Wage Watchers: How much does an SNCB train conductor earn?

What do you do for work?
I started working at SNCB through my stepfather. As a train conductor, I help bring the train safely from point A to point B. I am also responsible for providing information to passengers and checking tickets.

Do you like your job?
Yes, I think it's nice. Every day is different, so it never gets boring. I even met my husband through my work, on the train from Charleroi. He is also a train conductor. It's anything but boring; you never know what to expect. Just recently, for example, there was a woman with dementia on the train who had no idea where she was going. Together with the police we helped to make sure she got home safely. It's a very social job. We enjoy a lot of freedom while we work. Of course there's a protocol to follow, but ultimately you are responsible. Security is very important at SNCB. You are in control of 'your own train': greeting travellers, helping passengers with reduced mobility and making sure that the departure goes smoothly.

Would you change jobs for a higher salary?
Maybe, but I'm very happy with the job I have now. And I would have a hard time sitting at a desk all day.

How much do you earn exactly?
I earn €2,645 gross, not counting bonuses for weekend or night work. With those extras, I can earn up to about €2,840. My net income varies between €1,900 and €2,000 (bonuses included), depending on how many Saturdays, Sundays and holidays I work. Extras include meal vouchers, hospitalisation insurance and free train passes for the whole family.

What do you think of your salary?
It's definitely OK. I am very pleased, keeping in mind that you sometimes have to work on weekends and holidays, or get up at 3 in the morning to start working at 4.

How many hours per week do you work?
Approximately 40 hours per week, which can vary from week to week. Sometimes it's more, sometimes less.

Are you able to save money?
No, except for retirement savings. We just built a house, so it's not possible at the moment.

What is your biggest expense?
The mortgage on the house and childcare.

What would you not spend your money on?
Make-up, gel nails, tanning... I would never spend money on that sort of stuff.

What do you enjoy spending your money on?
Fun things for the kids, toys and such. Finishing the house. Interior decoration.

What would you do if you won the lottery?
Head toward the mountains. I would go on holiday a lot. I would continue to work, because the social contact is very important to me. I would miss that too much if I were to stop. What's good about sitting at home? Maybe I would work part-time. Or only in the winter months, for example, and have summers off.