How to Be Railroad laborer - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Jan 5, 2022 / 6 Minutes Read / By Albert

How to Become

Professional Organizations

FAQ

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Railroad laborers are an important part of the transportation industry. They are responsible for the installation and maintenance of railway infrastructure, including tracks, signals, and bridges. As such, their work is integral to the safe and efficient operation of trains.

Railroad laborers ensure that rails are properly aligned, connected, and secured to avoid accidents and delays. In addition, they inspect tracks and other related components for any signs of damage or wear. When necessary, railroad laborers will perform repairs and replace broken parts to keep the railway functioning properly.

Without their hard work and dedication, the railroad industry wouldnt be able to safely and reliably transport passengers and goods.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a high school diploma or equivalent. Most employers require potential railroad laborers to have at least a high school diploma or equivalent.
Obtain a job in the railroad industry. Job opportunities are available on a variety of levels, from freight handling to track maintenance. Many positions are entry level and don't require any experience.
Learn the basics of the railroad industry. Before beginning work as a railroad laborer, it is important to learn the basics of the job. This includes understanding the different types of railroads, the different types of railroad equipment, and the different types of tasks that must be performed.
Attend an on-the-job training program. Most employers will offer an on-the-job training program for new railroad laborers. This program will help teach you how to operate the different types of equipment, as well as how to perform basic tasks such as track maintenance and freight handling.
Obtain certifications or licenses, if required. Depending on the type of railroad labor position you are seeking, you may need to obtain special certifications or licenses in order to work in that position. This could include certifications such as a Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL), or a Hazardous Materials Handling Certificate (HMHC).
Take advantage of advancement opportunities. Many railroad companies offer advancement opportunities for employees who are willing to go above and beyond their current duties. Taking advantage of these opportunities can help you move up in your career, as well as increase your pay rate.

Railroad laborers are essential to the efficient operation of any railroad system. To keep their performance up to date, they must stay informed on the latest safety regulations, technological advancements, and any developments related to the railroad industry. Regular safety training sessions should be conducted to ensure that all employees understand the risks associated with their job, as well as the best practices to follow when working on the track.

In addition, supervisors should always be on the lookout for new technologies and ideas that can help improve the efficiency of their workers. By keeping workers up to date with industry trends and providing them with the necessary training, railroad laborers can ensure that they are able to do their job safely and effectively.

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Job Description

Track Maintenance Worker: Responsible for the inspection, repair and maintenance of the railroad track and associated infrastructure, including bridges and tunnels.
Brakeman/Conductor: Responsible for the safety and operation of the train, including coupling and uncoupling cars, operating signals, and making inspections.
Locomotive Engineer: Responsible for the operation of the locomotive and the safe movement of the train along the track.
Signal Maintainer: Responsible for the installation, inspection, repair and maintenance of all railroad signals and related equipment.
Switchman: Responsible for the operation of switches and signals at railway junctions and crossings.
Track Laborer: Responsible for general labor associated with track construction, repair and maintenance.
Track Inspector: Responsible for inspecting track and related infrastructure to ensure proper operation and safety.
Track Supervisor: Responsible for overseeing and directing the work of all track personnel.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of the operation of railroad equipment
Ability to follow safety regulations
Ability to perform manual labor in all types of weather
Ability to work with a team
Ability to work with minimal supervision
Basic knowledge of railroad track maintenance
Understanding of railroad signal systems
Ability to use hand tools and power tools
Ability to lift and carry heavy weights
Knowledge of the rules and regulations of the railroad industry

The job of a railroad laborer is highly demanding and requires a variety of skills. Having physical strength and stamina is essential, as the job involves a lot of hard manual labor. Attention to detail and the ability to follow safety protocols are also essential, as accidents can have serious consequences.

Good communication skills are also important, as workers need to be able to read and understand instructions, as well as work well with fellow team members. Being able to think quickly and solve problems on the spot is a must, as the job often involves unforeseen obstacles. Finally, having knowledge of railroad systems and processes can be an advantage, as it can help workers anticipate possible problems and take the necessary steps to prevent them.

In short, having a combination of physical strength, attention to detail, communication skills, problem-solving abilities, and knowledge of railroad systems is essential for a successful career as a railroad laborer.

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Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have working in the railroad industry?
What safety protocols have you previously followed to ensure a safe work environment on the railroad?
Describe a difficult situation you faced while working as a Railroad Laborer and how you overcame it.
What is your understanding of the mechanical and electrical equipment used in railroad operations?
What do you consider the most important quality for a successful Railroad Laborer?
How would you handle a dispute between yourself and a co-worker on the job?
Are you comfortable working in all types of weather conditions?
What techniques have you used to ensure consistent accuracy when completing tasks?
How do you stay abreast of changing regulations and safety procedures in the Railroad industry?
What do you believe sets you apart from other potential Railroad Laborers?

Common Tools in Industry

Shovel . Used for digging, lifting, and moving materials such as soil, gravel, and coal. (eg: shoveling coal into a locomotive)
Wheelbarrow . Used to transport materials around a work site. (eg: wheeling gravel to repair a rail track)
Pickaxe . Used for digging and breaking up hard surfaces such as asphalt and rock. (eg: breaking up pavement to lay new tracks)
Saw . Used for cutting wood, metal, and other materials. (eg: cutting wood ties for railroad tracks)
Hammer . Used for pounding, driving, and shaping objects such as nails and railroad spikes. (eg: hammering down railroad spikes to secure tracks)
Wrench . Used for tightening and loosening nuts and bolts. (eg: tightening bolts to secure rails together)
Jack . Used for lifting and lowering heavy objects. (eg: lifting railroad cars onto tracks)
Crowbar . Used for prying, levering, and opening objects such as manhole covers. (eg: prying open a stuck switch)
Socket driver . Used for loosening and tightening nuts and bolts with sockets. (eg: tightening bolts on a switch)
Chisel . Used for cutting and shaping hard surfaces such as stone and concrete. (eg: chiseling away rock to make way for a new track)

Professional Organizations to Know

American Railway Engineering and Maintenance-of-Way Association (AREMA)
Railway Supply Institute (RSI)
Railway Association of Canada (RAC)
National Railroad Construction & Maintenance Association (NRCMA)
International Union of Operating Engineers (IUOE)
Brotherhood of Railroad Signalmen (BRS)
American Short Line and Regional Railroad Association (ASLRRA)
The Railway Tie Association (RTA)
National Association of Railroad Superintendents (NARS)
Transportation Communications International Union (TCU)

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Common Important Terms

Track Maintenance. The upkeep and repair of railroad tracks, including clearing debris, repairing track beds and sleepers, and performing other activities to keep the track in working order.
Switchmen. Railroad employees who operate the switches that route trains from one track to another.
Signalmen. Railroad employees who maintain and operate the signaling systems on the railway network.
Track Inspectors. Railroad employees who inspect tracks for potential problems and hazards.
Brakemen. Railroad employees who operate the brakes on rolling stock.
Carpenters. Railroad workers who construct, repair, and maintain railroad cars and structures.
Locomotive Engineers. Railroad employees who operate the locomotives that pull trains.
Conductors. Railroad employees who manage the crew and passengers on board a train.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a Railroad Laborer do?

Railroad Laborers perform a variety of tasks to maintain and repair the tracks, bridges and other infrastructure of a railroad system. This includes inspecting, testing and cleaning track, removing debris, and repairing or replacing worn components.

What qualifications are needed to become a Railroad Laborer?

To become a Railroad Laborer, applicants must have a high school diploma or equivalent, along with a valid driver's license and a willingness to work outdoors in all kinds of weather. Additionally, some employers may require certification in railway safety or other related areas.

How much does a Railroad Laborer make?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary for Railroad Laborers in the United States is $52,940 per year.

What kind of hours do Railroad Laborers typically work?

Railroad Laborers typically work 40 hours per week. Depending on the needs of the railroad system, additional hours may be required to complete repairs or maintenance tasks.

What kind of safety precautions do Railroad Laborers need to take?

Railroad Laborers must take proper safety precautions when performing their duties, such as wearing protective headgear and clothing, following proper safety procedures when operating equipment, and adhering to all applicable local, state and federal regulations.

Web Resources

Collection: Railroad Laborer Diary | Nebraska Archives Online archives.nebraska.edu
Railroad Labor Disputes - University of Michigan Press www.press.umich.edu
Giving voice to Chinese railroad workers | Stanford News news.stanford.edu