Union Pacific Careers & Jobs – Application, How to Apply, Requirements & Interview Tips
Last Updated: March 20th, 2022 by
With a Union Pacific career, you’d be working at one of America’s biggest railroad companies!
Union Pacific Railroad covers 23 states on the western side of the U.S. It also connects to Canada’s rail system. The company’s rail lines connect to all six major Mexico gateways, as well.
The company traces its roots back to 1862. Its headquarters are in Omaha, Nebraska.
This guide includes info on jobs you could apply for and salaries you could earn. You’ll also read a few tips to help you ace your interview!
At Union Pacific, you could work as a Conductor, Engineer, Electrician and more!
Union Pacific Careers & Jobs
You can find the right Union Pacific job on their careers website.
Here, you can also read stories from Union Pacific workers. This will give you an idea of what the work culture is like at Union Pacific. Union Pacific offers many different jobs like:
Conductor
As a Conductor, you’ll be in charge of the train, the freight, and the crew. You’ll make sure the crew are well informed about anything happening on the train.
If there’s any change in travel plans, you’ll be the one to inform everyone. It’s important that you’re comfortable working on your feet. Having strong communication skills is also a plus.
Engineer
As an Engineer, your focus will be on operating the mechanical parts of the train. This includes the locomotive that keeps the train moving.
Maintaining those parts will be your top priority. If anything breaks down, you’ll have to fix it so the train stays on schedule. Strong technical knowledge is required for this position.
Electrician
Being an Electrician means that you’ll focus on the train’s electrical systems. You’ll continually inspect the electrical systems for problems.
Maintaining and repairing them will also be your focus. For this job, it’s important that you’re good at working with your hands. This is because you’ll be using specialized tools to do your job.
Machinist
In this position, you’ll be installing, removing and fixing locomotive parts. You’ll also be working on other mechanical parts like generators, brake equipment and more.
Technical knowledge of locomotive parts is essential in this role. However, being able to work efficiently is also important. This helps ensure that trains are able to travel on time.
Foreman
As a Foreman, you’ll be in charge of inspecting trains. You’ll do this to make sure that all safety standards are met. Your job is key to making sure all passengers and cargo are always secure. Having a strong eye for detail is key to this job. You’ll also go a long way if you are a strong team player, as you’ll be working with colleagues from many different teams.
Manager Jobs
At Union Pacific, there are also Manager jobs that you can apply for. These include Operations Manager and Manager.
As an Operations Manager, you’ll oversee what’s happening on the ground. This means that you’ll work with different teams. Together, you’ll make sure the trains are working efficiently and safely.
As a Manager, you’ll be responsible for your own department. You’ll lead a team of your own to work according to Union Pacific’s standards and procedures. This also means you’ll lead training and any problem-solving that happens in your team.
How Much Does Union Pacific Pay (Hourly & Salary)?
At a minimum, you could earn $23 an hour as a Laborer, 89% above the national average for similar jobs elsewhere. You could also make:
- Conductor ($70,000 a year)
- Engineer ($88,000 a year)
- Electrician ($64,000 a year)
- Foreman ($70,000 a year)
- Machinist ($63,000 a year)
- Operations Manager ($89,000 a year)
- Manager ($94,000 a year)
With a career at Union Pacific, you’ll have access to great benefits. These include a 401(k) Comprehensive Plan and employee discounts. Also, you’ll receive dental, vision, health and life coverage as well.
How Old Do You Have To Be To Work At Union Pacific?
You have to be at least 18 years of age to work at Union Pacific. This is true for any job you apply for at the company. At this age, you could apply for entry-level jobs like:
- Train Crew
- Labourer
- Phone Operator
Does Union Pacific Drug Test?
Yes, Union Pacific does drug tests most of the time. Typically, they collect hair and urine samples. The drug test is usually conducted on-site.
Whatever the odds, it’s always safer to assume that a drug test might happen.
Does Union Pacific Do Background Checks?
Yes, Union Pacific does perform background checks. It’s not clear how far back into your background they will look. It’s also not clear if they hire applicants with criminal records.
Possible Union Pacific Interview Questions & Tips
Why Do You Want To Work At Union Pacific?
You should let them know how this job means more to you than just the salary. Show them that your interests and passions are aligned with the job and the company!
Do You Have A Clean Criminal Record?
With questions like these, it’s always best to be honest. Any dishonest answers may come to in the future, so remember: Honesty is the best policy!
How Do You Handle Deadlines?
Recruiters want to know that you can keep to deadlines. They also want to know that you can handle pressure, especially when it comes to time-sensitive work.
How Will You Contribute To Our Reputation For Safety And Excellence?
Show them that you’ll be an asset to the team! A good answer is one that shows how seriously you take safety on the job. You should also add that you want to help the company improve its reputation.
Do You Fit The Physical Standards For This Job?
It’s always important to do your homework. Be sure to know of any special requirements the job may have. Don’t just give them a ‘yes’ or ‘no’ answer, be sure to explain to them exactly how you fit those standards.
What Are Your Top 3 Skills?
Be honest about the skills you have. However, it’s also important to be humble about them. Tell them about strengths that are related to the job you want.
Union Pacific Hiring Process
Union Pacific’s hiring process has been described as ‘average’. Some applicants have found it to be challenging, but not too difficult. The entire process could take over one month.
The hiring process starts with an on-site interview. In some cases, you may be interviewed with others as part of a group.
Always look your best! Be sure to dress in a business casual outfit for your interview.
