I applied online. The process took 4 weeks. I interviewed at Union Pacific (Villa Grove, IL) in Jul 2014
Interview
Applied online. A few days later I was emailed to take a reading comprehension test. About 2 days later, I received a call to attend an interview session that would take place in 3 weeks.
There were 60 candidates for 12 positions,
We were told if we didn't get hired during this round, to apply again. Here is what I don't understand.
I have 12 years experience as a conductor and locomotive engineer with CSX.
Never in my career have I had any disciplinary or safety violations, but I was not offered a job. The interview went really well ( in my opinion ).
Typical questions of: Have you worked outside?
Have you been on call?
Have you worked around large machinery?
Who is responsible for your safety?
Have you ever had a safety violation at work?
They asked me why I wanted to work for UP and not CSX, and I told them it was the money. CSX and NS are the lowest paid Class one railroads in the U.S. A conductor on the UP with 5 years seniority, will make more than an engineer on CSX with 30 years seniority.
So, I thought maybe everyone in the interview had prior railroad experience. I just applied for another train crew position in Salem, IL (same seniority hub as previous application, ie; same HR person hiring) and my application went straight to no longer being considered.
The only reason I can think of for not being hired was because I'm over 50 years old. I know it's illegal to discriminate due to age, but how would you prove it? I would be curious how many new hires are over 50 years old. Oh well, their loss. They'll have 50% of the new hires quit after they find out what the job is like or the first time they get furloughed.
Recorded interview. 10-12 questions. All pretty comprehensive but over all prepared me for complicated questions in the future. I think they have employees that get furloughed so ultimately didn’t go through with the process.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
Tell us how you will adjust to an open schedule like on call and any type of shift
I applied through other source. I interviewed at Union Pacific (Cheyenne, WY) in Jan 2026
Interview
It is a Unique process unlike any other I’ve experienced. Lots of background and tests. You’re answering prompts without a face to look at. I’ve never experienced anything like it. I hope this is now thirty words thirty words were minimum.
Interview process was very professional and comfortable with most of the process completed online. The interview was recorded with prefilled in questions. I was able to do the interview at my leisure which made me feel very comfortable completing.