding
  • Yardmaster

Become a SMART Member

Take the next step on your journey towards a rewarding career. Learn how you can become a SMART member.

Member Voices

Hear about the union directly from SMART members themselves.

Meet Carol Jones

Longtime Amtrak conductor Carol Jones — who is also a local chairperson with SMART-TD Local 1361 out of New Haven, Conn. — shares her story of coming up in the transportation industry and working as a pioneering woman in the passenger rail sector.

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