Railroad Conductor REACTS: Union Pacific - Train Crew

[@eric5012]

Thank you for always fighting for two person crews and keeping that a forefront issue in your analysis of modern railroading careers!

[@Railroad_TalkNOutdoors]

I really hope something gets put in place in the next few years. I think the odds are a lot better now that our unions can look into Derailments with the companies and the FRA.. Fingers crossed. Appreciate the comment Eric!

[@danielsylvester4562]

I retired in 2004 from UP. I started with CNW in 1967. We thought we'd see big improvements when they took us over. It didn't take long to really miss the CNW. Shortly after the merger I got this big envelope from UP. I thought it was my "Welcome to the UP packet". Turns out it was all about their discipline system and how they were going to fire me. They tried in 1999 and ended up paying me for all time lost. (Plus, I collected on my job insurance) I loved railroading but the UP sure discouraged me from going over and above to get the job done. Back when we had five-man crews we could accomplish more in an hour than they can do all day now because of the rule changes. I don't think I could last 38 years now days. If you want crazy hours and being away from home become a truck driver.

[@trainandtruckmodeler786]

My dad worked for Rock Island after shutdown he went to CNW....he worked there till 1991 and went to BN were he new what the UP was about....I worked 21 years with CC/IC.....if I had to redo it, I wouldn't last a month in the industry....I'm a otr driver now....

[@Mudcat50]

Did the same thing. Started with Norfolk Western, which wasn't too bad, but it nosedived when they merged with the Southern RR The main business in this area was coal. We had 5 man crews that serviced 3 - 4 mines. We took over 150mtys, delivered on the way up, and picked up their loads on the way back Prolly 60 mile round trip, made in in under 12 hrs every day. Today, they can't get a 100 mtys to 1 mine to flood load it, let alone bring them back

[@juanitamoore268]

Thanks!

[@peytbass]

Indeed. If hired, give it a shot. The UP hired/trained me to be a conductor and engineer. I saw a better environment and scheduled work hours at Amtrak, and left the UP in 2007. I haven't looked back.

[@rjohnson1690]

I never had an issue with THE JOB. I was totally willing to deal with the lack of schedule, the long hours, the time away from home, and everything else. I worked with a great bunch of people, and there were trips where I literally said I can’t believe they pay us to do this. With the right crew the worst night can be the funnest time of your life. What I objected to was the complete and total contempt UP had for those of us that made ALL the money for that company. They completely didn’t give a crap about the amount of sacrifice, privation, and danger that we went through. They rubbed crap in our face bragging about record profits when we were furloughed during the financial crisis. They called us “part time employees” after working 60-80 hour weeks. They never bothered giving us a decent train line up so we could effectively manage our rest so we could work safely. I saw them blow off labor and environmental laws because paying a fine was easier than doing something ethical. I put up with some real BS before pulling the pin and going to a railroad that actually treats me well. The sad thing is, UP could actually be a great company to work for, they have been in the past. All the old heads talked about how great UP was before the Mopac merger. They could make it a great work place, they just don’t want to. They want to make it horrible so we all quit, and they can tell the government they need single employee (or no employee) crews.

[@candle_eatist]

Can't ever forget that at the end of the day it's a fortune 500 company out looking for cash. They're gonna cut out the laborers and treat them like crap all they want because the decision makers can never see how significant their workers are from the top.

[@totalobliviondemolition]

Been following your videos for a while. There great well put together. Ive been working for a Class1 RR as a conductor for 4 years now next year will be my fifth. They have awesome benefits for military members. It has its good days and bad days. I love my job and somedays its fun to just sit and listen to my fellow trainmen bitch about things. Just have to sit and laugh some days about the little things.

[@shawnpowell5876]

Great video RRT, it definitely made sense and I'm glad too they mentioned "FURLOUGH" so that their employees can anticipate this possibly happening. And atleast the people who spoke were actual employees that get dirty lol. Thanks for sharing this video RRT and be safe my friend!

[@BossSpringsteen69]

Most of our furloughed employees didn't come back when recalled.

[@ednorton164]

And there's always a Jody to take care of the spouse when out. Waiting for my chance again hooyah!

[@hfd260]

Great video! My son just got a conditional job offer from UP. We are very excited!!!! Thank you for the information!

[@ronmexico6241]

Did your son accept the offer? Did he start ?

[@25mfd]

@ 8:22... "part of a family"🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣...okay... whatever... yea like back in the mid 90s when i was working the adams pool and we ran through a switch at a mainline meet, we were holding the main, pulled down to the other end of the siding, train we were meeting pulled through, mainline switch was lined against us... we slowed down to about 3mph i got out and stood on the front step to get off and throw the switch... my engr poked his head out the window and said "I'M NOT GONNA BE ABLE TO STOP"... i quick jumped off the engine and ran to the switch praying it wasn't locked but it was (btw for the new guys ALWAYS lock the switch when meeting a train... ALWAYS)... switch was locked couldn't throw it in time and POP, POP, POP through the switch... the 3 POPS was the leading 3 axles of our SD unit sliding through the switch... bastard trainmaster asked why i didn't dump the air i asked him where is a dump valve on the front step because that's where i was when we went through the switch... after much back and forth and postponing the investigation they finally dropped the charges against me... so yea i got your "family" right here buddy... bastards

[@Railroad_TalkNOutdoors]

That's crazy lol. Sounds like the story I was talking about in Muscle shoals, A friend of mine and the engineer was in the yard and they derailed (rail spread) and the engine was almost on it's side they pull up and the first thing they say is "what did you do" the engineer I was told shot right back and said "we're okay! Thanks for asking!" lol..

[@25mfd]

@@Railroad_TalkNOutdoors but hey joey like she said it's a family right???... you really gotta watch your back i swear

[@mckinley3]

Great video. I had two interviews with NS still trying to get in.

[@envioushate]

Which Yard did you apply at? I've been a conductor out of Alliance NE for the last 3 years. We are desperate for people.

[@billbaber6653]

Thanks kid you help me relive my childhood dad being NS guy.

[@georgewilson1184]

There seems to be a similarity between R.R. and Longhaul Semi truck driving

[@jackkertzie666]

Heading down to McDonough next week. Thanks for all the great info!!! Hire location Buffalo, NY

[@Railroad_TalkNOutdoors]

Congrats Jack! Good luck man.

[@jameswoods8460]

Might want to mention that the time furloughed, with UP "Does not count to your years of service raise". You start at 75%, every year you get a 5% raise. Furloughed, 16 months your raise is set back that much. Just saying.

[@Railroad_TalkNOutdoors]

Great point James. Same with NS.

[@jeremyleahy9081]

26 years with Union Pacific. Conductor/ Engineer. Qualified engineer for 15 years, I would quit now if I didn't have time invested and 51 years of age. Long way to the top. High divorce rate. Hard to get time off. Sorry for the negativity but just thought I'd let you guys know.

[@25mfd]

hey you aren't being negative, you're just speaking the truth... working in the rail industry has always been tough and would be condrs and engrs need to know about the bad stuff BEFORE they sign up

[@ddstanfield9259]

J j j jaded

[@drunkdonutboy]

I was scratching my head for the longest time how so many guys could be whining about a 6 figure job....welp now I know....its hell even if you're single....some days i was wondering how I get paid so well and other days I didn't think I was getting paid enough

[@j.padron8531]

Nice video, currently a student conductor on FEC, a Class 2 RR that runs from Miami to Jacksonville, all the same except the furloughs, that doesn't exist here. But all the benefits and Union, its all the same down here.

[@qcwred]

Recently applied and have an interview. But since I applied I've been worried, the ad said expected pay for the first year is 70-80k but is that 15$ an hour 80 hours a week or 39$ an hour 40 hours a week? I imagine is some where between these 2 extremes but I just wish they would post the actually hourly pay instead of expected yearly pay

[@KurtisCharlton]

This is the best recruiting video out of all of the onboarding glamour shots that class 1's have filmed. They covered nearly everything and it looks like they used actual employees instead of "actors in white gloves".

[@Railroad_TalkNOutdoors]

Facts buddy. Best one yet IMO as well.

[@Mr.Rowdo-Rudy-Lopez]

Great video! Gives something to look forward to here in the near future! The more I know, the better! Thanks! 👊😅👍

[@highnoon3156]

I recently started a job as locomotive electrician. So far worked on union Pacific Loco 634, and currently doing an entire rewire loco 600.. it can be stressful working on these but it pretty rewarding, and good experience. I do not work for UP though, but a shop in E. StL.

[@Railroad_TalkNOutdoors]

Anything electrical is good to know, especially if you start to dip into PLC and writing logic, troubleshooting, setting traps etc. Understanding AC and DC motors, trouble shooting them, megging them out to check insulation. All of that is good and can lead to a very very lucrative career 👍🏼. I’m sure you know about of that I mentioned above btw, I wasn’t insulting your intelligence by any means.

[@highnoon3156]

@@Railroad_TalkNOutdoors not at all.. thanks for the reply! These are pretty old locomotives from before PLCs. I have taken a course on PLCs and know there is definitely money to be made there for sure!

[@Railroad_TalkNOutdoors]

@@highnoon3156 that’s what I am doing currently lol. (Learning as much as I can with PLCs) I wish you the best!

[@davidconnelly6206]

I was just offered a Train Crew position with UP, and might have reject it with all that is going on. Its obviously not good at all. Thanks

[@ericpadilla5863]

I'm 47 and was just offered the train crew position. But the more I read up on it from current and former UP employees, I'm beginning to have second thoughts about it.

[@amc3463]

What happened did you 😂quit before you started

[@bigguy78246]

I’m from the engine house and they are hard on crews. At the start they use to hire train then layoff. I haven’t heard of that much these days due to them hurting for crews. I did hear this contract though they have dropped the one man crew talk.

[@Railroad_TalkNOutdoors]

Smart idea on the class 1 part, cause all it would take is the STB to step in and regulate crew size.. which I’m pretty sure they have the power to do so. Glad to hear it.

[@Flyby-1000]

It's crossed my mind many times when I was much younger to get into the railroad industry. I ended up in the aviation industry cuz I like aircraft just a little more. I'll tell you one thing though...there's A LOT of similarities between the two industries when it comes to working for an airline. One of the differences i noted was a scheduled shift. We do have scheduled shift hours, but everything else that was mentioned pertains to the aviation industry too...

[@truss6282]

That UP hat the switchman is wearing is hilarious.

[@HorsepoweredRims]

1403?

[@Supercell2]

And according to the new FRA safety assessment. UP is the least safe. But some of us already knew that.

[@likesanddislikesetc]

I worked for them until I got injured. I enjoyed it. Don’t listen to all the negative, but it really is not for everybody. It takes a certain mentality and getting used to.

[@JeffTiberend]

As I’ve gotten older, I’ve had a lot of painful foot problems after working over a year at a warehouse job. I’m also about to turn 52. Now, I’m working as a van driver for RailCrew Express. I only knew about this work due to friends and family who have worked for Union Pacific. It’s been a real blessing. I grew up in a farm but, had alot of issues while growing up. I would have never considered working for Union Pacific. Even with the issues over one man crews, which I detest. I wish that I had looked into working for Union Pacific when I was younger. Hell, I wish that I would try to get into a Conductor job when I was out of high school in the early 90’s. I hope some younger people would read this and maybe at least give working in the railroad a chance.

[@bailercharles]

Stumbled across your videos. Very informative for "cubs" just starting the craft !!! Great work

[@Artisan1.618]

Ok, so a furlough is a temporary layoff (cue that Motown song) but still employed. I heard there was "RR Unemployment" for furloughs. You didn't mention it but I still wanted to ask. Thanks in advance.

[@howd2u2]

I retired in 2004 as a Locomotive Engineer with 30 years of service, made my Engineers date on the Southern Pacific, and flowed over to the UP after they acquired the "Ol' Friendly." SP Their descriptions are accurate, but it's when a Trainmaster orders you to go and pick up a cut of cars about 20 miles away with an hour and a half left on hours of service that changes the Kumbaya outlook about the railroad. I never made it back to my T.U. point, died on the hours of service in the siding, and then an official accused me " that I wasn't a team player. "TERRIBLE!." And waited a couple of hours before a ride showed. Altogether, it was about 14 hrs. + on duty. :> Be prepared for moments like that if there is such a thing.

[@shyryTsr2k]

Thank you for sharing experience! I am 24 years old with no girl or kids and it looks so fun to be working on the railroads! It seems like going on an adventure cross country with your friends and I really hope that I can make a difference somehow. I applied to BNSF as a train conductor trainee up in Washington State and being from California with barely any money and no relatives or friends in the area, I will most likely be living out of my car when I drive up there. I have a lot of stuff but I don't mind selling everything to make the journey. Do you think it's worth it to leave everything behind to work the rails?

[@IMLovelydove23]

I like this review. I'm sending it to my friend who does this work.🌟

[@mrsterlinj8789]

Great video

[@Motherslug-q7l]

Retired since 1998 CR & PC worked 38 years, Yard Crew Enola Hump Master. Became Master Hump in 90's until retirement. No one knows my job better than a New Hump Master! 1:30 Drop you off in the middle of the woods you Learn something every day Comen sense, no logic explained. UP Worse Company to work for 2021 Nope WRONG NS is, I can say it, But you can't. 2:18 Not even saying it Your HEART isn't there. Hardest Part of the Job is walking, walking on the Stones or Roadbed every day of every HOUR!!! 3:24 as I hear as back in the day would be goal taker as Jobs are listed on a Board and the Best are used, so thinking that you didn't say or talk about it makes me think you got the job by being a Kiss ass! I'll ask the Easiest Question to you were and please be pinpoint accordant as to on a Locomotive head on collision with anything where is the Safest Place to be on Board by Railroading CODE, Locomotive let's say a 70ACe? enlighten me

[@TL-lh3ks]

My Engineer has 20 years as a former BNSF Engineer and myself A 16-year Conductor. Don't Goto a class 2 or 3 Until you get your years of service. Class 2 and 3 are better but get your time on the Class 1.

[@zackbobby5550]

I know this is an old comment but I'm a conductor on a Class 3 shortline and I've got experience running, too. I've always heard not to go for the Class 1, but I'm only 24 and the pay at the smaller railroads is just not enough to get my life started. Working the better part of 60 hours a week I'm barely breaking even! Now sure we get scheduled shifts but the pay is bad and there's WAY more switching lol. Been considering spending some time on a big road but I'm hesitant from everything I've heard.

[@flowdawg1]

Glad I came across your video I’m set for UP train crew training next month let’s give this my all!

[@gracechamberlain5029]

how is the job going

[@simulmartin1496]

where is the training location?

[@galaxytv2613]

I was just hired as a freight conductor for northern plains railroad

[@trainandtruckmodeler786]

After 21 years with Chicago Central / Illinois Central I got my layoff notice with CN....I worked in shortline industry for a while and I just love it how the industry and the corporate bigwigs say it's possible....yes it is....however after I made my train and airtested it I would take off in the company pickup....we had a road called highway 6 that you could always see your train from...it was 15 mph....so any stalls on the hill...or minor derailment I could be there in a few minutes.... Now.... considering the fact that the TESLA semi is out, it is the railways best interest to either go 1 man or no man....if the railway doesn't adapt Tesla will kill off the railway....when there is no coal or oil to haul or very little to haul the railway will be useless....7 semis with 1 driver at .08 cents a mile, the railways gotta modernize before it's to late....and from the way I take it Elon is not a fan of railways

[@bcupp15]

In the 2nd month of OJT in Harrisburg with NS. Its definitely not for everyone and a lot of the guys I came up here with after accepting a permanent transfer to leave South Ga and move north are already saying its nothing like they expected after leaving McDonough. Its been a pretty positive experience for me so far but I am also single with no kids. The money each week is great (Some historical agreement allows Keystone employees to get paid weekly) and the territory is just absolutely stunning. Like you said most everyone out here that's marked up wants you to succeed. They are working endlessly and know that we are their only hope. Its not perfect but its what you make of it.

[@nancyhaun]

good info!

[@jihadjones5978]

I would love to get a job in a very old system but why is it so hard to get in?

[@Railroad_TalkNOutdoors]

@@jihadjones5978 competition is the main thing. When I hired out with NS the HR manager told us NS receives about 5,000 applications a week. Obviously someone isn’t going through each resume. They have some sort of vetting process and the number 1 tip I can give you for your resume to at least get looked at is to put no on Tobacco use and 100% willingness to travel if you’re looking to become a conductor. 👍🏼

[@ckay2615]

Question to you all train crew workers. How do you plan doctor's appointments and important appointments if you are at risk of being called out at any given moment?? Thanks in advance.

[@Railroad_TalkNOutdoors]

Most will use FMLA.

[@ckay2615]

@@Railroad_TalkNOutdoors Oh? I would have never thought of using FMLA to keep a dentist appointment or some other important appointment. 🤔

[@jorrick66]

@@ckay2615 if you can’t get FMLA (you have to work 1,000 hours a year to qualify) pre arrange vacation days, personal days, or take points on the attendance policy. Find a good urgent care you can just walk into. Very difficult to make appointments on call on road board. Helps if you live in an area where you can drive home on both ends.

[@ckay2615]

@@jorrick66 Thank You for the advice.

[@MirzaAhmed89]

Book appointments close to your depot? Leave your gear in your car? You do have two hours to get to work, so I don't see why it should be a problem.

[@oct197.]

you know I'd love to be a conductor but the thing is, you don't know when you're going to work or getting off work. I'm the type of person who likes set schedules... would this be a problem

[@Railroad_TalkNOutdoors]

Yeah, all class 1s and a lot of short lines are mostly on call.. but not all of them. Might want to reach out to some local short lines in your area and see what type of schedule they have.

[@oct197.]

@@Railroad_TalkNOutdoors thanks for the info :)

[@amc3463]

With that mindset this ain’t the Job for you ,you have to have the mindset of getting up and moving 365 days 24/7 ready to work wherever whenever no BS

[@oct197.]

@@amc3463 I might try for metra eventually for a conductor position.

[@ckay2615]

Is the crazy schedule (being called out at any given time) always like that your whole career? Or after gaining some seniority do you get a set schedule so you can plan your personal life accordingly?

[@Railroad_TalkNOutdoors]

Takes time but you can have a regular job. I was fortunate to hold a local with less than a year of seniority. That is not common though lol.

[@ckay2615]

@@Railroad_TalkNOutdoors Thank You for the reply. I appreciate it.

[@theunkowntravellers3167]

@@Railroad_TalkNOutdoors 34 years at cn set up engineer for 5(hired on end of last hiring wave) pool engineer now, last job before setup was 28 years on tail end spareboard

[@FSTM4003]

I was wondering what is the prosses for becoming a conductor or engineer

[@Railroad_TalkNOutdoors]

The process is pretty basic but it requires a bit commitment. Apply, and if you’re hired you have to attend a training program where you must pass or you’re fired. Most carriers will give you a few tries to pass the test. To become an engineer for most carriers in the states is all based on seniority. Once you become a conductor and start climbing the seniority roster your day will come where you are next to attend engineer school and that’s how you get certified and start driving a locomotive. The time to become an engineer varies based on your yard and company you hire with but for NS a good average I would say is 8-10 years. Sometimes sooner

[@FSTM4003]

@@Railroad_TalkNOutdoors alright, thanks.

[@jimg6476]

I hired out on the Southern Pacific 53 years ago. Have seen monumental changes with the merger with the UP. Went from a company that was family oriented to a draconian oriented company. My first 19 years was on call and then after that was able to hold decent assignments. Had a physical and the doctor asked me how is your sleep pattern? I laughed and said that am on call 24/7/366. He said you are in constant jet lag! All kidding aside it had been a fun career. Was lucky hired out at age 18. The railroading today is totally different. The company wants to run monster trains up to 20,000 feet and the same amount of tonnage. Surely it looks great on paper on in Omaha but in the real world it sucks. One take away from the working on the RR is my famous quote. Its a great place where dysfunctional people can find employment! A few years ago the UP started an attendance policy that is unbelievable . If you take a day off you are assessed 8 points. If you take 4 days off in a 90 day period you are subject to termination..forever.. I could go on and on about the pitfalls of the UP.

[@metaljustice4518]

My dad did 38 years with SP and told me to not bother with it as he retired in 1985. Glad I listened and did 20 years in LEO world and got to retire young.

[@alphaking1994]

Too bad SP management didn't take care of business when it came to adapting and growing the business.

[@mathew7723]

so is it conductor then engineer? if so how do you get to the engineer title?

[@realfast747]

I have a question .. does one get paid 24 hours a day while being out ? Or when you sleep at the lodge or whatever you're off ?

[@tylercolvin8653]

I’d like to know this as well

[@brendant5248]

Held away pay after 16 hrs at the lodging

[@its_ajhawkins]

Hey there to all i am new to the channel and i am set to start at UP training next month and i am told there are test i have to pass in order to get on to with train crew besides physical and health training what is it and how difficult is it and what is the test over/about?

[@simulmartin1496]

where was you training?

[@AVoltigeur]

It’s all the same job . The difference is the company rules and some lingo and habits in different areas. I’m in GA now we couple to cars. In Ohio it’s tie on or making a tie. Ohio I stopped with dynamics then automatic. Georgia it’s dynamics to 4 mph or less and then swap to independent, then apply brakes once stopped. Either way, step rate has to go away and we need contracts/raises that are beneficial to work life perks AND good $ and not just chase highest dollar. Also 2 unions on property has to end . Just causes division. BLE should draw up a potential offer to NS crews during this session and get rid of UTU.

[@tookies06]

How did your interview go with ns railroad

[@Railroad_TalkNOutdoors]

Took about 2 mins, a basically the recruiter asked why I wanted to come back and my pitch was the new CEO. He came from the ground, she wasn’t suppose to interview me the guy that was wasn’t available. We will see what happens lol.

[@JA17SBLVIIIMVP]

So if I get furloughed from CSX, what do I do? Apply for unemployment? I mean besides for looking for a temporary job.

[@Railroad_TalkNOutdoors]

Video on this coming soon. Quick answer is railroad unemployment lol.

[@dsmalf]

How long can you draw unemployment while being furloughed??

[@Yomommahouse]

Just got hired on at UP. Just wanted to know if I will be based out of the city of my application. I got the training is out of state but can they send me anywhere in the territory? If so how long is it usually?

[@Railroad_TalkNOutdoors]

No you should be hired wherever you applied. They just can’t send you anywhere due to contract agreements. Example, if you applied for a conductor position for Memphis TN, you will be based out of Memphis TN, you may have locals that are further away you may have to work. We had to work in Memphis some days when I was with NS but they pay for your gas and time driving there.

[@jabariwhite1795]

Are you coming to Minneapolis?

[@PaulWeezy50]

Yes, & no. With UP depending on where you are, you can still be sent to wherever the lowest service unit covers. Ex: I hired out of San Antonio, Tx in 2005. Some of the lower seniority guys in the same class I hired out with had to go 177 miles to live out of Del Rio/Eagle Pass Tx for a year. So not another state per se unless you live near a bordering state.

[@curtisschalk6759]

Do you happen to know the minimal requirement for the auto rack brake test during the PAT?

[@Railroad_TalkNOutdoors]

I’m not sure, but applying the brakes on an auto rack is pretty easy. It is a shoulder burner but I would swap arms. Once it began to get tight I would lock my arm and use my legs to tighten the brake fully.

[@curtisschalk6759]

I passed it a few years back but someone I know just did the test and said it was hard and wasn’t sure if they passed. They applied 92 pounds of force on the test.

[@FixingAircraft]

Hey man you ever have time to look into the Roanoke rail yard?

[@Railroad_TalkNOutdoors]

Big yard, for sure, but I will go over on the next stream, I have it in my notes and even if you can't be there live it will be up so you can watch later.

[@FixingAircraft]

@@Railroad_TalkNOutdoors cool deal you're the best

[@MauriceJenifer]

i being trying to get on that job for a long time now how can i do it i did track work for a long time now just trying to learn about freight conductor how can i do it hit me up ok

[@kittty2005]

I hear by the grapevine that engineers are training remotely to run trains from the office, and a one man step and fetch it for coupling and switch duties.

[@trainandtruckmodeler786]

2.55.....cutting it a little close there.....

[@Railroad_TalkNOutdoors]

🤣🤣🤣

[@justlift4031]

When your furloughed do you still receive some type of check? Im local 105 right now I've been laid off for ALMOST a year now and there is over 400 people out if work..

[@Railroad_TalkNOutdoors]

You can draw unemployment it’s around 750 every 2 weeks or so.

[@Rcmellophotography]

Current yard guy as a contractor with savage. Orient the only way on the rails we have options for everyone and an amazing environment to grow in. I’d love to contribute to this channel. I’m a conductor/engineer. Not sure what you guys are looking for in regards to contributors. Do I need a bigger following? Do i need to know someone? Or are your contributors class 1 only?

[@AJBLAkX]

Yo while the conductors are on the trains riding to each location what do you do? What kind of tasks

[@ddstanfield9259]

Keeping up with track crews in areas. Track conditions, signals, know what your hauling and what , where if your dropping cars, building a train, verifying your 100% compliant Do everything except drive the train Mentally you have to be on the job

[@BigAntDogg49]

What is the starting pay for new train crew hires in Southern California?

[@rronfiretoo]

Hey, that’s me!!!!

[@dustinwilliams8969]

I just recently got a job offer as a train crew member/conductor. I know it probably depends but is it true that you only generally get 2 or 3 days off a month? I heard that from someone that probably isn’t a reliable source. But just thought I’d ask.

[@theronbrawley9716]

How do you pass the Gates test? I did the superman side,and then did the weak employee bs. I hate the bs. My side is always safety. Just so much bs,.

[@conductormike3step]

Not sure how I found this video but I do have a question. I have heard some of the older locomotives that are still used don’t have AC. I saw a train with the guy sitting in it with the front door open. I was told by a buddy that works for CSX that the doors have to be shut when the train is in motion and you cannot stand outside the locomotive above a certain speed. I meant to ask more questions but would love to hear what your company does in regards to that “issue” or what is allowed because what I see and what I am told are opposites. I actually was considering applying and am enjoying your videos a lot. Thanks for the info and input!

[@MadMax-jb7vq]

Do you get unemployment if your fer load ?

[@aaronscott2278]

Just checked link said store not available =/

[@Railroad_TalkNOutdoors]

What?!! Let me check thank you Aaron.

[@Railroad_TalkNOutdoors]

I got it working now buddy. Thanks for letting me know

[@aaronscott2278]

@@Railroad_TalkNOutdoors very welcome appreciate it 🙏

[@davidgrice9270]

I've got a good chance of being a conductor for Norfolk & Southern problem is I have high blood pressure, will that be a big issue?

[@Railroad_TalkNOutdoors]

Hey David, i don’t believe so, they may get your primary care doctor for some release forms basically saying it’s ok for you to do the task of a conductor.

[@davidgrice9270]

@@Railroad_TalkNOutdoors thank you I appreciate the response

[@Railroad_TalkNOutdoors]

@@davidgrice9270 yes sir no problem at all! Rooting for you, hope everything goes good my friend. Thanks for stopping by the channel.

[@JoeMama-vj8es]

This issue with NS and UP so readily firing the train crews sounds absolutely awful! Who wants to live with that hanging over their heads when they give so much of themselves.

[@Railroad_TalkNOutdoors]

Thankfully, the union fights for you.. you have to have a pretty big rap sheet or do something really bad to get completely terminated. But you're right, it's an odd feeling knowing someone could be watching you from a bush with binoculars at any given time.. lol

[@25mfd]

@@Railroad_TalkNOutdoors and the bad part joey is that folks who don't work for the railroad have a hard time believing that the bosses hide in the weeds with binoculars... it just sounds totally unbelievable but trust me folks it is TRUE... sad but true

[@davidchadwick5423]

I can't believe this 'hire to fire' ethos that seems to be omnipresent throughout the railroad industry. Even if you're a by the book kinda worker, just the thought of the stress made me cease looking for a career in the railroads. I can't believe that the upper level management allows this. I can't believe that they'd invest millions of dollars in the hiring, onboarding and training processes only to have supervisors running around with hard-ons to fire. Other youtuber said his worst fear was seeing a white SUV, as this was an indicator of the fire-happy supervisors swarming around....looking to fire 'someone' as if they are filing a quota. Again, how is that sustainable and what kind of fiscal business model is that?

[@chinook6986]

@Primus You misunderstand. On the railroad there are people who's job it is to try and catch you doing something wrong and then discipline you for it. That is how they justify their jobs. A lot of these "managers" have never worked in the craft themselves and they don't even know what rule they are testing on. It is not an atmosphere where a boss comes up to you and tries to show you how to do your job better or safer. It's a "gotcha" moment and off to investigation we go to determine what your discipline will be. It's a notch in their belt and demoralising to the employee.

[@sproulman1]

All pressure on NS RR to hide in weeds and catch you is coming from higher up management put on Trainmaster .. If he or her does not get like 10 violations a month they are threaten with being transferred or just fired they have no union ... Trainmasters cannot tell you it's their boss above them doing it ... I saw many good TM get fired or transferred or went back in craft because of upper management .. Yet crews blame TM trust me it's their boss above them making them.do this if they want to keep their jobs ....

[@jamesswidergal7875]

Do we still have guarantee?

[@Throttlejockey94]

All those guys are riding on the bottoms steps.

[@terrykownack7814]

They forget to mention managers hiding in Porta johns and bushes watching you to fire you

[@ianbolson799]

what are they watching for

[@BlusHouseofbarbers]

Great Video!...I just got hired on as a conductor with NS. I'm still in the beginning stages with medical and everyhting. Can you tell me how long this process last until I get my date to go train down in ATL. I'm in the Chicago area. What are some cold weather tips to keep in my back pocket?

[@Railroad_TalkNOutdoors]

Congrats Ty! That’s awesome man! If i had to guess, current wait times 1-2 months. I’m in the process of making a cold weather gear even though I didn’t work in super cold weather 10-30 degrees was about the coldest it was for me lol.

[@BlusHouseofbarbers]

@@Railroad_TalkNOutdoors Ok, yea it's been super cold up here in the Chicago area. -15 and snow. I may luck up and miss it all because of School and then waiting times to get started. I know for sure next year it'll be back. I appreciate the videos champ. I may have to join the KZbin team and start documenting my experiences as well. Thanks!

[@jorrick66]

@@BlusHouseofbarbers I worked to yard center my first winter on UP. Best bet for cold weather up there is layers. You’re going to be hot on the engine if you don’t have removable layers. After 11 years, I’ve found what works best for me is long John’s and blue jeans, short sleeve shirt under a long sleeve shirt, hoodie and a jacket if needed. If it gets really cold, I always have my rain gear to put on over those layers. Rain gear locks the heat in and the wind out. You live out of your grip. Trust me when I say, less is more. You don’t want to be lugging 3 or 4 bags full of carhartt gear and a lunch bucket up and down all the time. Autumn creek and red Oxx make exceptional grips for railroaders. I’m a backpack guy. Two straps hiking in a mile or two to a train are much better than a duffel bag. Also, ALWAYS carry a hoodie, even in the summer. The air conditioner in the locomotives will turn the cab into a meat locker. And look into a hot logic. Heating food up on a train is sometimes the most challenging thing you do. Good luck, hope it helps!

[@BlusHouseofbarbers]

@@jorrick66 Thanks a ton. Super helpful. I got an additional offer to work for CN and decided to take that job. NS left me questioning a lot. I'm a military guy and my I've learned to trust my gut instinct. I'm recording all of my events for KZbin just waiting to get enough content to be consistent. I've definitely looked into that info you told me and ordered my backpack and getting ready for next month to start training.

[@jorrick66]

@@BlusHouseofbarbers no problem, and good luck! You shouldn’t have to worry about heating food up on a CN locomotive. Most, if not all have a microwave and/or hot plates.

[@mikimiki195]

Do you qualify for job service when you on furlough ?

[@Railroad_TalkNOutdoors]

No you can only draw job insurance when you’re pulled out of service. When you’re furloughed you can only draw unemployment from the RRR. I think it’s close to 700-800 every 2 weeks.

[@1117fifa]

This Aged Well

[@ElPasoTXRailfanner]

I Have A Question Do I Need License And School Papers To Work For BNSF Or UP Or Not That's My Question I'm Almost 20 So I Mean Can I Work For UP Or BNSF I Am From El Paso Texas So I Mean

[@NeiltheDeal]

Stay the fuck away. They will fire you if your lunch break is longer than 20 minutes.

[@flowdawg1]

Damn UP?

[@flowdawg1]

Damn UP?

[@chagan402]

How do u start

[@Railroad_TalkNOutdoors]

Go to indeed.com type in conductor and insert your city in the location and jobs should appear. You can also check out the career pages for BNSF, Union Pacific, CSX, NorFolk southern, CN, CP or short lines in your area.

[@Nemeantough1]

Hey, I'm pretty new to this channel and to the concept of working at the railroads. Little about me, I've been learning to weld for 3 years now and I'm about to graduate from community college, would my welding skills and certs benefit me as a train conductor?

[@MirzaAhmed89]

No, but you can get a job as a track maintenance worker.

[@joesampson8680]

Looking at applying for train crew in my city. I don’t have any RR experience other then talking to some old heads and some other people who had worked there. Being it’s the tail end of 2022, would anyone here recommend working for UP?

[@WatchUsSnipeYou]

Just started 2 weeks ago officially in training. There’s a lot to learn, and a lot of training you have to go through. Like any job, it’s not for everyone. You’ll get paid well and never have to worry about where your next meal is coming from as long as you work there. Try it, worse case scenario you quit, or you work there for a few months and you’ll always have it in your resume which is a good thing. Good luck!

[@Railroad_TalkNOutdoors]

Now would be the time in my opinion, due to all class 1 carriers being extremely short handed.

[@Supercell2]

2024 Its still not a great company to work for. But the checks don't bounce and there's some of us of have worked for worse companies. So for me, I enjoy the job. I enjoy the guys and gals I work with.

[@northcarolinabluesman]

I am a steam locomotive fireman that wants to fire the Big Boy

[@theaveragegamer5242]

I just got my release to start day. Can I ask a couple of questions?

[@Felix_559]

For Union Pacific ?

[@theaveragegamer5242]

@@Felix_559 yup

[@Felix_559]

@@theaveragegamer5242 I just got my release to start date earlier today seems like they’re doing a mass hire right now . Just curious what city did u apply for ?

[@theaveragegamer5242]

@@Felix_559 train crew

[@Felix_559]

@@theaveragegamer5242 I said city I applied for the Stockton location . I’m super excited to start but also worried . There has to be a good reason a lot of people are leaving so not sure if this is going to be a good or bad thing

[@TheGreatWesterner915]

Boi you better get your class 1 😅 that’s all I know

[@TriggerTravels]

Stop the cap.. Yall there for a damn pay check

[@Bftd_ed]

Whenever someone says this is a great company to work for on a corporate sponsored video. I know they lying.

[@TriggerTravels]

Nothing about this sounds appealing... And that's from a guy who did 10 years active duty.

[@Railroad_TalkNOutdoors]

I have been told by a lot of people who were in the military that it’s a lot like it 🤣.

[@larryjanson4011]

and when they lay off people. it is in the 10’s of thousands.

[@ArantiusVulpes]

so sick of student conductors and as an eng them too im also a new eng as far as furloughs CP just merged with KCS and my terminal is in the middle :)

[@dontspamrob]

You only have to be married for 1 year for the spousal benefit. After 10 years they can divorce you and still get it.

[@Railroad_TalkNOutdoors]

Unless they get remarried if I remember correctly.. little secret they never told their ex wife lol.

[@pattycarljackson]

I never follow those best or worse companies to work for. When people complain about their jobs all I see are minor complaints that they shouldn’t even be complaining about

[@Railroad_TalkNOutdoors]

These complaints by T&E employees are due to policies messing with their money and time home with their family 9 times outta 10. Go work for any class 1 and you will see first hand. Transportation guys are an after thought.

[@chinook6986]

When I started 17 years ago working for a Class 1 it was a sweet job. Good pay, good benefits, able to take time off without justifying it to a supervisor. Over time it has gotten worse. Managers who've never worked a day on a train or pulling a throttle evaluate your performance. Unreliable call times, longer trains, efforts to reduce crew size, fighting to get legitimate claims paid. We used to have free health insurance, now we pay and they want us to pay more every contract. Furloughs and layoffs for years. The greed and corruption at the management and executive level is sickening. They lie, they steal, and they don't give a shit about their employees or the communities they operate through. We sacrifice our families, our time, and our health through the pandemic just for them to try and take a way our conductors. All the while, those bastards set at home on their computers and said they were at work.

[@tildonbaker5327]

Well said!

[@daniellelara3020]

The engineer isn’t supposed to handle the blue flag protection

[@james6275]

It's a young single person's no kids job for at least the first 5-7 years

[@PrimalShadow506]

This administration just showed that the union cannot protect their workers anymore unfortunately

[@eddieprince2357]

This is to pro company. The exact thing he says against csx he does lol. Up doesn't describe a conductor while it states starting in a yard. You can't compare fire and ice

[@2kanchoo]

Yup I always say railroading isn't a job. It's a lifestyle. It controls every single facet of your existence. When you sleep or more often don't, when you can eat or not, shit or not. You miss the vast majority of events, birthdays, family gatherings. Really after doing it 20 years it's a single mans game IMO. (If I could go back in time I would have stayed at home and saved every single penny for say 5 years then left to university instead. Could have had enough for education paid for, a good reliable vehicle and a down payment for a house later. )When I started another guy and I worked out the divorce rate at our terminal not including 2-3 over guys at 75%. I personally can't understand how anyone is able to make a family work good at the railway. My experience has been that the vast majority of women can't handle all the time apart and not being able to go to concerts and events and out drinking and partying etc. The gal in that video was towing the company line hard. They absolutely want to fire you, way harder and more than they wanted to hire you.

[@johnmoore1949]

You all don’t get paid enough for the mental health abuse work you put yourself through! All risk. No reward. All around bad deal!!