Transportation Jobs Key Terms

Discover jobs that help passengers and cargo get from here to there

By Michelle Cramer

The transportation industry is a must in today's society. Without an efficient means of travel, it could take months to get a few thousand miles as opposed to a few hours by train, car, bus or plane. Consider the options below if you're interested in working in the transportation industry and providing cargo or passenger services.

Railroad conductor

There are two types of railroad conductors. Road service conductors work on the train, while yard conductors (yardmasters) work in the train yard. Regardless of their locations, railroad conductors manage train crews and ensure the safety of all cargo and passengers riding on the trains.
Try: Access State University for more information on salary, duties and training for railroad conductors.

Taxi driver

A taxi driver provides transportation to pedestrians that otherwise don't have a means of getting from point A to point B. Taxi drivers (also known as cab drivers) work for a taxi company and charge the mileage rate the company establishes. They are most popular in large cities, such as New York and San Diego. Chauffeurs have a similar job, though they typically work for only one individual, while a cab driver's clients constantly change.
Try: My Plan offers a description and a list of jobs that fit into the category of passenger transportation services, including taxi drivers and chauffeurs.

Dispatcher

Dispatchers work for several different transportation industries, such as delivery, passenger and emergency services. Dispatchers make sure that drivers leave on time, reach the right destination, pick up the appropriate cargo or passengers, and the like. They are the eyes and ears for the drivers as a cohesive unit.
Try: Career Planner offers more details on a dispatcher's duties. Find out more about aviation dispatchers from the Airline Dispatchers Federation.

School bus driver

A school bus driver transports children to and from school. They are responsible for not only getting children to their correct bus stop and ensuring they make it home safely, but also for maintaining a civil atmosphere on the bus.
Try: The Santa Clara County Office of Education and the North East Independent School District provide school bus driver job descriptions within their school systems.

Road maintenance specialist

Road maintenance specialists are responsible for maintaining road quality to protect drivers and their vehicles. They make repairs when necessary, such as filling pot holes or reinforcing bridge and overpass structures. They also work on road improvements, such as road and highway expansions.
Try: Find more information from the job description offered on Marshall County Alabama Online.

Flight attendant

A flight attendant is responsible for making passengers on a flight comfortable during their trip. Flight attendants provide in-case-of-emergency information, maintain a controlled atmosphere, provide refreshments and, overall, ensure that passengers are enjoying their flight.
Try: Check out the California Employment Development Department's job description for more information on a flight attendant's duties.