The Conductor greets passengers and collects tickets, but those are only a few of his or her duties. The Conductor is actually the “manager” of the train and shares responsibility, with the engineer, for the safe and efficient operation of the train and the proper application of rules and procedures.

The Engineer operates the train and is responsible for the locomotive. He or she oversees the mechanical operation of the train including speed and all train handling. Engineers work closely with Conductors and share responsibility for safety and rule compliance.

The Café Car Attendant sells food and beverage in the Café Car. Downeaster food service is provided by Epicurean Feast from Maynard, Masssachusetts. The Café Attendant’s day begins long before the train begins to move. Due to space constraints, food items must be restocked every time the train returns to Portland. It takes lots of planning and hard work to transfer stock to the Café and get all the food secured before the train begins to move. It’s also a bit of a challenge to serve hundreds of hungry patrons from such a small space while moving.

The Maintenance Crew is the team of individuals who keep the Downeaster clean and on the move. Employees of Drummac, Inc., under contract with Amtrak, are responsible for cleaning, fueling, and providing light maintenance for Downeaster trains in Portland. The maintenance facility operates about 22 hours per day in rain, sleet, wind, and snow to ensure that Downeaster equipment is clean and reliable, and that our passengers are safe.

Downeaster Ticket Agents are located in Portland and are Amtrak employees. Ticket agents are able to sell tickets for all Amtrak trains and are well versed about the various routes around the nation. In Boston, NNEPRA contracts with employees from the Massachusetts Bay Commuter Railroad (MBCR) to sell tickets.

Downeaster passengers are fortunate to have Train Hosts onboard many Downeaster trains. These individuals volunteer their time to provide information and assistance to Downeaster passengers. The program is managed by TrainRiders Northeast. Train Hosts receive training regarding the various destinations along the Downeaster route and carry resources to help passengers make the most of their trip.