I will be applying for a train services position out of Hinkle, OR. If you are a railroad conductor/engineer, I have some questions for you, could you please send me a private message?
If you aren’t one, and see this is falling down too far… feel free to give it a “bump”!
Bump
there are lots of them… I was one, once, years ago, myself – but no advice at the moment.
Railroader, Yes! Conductor/Engineer, No! Freight Car Inspector/Locomotive Cab Carpenter, Yes! I know some Conductors and Engineers when you work in the trainyards as an inspector you sorta run into them.
BUMp
What are your questions? Some of us are C&E active or retired.
I sent you a PM, but decided to post my responce here for the benifit of anyone interested:
What would you like to know?
I’ve been a railroader for 8 years. Conductor, RCO Operatior, Training Conductor/RCO Operation, Yardmaster, and Trainmaster.
It’s a tough life. I’ve missed countless Birthdays, Thanksgivings, and Chirstmases. I’ve had rocks thrown at me, and been shot at. I’ve walked trains, in the dead of night, blazing sun, pouring rain, and driving snow. I’ve seen 2 co-worked injured so baddly, they can’t return to work. 10 others had time-loss injuries, but have returned to work. And worst of all, I’ve buried one co-work killed on the job.
I’ve also made a lot of money. For the most part, I work with a great bunch of guys, who when the chips are down, will give you the shirt off thier back. We really are a family. And there’s nothing like the feeling of seeing the little kids waving as you go by.
Be wary of your reputation. Railroaders gossip worse then old women. [:D] Not everyone will know your face, but everyone, and I mean everyone will know your reputation.
You don’t have to kiss the Yardmasters, Trainmasters, and Dispatchers tooshies. But being on good terms with them can prevent a lot of headaches.
Know your rules and union agreement. And know what the jobs do. If you don’t know, don’t be afraid to ask questions. Better to look stupid by for asked the question, then to do something really stupid, because you didn’t know and didn’t ask.
Nick
When you collect your first check from the RRRB this is the only thing that counts. I worked in marketing and sales for 37 years at five railroads.
Thanks for keeping this going, and thank you to those that took the time to PM me. I truly appreciate it.
Sounds like you are getting some good advice…
LC