Working for Amtrak, a career question....

[Anonymous]

Hello Everyone,

I'm new to posting, but not so new to checking out the forums...I have enjoyed many of the posts and responses here, but never had anything specific to add. Now, however, I have a couple of questions for those who work "in the industry" and most specifically, anyone that works for Amtrak.

I've been sort of unhappy and bored with my current job for the last year or so, and although it has plenty of perks (I work from home) it is downright boring most of the time and I've been sort of vaguely entertaining a career change for a while now. I don't have any specific Railroad or heavy industry experience, but I have worked in the Automotive industry for a number of years (actually working on the cars, not just pushing a pencil) and there's an opening down the street from me at Sunnyside yards in NYC. (Long Island City) The opening is for a "Utility worker" which specifically lists the duties as bascially fueling / cleaning / sanding locomotives, cleaning the engine facilities, etc.

I certainly have the capability to do such work I'm sure, but I was wondering a few things which people may be able to help out with:

1. It doesn't list specific pay, says it's "per union agreement". Any idea what the range could be?

2. Amtrak - How does the company treat employees? I know being a large entity, it's bound to have 1000 rules and regulations for everything, but in general?

3. Is there any sort of natural advancement from this type of position, (typically) or is it dead end?

4. Any other words of advice? Anyone here do this, or has done it?

It seems a bit like a glorified janitorial job, but maybe it's a good first step, considering there are no freight railroads around here for signing on as a conductor. Thanks for anyone's input, help or general words of wisdom. :)

[Randy Stahl]

Go for it , regardless of the pay it provides the foot in the door that can lead to bigger and better things . Most railroads post job openings internally before going to the outside. Being in engine servicing is is good way to get into T&E service.