Rail Traffic Controller (Train Dispatcher)
Pros
Handsome salary. Fast-paced job. No two days are the same. VERY responsible position. You will get creative and use your critical thinking skills on this job! Generous time off (when you have the time and seniority accrued). Indoor, in a temperature-controlled environment (you're out of the elements).
Cons
Ever-changing schedule and shift-work for newer employees (and those with low seniority) - evenings, nights, weekends, and holidays. Stressful job - comparable to an air-traffic-controller, but still much different. Have had many former ATC's claim that there are significantly more variables to consider when compared with train dispatching: fuel, tonnage, train length, outside temperature, track conditions, speed restrictions, signal and grade crossing issues, hours of service, physical characteristics, track maintenance and congestion, too many trains on line-of-road to be adequately handled, and no room in the respective rail yards, until other trains depart ahead. Some have left to pursue ATC. Others (non-ATC) have left to pursue other opportunities (internal and external). This job is not for everyone.