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The U.S. Class I workforce grew ever so slightly last month. As of mid-May, the large roads employed 149,967 people, up 0.2 percent from April’s level, according to Surface Transportation Board (STB) data. However, the workforce shrank 1 percent on a year-over-year basis.

The maintenance-of-way and structures workforce of 34,443 was the only segment that registered a noticeable month-over-month gain at 0.7 percent, while the transportation (train and engine) workforce of 58,784 was the only segment that posted a year-over-year gain at 4.3 percent (although the segment was flat vs. April’s level). On a year-over-year basis, the number of maintenance-of-way and structures workers tumbled 2.8 percent.

The other workforce segments that registered month-over-month gains were transportation (other than T&E), which rose 0.3 percent to 6,494; and professional and administrative staff, which increased 0.2 percent to 13,183. However, the segments shrank 6.3 percent and 1.7 percent, respectively, compared with May 2009 levels.

The number of executives, officials and staff assistants as of mid-May fell 0.1 percent from April’s level to 8,924 and a whopping 11.5 percent from  May 2009’s count. Meanwhile, maintenance of equipment and stores employees, which totaled 28,139, dropped 0.1 percent on a month-over-month basis and 4 percent on a year-over-year basis.

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