In this role with Company ABC you will be responsible for the safe and efficient operation of trains and the movement of customer freight from one destination to another. How will you contribute to our reputation for safety and excellence?

"I read that Company ABC abides by key principles which include Employee Development, Operational Safety, and Customer Excellence. I too am committed to opportunities for development and growth. I seek out an exciting career that is safe and rewarding for all. I plan to contribute by abiding by your policies, leading by example, and being an encouraging team member to my colleagues."

In the rail transport industry, nothing is more important than safety and pride in work. Take some time on Company ABC website to learn about their mission statement and values. Now, take a look at your values, work ethic, and top skills. How are they a match? Talk to the interviewer about how your skills and characteristics will contribute to the goals of Company ABC.

"Serving customers safely is the theme that I have read on your website and a goal that I plan to help you achieve every day that I am on the job. Your trains pass through small towns, big cities, and everywhere in-between, which is why a firm commitment to safety is of utmost importance. I will invest time in learning your equipment and infrastructure, getting to know my colleagues, and learning about the customers that you serve. Through this dedication to knowledge, I can contribute to your history of safety and customer service excellence."

This role with Company ABC requires union membership. How do you feel about being part of a unionized environment?

"I have worked in a union environment for the past three years, and am willing to work in another union environment again. I appreciate the pay standards and workplace protections that come from being part of a union; two points that are very important when working in an industry like rail transport."

There are many bonuses' to being part of a unionized environment; however, there are some folks who do not wish to work in a unionized environment. It's essential that an employer checks for preference, so they can avoid any issues arising in the future. If this role with Company ABC requires you to be part of a union, be prepared to discuss your willingness to join the union. You can certainly ask questions about their collective agreement, or what the union has done to collaborate with Company ABC in the recent past.

"Union environments are new to me; however, I am eager and open to learning more. If you could share with me a little bit about how active the union is at Company ABC and what they have done to benefit the lives of employees and the company culture, I would greatly appreciate the additional information."

Explain to me the role of a freight conductor. What do you feel are the top 3 skills a freight conductor at Company ABC should possess?

"The primary purpose of a freight conductor is to oversee railroad movements, the safety of a train, and the movement of a train. Communicating with the rail traffic controllers, ensuring the train remains on schedule, supervising the train crew, and facilitating loading and unloading activities are significant parts of the job. Considering these tasks and duties, I believe that the three top skills a freight conductor should possess are time-management, problem-solving, and patience."

The hiring authority at Company ABC wants to know that you have a complete understanding of this role, your future responsibilities, and the expectations present should you be the successful candidate. Of course, you will only be asked this question if you are applying for a freight conductor role. If you are interviewing for a different job title, you should still do some research on the fright conductor role considering it's always a great idea to have an understanding of other positions within your company.

"From my understanding, a freight conductor will spend their day managing the movement and overall operation of a train. Responsibilities include making sure the train is on time, switches are smooth, and that loading or unloading activities happen safely and efficiently. If I were hiring a freight conductor, I would look for someone who stays cool under pressure, puts safety first, and can lead a team with authority."

Explain to me the responsibilities of a train dispatcher. In your opinion, what is the most critical component of a dispatch position?

"Train dispatchers have a diverse role which includes making sure that trains are arriving safely and efficiently. I believe that safety is the main priority for a train dispatcher as they communicate with the train drivers and conductors on every movement of the train. For these reasons, I think that a train dispatcher should have a keen eye for detail, be highly organized, and able to see potential issues before they happen."

If you are applying for the role of train dispatcher with Company ABC, it's essential that you have a clear understanding of your responsibilities and the expectations of this position. You may think that this question does not apply to you if you're interviewing for a different role. However, it's vital that you have an understanding of this critical position, regardless of where you will be working in the organization.

"From the research I have done, I understand the responsibilities of the train dispatcher to be around team communication, compliance of every train and load, and to be on top of scheduled trains, destinations, times of arrivals and departures. This level of responsibility means that a train conductor should be able to coordinate multiple moving parts, be resistant to stress, and be able to be critically minded."

Walk me through your experience supervising crews, and facilitating schedules or loading and unloading duties.

"I have four years' experience as a freight conductor, leading teams of up to sixteen people at one time; primarily train crew. I have a vast amount of experience communicating with dispatch, ensuring that all loads comply with federal regulations and that schedules are aligned."

The interviewer would like to gain an understanding of your leadership activities. You may have leadership roles on your resume. If you do, be sure to bring this experience to life for the interviewer by discussing how many people you have lead, what their job titles were, and the volume of work you needed to facilitate. If you do not have experience with supervising crews or facilitating schedules, think of other times that you have jumped into a leadership role without being asked. Show that you are a natural leader and someone who can take control of a situation when it's appropriate, and when you see the need.

"Being new to my career, the leadership experience that I have is informal and mainly during times when my supervisor is unavailable, or I need to help a new employee learn something new. I think that I am a natural leader because I quickly see where there is a need and where a potential issue could arise. I am proactive and have a keen eye for detail."

How familiar are you with the FRA (Federal Railroad Administration) and the part they play with Company ABC daily operations?

"The FRA is one of around 10 US-based agencies responsible for the regulation of freight and transportation by rail. I believe that as a (insert your job description) the FRA will have a significant impact on the safety practices of my job in areas such as hazardous materials, operating practices, and train control."

The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) was conceptualized by the Department of Transportation Act of 1966. Essentially, the FRA's primary mission is to enable the safe, reliable, and efficient movement of people and goods by rail. If you are hired by Company ABC you will need to be familiar with the FRA and how to comply with their regulations, as they relate to your specific job title. Briefly describe what you know the FRA to be, and how they will impact your daily work operations.

"The Federal Railroad Administration is actively involved in limiting safety risks in the rail transport industry; impacting, I believe, every aspect of my job as a (insert your job description). The FRA's focus includes hazard identification, and risk analysis, which greatly reduces rail accidents and the consequences of hazardous events should they occur."

Do you have experience collaborating with dispatchers, yardmasters, engineers and other train crew?

"I have worked in rail transport for the past eight years, collaborating with a variety of job functions every day. On a regular day, I speak with dispatch, the train crew, and our engineers multiple times per day. I am a strong communicator, both verbally and written. One of my strengths is in my documentation and reporting skills."

Cross-functional communication is one of the keys to a successful day at Company ABC. The interviewer wants to know more about your experience collaborating with other departments and job functions such as dispatch, yard crew, locomotive engineers, and general train crew. If you are new to the industry, or your career, with limited cross-functional experience, you can try focusing your response on any volunteer work, or experience from your post-secondary education.

"The bulk of my collaborative work comes from a couple of large group projects while obtaining my certificate in locomotive engineering. I also completed my internship at ABC Railroad, which allowed me to learn how engineers collaborate with other departments such as dispatch and crew. I look forward to furthering my exposure to cross-functional collaboration when I join Company ABC."

At Company ABC we do everything as a team. Have you ever had difficulty working in a team environment?

"I have no difficulty in team-based environments. That is where I thrive, as a highly collaborative crew member. I can work well on my own as well, but I do prefer the variety and excitement that comes with teamwork."

Company ABC and its employees rely on great teamwork and exceptional communication to make every day efficient and safe. Explain to the interviewer that you can work well within a team environment. If you have had challenges in the past, you can discuss these challenges; however, it's essential that you then mention the positive outcome.

"I have never encountered difficulty working in a team environment. I have been lucky enough to work with an amazing crew for the past year, and look forward to even greater collaborative experiences here at Company ABC."

Do you have experience working on an on-call basis? Are you willing and able to comply with an on-call schedule?

"I currently work on-call, 14 days on and 14 days off. When on call, I often need to arrive at work in 2 hours or less. I completely understand the challenges that come with a schedule like this; however, it's what I am accustomed to in my career."

Rail transport crews often need to work on-call, being available to work safely with just a couple of hours' notice at times. The interviewer needs to see that you can comply with the schedule, meeting the needs of Company ABC and filling the expectations of this role. If you currently work on an on-call basis, let the interviewer know this. The best way to show your readiness is by explaining that you are already doing it! If you do not have experience being on-call, assure the interviewer that you understand the requirements of this schedule and that you can deliver what is expected of you.

"My work schedule, thus far, has been primarily evenings and weekends. I understand that this role with Company ABC requires me to be on call quite often. I am willing to be a team player and work whichever hours are required of me."

Describe your overall experience working around and operating heavy equipment.

"I have a great deal of experience with equipment for railway work. Some of the heavy equipment I have operated or repaired include (list the equipment you have experience in). For the past three years, I have been the go-to crew member for troubleshooting many of our heavy equipment failures. I am comfortable with anything that has an engine, and if I don't know what to do, I will research until I have the answers."

When you answer this question, avoid merely listing off the equipment that you have used. Make your answer more conversational by also discussing any training you have received, troubleshooting you have done, and any areas of expertise you may have. If you have no experience working around or operating heavy equipment, that is okay! Company ABC is willing to train the right person. Be sure to express your eagerness to learn. You could offer to take some coursework or training before your hire date, which will strengthen your knowledge before you start your new job.

"Heavy equipment is new to me; however, I am tech savvy, and confident in my ability to learn to troubleshoot the most common pieces of equipment used at Company ABC."

Working for Company ABC can be physically demanding. Are you able to lift 50-85 pounds, work in confined or enclosed spaces, and spend much of your day bending, kneeling, and climbing?

"I am physically fit and able to meet every requirement of this role. In my current job, I lift 80 pounds regularly. I crawl into small spaces and spend a lot of my day standing and walking. Rest assured, I can meet the physical requirements of this position."

The answer to this question should be a simple yes or no. Working in the rail transport industry is a physically demanding role and Company ABC needs to have complete assurance that you can handle these demands, accident-free. Keep your response brief and confident. If you already work a job that is demanding on you, physically, be sure to share those details!

"I read through the physical requirements of this role before applying to Company ABC. I can lift heavy objects and do not have restrictions as far as heights, or crawling into tight spaces."

Federal regulations require Company ABC to conduct a series of background checks as well as random testing for drugs and alcohol. Are you able to meet these requirements?

"I am willing to comply with any background checks required of me, including criminal, credit, drug, and alcohol. I brought a recent police check with me today if you would like to take a copy for my candidate file."

Of course, you are open and willing to undergo a series of background checks! Show the interviewer that you have nothing to hide and that you are fully eligible to work for Company ABC. Due to the sensitive nature of rail transport, you will need to be able to pass drug and alcohol tests, as well as a criminal background check. Keep your answer straightforward.

"I am ready to abide by any federal regulations and any other needs of Company ABC when it comes to checks on my criminal history or drug and alcohol use."

How do you maintain familiarity with scheduled trains, destinations, times of arrivals, and departures?

"I maintain familiarity with scheduled trains, destinations, arrivals, and departures by fully briefing myself on my day before I even begin. Then, I revisit expectations regularly throughout the day. My current company also uses a robust data management system where I can see the movement of my trains in real time; allowing me to troubleshoot issues before they happen."

Being able to remain on schedule, keeping track of arrivals and destinations, and all the moving parts in between will be a critical part of your role at Company ABC. Flawless execution means that you are familiar with your job, and well-briefed at the beginning of each shift. The interviewer needs to see that you understand the urgency that comes with all of these responsibilities. If you already work within these parameters, be sure to share that fact with the interviewer. Talk about how you keep organized, ensuring a job well done.

"I plan to maintain familiarity with scheduled trains, destinations, arrival times, and departures by fully utilizing the programs and systems put in place by Company ABC. I am tech savvy and know that by learning your systems very early on, I will be that much more effective in my job."

Do you have experience working with trains containing hazardous material or restricted shipments?

"In my current role we move dangerous shipments regularly. Before joining the rail transport industry, I worked in road transportation where we moved trucks of gasoline and highly flammable goods. I am TDG (Transportation of Dangerous Goods) certified and have had zero accidents throughout my career."

Company ABC transports hazardous materials regularly such as gasoline, chemicals, and flammable materials. The interviewer wants to understand better the experience that you bring when it comes to moving highly sensitive shipments. Discuss the breadth of your expertise by giving details such as what you have transferred and how often, being sure to highlight your success and safety record. If you do not have experience working with shipments that are restricted or hazardous, be sure to express the fact that you are safety conscious and comfortable working in a potentially dangerous work environment.

"I recently obtained my TDG certification and am ready for further safety training when it comes to hazardous or restricted shipments."

Which aspect of working within the rail transport industry is most exciting for you?

"In the job posting, you mentioned seeking someone who can assist and instruct train crews to couple and uncouple cars, operate switches, and make minor repairs to railcars, including replacing heavy couplings or air brake hoses. I am looking forward to the opportunity to utilize my heavy mechanic's experience and equipment failure troubleshooting expertise."

The rail transport industry is diverse, with many opportunities for travel, growth, and learning. This question helps the interviewer to see what type of research you have done on the role and the industry as a whole. Refer to the job description to see if any particular tasks or responsibilities are real stand-outs for you. Be sure to bring enthusiasm to your response!

"I get very excited about opportunities to problem solve and troubleshoot. For that reason, I believe the greatest aspect of working in the rail transport industry will be the opportunity to ensure smooth and effective movement of priority trains, trains containing hazardous material or restricted shipments. Every success related to smooth transport without delays will be very satisfying."

Company ABC values problem-solving and troubleshooting skills. Tell me about a time you solved a significant issue in the workplace.

"Recently, it was clear that our operational and field staff felt taken for granted and disregarded by the corporate office. Not only did they feel devalued due to budget cuts and layoffs, but morale was also low from some issues surrounding our union's collective agreements and recent changes. Rather than just let these feelings fester, I decided to listen to the ops staff and then bridge the gap with corporate and the union. By sitting down and having a conversation, and laying out a more effective way of delegating work, promoting those who worked hard, and helping our operational and field staff to feel more job security; everyone walked out feeling better about the job, situation, and their coworkers."

Problem-solving and troubleshooting are fundamental skills in the rail transport industry. The interviewer wants to see that you are capable of problem-solving and troubleshooting in a high-pressure or high-stakes environment. Discuss a time when you solved an issue at work that had the potential to become a significant problem. Talk about the steps that you took, being sure to discuss the positive outcome in the end.

"I problem solve quite often at work, primarily with customer resolution. Just yesterday, I worked with a transport customer who was unhappy with a significant delay in their shipment. Through patient communication, I was able to resolve the complaint and create another returning customer."

In the rail transport industry, reaction time is everything. How often do you create alternative scenarios to help you adjust to potential change?

"Any transport job can be unpredictable and requires a great amount of adaptability. Recently we had a huge recall of a hazardous product that we were transporting. Our customer was trying to stop the shipment; however, we were unable to turn the shipment around as we had other clients who needed their delivery on time. We made plans with the client for a shipment return, which changed my work schedule significantly; however, that's to be expected in this industry. I always plan for schedule changes."

Situations can change on a dime in the rail transport industry, and the interviewer needs to see that you have the insight to always have a 'Plan B' in your back pocket. Talk to the interviewer about your ability to create a variety of potential scenarios and solutions. You may never need to take on these scenarios; however, it's vital for the interviewer to know that you can adapt your plan on the fly.

"Nothing is guaranteed to go smoothly in the rail transport industry; that is one thing I know for sure. I always create 'what-ifs' because I know that plans change quickly, especially where there are multiple decision-makers and safety variables between myself and the delivery. Plan B is always ready to go."

Have you ever been terminated from a position?

"I have never been asked to leave a role; however, I have worked in temporary labor positions that were not a good fit. I understand what it is like to feel the insecurity of unemployment and always commit to delivering my finest work. Rest assured, my job history is clean, and I have never been let go for insubordination. You are free to phone any of my references to discuss my work history further."

For safety reasons and various legalities, Company ABC needs to perform stringent backchecks, which may include employment verification. The hiring authority needs to know that you are trustworthy and that you have not been fired in the past for reasons that will put their company at risk. Being fired can be a stressful life event; however, it happens to many people every day, and often for situations that are out of our control. It's best to own up to it if you have ever lost your job. Be brief in your explanation but also let the interviewer know what you learned from the situation.

"I have never been terminated from a job because I deliver my best work every day. If my employer felt that I was not performing to expectations, I hope that a transparent conversation would take place so that I could redeem myself."

Successful communication between departments is key to success at Company ABC. How do you encourage healthy communication in the workplace?

"Many customer and delivery issues stem from poor communication. When we have a delivery issue in my current role, I work with my team to explore what happened, and how we can prevent it from happening again. We often role play and discuss ways that we could have reacted better. This practice has greatly improved our customer reviews."

The hiring authority at Company ABC would like to know that you lead by example when it comes to communication efforts on the job. Breakdown of communication in the rail transport industry can have dire effects on deliverables, reputation, and safety. These reasons are why clear communication is essential in your job.

"I show my co-workers the importance of communication through my willingness to ask questions or seek clarification. I do not pretend to have an answer just to look smart. By creating an environment where it's safe to ask questions or ask for clarification, our customer service has improved, we have more on-time deliveries, and fewer workplace accidents."

Your background is not in rail transport. Tell me what skills and characteristics qualify you for this position, regardless of your lack of industry experience.

"I come from a welding environment versus a rail transport setting; however, the importance of what I did in terms of accuracy and safety are the same that you ask for in your job posting. I put safety first, and I am highly technical and mechanically minded, no matter what the industry."

There are a variety of ways that you can be a good fit for a job; regardless of the industry from which you come. This question is your opportunity to discuss the transferable skills you bring to this position. Transferable skills can include safety training, mechanical abilities, customer service experience, and software capabilities, for instance. Be prepared to position yourself as the best candidate for the job, regardless of your direct industry experience.

"It's tough to teach time management, troubleshooting, and safety skills; however, industry knowledge is something I can learn. I have begun to study the rail transport industry already and will have a firm grasp before my start date. If you have any suggestions on resources to gain further industry knowledge, I am happy to look into them."

Stress is an every-day presence in the rail transport industry. How do you manage in the most stressful situations?

"I realize that the rail transport industry is high-stakes, so it's critical that I manage that stress like a pro. I tend to work best in stressful situations. For instance, the pressure of delivery deadlines drives me to work faster and smarter. I am resistant to stress because I choose to focus on the end goal rather than the small hiccups along the way."

With high-stakes situations being an every-day occurrence at Company ABC, the hiring authority needs to know that you can keep your cool no matter what tasks come your way. Your ability to manage stress will directly impact your job performance. Think of some ways you have learned to deal with stress at work, and give a real-life example to the interviewer.

"I do well under pressure or stress, but like most people, sometimes I need to take a minute to recalibrate under high-pressure situations that offer little relief. I know myself, and my stress triggers pretty well, so when I feel like there's too much on my plate, I will center myself, dig in and get through it, knowing I'll come out better on the other side."

Company ABC needs reliable team members who can adhere to our schedules. How many days were you unexpectedly absent from work last year?

" My parents raised me with an old-fashioned mindset where you go to work unless it's an absolute emergency. The last sick day I took was about three years ago. I expect dedication from my teammates so that I don't have to cover for their shifts for fickle reasons. I deliver the same level of respect and reliability at the same time."

Depending on the role for which you are interviewing, there may be expectations for you to be on call 24-7, or be available to come into work within just a couple of hours' notice. Company ABC may ask you to work double shifts, evenings, weekends, and holidays. Assure the interviewer that they can rely on you to show you to work when expected.

"I have had zero unexcused absences in the last two years. In total, I took eight vacation days out of my ten days holiday time. I always try to be 10 minutes early for my shift. When you call my references, they will attest to the fact that I am highly reliable."

Do you have any concerns around this role, or working for Company ABC?

"You mentioned a high rate of employee turnover. I have a great amount of experience working with companies that need an overhaul related to employee engagement but would like to know what situation I would be facing. Do you have numbers or stats to share?"

The interviewer would like to know ahead of time if there is any reason for you to decline a job offer, should you be the successful candidate. If you do have hesitations, be sure to frame them as positively as possible. Ask smart questions, and gain clarification anywhere you need. If you do not have any concerns, that's great! You should still have a question or two prepared for the end of your interview to show engagement and thoughtfulness. Some questions you can ask include: - What was the biggest struggle for the person in this role, previously? - If hired, what do you believe will be my biggest hurdle in the first 90 days? - What is the most significant change your industry has gone through this year?

"Thank you for asking! I do not have any concerns, but I do have a couple of questions. What do you foresee as the biggest challenge I will face, in my first 90 days of employment? I want to start strong and come prepared to meet these challenges."

How honest are you, on a scale of 1-10?

"I value honesty and integrity very much. For that reason, I would rate myself as a 9/10 since there is always room for improvement, but I certainly try my best. I have never faced a discrepancy at work, or faced reprimand for acting dishonestly."

The hiring authority would like to know that you are a sincere and honest person that Company ABC can trust to do the right thing - even when nobody is looking! Giving yourself a rating from 1-10 can be a bit tricky since everyone has room for improvement. Be reasonable and give yourself an honest rating while backing your response with an example of your ethics and honesty.

"When it comes to ethical issues, I always choose to be honest and truthful. For that reason, I give myself full marks! I have never faced an issue at work that tempted me to be dishonest. Integrity is all we have, and I am loyal to my employer."

Company ABC values team synergy. Tell me about the type of people you enjoy working with.

"I enjoy working with individuals who work hard and love what they do. Being surrounded by those who value safety makes me feel great. Also, I appreciate those who are reliable and show up when and where expected."

Company culture and team harmony are essential topics for Company ABC. First, because these factors directly impact employee retention. Second, because happy environments are proven to be safer, overall. Talk to the interviewer about the types of colleagues that you most appreciate working alongside. Keep your answer positive and avoid speaking poorly of someone from the past. Traits you might like to see in your colleagues could include positive, encouraging, reliable, conversational, collaborative, or passionate.

"I work best with people who have a strong work ethic and value precision. Every delivery goes smoother when you have dedicated people on your team!"

Talk to me about your most recent performance evaluation. What was one positive, and one area for improvement?

"During my last performance review, my manager was very satisfied with my analytical skills, and ability to see data in a way the most others do not. I have a unique capability when it comes to data analysis. One area for improvement was to speed up my work a little bit. I am cautious with my reports and know that as I gain further experience, I will work faster."

The hiring authority at Company ABC is looking for specifics of your job performance, leaning on recent reviews from your latest job. This question is another way of asking 'What are your strengths and weaknesses?' If you did not have formal performance reviews in your most recent position; discuss the feedback that you consistently received from your supervisors or colleagues. Your positive highlight can be big or small! When you mention one area for improvement, avoid mentioning something that would make you ineligible for the position. For instance, if you are interviewing for an engineering role, you should not say that you are disorganized or have trouble remembering important details. Also, be sure to discuss that you are actively working to improve this weakness.

"Formal performance evaluations are not provided in my current role; however, I often get feedback on-the-fly. My manager often compliments me on my ability to work unsupervised, and without a ton of direction. One thing that I can work on is my speed when documenting. I am not the fastest typer; however, I found a practice site that I have been utilizing online."

Company ABC employees are always busy, with critical tasks. Talk to me about what hard work looks like, to you.

"My mom would always say, 'the early bird gets the worm,' which I agree with, but I think hard work goes beyond that. Being a hard worker means that you are invested in the goals and targets of your company. You don't leave your job until it's done 100% right. You also don't just leave your job the moment you walk off the site. It's always with you; thinking of ways that you can improve your performance the following day."

The hiring authority knows that 'hard work' can mean something completely different from one person to another. To one person, another person's hard work could seem like slacking. Talk to the interviewer about what hard work means to you. Be sure to express your ability to work hard and keep up with the pace at Company ABC.

"Hard work includes the mental effort that I am putting into my deliveries. Working hard means striving to be a leader, and an example, in everything I do. I want to comfortably contribute to safety, process, and overall culture in everything that I do."

Name for me some specific characteristics that make you a functional problem solver.

"What makes me a great problem-solver is my ability to gather facts, first. I look at the problem from multiple angles, and I am not afraid to make a creative decision, based on the pros and cons present."

There are specific characteristics that an employer will look for, to see if you will be an effective problem-solver; even in high-pressure situations. A keen problem solver will: - Think systematically - Be open minded - Admit when they do not have an answer - Value research and exploration - Look for the core problem first - Understand how to reverse engineer an issue - Will learn from mistakes Consider any similar skills and qualities that you may possess. Maybe you are highly positive minded, seeing opportunity when others can only see the problem. Share your problem-solving strengths with the interviewer, using a recent example of this in motion, if you can.

"Learning from others is the key to my great problem-solving abilities. I observe and draw from the experience and mistakes of others. I never hesitate to ask for help or advice when I feel stuck on an issue."

Company ABC works hard to offer competitive wages and employee perks. Besides your pay, what is the most critical factor when considering a job offer?

"Aside from a fair wage, I put a value on generous health benefits. I have a family of four, and having support for unexpected medical expenses would be an incredible addition to my compensation package. Could you share with me a bit about the benefits package here at Company ABC?"

It's time to think about what is most important to you when considering a job offer from Company ABC. Financial compensation aside, Company ABC wants to know what you value. Perhaps your answer focus' on health benefits, work-life balance, company culture, career growth ad development, or even continued education opportunities. Whatever your answer may be, you must give the interviewer a clear idea of your career goals and what you need to gain from your next employment opportunity.

"I value the opportunity for promotion and career growth. I am missing out on future opportunities in my current job because they rarely promote from within the organization. This reason is why I am eager to know how Company ABC helps build up its employees for promotion and growth."

Working in rail transport can be stressful due to high-stakes safety issues and a lot of moving parts. What advice would you give to a colleague who seems to be cracking under pressure?

"I completely understand the pressure that comes with managing high-stakes safety and delivery issues in the workplace. If a teammate were becoming visibly stressed, I would recommend that they take a minute to gather themselves. It is surprising how many people are stress-wired in the workplace without realizing all they need is a quick breather. Sometimes a change of pace can fix so many feelings of stress and overwhelm."

It's one skill to be able to handle yourself professionally under stress, but it's another skill to be able to help your colleagues who are feeling pressure in the workplace. Begin by acknowledging that the rail transport industry can be stressful, but you can handle it. If you come from the same industry, talk about the fact that you are familiar with the recurring pressures in this industry. If you are new to the rail transport industry, then mention everyday stressors that you face in your current job. Lastly, share with the interviewer what you would say or do to help a coworker cope with stress.

"If a colleague were showing signs of poor stress management, I would tell them that talking it out is very helpful. If there is an issue bothering you in the workplace, it's wise to bring it up to a manager right away rather than letting feelings fester. I come from a high stakes military environment, so I am confident that I will flawlessly transition these stress-management capabilities to the rail transport industry."

Rail Transport Interview Questions

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1. In this role with Company ABC you will be responsible for the safe and efficient operation of trains and the movement of customer freight from one destination to another. How will you contribute to our reputation for safety and excellence?
2. This role with Company ABC requires union membership. How do you feel about being part of a unionized environment?
3. Explain to me the role of a freight conductor. What do you feel are the top 3 skills a freight conductor at Company ABC should possess?
4. Explain to me the responsibilities of a train dispatcher. In your opinion, what is the most critical component of a dispatch position?
5. Walk me through your experience supervising crews, and facilitating schedules or loading and unloading duties.
6. How familiar are you with the FRA (Federal Railroad Administration) and the part they play with Company ABC daily operations?
7. Do you have experience collaborating with dispatchers, yardmasters, engineers and other train crew?
8. At Company ABC we do everything as a team. Have you ever had difficulty working in a team environment?
9. Do you have experience working on an on-call basis? Are you willing and able to comply with an on-call schedule?
10. Describe your overall experience working around and operating heavy equipment.
11. Working for Company ABC can be physically demanding. Are you able to lift 50-85 pounds, work in confined or enclosed spaces, and spend much of your day bending, kneeling, and climbing?
12. Federal regulations require Company ABC to conduct a series of background checks as well as random testing for drugs and alcohol. Are you able to meet these requirements?
13. How do you maintain familiarity with scheduled trains, destinations, times of arrivals, and departures?
14. Do you have experience working with trains containing hazardous material or restricted shipments?
15. Which aspect of working within the rail transport industry is most exciting for you?
16. Company ABC values problem-solving and troubleshooting skills. Tell me about a time you solved a significant issue in the workplace.
17. In the rail transport industry, reaction time is everything. How often do you create alternative scenarios to help you adjust to potential change?
18. Have you ever been terminated from a position?
19. Successful communication between departments is key to success at Company ABC. How do you encourage healthy communication in the workplace?
20. Your background is not in rail transport. Tell me what skills and characteristics qualify you for this position, regardless of your lack of industry experience.
21. Stress is an every-day presence in the rail transport industry. How do you manage in the most stressful situations?
22. Company ABC needs reliable team members who can adhere to our schedules. How many days were you unexpectedly absent from work last year?
23. Do you have any concerns around this role, or working for Company ABC?
24. How honest are you, on a scale of 1-10?
25. Company ABC values team synergy. Tell me about the type of people you enjoy working with.
26. Talk to me about your most recent performance evaluation. What was one positive, and one area for improvement?
27. Company ABC employees are always busy, with critical tasks. Talk to me about what hard work looks like, to you.
28. Name for me some specific characteristics that make you a functional problem solver.
29. Company ABC works hard to offer competitive wages and employee perks. Besides your pay, what is the most critical factor when considering a job offer?
30. Working in rail transport can be stressful due to high-stakes safety issues and a lot of moving parts. What advice would you give to a colleague who seems to be cracking under pressure?

Rail Transport Interview Questions

1. In this role with Company ABC you will be responsible for the safe and efficient operation of trains and the movement of customer freight from one destination to another. How will you contribute to our reputation for safety and excellence?

2. This role with Company ABC requires union membership. How do you feel about being part of a unionized environment?

3. Explain to me the role of a freight conductor. What do you feel are the top 3 skills a freight conductor at Company ABC should possess?

4. Explain to me the responsibilities of a train dispatcher. In your opinion, what is the most critical component of a dispatch position?

5. Walk me through your experience supervising crews, and facilitating schedules or loading and unloading duties.

6. How familiar are you with the FRA (Federal Railroad Administration) and the part they play with Company ABC daily operations?

7. Do you have experience collaborating with dispatchers, yardmasters, engineers and other train crew?

8. At Company ABC we do everything as a team. Have you ever had difficulty working in a team environment?

9. Do you have experience working on an on-call basis? Are you willing and able to comply with an on-call schedule?

10. Describe your overall experience working around and operating heavy equipment.

11. Working for Company ABC can be physically demanding. Are you able to lift 50-85 pounds, work in confined or enclosed spaces, and spend much of your day bending, kneeling, and climbing?

12. Federal regulations require Company ABC to conduct a series of background checks as well as random testing for drugs and alcohol. Are you able to meet these requirements?

13. How do you maintain familiarity with scheduled trains, destinations, times of arrivals, and departures?

14. Do you have experience working with trains containing hazardous material or restricted shipments?

15. Which aspect of working within the rail transport industry is most exciting for you?

16. Company ABC values problem-solving and troubleshooting skills. Tell me about a time you solved a significant issue in the workplace.

17. In the rail transport industry, reaction time is everything. How often do you create alternative scenarios to help you adjust to potential change?

18. Have you ever been terminated from a position?

19. Successful communication between departments is key to success at Company ABC. How do you encourage healthy communication in the workplace?

20. Your background is not in rail transport. Tell me what skills and characteristics qualify you for this position, regardless of your lack of industry experience.

21. Stress is an every-day presence in the rail transport industry. How do you manage in the most stressful situations?

22. Company ABC needs reliable team members who can adhere to our schedules. How many days were you unexpectedly absent from work last year?

23. Do you have any concerns around this role, or working for Company ABC?

24. How honest are you, on a scale of 1-10?

25. Company ABC values team synergy. Tell me about the type of people you enjoy working with.

26. Talk to me about your most recent performance evaluation. What was one positive, and one area for improvement?

27. Company ABC employees are always busy, with critical tasks. Talk to me about what hard work looks like, to you.

28. Name for me some specific characteristics that make you a functional problem solver.

29. Company ABC works hard to offer competitive wages and employee perks. Besides your pay, what is the most critical factor when considering a job offer?

30. Working in rail transport can be stressful due to high-stakes safety issues and a lot of moving parts. What advice would you give to a colleague who seems to be cracking under pressure?