We are always recruiting new volunteers!
The Lake Superior & Mississippi Railroad prides itself as an all-volunteer organization. Volunteers are essential for preserving our railroad heritage and telling the stories of the St Louis River estuary.
No railroading or mechanical experience is necessary! We need people skilled in business, retail, social media, and nonprofit management. But you must be 18+ years old to safely volunteer.
Fill out the form below or email LSMRVolunteerCoordinator@gmail.com for more information on volunteer opportunities.
Are you interested in working on the LSMR?
Conductor
The Conductor is in overall command of the train. They are responsible for passenger safety and comfort, and for keeping the timetable. They collect tickets & provide information to the passengers along the route. Importantly, the Conductor must account for every crew member and passenger before issuing start or stop orders to the Engineer or instructing a Fireman to move switches.
Engineer
The Engineer is in charge of moving the train under the direction of the Conductor. They perform safety, engine, and brake tests each time the locomotive is used. While “driving” the train, they must obey all signals and speed limits. Engineers work with the conductor to provide a safe & smooth ride.
Fireman
The Fireman works with the Engineer to ensure a safe trip. They constantly scan the tracks ahead looking for people or wildlife on the tracks and for traffic at road crossings. They must determine if switches are aligned with the direction of travel. Firemen and Engineers acknowledge each command to prevent miscommunications about the movement of the train.
Passenger Service Volunteers
These volunteers are responsible for making the ride safe and enjoyable for passengers. They are the “faces” of our railroad. Positions include car hosts who keep the coaches clean, welcome passengers, and share educational materials. Narrators deliver the well-researched environmental and cultural stories of the St Louis River estuary. Ticket agents and concession workers take care of the business of getting passengers on board and help make the ride memorable.
Track Maintenance
The track or “Maintenance of Way” crew is responsible for inspecting the track, replacing broken ties and rails, filling washouts, preventing erosion, and removing fallen trees or other hazards along the track. Volunteers keep switches working, trees & brush trimmed, culverts flowing, and the track level. Trach and mechanical workers, Conductors, Engineers, and Firemen must participate in a federally-mandated drug testing program.
Project Volunteers
A lot of work in running the railroad does not involve running the train. In fact, only a few of our volunteers are experienced railroaders. We have many critical “behind the scenes” volunteer opportunities where you can share what you know or learn a new skill. We thrive on the diversity of skills of our volunteers. You could help with building maintenance and the restoration and preservation of our vintage rolling stock. You could help with promotional events, social media marketing, or public relations.
Volunteer Application Form
Please fill out this form if you are interested in volunteering with the LSMR. The Volunteer Coordinator will get back to you. If you have other questions please email them to LSMRVolunteerCoordinator@gmail.com. Must be 18+ years to volunteer.