This research delves into the intricate dynamics between cognitive functions, job burnout, and career plateauing among railway switchmen in Islamic Republic of Iran Railways, focusing on the pivotal role of job engagement as a mediator. As cognitive capabilities influence how employees manage job stress and professional growth, this study uncovers how cognitive functions directly shape burnout levels and contribute to career stagnation. The findings reveal that higher cognitive engagement is a key factor in reducing burnout, while simultaneously fostering career advancement and mitigating plateauing. Job engagement emerges as a powerful mediator, offering railway switchmen not only a sense of purpose but also a crucial mechanism to combat both mental exhaustion and stagnation in their professional trajectory. This study provides actionable insights for organizations, advocating for strategies that enhance cognitive engagement and promote continuous career development, thereby improving overall employee well-being and performance. The implications extend to both theoretical frameworks and practical solutions, underscoring the importance of fostering a mentally stimulating work environment to combat burnout and career stagnation in high-demand sectors.
Berenjabadi et al. (2026) studied this question.