Transportation Operations Management Trainee

Job Description

2027 Transportation Operations Management Trainee (Various Locations) | Norfolk Southern

The Tone:
This is a full-time management trainee position at Norfolk Southern, with various locations available and a projected start date of January 2027. Norfolk Southern is a venerable freight transportation network operating since 1827, dedicated to safely moving the goods and materials that drive the U.S. economy. The company operates a customer-centric network across a 22-state service area, enabling customers to avoid 15 million tons of yearly carbon emissions by shipping over 7 million carloads annually. As the largest rail shipper of auto products and metals in North America with an extensive intermodal network, Norfolk Southern plays a critical role in connecting the country’s population and manufacturing base to major ports. This trainee role is fundamental to developing future leaders in rail operations management, essential for overseeing train operations and ensuring the safe, efficient movement of freight, thereby directly contributing to the nation’s vital economic infrastructure.

The TL;DR
• Role: Early Career Management Trainee
• Type: Full-time
• Location: In-person Various Locations

• Team: Transportation Operations Management Trainee Program
• Mission: Oversee train operations, manage personnel, and ensure the safe and efficient movement of freight across the network.

What You’ll Actually Do
• Oversee: Gain hands-on experience overseeing train operations within a 22-state network.
• Manage: Lead conductors and locomotive engineers to ensure operational efficiency and safety.
• Ensure: Contribute to the safe and efficient movement of freight across the rail network.
• Participate: Complete a conductor certification course to gain practical experience in train operations.
• Learn: Receive instruction on managing terminal and territory operations, including key decision-making responsibilities.

The Must-Haves
• Background: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in any field. Current college seniors are eligible to apply, with all offers contingent on graduation prior to the start date.
• Experience: A minimum of four years of leadership experience in industries such as military, manufacturing, transportation, or logistics is an alternative qualification. Military personnel with roles like Army: Railway Operations Crewmember (11B, 13B, 88M), Navy/Marines: Logistics Specialist, Embarkation Specialist (0421), Air Force: Traffic Management Apprentice (2T2X1), and Coast Guard: Machinery Technician (MK) are encouraged to apply.
• Skills: Commitment to safety and adherence to operational protocols, demonstrated leadership abilities, strong problem-solving and decision-making skills, effective communication and relationship-building skills, and adaptability and resilience.
• Bonus: Willingness to work a flexible schedule, including nights, weekends, and holidays, in outdoor conditions; willingness to travel and relocate.