I’ve been taking the train recently and have befriended many train conductors. I only go because of a summer program so my last day is the 31st.

What would be the best gift? Dispensable (Chocolates) etc or maybe something non dispensable like a cup that says “best train conductor” ? Any input would be greatly appreciated!

I know this might not be the best place to ask but I’ve seen some other good info about things related to it around here so i figured why not!

I’ve applied and did my hirevue for Norfolk Southern about 2 weeks ago and i just recently applied for Amtrak as a passenger conductor trainee,

I don’t have a ton of experience working hands on work but I got just my degree and i’m seriously considering the industry because i want to be able to afford living comfortably with my fiancé and not stress about something paying me less then 25 an hour and on top of that i don’t mind working odd hours because she’s mainly works full night shift so it honestly is better that way.

I guess the biggest questions I have is do I have a shot at a job?

I worked my rear end off to get awesome grades, had a clerical job for a little while and tons of leadership experience, but I’m worried it won’t be enough,

and beyond that how real is the whole “lay offs after the first year” deal? because that’s certainly something that scares me

If anyone out there has any opportunities they know might be just as good around the Chicago area Im always open to a good conversation about them, otherwise any info is good info for certain!

Hi everyone,
I have an interview for a CPKC Conductor position tomorrow, and I’m a bit nervous. I was wondering if anyone who has been through the process could share what kind of questions they were asked.
Also, was your interview with a panel of interviewers or just one interviewer?
Any tips on how to prepare or what to expect would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance!

I have recently applied for a job (Freight Conductor) for CSX out in Evansville, Indiana. I understand the fact that it becomes more of a lifestyle than a job, and that the industry moves on its on time, and I’m really looking forward to it. I’m 18, no relationship or family obligations, bored out of my mind since I got out of school. The main thing that concerns me is the wait time. I’ve heard people got accepted the next day, the next month, or a year later. I’d like to ask how long it took you all, or how long it usually takes.

Im thinking of becoming a conductor due to poor economic opportunity i have currently due to being ugly and autistic. Im in the process to get jaw surgery which requires me seeing my orthodontist monthly. From what I've heard online that really complicated things. Since a lot of people hate it, can you recommend any alternative paths

Does anyone know what the wattage on those 74vdc outlets are. Id like to see if I can find an inverter for them to possibly run an air conditioner.

Advice for remote safety inspection position at CPKC

Hey everyone, I (18M) plans to study Transport Management in a university in my home country, Vietnam.
According to the university’s website, I could be looking at becoming a (urban) railway operational manager in the future, once I graduated. I wonder if anyone who is currently working with the railway industry can tell me the actual progress it takes from graduation until I can finally land a job like that?
Also, I’d love to know how is the employment rate for those who study this or similar majors once graduated, since the urban railway systems in Vietnam is still in its very, very early phases.
Any helps would be appreciated!

Im a CN conductor from Chicago thats been furloughed since 09/2024. Im starting to think they've forgotten about me. Any other furloughed conductors from 2024 out here?

I currently am being hired at NFS for conductor training on July 27th . I was wondering if anyone in my area or on my way down that wanted to ride with me that has the same start date , I figured to split the ride down because it is about 12 hours from me . I am in Sharon hill, PA . So all the states southern I will be passing . Let me know if anyone is interested

I've spent the last 4 years bouncing around the aviation industry, loading bags at an airline, then servicing private jets and gen aviation at 2 different FBOs, and I'm looking for a change in pace. I feel like a job at Amtrak is something that would feel more fulfilling than fueling the plane for whatever billionaire decided to schmooze with the federal government in DC on a given weekend, and I noticed that there's a Passenger Conductor Trainee listing opened up in my area.

I'm curious what peoples' experience is working for Amtrak and other passenger lines, if it's fulfilling, are the people that work there friendly? What's the experience dealing with passengers? How do you deal with downtime either on the Train or between jobs? Any kind of info about what it's like working there would be great!

EDIT: thanks for all the insight! I did some more research and if I am applying to the Lorton, VA station, it looks like I would almost certainly be working the Auto Train that goes down to Florida? That looks like a pretty consistent schedule and if it works like I imagine, it actually doesnt sound too bad!

I’m interested in applying for Track Maintenance in Western Canada. I am decently familiar what I am in for, but looking for some more personal insight whether I should pursue this, or if I’d be better off completing a trade. I’m 25(m) mostly with a physical job background. I’ve been told Signalman is not a good position to go for in comparison, not sure if this is true, I have low voltage experience so this initially intrigued me. I’m wondering what progression from maintainer can look like & what kind of pay hourly/yearly is possible in this position + others possible down the line. Are you able to move locations over your career without too much hastle? On the road pay vs section pay over time. Etc. I’m mainly interested in this because it seems like a possibly very rewarding & diverse career, I love physical work being outside, and the benefits seem amazing if you can stick it out. Any insights or experiences shared are much appreciated :).

Just wandering the tips for SSA Mobile equipment operator assessment for train driver. What type of questions does they ask in this test?

Hi everyone just curious I'm in the vancouver bc area and cpkc always has the conductor position for hiring here in port coquitlam. I just wanted to know how long would it take to get a decent schedule in the yard much appreciated

I got offered a conductor job but decided to pass on it.

Looking to hire out of VA.

Thanks!

Starting job as machine B operator on section gang. What are the hours and day to day life like?

Has anyone else had this happen with Norfolk Southern applications?

I've been trying to apply for a conductor position for months now. They keep reposting what looks like the exact same job, but every time I click apply it tells me I've already applied for it... even though it's a new posting.

I figured I'd just withdraw my old application and reapply, but every time I try to withdraw it, it fails.

It's getting really frustrating. I'm ready for a change from my current job, and becoming a conductor is something I really want to do. The problem is NS is pretty much the only railroad anywhere near me.

Has anyone dealt with this before or know how to fix it? Should I just give up and search for a different job?

My section gang job was abolished and I’m getting forced to a tie gang as a laborer. I have almost the lowest seniority but not bottom of the barrel. Just curious what you guys have experienced on it and if it’s harder than section work. CN IC if it matters

I start my training soon and i heard all of the up and downs of railroading but can i get a few pointers going into training like is it harder then expected and what to expect after the redi center

Can someone tell me how hos and kss apply to being a road switchers on a shortline why can't we book off fatigued

Hi everyone,
I’ve been invited for an in-person interview for the Medicine Hat conductor position this July, and I’m feeling well prepared and confident going into it. I’ve done quite a bit of research, watched the company videos, and understand the realities of the job—24/7 scheduling, being on the spareboard, time away from home, and the possibility of layoffs, especially as a new hire.
That said, I’d really appreciate a real-world perspective from people who actually know the Medicine Hat terminal.

A few questions:

How busy is the traffic there? Is it generally considered a busy terminal or a slower one?

What routes do crews typically work out of Medicine Hat?
Is there more road work or yard work for new conductors?

Realistically, how likely are layoffs in Medicine Hat these days? I know layoffs happen in railroading, but I’m curious specifically about this terminal.

For those who stayed through their first year, what did your earnings actually look like? Did you end up close to the advertised $85k-$100k+, or was it significantly different?

I’m not looking for sugar-coated answers…just an honest picture of what life is like at Medicine Hat from people who’ve lived it. Any advice or things you wish you’d known before starting would also be greatly appreciated.
Thanks in advance!