The Best of Both Worlds: How Our Workforce Will Benefit
Download PDFThe combination of Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern creates a rail network built for growth, stability and safety. For employees, that means more opportunities, stronger protections and better benefits.
Secure Jobs, Growth Opportunities
Those who have a union job when the merger is approved will continue to have one.
90% Retention Rate — proof of commitment to workforce stability
Jobs managed through growth and natural attrition, not cuts
Expanding rail volumes = new jobs across towns and cities
Each rail job supports 3.9 additional U.S. jobs.1
Protecting America’s Best-Paid Industrial Careers
The best-paid industrial careers in America stay strong — and keep getting stronger.
40% ABOVE
NATIONAL AVERAGE PAY:
$135K–$190K, avg. $160K1
TOP 10%
TOTAL COMPENSATION:
Premium healthcare, paid leave, retirement1
13+ YEARS
AVERAGE TENURE:
3x longer than U.S. average1
2x
RETIREMENT INCOME
vs. average Social Security recipient1
Investing in Our People
More access to the best benefits from both companies.
Free counseling & family life services
Railroaders helping railroaders: company-supported employee assistance funds
Free college starting day one
Employee stock purchase plan with company match
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Safety First, Always
Our goal is that every employee makes it home safe.
Industry-leading technology
AI, machine learning and advanced imaging help assess potential risk
AI, machine learning and advanced imaging help assess potential risk
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Employee training
Nearly 90 hours annually prioritized for learning
Nearly 90 hours annually prioritized for learning
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Infrastructure investment
$5.6B annually for tracks, bridges, technology and safety programs3
$5.6B annually for tracks, bridges, technology and safety programs3
The Bottom Line
Together, Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern are safeguarding the proud tradition of railroad work while building more opportunities for the next generation.
- “Freight Rail Jobs,” Association of American Railroads, accessed Aug. 26, 2025.
- “Rail Transportation and the U.S. Economy: Fueling Growth, Trade and Opportunity,” Association of American Railroads – Policy & Economics Report, last modified Feb. 28, 2025, accessed Aug. 25, 2025.
- “Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern to Create America’s First Transcontinental Railroad” Union Pacific Railroad and Norfolk Southern Corporation press release, last modified July 29, 2025, accessed Aug. 22, 2025.