The pay, the benefits and it wasnt a job it was a lifestyle.
It's a plus if you have "people" skills. In 43 years I never had a problem with the railroad's customers. You MUST take care of your customers, give them what they want and need and you'll never have a problem.....they will be happy and when they're happy, the Trainmaster that oversee's your performance will be happy.
The pay and benefits are great, and getting to admire the scenery when traveling from terminal to terminal is another benefit.
Working in train service is more a "lifestyle" than a job. It's an asset if you're a self-starter. On the down side, the railroad runs if it's raining, snowing, flooding or if the temperature is 110 degrees...if you're in train service, you are on call 24-7 and you're out in the weather most of the time.
I already knew how to drive forklifts , work on engines and had been around the railroad due to my three brothers working there .
I was written up for not checking a switch. I was still on the train. Another person turned the switch and we ( the engineer, and the conductor in training )saw this.
I loved the money,traveling,and the people
I'm trying to find out how to apply for a job with union pacific railroad.