The invention of the railroad changed the United States forever. Steam locomotives allowed for easy and cheap transportation during the 19th century.
In today’s world, trains still provide cost-effective transportation, but it doesn’t stop there.
Many railroad jobs have opened up within the industry. Those who have experience in engineering or carpentry can easily start a career. And even people who are new to the field can take a position and receive training on the job.
Keep reading to learn six reasons you should work in the railroad industry!
Table of Contents
1. Benefits
When considering a job, you need to know the benefits that come with your position. In the 1930s, the railroad industry started implementing benefits for employees.
The benefits of railroad jobs include:
- Unemployment
- Sickness
- Survivor
- Retirement
- Disability
When it’s time to retire, you can rest assured that the railroad industry will take care of you.
2. Travel
Railroads span all across the United States, so traveling is part of the job. Having a railroad career makes it easy to relocate because of this.
The vast expanse of the railroad means that there are many different job locations, which can impact where you reside.
Even if you do not move your household, working on a moving train lets you witness the beauty of the country. Whether you’re passing through the snowy mountains of Colorado or the lush forests of Washington, your “office” will definitely be something to brag about.
3. Union
Unions help protect employees and represent them if there is an issue.
Another important aspect of the industry is railroad lawyers. These lawyers specialize in representing railroad workers and passengers who get hurt.
The railway industry includes chemical exposure and heavy machinery, which can get dangerous.
When employees get hurt on the job, the railway company may retaliate, which makes having a lawyer crucial.
4. Training
It may come as a surprise that railway employees hold degrees in many different fields. And if you don’t have the experience needed, you will receive the proper training on the job.
It is hard to determine what the best railroad jobs are, but here is a list of a few positions:
- Brake Operator
- Rail Car Loader
- Train Dispatcher
- Locomotive Engineer
- Signal Maintainer
- Locomotive Electrician
- Railroad Mechanic
- Track Laborer
- Switchman
These positions vary in salary, which may impact your decision on which is the “best” railroad job. The good news is that you can work your way up through different job positions.
5. Making a Difference
The railroad is not only cost-effective, but with increasing technology, it is environmentally sustainable. Trains are three to four times more fuel-efficient than trucks.
Railroads only account for 0.5% of greenhouse gas emissions. The railroad industry is constantly implementing new technology to reduce its carbon footprint, such as anti-idling and fuel management systems.
6. Variety
The reason why there is so much training offered in the railway industry is because of the variety of positions. But because of this variety, finding a position is easier.
Even if you don’t have an engineering degree, you may already have the skill set needed for another position. All you have to do is apply and be open to learning.
Railroad Jobs
Railroad jobs pay off in the long run. Whether you’re a train dispatcher, a track laborer, or work in customer service, you will be supported and receive many benefits.
As people saw in the 19th century, railroads are still paving the way for the future.
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