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Transportation · South Dakota

How to Become a Railroad Conductors and Yardmasters in South Dakota

Railroad Conductors and Yardmasters in South Dakota earn a median salary of $61,860/year, which is 16% below the national average. South Dakota has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a railroad conductors and yardmasters takes home approximately $2,900/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.

$62K
Median salary in South Dakota
-16%
vs. national average
None
State income tax
110
Employed in South Dakota

What a railroad conductors and yardmasters can afford in South Dakota

Gross annual salary$61,860
Est. monthly take-home (no state tax)$4,312/mo
Median 2BR rent (South Dakota)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home32.7% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$61,860/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$2,900/mo

Becoming a railroad conductors and yardmasters in South Dakota

1

Meet education requirements

Railroad Conductors and Yardmasters positions in South Dakota typically require No formal educational credential. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across South Dakota. Research accredited programs in your area.

2

Gain required experience

Many railroad conductors and yardmasters positions in South Dakota require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.

3

Obtain South Dakota licensure or certification

South Dakota may require specific licensing or professional certification for railroad conductors and yardmasterss. Requirements vary by state — contact the South Dakota Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.

4

Find positions in South Dakota

South Dakota employs 110 railroad conductors and yardmasters.

Railroad Conductors and Yardmasters salary range in South Dakota

10th percentile (entry)
$38K
25th percentile
$58K
Median (50th)
$62K
75th percentile
$62K
90th percentile (senior)
$79K
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Frequently asked questions

How much does a railroad conductors and yardmasters make in South Dakota?

The median railroad conductors and yardmasters salary in South Dakota is $61,860 per year ($29.74/hr). This is 16% below the national median of $74,080. Salaries range from $37,530 to $79,150.

What are the requirements to become a railroad conductors and yardmasters in South Dakota?

Railroad Conductors and Yardmasters positions in South Dakota typically require No formal educational credential. South Dakota may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the South Dakota licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.

Can a railroad conductors and yardmasters afford to live in South Dakota?

At the median salary of $61,860, a railroad conductors and yardmasters in South Dakota would take home approximately $4,312/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 32.7% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for railroad conductors and yardmasters in South Dakota?

Check our location hub pages for detailed metro area data within South Dakota.

Does South Dakota have state income tax for railroad conductors and yardmasters?

No, South Dakota does not have a state income tax. This means railroad conductors and yardmasters keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.