How can I get a job in a train crew in the Portland and Western Railroad?

Question

I am looking at train crew jobs on the railroad. I live in Beaverton,Oregon and I see Union Pacfic and PNWR. Please answer ALL the following questions and I will PROBABLY give you best answer.

1. Does PNWR give you training to go on a train crew?

2. What is the starting pay you get?

3. What would be better UP or PNWR?

5. Do you need to already have training to work in a PNWR train crew?

Hopefully you can answer these questions and give me MORE details.

Thanks.

Answer 1

PNWR is a "short line" railroad, so formal crew training for certification/licensing may or may not be available. I know that all of the Class 1 railroads (UP, BNSF, CSX, NS) have formal training centers, and ALL are recruiting for train crew candidates.

Average starting pay on the Class 1s is usually $35-40K.