Vantaggi
The job itself is very interesting and unique, plus you'll work with some of the best co-workers anywhere.
Svantaggi
Although there are numerous cons to being a conductor, the biggest is the fact that Union Pacific literally despises their Train, Engine & Yard employees. I could never understand this, since we were the folks moving trains from Point A to Point B, which means we were bringing in the revenue. It's a sad culture at UP...a total Management vs Workers, mostly perpetuated by management's dismissive attitude towards their employees. Also, you had better be prepared to be furloughed for long periods of time and when you first hire out, you'll get no unemployment of any kind your first year. Bottom line is that the railroad lifestyle is unlike any other and you'd better think about it seriously before hiring on with them. Being on call 24/7, 365 days a year becomes brutal and the job really takes over your life in a negative way.