To deal with a recent rash of retirements and increase in carloads, Union Pacific Railroad plans to hire about 1,000 conductors.
The Class I is seeking qualified candidates (at least 18 years old) to apply for the positions online at www.up.com under a "Jobs at UP" section. Applicants must complete a 14-week training program, then pass a medical exam, drug test and background investigation.
"These positions provide both monetary and career growth opportunities, which could lead to positions as train engineers and, potentially, management," said Bill Behrendt, UP assistant vice president of human resources, in a prepared statement.
Meanwhile, UP expects to begin increasing train speed from 25 mph to 49 mph through Refugio, Texas.
Beginning Jan. 19, the Class I will increase train speed five mph each Monday for three weeks; On Feb. 9, UP will boost speed nine mph, enabling trains to reach the new speed limit.
Last year, the railroad increased train speed in more than 10 communities — including seven Texas towns — after improving track and modifying grade-crossing signals. This year, UP expects to increase train speed in several more cities.
Source: Progressive Railroading Daily News
