Yardmasters are the traffic cops of the railroad yard. It’s their business to know everything that’s going and coming—and to make sure operations run smoothly. Working for a railroad, or an industrial plant, the yardmaster examines train schedules and switching orders. Then he or she gives instructions for when and where trains are assembled, or turned around. Situations may develop that call for decisive action and a solid understanding of rolling equipment—and the cargo, as well as thorough knowledge of switching, signals, and everything else associated with railroad safety and efficiency. Clearly, the Yardmaster is a position of responsibility. It is a position earned by experience moving up the ranks as a railroad employee. But the yardmaster doesn’t take long trips— so this is one railroad career that can keep you closer to home.