TRAIN CREW
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Hiring Process Overview
Assessment, Interview, and Job Offer
Within about 5 days of submitting your application, you will be invited to take the train crew test battery. This is an online, proctored exam through our vendor Aon. After passing this test, your application will be reviewed. If you are invited to interview, you will receive communication about completing your interview within about 10 days of passing your test. Interviews will be conducted via our pre-recorded virtual interview platform. Completed pre-recorded interviews will be reviewed according to business need and location, but they are typically reviewed within 30 days. If you are extended a job offer, please review the offer and accept as soon as possible, as this allows you to begin the post job offer process.
Post Job Offer Process Overview
Once the job offer is accepted and you have provided all the necessary preemployment information, there are critical tasks that must be completed for you to be cleared to start work. These tasks include a medical assessment, a background investigation, a physical ability test (if applicable), and onboarding tasks. The post job offer processes generally take around 30 days to complete. The quicker you take action on these tasks, the quicker you will be cleared to start work. Check your up.jobs account and your email daily (check your spam folder too) for updates and action items. You may also periodically get phone calls from 402-544-2000, so please ensure you are taking those calls.
If your tentative start date is greater than 90 days from today, you will not be able to start completing the post job offer steps, such as getting scheduled for the medical exam. We will send you an e-mail once you are within 90 days of your tentative start date and can begin the post job offer process.
Medical Exam
Please schedule a medical exam with our vendor, Optum Serve, via their online portal. You should receive an email and/or text message from Optum Serve shortly after you accept your job offer, or you can log in via www.myoptumserve.com. Once on the Optum Serve site, you will need to log-on and create an account (or log in if you already have an existing account). Once an account is created, you will be able to input necessary information, provide your availability, and select a convenient clinic location. Optum Serve will schedule an appointment with the selected clinic and confirm a specific date and time with you via email and/or text within 24-48 business hours. To reduce any potential delays in your start date, we request that you provide your soonest appointment availability. Your medical exam should be attended at least three weeks prior to your start date to ensure there is time to process results.
All medical exams scheduling must be completed via Optum Serve’s online portal. Once an appointment is scheduled, plan to attend your exam on the scheduled date or visit Optum Serve’s portal if you need to reschedule. Rescheduling to a later date may delay your start date. If you encounter any issues at your scheduled appointment, please contact Optum Serve directly at 866-873-9261.
Based upon exam results, additional review may be needed by Union Pacific’s Health and Medical team. A representative from Health and Medical will reach out via email and/or phone to request additional medical records, if needed. Submit any requested records as soon as possible to avoid delay.
Background Check
The background investigation takes place after you have accepted your job offer and completed the background authorization, with employment contingent upon satisfactory results. Falsification of any information provided in the employment application is grounds for immediate dismissal. Review our Background Investigation Policy for additional information. Our background check vendor, Cisive, will send you an email with instructions to provide information to them. Please follow all their instructions. You will receive emails from Cisive if steps of the background process are still pending. The sooner all steps of the post job offer process are completed, the greater the likelihood that we will be able to clear you to start work with us in a timely manner.
Physical Abilities Test
The Physical Ability Test assesses a person's ability to safely complete the required physical tasks performed on the job. The test includes various components that simulate job tasks. To ensure the safety of our candidates during the PAT, resting heart rate and resting blood pressure must be within safe limits set by Union Pacific guidelines.
If you did not qualify on the PAT, you must wait 60 days from the date you took the test to apply for any position that requires the same testing protocol.
Onboarding Steps
If you are an external candidate, you will receive access to our Onboarding portal to welcome you to the company and to complete important information that will help complete your employee profile with us. You will receive an email welcoming you to the portal shortly after you accept your offer. This email will include your login information. It’s important you take action to complete all required steps in the Onboarding portal- you will need to complete all the steps before you will be able to start work at Union Pacific.
Not finding what you're looking for? Submit your questions here.
Hiring Process Overview
Assessment, Interview, and Job Offer
Within about 5 days of submitting your application, you will be invited to take the train crew test battery. This is an online, proctored exam through our vendor Aon. After passing this test, your application will be reviewed. If you are invited to interview, you will receive communication about completing your interview within about 10 days of passing your test. Interviews will be conducted via our pre-recorded virtual interview platform. Completed pre-recorded interviews will be reviewed according to business need and location, but they are typically reviewed within 30 days. If you are extended a job offer, please review the offer and accept as soon as possible, as this allows you to begin the post job offer process.
Post Job Offer Process Overview
Once the job offer is accepted and you have provided all the necessary preemployment information, there are critical tasks that must be completed for you to be cleared to start work. These tasks include a medical assessment, a background investigation, a physical ability test (if applicable), and onboarding tasks. The post job offer processes generally take around 30 days to complete. The quicker you take action on these tasks, the quicker you will be cleared to start work. Check your up.jobs account and your email daily (check your spam folder too) for updates and action items. You may also periodically get phone calls from 402-544-2000, so please ensure you are taking those calls.
If your tentative start date is greater than 90 days from today, you will not be able to start completing the post job offer steps, such as getting scheduled for the medical exam. We will send you an e-mail once you are within 90 days of your tentative start date and can begin the post job offer process.
Medical Exam
Please schedule a medical exam with our vendor, Optum Serve, via their online portal. You should receive an email and/or text message from Optum Serve shortly after you accept your job offer, or you can log in via www.myoptumserve.com. Once on the Optum Serve site, you will need to log-on and create an account (or log in if you already have an existing account). Once an account is created, you will be able to input necessary information, provide your availability, and select a convenient clinic location. Optum Serve will schedule an appointment with the selected clinic and confirm a specific date and time with you via email and/or text within 24-48 business hours. To reduce any potential delays in your start date, we request that you provide your soonest appointment availability. Your medical exam should be attended at least three weeks prior to your start date to ensure there is time to process results.
All medical exams scheduling must be completed via Optum Serve’s online portal. Once an appointment is scheduled, plan to attend your exam on the scheduled date or visit Optum Serve’s portal if you need to reschedule. Rescheduling to a later date may delay your start date. If you encounter any issues at your scheduled appointment, please contact Optum Serve directly at 866-873-9261.
Based upon exam results, additional review may be needed by Union Pacific’s Health and Medical team. A representative from Health and Medical will reach out via email and/or phone to request additional medical records, if needed. Submit any requested records as soon as possible to avoid delay.
Background Check
The background investigation takes place after you have accepted your job offer and completed the background authorization, with employment contingent upon satisfactory results. Falsification of any information provided in the employment application is grounds for immediate dismissal. Review our Background Investigation Policy for additional information. Our background check vendor, Cisive, will send you an email with instructions to provide information to them. Please follow all their instructions. You will receive emails from Cisive if steps of the background process are still pending. The sooner all steps of the post job offer process are completed, the greater the likelihood that we will be able to clear you to start work with us in a timely manner.
Physical Abilities Test
The Physical Ability Test assesses a person's ability to safely complete the required physical tasks performed on the job. The test includes various components that simulate job tasks. To ensure the safety of our candidates during the PAT, resting heart rate and resting blood pressure must be within safe limits set by Union Pacific guidelines.
If you did not qualify on the PAT, you must wait 60 days from the date you took the test to apply for any position that requires the same testing protocol.
Onboarding Steps
If you are an external candidate, you will receive access to our Onboarding portal to welcome you to the company and to complete important information that will help complete your employee profile with us. You will receive an email welcoming you to the portal shortly after you accept your offer. This email will include your login information. It’s important you take action to complete all required steps in the Onboarding portal- you will need to complete all the steps before you will be able to start work at Union Pacific.
Not finding what you're looking for? Submit your questions here.
Interviews
Can I get an extension on my pre-recorded virtual interview? Is there a deadline?
Please complete your pre-recorded virtual interview as soon as possible. The pre-recorded interview will be reviewed according to business needs and in the order in which they are received.
Has my pre-recorded virtual interview been reviewed yet?
The pre-recorded interview will be reviewed according to business needs and in the order in which they are received. Generally, your interview will be reviewed within 30 days. Your UP.jobs application status will not update immediately to show your interview has been completed.
Not finding what you're looking for? Submit your questions here.
Interviews
Can I get an extension on my pre-recorded virtual interview? Is there a deadline?
Please complete your pre-recorded virtual interview as soon as possible. The pre-recorded interview will be reviewed according to business needs and in the order in which they are received.
Has my pre-recorded virtual interview been reviewed yet?
The pre-recorded interview will be reviewed according to business needs and in the order in which they are received. Generally, your interview will be reviewed within 30 days. Your UP.jobs application status will not update immediately to show your interview has been completed.
Not finding what you're looking for? Submit your questions here.
Post Job Offer Process
Where can I check my status during the post job offer process?
- External candidates: The latest status to your post offer clearances will be available by logging into your UP.jobs account and clicking on your application. Additional information can be found under the Job-Specific Information heading, which lists the latest statuses to each step of the post-offer clearances.
- Internal employees: The latest status to your post offer clearances will be available by logging into SuccessFactors and accessing the Careers tab. From the Careers tab, click the “Job Applications” and scroll down to the applicable application. In the Actions column, click the drop down and select the “View/Edit Applications and Attachments” option. From there, you can view the statuses to each step of the post-offer clearances.
Who can I talk to about my medical status?
You can review the most recent status update on the medical process in your up.jobs account. If additional medical information is needed from you/your healthcare provider, you will receive communication from our Health and Medical team; please refer to that communication for your next steps.
How do I send medical documents requested by medical exams or company nurse?
If additional medical documents are requested by Union Pacific’s Health and Medical team, you will receive communication from them regarding what needs to be provided and how to best send it to Union Pacific.
How do I file a dispute with the medical examiner regarding my medical examination?
You may file a dispute by contacting Union Pacific by submitting a ticket here.
Where will I need to take my physical exam?
Optum Serve has a network of clinics throughout the United States where you can complete your physical exam. Optum Serve will work with you to find the closest location.
Who can I talk to about my background status?
You can review the most recent status update on the background process in your up.jobs account. You may also log into Cisive’s system to see a checklist of pending items.
How many years back does the background check look at?
The background check reviews your history for the last 7 years.
How long does it typically take for the background check to be completed?
On average, it takes our vendor 12 business days to complete the review of the background check. Some circumstances can take longer to review, so please take action to submit your background registration through Cisive as soon as possible.
How do I file a background dispute if a discrepancy is found?
The dispute process can be found in the Cisive candidate portal. If you have additional questions, you may email backgrounds@up.com.
How will I know when I have been cleared to work?
When you have completed all onboarding and post job offer process steps, you will be released to start work at Union Pacific. At that point, you will receive a confirmed start date and information regarding your training class. Only candidates who have completed all required steps and received a confirmed start date will be able to attend class. If you have not been cleared for all steps of the post job offer process by the class start time, do not show up to class as you will be asked to leave.
When may I give notice to my current employer?
Your job offer is contingent upon passing all pre-employment clearances. Do not give notice to your current employer until you are released to start work and have received a confirmed start date.
What happens if I am unenrolled from a class that I was originally scheduled to attend?
If you are not cleared to start work in time for your original start date, you will be unenrolled from the training class. We will continue to work with you to clear you to start work. At that point, we will attempt to enroll you in a make-up class for your location. However, a make-up training class may not be immediately available. Therefore, it is important you take action as soon as possible on all post job offer steps (example: accepting your offer, scheduling your medical exam, etc.) so that the likelihood of you being cleared to work in time is greater.
What does it mean to be released to start as an alternate?
Being released to start as an alternate means that due to changes in our business, we are unable to start you at this time for the position you accepted. We would still like to have you on the Union Pacific team if a space in that position opens within the next 9 months, therefore, we will keep you on our list for the next 9 months. If a position does come up, we will contact you. After nine months from the date you were interviewed, your alternate status will expire and you will need to reapply.
Not finding what you're looking for? Submit your questions here.
Post Job Offer Process
Where can I check my status during the post job offer process?
- External candidates: The latest status to your post offer clearances will be available by logging into your UP.jobs account and clicking on your application. Additional information can be found under the Job-Specific Information heading, which lists the latest statuses to each step of the post-offer clearances.
- Internal employees: The latest status to your post offer clearances will be available by logging into SuccessFactors and accessing the Careers tab. From the Careers tab, click the “Job Applications” and scroll down to the applicable application. In the Actions column, click the drop down and select the “View/Edit Applications and Attachments” option. From there, you can view the statuses to each step of the post-offer clearances.
Who can I talk to about my medical status?
You can review the most recent status update on the medical process in your up.jobs account. If additional medical information is needed from you/your healthcare provider, you will receive communication from our Health and Medical team; please refer to that communication for your next steps.
How do I send medical documents requested by medical exams or company nurse?
If additional medical documents are requested by Union Pacific’s Health and Medical team, you will receive communication from them regarding what needs to be provided and how to best send it to Union Pacific.
How do I file a dispute with the medical examiner regarding my medical examination?
You may file a dispute by contacting Union Pacific by submitting a ticket here.
Where will I need to take my physical exam?
Optum Serve has a network of clinics throughout the United States where you can complete your physical exam. Optum Serve will work with you to find the closest location.
Who can I talk to about my background status?
You can review the most recent status update on the background process in your up.jobs account. You may also log into Cisive’s system to see a checklist of pending items.
How many years back does the background check look at?
The background check reviews your history for the last 7 years.
How long does it typically take for the background check to be completed?
On average, it takes our vendor 12 business days to complete the review of the background check. Some circumstances can take longer to review, so please take action to submit your background registration through Cisive as soon as possible.
How do I file a background dispute if a discrepancy is found?
The dispute process can be found in the Cisive candidate portal. If you have additional questions, you may email backgrounds@up.com.
How will I know when I have been cleared to work?
When you have completed all onboarding and post job offer process steps, you will be released to start work at Union Pacific. At that point, you will receive a confirmed start date and information regarding your training class. Only candidates who have completed all required steps and received a confirmed start date will be able to attend class. If you have not been cleared for all steps of the post job offer process by the class start time, do not show up to class as you will be asked to leave.
When may I give notice to my current employer?
Your job offer is contingent upon passing all pre-employment clearances. Do not give notice to your current employer until you are released to start work and have received a confirmed start date.
What happens if I am unenrolled from a class that I was originally scheduled to attend?
If you are not cleared to start work in time for your original start date, you will be unenrolled from the training class. We will continue to work with you to clear you to start work. At that point, we will attempt to enroll you in a make-up class for your location. However, a make-up training class may not be immediately available. Therefore, it is important you take action as soon as possible on all post job offer steps (example: accepting your offer, scheduling your medical exam, etc.) so that the likelihood of you being cleared to work in time is greater.
What does it mean to be released to start as an alternate?
Being released to start as an alternate means that due to changes in our business, we are unable to start you at this time for the position you accepted. We would still like to have you on the Union Pacific team if a space in that position opens within the next 9 months, therefore, we will keep you on our list for the next 9 months. If a position does come up, we will contact you. After nine months from the date you were interviewed, your alternate status will expire and you will need to reapply.
Not finding what you're looking for? Submit your questions here.
Pay and Benefits
What is the salary for a Train Crew position?
In your initial year of service, you can expect earnings of around $80,000. As your career in Train Crew progresses there is potential for higher earnings, with the median annual wages of an employee with five years of service reaching over $100,000. A Train Crew employee is paid on a trip rate for a yard, local, or thru freight assignment. Your actual pay will depend on location and Union-negotiated agreements.
Who is my provider for my healthcare?
Your insurance provider is determined by your collective bargaining agreement. This will not be determined until you accept a job, and your work location is determined. You will be emailed a new hire brochure when you accept the job that will outline your healthcare benefits.
How much does my health insurance cost? When does my health insurance start?
Your health insurance will be approximately $309.21 per month. This includes coverage for your spouse and all dependents. You are eligible for healthcare coverage the 1st day of the calendar month after the month in which you start working at Union Pacific.
When does my dental and vision start?
You are eligible for vision and dental insurance coverage at no additional charge after 1 year and 1 month of service. For example, if your hire date is April 19th, 2022, the earliest your dental and vision coverage would begin would be May 1st, 2023.
When will I receive healthcare information from my healthcare insurance administrator?
You will receive information from the insurance administration about 4-6 weeks after your start date.
Would I be eligible for parental leave?
Employees may take up to 2 weeks unpaid bonding leave under the Family and Medical Leave Act. To be eligible for this leave, you need to have been employed with Union Pacific for at least 12 months and have at least 1,250 hours of service during the 12-month period immediately preceding the start of leave.
Does Union Pacific offer education assistance?
Employees are eligible for $5,250 of tuition reimbursement each year. If they take classes through the University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO), they are eligible for the benefit immediately.
What other benefits does Union Pacific offer?
For further benefits information, please visit our benefits page.
How much vacation do I receive?
Employees are eligible for vacation after 1 qualifying year and at least 120 starts. The vacation schedule is as follows:
- Eligible after 1 qualifying year and 120 starts:
- 1 year = 1 week
- 2 years = 2 weeks
- 8 years = 3 weeks
- 17 years = 4 weeks
- 25 years = 5 weeks
- Vacation scheduling is determined by seniority.
How long does my insurance last if I get furloughed?
Craft professional employees who are furloughed will have four months continuation of health and welfare (including medical, dental, vision, EAP, and life) benefits as long as they meet the following criteria:
- The employee has rendered three months of compensated service.
- If the employee is not active in the National Plan at the time they are furloughed, continuation of benefits will commence the month following the month furloughed and will continue for four months from the month last rendered compensated service.
Not finding what you're looking for? Submit your questions here.
Pay and Benefits
What is the salary for a Train Crew position?
In your initial year of service, you can expect earnings of around $80,000. As your career in Train Crew progresses there is potential for higher earnings, with the median annual wages of an employee with five years of service reaching over $100,000. A Train Crew employee is paid on a trip rate for a yard, local, or thru freight assignment. Your actual pay will depend on location and Union-negotiated agreements.
Who is my provider for my healthcare?
Your insurance provider is determined by your collective bargaining agreement. This will not be determined until you accept a job, and your work location is determined. You will be emailed a new hire brochure when you accept the job that will outline your healthcare benefits.
How much does my health insurance cost? When does my health insurance start?
Your health insurance will be approximately $309.21 per month. This includes coverage for your spouse and all dependents. You are eligible for healthcare coverage the 1st day of the calendar month after the month in which you start working at Union Pacific.
When does my dental and vision start?
You are eligible for vision and dental insurance coverage at no additional charge after 1 year and 1 month of service. For example, if your hire date is April 19th, 2022, the earliest your dental and vision coverage would begin would be May 1st, 2023.
When will I receive healthcare information from my healthcare insurance administrator?
You will receive information from the insurance administration about 4-6 weeks after your start date.
Would I be eligible for parental leave?
Employees may take up to 2 weeks unpaid bonding leave under the Family and Medical Leave Act. To be eligible for this leave, you need to have been employed with Union Pacific for at least 12 months and have at least 1,250 hours of service during the 12-month period immediately preceding the start of leave.
Does Union Pacific offer education assistance?
Employees are eligible for $5,250 of tuition reimbursement each year. If they take classes through the University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO), they are eligible for the benefit immediately.
What other benefits does Union Pacific offer?
For further benefits information, please visit our benefits page.
How much vacation do I receive?
Employees are eligible for vacation after 1 qualifying year and at least 120 starts. The vacation schedule is as follows:
- Eligible after 1 qualifying year and 120 starts:
- 1 year = 1 week
- 2 years = 2 weeks
- 8 years = 3 weeks
- 17 years = 4 weeks
- 25 years = 5 weeks
- Vacation scheduling is determined by seniority.
How long does my insurance last if I get furloughed?
Craft professional employees who are furloughed will have four months continuation of health and welfare (including medical, dental, vision, EAP, and life) benefits as long as they meet the following criteria:
- The employee has rendered three months of compensated service.
- If the employee is not active in the National Plan at the time they are furloughed, continuation of benefits will commence the month following the month furloughed and will continue for four months from the month last rendered compensated service.
Not finding what you're looking for? Submit your questions here.
Training
What does training entail?
Your training will be a combination of classroom training, on-the-job training and remote-control simulators. A sample training schedule is as follows:
- Weeks 1 – 2 Classroom training
- Weeks 3 – 4 On the job training
- Weeks 5 – 6 Classroom training
- Weeks 7 – 8 On-the-job training
- Weeks 9 – 10 Remote control operator classroom training
- Weeks 11 – 14 Remote control operator on-the-job training
Where will I be required to work during training?
Your classroom training may be in a location other than your hiring hub location. This training location will be communicated to you when it is finalized and when you have been released to start. On the job training is typically at your home location (hiring hub location). Any changes in location will be communicated to you.
What tests must be passed in order to graduate training?
There are quizzes and exams during classroom training that must be passed in order to complete training. You will have three opportunities to get a passing score on those assessments. Failure to achieve a passing grade on all exams will result in termination of employment. If you do not pass, you are not eligible for rehire in a train crew position but would be immediately eligible to apply for an engineering or mechanical position.
When will I be notified of logistics for lodging during training? Do I need to pay for the hotel or make my own reservation?
New employees who are training in a location more than 45 miles from their hiring location will be eligible for a hotel room provided by Union Pacific for the 3 weeks of classroom training. If you are released to start work more than one week prior to your tentative start date, you will receive hotel information about 5 days prior to your first day of training. If you are released to start work less than a week prior to your confirmed start date, you will receive hotel information as soon as administratively possible. In general, you will be able to check in to the hotel the night before classes start. Union Pacific covers the nightly rate and taxes for the hotel room; incidentals are your responsibility.
For training away from my hire location, when will I receive my meal stipend and one-time transportation stipend?
If the distance between your assigned work location and the training location is more than 45 miles, Union Pacific Railroad will provide a stipend of $26/day, including weekends and travel days - paid every two weeks to defray your personal expenses while attending training. Typically, the first stipend check will be provided by the end of the first week of training. Therefore, be prepared to cover your personal expenses (meals, transportation, rental car, etc.) until you receive the stipend check.
How do I claim car mileage for travel to away from home training location?
If you are eligible for mileage reimbursement (those training more than 45 miles from their hiring location), your instructor will go over the mileage claim process during your training.
Training Away from Your Assigned Work Location
If the distance between your assigned work location and the training location is more than 45 miles, Union Pacific Railroad will provide a stipend of $26/day, including weekends and travel days - paid every two weeks to defray your personal expenses while attending training. Typically, the first stipend check will be provided by the end of the first week of training. Therefore, be prepared to cover your personal expenses (meals, transportation, rental car, etc.) until you receive the stipend check. As part of this process, Union Pacific will arrange and pay for your hotel accommodations. If you qualify for a stipend check as described above, you can also be reimbursed mileage for one round trip between your assigned work location and the training location. This amount will be based upon the established Union Pacific Railroad mileage reimbursement rate.
Training Location Exceeding 350 Miles from Assigned Work Location
If the one-way mileage from your assigned work location to the training location exceeds 350 miles, you have the option to travel by air. If you choose this option, you must contact Travel and Transport at 1-800-877-5814 between the hours of 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM Central Time at least two weeks prior to the start of your training class. Be prepared to provide your name and class number. Travel and Transport will arrange for the lowest available airfare for your travel, and the airfare expense will be billed directly to Union Pacific Railroad. Please make every effort to contact Travel and Transport at least two weeks in advance of class. If you elect to drive in lieu of flying, you will be reimbursed expenses not to exceed the quoted lowest available airfare, or the actual mileage from your work location to the training location, whichever is less. Again, the rate of reimbursement will be established by Union Pacific Railroad.
How soon can I call Travel and Transport to book my air travel (if I qualify)?
If you are training more than 350 miles from your hiring location, you will be able to contact Travel and Transport once you are released to start work; you cannot call them prior to being released to start. Once you are released to start work, you will need to contact Travel and Transport at 1-800-877-5814 between the hours of 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM Central Time to book your travel.
If I travel to my training location, can I travel home on weekends?
During your training duration, there is a strict attendance policy. If you choose to travel home, this is at the expense of the employee and attendance for class is the employee’s responsibility. If you miss class due to travel, that will not be considered excused and could lead to termination. Please work with Instructor prior to making travel plans, as sometimes training dates and schedules will change.
What happens if I am unenrolled from a class that I was originally scheduled to attend?
If you are not released to start work in time for your original start date, you will be unenrolled from the training class. We will continue to work with you to clear you to start work. At that point, we will attempt to enroll you in a make-up class for your location. However, a make-up training class may not be immediately available. Therefore, it is important you take action as soon as possible on all post job offer steps (example: accepting your offer, scheduling your medical exam, etc.) so that the likelihood of you being cleared to work in time is greater.
Not finding what you're looking for? Submit your questions here.
Training
What does training entail?
Your training will be a combination of classroom training, on-the-job training, and remote-control simulators. A sample training schedule is as follows:
- Weeks 1 – 2 Classroom training
- Weeks 3 – 4 On-the-job training
- Weeks 5 – 6 Classroom training
- Weeks 7 – 8 On-the-job training
- Weeks 9 –10 Remote control operator classroom training
- Weeks 11 – 14 Remote control operator on the-job-training
Where will I be required to work during training?
Your classroom training may be in a location other than your hiring hub location. This training location will be communicated to you when it is finalized and when you have been released to start. On the job training is typically at your home location (hiring hub location). Any changes in location will be communicated to you.
What tests must be passed in order to graduate training?
There are quizzes and exams during classroom training that must be passed in order to complete training. You will have three opportunities to get a passing score on those assessments. Failure to achieve a passing grade on all exams will result in termination of employment. If you do not pass, you are not eligible for rehire in a train crew position, but you would be immediately eligible to apply for an engineering or mechanical position.
When will I be notified of logistics for lodging during training? Do I need to pay for the hotel or make my own reservation?
New employees who are training in a location more than 45 miles from their hiring location will be eligible for a hotel room provided by Union Pacific for the 3 weeks of classroom training. If you are released to start work more than one week prior to your tentative start date, you will receive hotel information about 5 days prior to your first day of training. If you are released to start work less than a week prior to your confirmed start date, you will receive hotel information as soon as administratively possible. In general, you will be able to check in to the hotel the night before classes start. Union Pacific covers the nightly rate and taxes for the hotel room; incidentals are your responsibility.
For training away from my hire location, when will I receive my meal stipend and one-time transportation stipend?
If the distance between your assigned work location and the training location is more than 45 miles, Union Pacific Railroad will provide a stipend of $26/day, including weekends and travel days - paid every two weeks to defray your personal expenses while attending training. Typically, the first stipend check will be provided by the end of the first week of training. Therefore, be prepared to cover your personal expenses (meals, transportation, rental car, etc.) until you receive the stipend check.
How do I claim car mileage for travel to away from home training location?
If you are eligible for mileage reimbursement (those training more than 45 miles from their hiring location), your instructor will go over the mileage claim process during your training.
Training Away from Your Assigned Work Location
If the distance between your assigned work location and the training location is more than 45 miles, Union Pacific Railroad will provide a stipend of $26/day, including weekends and travel days - paid every two weeks to defray your personal expenses while attending training. Typically, the first stipend check will be provided by the end of the first week of training. Therefore, be prepared to cover your personal expenses (meals, transportation, rental car, etc.) until you receive the stipend check. As part of this process, Union Pacific will arrange and pay for your hotel accommodations. If you qualify for a stipend check as described above, you can also be reimbursed mileage for one round trip between your assigned work location and the training location. This amount will be based upon the established Union Pacific Railroad mileage reimbursement rate.
Training Location Exceeding 350 Miles from Assigned Work Location
If the one-way mileage from your assigned work location to the training location exceeds 350 miles, you have the option to travel by air. If you choose this option, you must contact Travel and Transport at 1-800-877-5814 between the hours of 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM Central Time at least two weeks prior to the start of your training class. Be prepared to provide your name and class number. Travel and Transport will arrange for the lowest available airfare for your travel, and the airfare expense will be billed directly to Union Pacific Railroad. Please make every effort to contact Travel and Transport at least two weeks in advance of class. If you elect to drive in lieu of flying, you will be reimbursed expenses not to exceed the quoted lowest available airfare, or the actual mileage from your work location to the training location, whichever is less. Again, the rate of reimbursement will be established by Union Pacific Railroad.
How soon can I call Travel and Transport to book my air travel (if I qualify)?
If you are training more than 350 miles from your hiring location, you will be able to contact Travel and Transport once you are released to start work; you cannot call them prior to being released to start. Once you are released to start work, you will need to contact Travel and Transport at 1-800-877-5814 between the hours of 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM Central Time to book your travel.
If I travel to my training location, can I travel home on weekends?
During your training duration, there is a strict attendance policy. If you choose to travel home, this is at the expense of the employee and attendance for class is the employee’s responsibility. If you miss class due to travel, that will not be considered excused and could lead to termination. Please work with Instructor prior to making travel plans, as sometimes training dates and schedules will change.
What happens if I am unenrolled from a class that I was originally scheduled to attend?
If you are not released to start work in time for your original start date, you will be unenrolled from the training class. We will continue to work with you to clear you to start work. At that point, we will attempt to enroll you in a make-up class for your location. However, a make-up training class may not be immediately available. Therefore, it is important you take action as soon as possible on all post job offer steps (example: accepting your offer, scheduling your medical exam, etc.) so that the likelihood of you being cleared to work in time is greater.
Not finding what you're looking for? Submit your questions here.
Post-Training Logistics
What will my work schedule be after training? When are my days off? How many days will I work?
After you complete training, all scheduling is based on your seniority. Train crew employees do not have a set work schedule. You will get called in to work based on business volumes and seniority. Train crew employees do have a line up where you can see how many people are ahead of you for getting called in to work so you can estimate when you may get called in. The railroad operates 365 days a year, so you will need to be prepared to potentially work weekends, holidays, and overnight.
What is the attendance policy?
All company polices, including attendance, will be covered during training.
Am I guaranteed a certain number of hours regardless of seniority?
Scheduling logistics will be covered thoroughly during training.
Not finding what you're looking for? Submit your questions here.
Post-Training Logistics
What will my work schedule be after training? When are my days off? How many days will I work?
After you complete training, all scheduling is based on your seniority. Train crew employees do not have a set work schedule. You will get called in to work based on business volumes and seniority. Train crew employees do have a line up where you can see how many people are ahead of you for getting called in to work so you can estimate when you may get called in. The railroad operates 365 days a year, so you will need to be prepared to potentially work weekends, holidays, and overnight.
What is the attendance policy?
All company polices, including attendance, will be covered during training.
Am I guaranteed a certain number of hours regardless of seniority?
Scheduling logistics will be covered thoroughly during training.
Not finding what you're looking for? Submit your questions here.
Unions
How much are my union dues?
Union dues vary based upon which union you are joining.
What does my union manage?
Your union governs your benefits and pay, work conditions, and your seniority. Your seniority is established the first day you work the job, and it determines what job you can hold, your vacation, and the possibility of furloughs.
How is seniority determined?
Your seniority is based upon the start date of your new hire class. Your Seniority Rank will be based upon the last 4 digits of your Social Security Number within the class. The Lowest SSN to Highest SSN sets the class seniority. For example, 0516 is the last 4 digits and is the lowest SSN in the class and would be the #1 seniority in the class as all others have a higher 4-digit SSN in the class.
When does seniority start accruing?
Seniority begins accruing on the day you begin training.
When can I start exercising my seniority?
You may begin exercising your seniority upon mark-up graduation from your new hire training class and you become active in the workforce.
Not finding what you're looking for? Submit your questions here.
Unions
How much are my union dues?
Union dues vary based upon which union you are joining.
What does my union manage?
Your union governs your benefits and pay, work conditions, and your seniority. Your seniority is established the first day you work the job, and it determines what job you can hold, your vacation, and the possibility of furloughs.
How is seniority determined?
Your seniority is based upon the start date of your new hire class. Your Seniority Rank will be based upon the last 4 digits of your Social Security Number within the class. The Lowest SSN to Highest SSN sets the class seniority. For example, 0516 is the last 4 digits and is the lowest SSN in the class and would be the #1 seniority in the class as all others have a higher 4-digit SSN in the class.
When does seniority start accruing?
Seniority begins accruing on the day you begin training.
When can I start exercising my seniority?
You may begin exercising your seniority upon mark-up graduation from your new hire training class and you become active in the workforce.
Not finding what you're looking for? Submit your questions here.
Miscellaneous
What are the train crew work conditions?
As a train crew professional, you can expect to work outside for extended periods of time in all weather conditions. The railroad runs 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year and so you can be called into work nights, weekends, and holidays. Your schedule will change week to week depending on business needs. You will be traveling throughout your designated hub and may be required to spend the night somewhere other than your home location. Furloughs are a possibility depending upon business volumes.
What boots do I need during training?
There will be field trips during the classroom training that require work boots. It is your responsibility to provide these work boots. Work boots must be lace-up type, at least 6 inches high to cover the ankles, with a defined heel that is a 90-degree angle to the sole. You do not need to find steel toe boots right away for training.
What is the dress code for classroom training?
Classroom dress is casual. Do not wear shorts, tank tops, sandals, sweatpants, pajamas, lounge pants, exercise apparel or dirty clothing. Any display of offensive graphics or vulgar language on clothing, apparel or skin is prohibited.
What is the dress code for working in the field?
The dress code for working in the field includes a long sleeve shirt, long pants, steel-toed boots and the required PPE.
Is it possible that I will be furloughed?
Temporary furloughs are a possibility. They are different than a layoff because UP will call you back to work when business picks back up, according to seniority. Certain locations will experience fewer furloughs due to business needs.
How can I verify my employment and pay with Union Pacific?
If you have already started working/training with Union Pacific, you may work with UConfirm to get verification of your pay and work status. You may call them at 866-312-8266 or visit their website: www.uconfirm.com. If you have not yet started work with Union Pacific and need verification of pay for a mortgage/apartment rental, please create a ticket.
How do I update my personal information if an error is made on UP.jobs?
Once you begin work with Union Pacific, you may update some personal information via the SAP ePayroll system. If data corrections need to be made before you start work with Union Pacific, please create a ticket.
How do I update my banking information prior to hire date?
If you need to update your banking information, you will have the opportunity to do so via the SAP ePayroll system after you start working with us.
How long do I need to work to qualify for railroad retirement?
You must work with a railroad for 5 years in order to qualify for a benefit through the Railroad Retirement Board. More information can be found at rrb.gov.
How do I decline an offer during the post offer process?
If you wish to discontinue working through the post-job offer process (and therefore decline your offer), please create a ticket.
Not finding what you're looking for? Submit your questions here.
Miscellaneous
What are the train crew work conditions?
As a train crew professional, you can expect to work outside for extended periods of time in all weather conditions. The railroad runs 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year and so you can be called into work nights, weekends, and holidays. Your schedule will change week to week depending on business needs. You will be traveling throughout your designated hub and may be required to spend the night somewhere other than your home location. Furloughs are a possibility depending upon business volumes.
What boots do I need during training?
There will be field trips during the classroom training that require work boots. It is your responsibility to provide these work boots. Work boots must be lace-up type, at least 6 inches high to cover the ankles, with a defined heel that is a 90-degree angle to the sole. You do not need to find steel toe boots right away for training.
What is the dress code for classroom training?
Classroom dress is casual. Do not wear shorts, tank tops, sandals, sweatpants, pajamas, lounge pants, exercise apparel or dirty clothing. Any display of offensive graphics or vulgar language on clothing, apparel or skin is prohibited.
What is the dress code for working in the field?
The dress code for working in the field includes a long sleeve shirt, long pants, steel-toed boots and the required PPE.
Is it possible that I will be furloughed?
Temporary furloughs are a possibility. They are different than a layoff because UP will call you back to work when business picks back up, according to seniority. Certain locations will experience fewer furloughs due to business needs.
How can I verify my employment and pay with Union Pacific?
If you have already started working/training with Union Pacific, you may work with UConfirm to get verification of your pay and work status. You may call them at 866-312-8266 or visit their website: www.uconfirm.com. If you have not yet started work with Union Pacific and need verification of pay for a mortgage/apartment rental, please create a ticket.
How do I update my personal information if an error is made on UP.jobs?
Once you begin work with Union Pacific, you may update some personal information via the SAP ePayroll system. If data corrections need to be made before you start work with Union Pacific, please create a ticket.
How do I update my banking information prior to hire date?
If you need to update your banking information, you will have the opportunity to do so via the SAP ePayroll system after you start working with us.
How long do I need to work to qualify for railroad retirement?
You must work with a railroad for 5 years in order to qualify for a benefit through the Railroad Retirement Board. More information can be found at rrb.gov.
How do I decline an offer during the post offer process?
If you wish to discontinue working through the post-job offer process (and therefore decline your offer), please create a ticket.
Not finding what you're looking for? Submit your questions here.