Freight Car Shunting Coupler
かしゃいれかえれんけつしゅ
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
Specialized role in railway freight yard shunting operations, properly coupling and uncoupling freight cars to form trains safely and efficiently.
Description
Freight car shunting couplers handle the shunting, coupling, and uncoupling of freight cars in railway freight station yards and depots. They guide locomotives using radio communication or hand signals, and operate couplers and chains to securely connect freight cars. They also conduct brake tests and vehicle inspections, ensuring compliance with safety standards while forming efficient train consists. Flexible responses to weather and environmental conditions, as well as precise coordination with locomotive engineers and signalmen, are essential.
Future Outlook
While job demand remains stable due to consistent needs in freight rail transport, there is potential for the introduction of automatic couplers and automation technologies.
Personality Traits
Cautious / Cooperative / High Concentration / Strong Sense of Responsibility
Work Style
Mainly Outdoors / OJT Training / Shift Work / Teamwork / Yard Work
Career Path
Driver Assistant → Yard Driver → Conductor → Operations Manager → Safety Management Staff
Required Skills
Brake Testing / Radio Operation / Signal Indications / Vehicle Coupling and Uncoupling
Recommended Skills
Communication Skills (for Locomotive Engineers) / Hazardous Materials Handling Knowledge / Understanding of Railway Operation Rules
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Because many tasks do not tolerate even minor mistakes to ensure safety. |
| Communication Skills | Because accurate signals need to be sent via radio or hand signals. |
| Physical Stamina & Endurance | Because guiding freight car movements and coupling tasks consume a lot of physical energy. |
| Collaboration & Teamwork | Because work is performed in coordination with conductors, engineers, and signalmen. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Creativity & Ideation | Because routine tasks are the main focus and creative thinking is not particularly needed. |
| Numerical & Quantitative Analysis | Because complex mathematical analysis is rarely required. |
Aliases
- Shunter
- Shunting Worker
Related Jobs
- Conductor
- Locomotive Engineer
- Operations Manager