If you've ever wanted to drive the train instead of just riding it, here's what you can expect if you change careers

I want to be a train conductor. What will my salary be?

The role: Train conductors are responsible for the safe co-ordination and operation of locomotives...

Education: There are no formal educational requirements for train conductors. However, each is put through a rigorous training program provided by their employer... 

Salary: Compensation for train conductors is typically determined under union contract. Freight railway conductors employed by large companies such as CN and Canadian Pacific Railway Ltd. earn a starting salary between $75,000 and $78,000 a year. Over the course of their career, that salary can grow to $84,000 to $92,000 a year...

Job prospects: An aging work force has resulted in a major need for train conductors across Canada...

Why they do it: Train conductors enjoy working independently, outdoors and in a non-traditional working environment...

Misconceptions: As one of the oldest forms of mass transportation still in operation today, people often think of the railway industry as very old-fashioned...

READ THE ENTIRE ARTICLE ON GLOBE CAREERS

Also ... from the same article, "Give us the scoop: Are you a train conductor? Write a note in the comments area of this story or e-mail your comment to careerquestion@globeandmail.com and let us know what you would tell others who are interested in the profession."