Train Crew Start Of Shift Location(s) - Trains Magazine

Short line railroading is going to be more family friendly than class one railroading.  Most avoid putting up crews in motels.  Rather they will work turns out of multiple locations, crews exchanging cars and trains at some mid-point and returning to their starting location.  If they do have a train, such as a unit (loaded or empty) unit train, that runs to the other end they may deadhead to/from a home point.

I don't know PS&P's operating scheme.  They may have more than one on duty point.  They may only list jobs through their operating HQ location.  Also being a new employee, your choices for work location may be limited even if they don't have seniority based assignments.  Expect the worst and be presently surprised if it should work out more advantageously for you.

Good luck.

Jeff

PS.  Have you considered trying the UP in Iowa?  (Unless the dud state you refer to is Iowa.)  $50000.00 sign on bonus if you currently are more than 300 miles away.  (Only $40000.00 if less than 300 miles.)  UP conditions are less family friendly, overnight travel is more likely out of most terminals.

Other places on the UP are also offering similar bonuses.  With UP locations, the city listed may not be where you will work at in the beginning.  UP has seniority districts, but lists openings by terminals within the district.  Someone starting out may or may not be able to hold that location.

I just checked, UP is offering $20000 to $25000 for Seattle.  But there you wouldn't get to work with me.  Hmm...maybe that's why they are offering more to work in Iowa.   

Again good luck in whatever you do.