Top 10 Questions for Train Caller Interview

1. What are the different types of train orders that you are familiar with?

• Form 19 Orders: These are the most common type of train order and are used to authorize the movement of a train over a specified route.
• Form 31 Orders: These orders are used to change the time or location of a train’s movement.
• Form 32 Orders: These orders are used to annul a previous train order.
• Form 37 Orders: These orders are used to establish a temporary speed restriction.

2. How do you determine the speed of a train?

Calculating Train Speed Manually

• Use a stopwatch or your watch to time the train as it passes a known distance.
• Convert the time to minutes and seconds, and then divide the distance by the time to get the speed in miles per hour.

Using Train Speedometers

• Many trains are equipped with speedometers that display the train’s speed.
• These speedometers are typically located in the locomotive cab.

3. What are the different types of train signals that you need to be aware of?

• Colored Lights: These signals use colored lights to indicate the status of the track ahead.
• Position Lights: These signals use the position of lights to indicate the status of the track ahead.
• Semaphore Signals: These signals use the position of a semaphore arm to indicate the status of the track ahead.

4. What are the different types of track conditions that you need to be aware of?

• Clear Track: This is the most desirable track condition, and it indicates that the track is clear of any obstructions.
• Slow Track: This track condition indicates that there is a temporary obstruction on the track, such as a work crew or a slow-moving train.
• Stop Track: This track condition indicates that there is a complete obstruction on the track, such as a derailment or a washout.

5. What are the different types of train emergencies that you need to be prepared for?

• Derailments: These are the most serious type of train emergency, and they can occur when a train goes off the tracks.
• Collisions: These emergencies occur when two trains collide with each other.
• Fires: These emergencies can occur when a train catches fire.
• Medical Emergencies: These emergencies occur when a passenger or crew member becomes ill or injured.

6. What are the different types of train equipment that you need to be familiar with?

• Locomotives: These are the engines that power trains.
• Passenger Cars: These are the cars that carry passengers.
• Freight Cars: These are the cars that carry freight.
• Track: This is the infrastructure that trains run on.

7. What are the different types of train operating procedures that you need to be familiar with?

• General Operating Rules: These rules govern the overall operation of trains.
• Specific Operating Instructions: These instructions provide detailed information on how to operate trains on a specific railroad.
• Emergency Procedures: These procedures provide instructions on how to handle train emergencies.

8. What are the different types of train safety regulations that you need to be familiar with?

• Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) Regulations: These regulations are issued by the FRA and govern the operation of trains in the United States.
• State Railroad Regulations: These regulations are issued by individual states and govern the operation of trains within those states.

9. What are the different types of train communication systems that you need to be familiar with?

• Radio: This is the most common type of train communication system.
• Telephone: This type of communication system is used to communicate with dispatchers and other trains.
• Cell Phone: This type of communication system is becoming increasingly common, and it allows train callers to communicate with anyone with a cell phone.

10. What are the different types of train operating software that you need to be familiar with?

• Computer-Aided Dispatch (CAD) Systems: These systems are used to manage train movements and track train locations.
• Train Control Systems: These systems are used to control the speed and movement of trains.
• Passenger Information Systems: These systems are used to provide passengers with information about their train’s status.

Train Callers are responsible for ensuring the safe and efficient movement of trains, assisting passengers with their travel plans, and maintaining a professional and customer-focused environment. Their key job responsibilities include:

1. Passenger Assistance

Providing accurate and timely information to passengers about train schedules, fares, and routes.

• Answering passenger inquiries and assisting them in finding their desired trains.
• Announcing train arrivals, departures, and any delays or cancellations.

2. Train Operations

Coordinating with train crews to ensure smooth and safe train movements.

• Monitoring train schedules and updating passengers on any changes.
• Communicating with other departments, such as station staff and maintenance crews, to resolve issues and maintain operations.

3. Emergency Management

Responding quickly and effectively to emergencies.

• Alerting emergency services in case of accidents or medical emergencies.
• Providing instructions to passengers and staff during evacuation procedures.

4. Public Relations

Maintaining a positive and professional image of the railway company.

• Interacting with passengers in a helpful and courteous manner.
• Providing feedback to management on customer concerns and suggestions for improvement.

Preparing for a Train Caller interview requires a combination of technical knowledge, customer service skills, and a commitment to safety. Here are some tips to help candidates ace the interview:

1. Research the Company and Role

Familiarize yourself with the railway company’s history, values, and operations. Understand the specific responsibilities and expectations of the Train Caller role.

• Visit the company website to gather information about their mission, services, and recent news.
• Read industry publications or articles about the role of Train Callers in the rail industry.

2. Highlight Customer Service Skills

Emphasize your ability to interact with passengers in a friendly, helpful, and professional manner. Provide examples of how you have effectively handled challenging customer situations.

• Describe how you have used effective listening and communication skills to resolve passenger concerns.
• Share experiences where you have gone above and beyond to assist passengers with their travel needs.

3. Demonstrate Safety Awareness

Convey your understanding of railway safety procedures and your commitment to passenger safety. Explain how you would respond to emergency situations.

• Discuss your knowledge of railway signals, track conditions, and emergency evacuation procedures.
• Provide examples of how you have promoted safety in the workplace or in public transportation environments.

4. Prepare for Technical Questions

Be prepared to answer questions about railway operations, train schedules, and passenger assistance systems. Consider reviewing materials related to train operations and railway signaling.

• Practice answering questions about train movements, delays, and cancellations.
• Research different types of passenger assistance systems and how they are used in the rail industry.