Hello all- I was recently invited to attend a UP train service hiring session in Los Angeles. Any questions that I should ask regarding the work? After reading a few posts regarding having no life with this job I am curious how the work schedule is presented from the company itself.
Posted by VinUnleaded (Member # 2702) on :
You got invited to an interview without prior train service experience? Thats sweet. How long did it take between the time you applied until the time they called you for an interview?
Posted by super cub driver (Member # 2720) on :
It took less than a week for the invite to a hiring session after I applied online for a position in Dunsmuir, I didn't have experience but my father was an engineer for more than 30 years at GTW/CN, I put that on the app., that must have helped.
Posted by VinUnleaded (Member # 2702) on :
Geez, I guess I am SOL then....its been two weeks...maybe they consider me over qualified for a "Shop Laborer" job. I dont believe my train service positions have closed yet...so thats ok. I am going to list my grandfather working for NYC transit authority as a conductor!!!
Posted by ChrisS (Member # 2716) on :
Take a look at the job descriptions/FAQs on the UP website. What's said there pretty much sums up what you'll probably hear from a recruiter/instructor. Don't be surprised if they try to talk you out of hiring on. If you're young and don't have too many ties or extracurricular activities you'll miss alot, you might not find railroading all that bad, if you can take the work schedule and conditions. If you have a family, are really into having a social life, or don't take well to working in the weather, it might not be the job for you.
When you go to the hiring session, get there early. DO NOT BE LATE If they say be there at 9:00, and you're there at 9:00:01 you'll likely find the doors shut. Be sure to bring anything you might need. I'm certain they told you what to bring, but you should have at least paper and pencil or pen, for taking notes and tests. Not a bad idea to bring extras, just in case you break a pencil or something (and there's always someone who didn't bother to bring something). They might have even told you to dress work appropriate. If I recall correctly, this might include things like workboots with a defined heel, and no tennis shoes). Be tidy, but look like you're ready to work. Basically, do everything they tell you to do, and do it better. Good luck.
Posted by eggman (Member # 2709) on :
Thanks for all the great input. I felt the interview went great. Should know in a couple of weeks if I have a job.
They were up front about the hours/conditions. However, I'm happy as long as I'm not in a cubicle all day.
Posted by ChrisS (Member # 2716) on :
Sorry my input was a little late, but glad things went well. Good luck.
Posted by VinUnleaded (Member # 2702) on :
Man...I wish UP would at least update my application status.... They are probably intimidated by my current pay...I am willing to take a LARGE paycut though..so they should at least interview me.
Posted by MPALMER (Member # 125) on :
...I am willing to take a LARGE paycut though..
Are you sure? Employers could question that. They run the risk that you won't like the new job and will want your old better-paying job back ...
Posted by super cub driver (Member # 2720) on :
quote:Originally posted by VinUnleaded: Man...I wish UP would at least update my application status.... They are probably intimidated by my current pay...I am willing to take a LARGE paycut though..so they should at least interview me.
Are you a furloughed airline pilot too? I've been furloughed for 3 months now.
[This message has been edited by super cub driver (edited 08-27-2003).]
Posted by VinUnleaded (Member # 2702) on :
No, I am a currently employed I.T. worker who like other IT workers are having their high paying jobs outsourced to India. Thus, I really dont care what the pay is anymore, just as long as its an American Company that cannot send my job overseas. And of course IMHO from what I have read both pos and neg the railroad is perfect for me.