U.S. Class I workforce a touch smaller in early 2011, STB data shows

The U.S. Class I workforce shrank a smidge between mid-December and mid-January. As of Jan. 15, the workforce numbered 153,304, down 0.7 percent from mid-December’s level, according to Surface Transportation Board data. However, the size of the workforce increased 4.4 percent from January 2010’s level.

Three employment sectors grew on a month-over-month basis: transportation (other than train and engine), up 2.1 percent to 6,674; maintenance of equipment and stores, up 0.3 percent to 28,605; and executives/officials/staff assistants, up 0.2 percent to 9,189. On a year-over-year basis, the sectors increased 1.8 percent, 1 percent and 0.8 percent, respectively.

The maintenance-of-way and structures staff of 34,116 fell 1.4 percent from mid-December’s level, but swelled 2.9 percent from January 2010’s count. Similarly, the number of transportation (train and engine) crews declined 1.3 percent on a month-over-month basis to 61,275, but grew 8.7 percent on a year-over-year basis.

Meanwhile, professional and administrative staff totaling 13,445 decreased 0.2 percent from mid-December’s level, yet increased 0.4 percent from January 2010’s total.

For more STB workforce data as of mid-January, follow this link to download a pdf file.