I was driving by Rigby Yards in S. Portland, Maine and when I got home, I decided to look up the yards on the 'net. On the Guilford site, they listed an opening for a Carman a Rigby.
What’s a carman and what does he do? I’m not going to apply, but I’m curious.
alias a “carknocker”…If RandyStahl is handy , he could tell you in detail about these mechanical department folks who do a lot more than change brake shoes and inspect cars in terminals…
Duties: Railway freight car inspection, periodic maintenance, and repair. Outside work required. Physical duties will require lifting a maximum of 50 lbs., working at different heights, stooping, bending, and getting on and off equipment. Applicant should have knowledge of burning, welding, blueprint reading and the operation of heavy fabrication equipment. Experience preferred.
Training: Will consist of an 8 to 10-week training course at the Norfolk Southern corporate training facility at McDonough, GA, 35 miles south of Atlanta on 1-75. Norfolk Southern will cover the cost of a bus ticket from the city of employment to McDonough, GA per the union agreement. While in McDonough, NS provides lodging at a local hotel and meal coupons to be used at local restaurants. Employees hired for freight car repair or inspection positions must complete a four-phase training program prior to receiving full journeyman status. The rate of pay for student Carmen during their training in McDonough will be $350.00 per week.
Hours: Employees are required to work 8 hours on either a two-shift or three-shift rotation depending on the location.
Union Membership: All employees will be required to join a union within 60 days of establishing a seniority date. The union requires monthly membership dues of all members. Failure to comply with any policies as outlined in the Agreement between the Carrier and the Union may result in termination of employment.
Alcohol and Drug Policy: The Norfolk Southern Policy is zero tolerance.
Pay Rates: The full union scale for Carman is $21.16 ( 7/1/03) after 4 years of employment. The rate progression is outlined below:
Wow $350 per week, minus taxes of course, for up to 10 weeks away from home…They hand out coupons good at restaurants, what about coupons good at the massage parlor?[}:)]