Norfolk Southern Cuts 140 Roanoke Jobs

NS tran passes Winston Link Museum in Roanoke

Norfolk Southern Corporation, one of the most important employers in the region, plans to cut 140 jobs in Roanoke, ending what it calls “regional railcar classification operations.” The company has 1,870 workers in the area. The Roanoke Terminal has lost 30 percent of its general merchandise cars business in the last seven years.

VP of Transportation Terry Evans was quoted as saying, “The employees who work at Roanoke are dedicated and efficient, but the geographical location and layout of the hump yard make it not only expensive but redundant within our network.” 

Officials say most of those losing their jobs are Carmen—who inspect and repair cars—and train crews. In addition, a few track maintenance positions are affected. According to published reports, Norfolk Southern anticipates hiring between 850 and 1,150 employees in 2013 to keep up with attrition. These positions will first be offered to employees affected by the Roanoke change and employees furloughed at other locations.

(Norfolk Southern photo)