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Locomotive Engineers

Work Environment

The conditions of work for engineers are governed by the type of job. The yard engineer generally works a standard 40-hour week, in one location. The road engineer, while on the extra board, may work irregular hours and be on call for 24 hours, seven days a week. Even those with regular assignments rarely have what would be considered regular workweeks, since trains run at all hours of the day and night. All road engineers are away from home—at their own expense—a certain amount of the time. Both road and yard engineers may work Sundays, nights, and holidays.

There is a certain amount of danger in the job from accidents, although modern telecommunications equipment and better infrastructure and system such as continuously welded rails and Positive Train Control systems have reduced the number of casualties. The work is confining, and movement is limited in the cab of the engine. An engineer may have to sit at a throttle for many miles controlling a locomotive's speed and efficiency. However, he or she must stay alert and attentive and may be required to act instantly if an obstruction appears on the track. The position carries with it a high degree of responsibility, particularly in passenger service. Many engineers enjoy the travel that goes along with the job. They get the opportunity to see the American cities and countryside in a more extensive manner than most people.