by Steamboat Willie
Walbeb wrote:I have a question for someone that works for Metro North or may possibly know the answer. I currently work for a class 2 freight railroad as a conductor. I've been there for a year and was thinking of making the switch based off assumptions that may or may not be false.Walbeb, most of the people in the T&E ranks at MN from a prior passenger/freight road are exceptional employees. We have a few people who were promoted to supervisory roles as well who came from prior railroads as well. With the exception of a few yard jobs, we do not have many road jobs that work overnight.
I imagine that I would be home almost everyday as the 3-4 nights a week in a hotel are starting to takes it toll, I don't mind the long hours and really love my job but being physically away from home is not for everyone. Looking to see if I'm correct or wrong on that.
I'd also think that since 'peak time' is during the day that overnight shifts aren't as common. Being in the freight business you're looking at 10+ years of seniority before you're able to work half during the day half at night, but I'd assume most trains run during the day on the Metro so day shifts are much more common.
Also, will my freight experience help or hurt me? I don't know if they like hiring conductors from other railroads or if they like fresh off the street newbies so they don't bring any bad habits over. How long should I wait before applying, I know I've only been at my current place for a year and I don't want to give the impression that I'm jumping ship for no reason, which is why I'm asking these questions here.
Thanks in advance everyone.