r/PharmaEire • u/Patient_Cream_604 • 10h ago

Commute

Has anyone done 4-on, 4-off shift work with a 1 hour 20 minute commute each way?
I’m considering my first Production Operator role and don’t want to miss out on the opportunity considering how the job market is currently, but I’m worried about the travel, especially on early and night shifts.
Is it manageable long-term, or does the commute become too much? I’d appreciate any advice from people with similar experience. Thanks

1 Upvotes

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8

u/Automatic-Ask3466 10h ago

Been doing 5 on 2 off with an hour & 20 commute each way for 10 years myself 😂. It’s manageable but not ideal.

1

u/Patient_Cream_604 9h ago

I have done 5 hour commute before but using public transport for a non shift role should i give it a go as i hate my current job tbf😂

1

u/Automatic-Ask3466 8h ago

Absolutely. You only live once, if you’re not happy in the current role then try to find one that’ll make you happier for sure, life is far too short random reddit person.

1

u/Potential-Register-1 4h ago

I think you should go for it. I used to cycle to my 4 on 4 off shift role, and it took me 1hr 20 one way. It’s doable, and you won’t have to worry about it during your 4 days off

3

u/DubPucs1997 10h ago

I know lads doing that commute that travel 2+ hours each way. It's doable but each of your working days will be spent doing nothing but traveling and working. 

1

u/Patient_Cream_604 8h ago

That’s what I’m worried about, but happy to know it’s doable

3

u/Tough_Ad_9678 7h ago

I tried something similar but only working early shift. Was falling asleep on way home. I ended up moving closer to work. 1 hour is max I would do now.

If working 12’s. You have zero free time after your shift if you like a bit of sleep.

1

u/Patient_Cream_604 5h ago

Not easy i’d say

1

u/Irish-liquorice 9h ago

A former boss of mine also had a long commute for the same shift pattern and used to take a 15-min power nap halfway esp after the nightshifts.

1

u/Patient_Cream_604 8h ago

I’d probably have to do the same to be honest.

1

u/Old-Platform-8250 8h ago

Definitely doable and lots do it. I know s good few that rent rooms off colleagues for in between the night shifts too.

1

u/Patient_Cream_604 5h ago

Will give it a go

1

u/PuzzleheadedName3832 5h ago

Absolute disaster. Most places to get the handover you're in the gate 30 mins prior to official start time. Might be 10 minutes past finish time back out the gate.

12hr45mins on site isn't unusual for a 12 hour shift.

Gives about 9 hours at home in between shifts.

Think long and hard.

1

u/Processbiotech92 3h ago

Congratulations on your new role..if possible can you pls share how you landed the role..did you have any previous experience...I am currently doing a course and trying for a career change..

0

u/Federal-Reception-68 9h ago

Done this for years. Not ideal I found the shift work premiums offset the pain of some of the extra travel though.

Look at it this way. Most people commute each day without premiums for 40-60mins. You're getting paid a premium for that extra 20-40 mins.... How I used to justify it 😅

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u/Patient_Cream_604 8h ago

That’s a fair way to look at it. The shift premium definitely helps justify it😅