Hi, I'm new to the forum and new to the industry. I've worked in retail for the last 12 years, but my family and I are ready for a career change. I've recently applied and interviewed for a conductor trainee position in my hometown of Amarillo, TX. I am taking my strength test on Tuesday and hopefully my physical soon after. I'm not worried about either, nor my background check, so I am very excited about starting in a couple of months. I've read several threads, so I understand everything about the job and the mental and emotional stress it can put on a family...we are prepared for that, as I travel quite frequently in my current job. My question is...how busy is the Amarillo terminal? I understand that I will be on the extra board and all that good stuff. I was just curious to how it compares to other terminals. There are 3 classes starting over the next 3 months with about 48-50 people being hired over those 3 classes, so I can only assume it is a fairly busy terminal. Also, I know when working in the yard, pay is 80% the first year. But when working in the yard, how does that pay? Is it an hourly rate? Any info would greatly be appreciated. I apologize if I've asked questions that have already been posted in other threads.
