However, workers may be given short notice about assignments and may come in at odd hours. Rail transportation workers may spend several nights away from home while they are on the job. Full-time employees have more regular hours. They are occasionally exposed to weather and moving, mechanical parts. Most rail transportation workers are members of a union.
Wages vary according to training and experience.
Entry level wages may be lower. Wages vary by occupation and the workers experience. Pay also varies for rail transportation workers by occupation and the size of the train. Most workers are paid according to miles traveled or hours worked, whichever leads to higher earnings. Full-time rail transportation workers generally receive benefits.