How long are you gone as a train conductor?

How long are you gone as a train conductor? Conductors work long days (anywhere from 11 to 13 hours, typically), they have to maneuver heavy machinery in sometimes terrible weather conditions, and they can't really plan time off for birthdays, holidays, and anniversaries.

How long are train conductors gone from home?

Traditionally, conductors have been stationed within the locomotive cab, which often led to unpredictable work schedules and extended periods away from home. On average, conductors spent around 89 days away from home each year due to the nature of their work tied to train movements.

How many conductors run a train?

Today, most road freights operate with just two crew members, a conductor and an engineer. Many local freights that deliver and collect cars along their routes also have one trainman, and some have two, to help with the “ground work” of throwing the ground switches and uncoupling the cars.

How often do train conductors go home?

You can expect to be called for duty at any time - like 1 AM - work up to 12 hours, get the mandatory rest time, and be called again ASAP. That results in a 22 to 24 hour duty cycle, which can go on for 6 or 7 days before any mandatory days off apply.

Is it better to be a train conductor or engineer?

Because train engineers receive additional training and typically have more experience than conductors, they may earn a higher salary. Consider your budget and cost of living to decide whether a lower salary is enough for your needs if you're considering becoming a conductor.

Do train conductors go home every day?

As an Amtrak Conductor, you may be on-call 24 hours 7 days a week, which may include nights, weekends, holidays or on-call for emergency situations. Work may require travel and time away from home, and you may have to report for duty twice in a 24-hour period.

Do train conductors sit or stand?

Conditions vary widely, since there are lots of older locomotive running around out there. The engineer sits on the right side of the engine cab, while the conductor/brakeman/person sits on the left side.

How do train conductors go to the bathroom?

what do they do to pass the time? Other than a refrigerator/watercooler and a bathroom there are almost zero ammenities on a locomotive. Only way a engineer can go to bathroom is by stopping his train or if the conductor is a certified engineer he could run for while.

Do train conductors have PTSD?

Railroad and subway drivers can experience psychological trauma when trains strike or nearly miss other trains, motor vehicles, or persons or become instruments of death.

What is the life of a train conductor?

Conductors work long days (anywhere from 11 to 13 hours, typically), they have to maneuver heavy machinery in sometimes terrible weather conditions, and they can't really plan time off for birthdays, holidays, and anniversaries.

Do train conductors make 6 figures?

Salary Ranges for Train Conductors The salaries of Train Conductors in the US range from $13,808 to $373,999 , with a median salary of $66,833 .

What are the downsides of being a train conductor?

Shift work and irregular hours: Conductors may be required to work shifts, including nights, weekends, and public holidays, which can disrupt personal routines and social life.

Where do train conductors make the most money?

Are train conductors always on call?

Yes, on call 24/7 is the norm. After working a job, you're entitled to a 8-10 hour rest period, which at the end of your available for work.

Do train conductors get to go home?

Where does a train conductor sleep? Conductors and engineers sleep at home or at a hotel at their away terminal. The operating crew of a train in the US can only be on duty for 12 hours and then must be relieved.

Is train conductor a stressful job?

Conductors work long days (anywhere from 11 to 13 hours, typically), they have to maneuver heavy machinery in sometimes terrible weather conditions, and they can't really plan time off for birthdays, holidays, and anniversaries. A former conductor told Reddit: “It is a career that kills marriage.”