What would I need to do if I wanted to work for the railroad?

Question

I have been amazed about what I have heard about the job. I really want to do it.

Answer 1

Rango is right on point, and you'll need that enthusiasm.

Pre-requisites include:

Being able to read and comprehend at college level

Being able to retain that information

Be in reasonably good health, including good eye sight, color perception and good hearing

Perform basic mathematical computation

As he pointed out, any problems with drugs or alcohol and you're wasting every-body's time.

Not an easy job and not for everyone, but the rewards are many, and extend beyond the pay checks and the benefits.  It is man against elements and machine.  At the end of a trip, you know you have accomplished something...

Best of luck...

Answer 2

I WORK FOR CSX RAILROAD AND UMM MAKE SURE U MENTION SAFETY SAFETY SAFETY!!!!! ALL DA TIME!!!!

Answer 3

Go to the Railroad Retirement Board's website. There will be a list of all railroad websites. Visit each site. And see what jobs are available. Apply online as a conductor/switchman or see what's looks like something you'd be interested in. Best wishes.

Answer 4

in usa go to amtrac website there is also company for freight trains cant think of name

Answer 5

You have to apply for starters.

It is going to help a lot if you are willing to relocate, not all railroads are hiring, it will depend on the traffic and staffing requirements.

Almost all railroads have web sites, you can find all you need to get started on Google.

There are a few railroad academies in the country, I have heard if you go through one of these the BNSF and UP will almost certainly hire you but this is only hearsay, talk to human resources people on this.

You MUST be drug free, you will be tested pre-employment and randomly throughout your career.

You have to be willing to work or be on call 24/7, nights, holidays, weekends, none of this matters to a train.

It is a good job but if you are the sort of person who needs structure in your life it will drive you crazy, you need to be able to change plans on a momens's notice.

Good luck, we need motivated hard working people.

Answer 6

It depends on which craft you want to work within.  There are Switchmen/Engineers, Carmen, Mechanics, Machinists, and Electricians just to name a few.  All have different job requirements and do different things.  Switchmen/Engineers work 24/7 at all odd hours and generally have very little time for a home life as they stay on call or "marked up".  

The other crafts generally work at a  train "shop" or "yard", work one of 3 shifts (7 - 3, 3 - 11, or 11 - 7) five days a week with 2 off.  Check the websites for the railroads, most have online applications and is the only way they hire any more. Also most have a hiring test as well as a drug test.  You MUST be drug free to work in the rail industry.  Sometimes it is easier to get on a short-line railroad and then transfer to one of the majors.

Answer 7

remember that you will need to 'shut up & do what you are told to do" also.  and if you make a decision for youeself based on what you encounter on the job you will be slapped down for it.  oh,  and don't EVER ask a manager to back you up