Signal Apprentice

Job Description

About BNSF Railway

Join a team that deeply values safety, diversity, and excellence. BNSF Railway stands as one of the largest U.S. railroads, dedicated to transporting the nation’s freight across 28 western states and 3 Canadian provinces. As a vital member of our team, you will contribute significantly to the movement of essential products and materials that nourish, clothe, supply, and power communities throughout America and the world.

We are profoundly committed to fostering a culture where all employees are included, feel a sense of belonging, and have equal opportunities to achieve their fullest potential. Come and make a real difference with us!

Learn more about BNSF and our comprehensive benefits by visiting our site.

Job Details

• Job Title: Signal Apprentice
• Department: Engineering Department
• Job Location: Vancouver
• Other Potential Locations: Vancouver, WA
• Anticipated Start Date: 05/04/2026
• Number of Positions: 2
• Application Note: Apply early, as this job may be removed or filled prior to the closing date, which is approximately seven (7) days after the posting date.

Position Overview

Embark on a fulfilling career at BNSF Railway. Joining our Engineering Department means you’ll be contributing to the very backbone of our nation’s rail infrastructure. The Signal Apprentice role is an apprenticeship program designed to prepare you for the positions of Signalman, Signal Maintainer, and/or Shop Signalman.

Compensation

• Entry Rate: Approximately $36.44/hr
• Average Annual Pay: $85,000 – $95,000 with 3-5 years of seniority

Work Schedule & Travel Requirements

This is a full-time position (40 hrs/wk) and requires adaptability to various demands:

• Subject to on-call (24/7), overtime, nights, alternating shifts, weekends, and holidays.
• Shifts may vary:
  • 5 – 8/hr days followed by 2 days off
  • 4 – 10/hr days followed by 3 days off
  • 8 – 10/hr days followed by 6 days off
• Extensive Travel Required: Up to 90% outside of the headquarter location, both on and off the seniority district.
• Travel may also involve remaining at job sites for extended periods, sometimes for days or weeks at a time, within the designated seniority region.
• Travel costs will be covered in accordance with the collective bargaining agreement when traveling outside of the seniority district.

Training & Development

BNSF provides company-paid on-the-job and classroom training, which will include travel to the BNSF Training Center. Successful candidates will enter a structured apprenticeship program, requiring them to pass progressive exams and demonstrate field proficiency. Pay rates will increase with each completed step of qualification.

Key Responsibilities May Include

• Performing construction, reconditioning, installation, maintenance, repair, inspection, and testing of wayside signal devices.
• Loading and unloading supplies, installing underground and overhead cables, including trenching and hand digging.
• Working around or operating heavy machinery.
• Working on or around highway grade crossings.
• Climbing signal masts, bridges, and ladders.
• Handling cables and wires for electrical connections.
• Using various power and non-power tools such as shovels, picks, axes, sledgehammers, micrometers, voltmeters, amp meters, computer-based systems, screwdrivers, wrenches, pliers, tape measures, drills, and power saws.
• Operating equipment including backhoes, trenchers, boom trucks, and directional boring machines.

Please note: The duties and responsibilities in this posting are representative categories used to decide whether to apply for this position. This is not an exhaustive list of the position’s duties.

Working Conditions & Safety

Daily work is conducted in a safety-sensitive environment where working conditions can involve:

• Diverse and extreme weather conditions (hot, cold, rain, snow, and sleet).
• Walking and performing work on uneven surfaces.
• Working around loud noises, fumes, and heavy/moving machinery.

BNSF prioritizes safety as a core value. Our employees engage in daily safety conversations to achieve our vision. Additionally, all employees must adhere to safety regulations, rules, and policies, including wearing required safety equipment, responding to concerns, and taking action in emergencies.

Probationary Period & Relocation

• There is a 60-day probationary period.
• Relocation assistance is not available for this position.

Basic Qualifications

• Able to work in the US without company sponsorship now AND in the future.
• At least 18 years of age or will be by the anticipated start date listed above.
• Possess a valid state-issued driver’s license.
• Ability to report for duty at the designated work location.
• Ability to travel for extended periods of time (Fly, Drive, or Ride).
• Able to work safely in the working conditions described above.
• Able to work the shift/hours requirements described above.
• Able to meet the travel requirements described above.
• Able to read, write, and communicate (speak, hear, and understand) the English language.
• Able to lift and carry up to 60 lbs occasionally and 15 to 30 lbs frequently.
• Able to visually distinguish colors – red, blue, green, yellow, and lunar (clear light).
• Ability to discriminate and differentiate between verbal and non-verbal sounds (signals, alarms, etc.) in the work environment.
• Able to use hands and hand tools to perform activities involving holding, grasping, turning, pushing, and pulling.
• Frequently climb ladders; get on/off equipment; climb signal poles/platforms to perform installations and maintenance.
• Bend, walk, stand, or sit for periods of time.
• Learn, comprehend, and follow safety policies and procedures; wear the required personal protective equipment.
• Ability to perform work on various terrain types (Uneven, Snow, Mud, Rock, Sand, etc.).

Union Membership

Union membership is with the Brotherhood of Railroad Signalmen, and union dues are required per union agreement. Signal positions are based on seniority and collective bargaining agreements. Seniority district transfers are handled per union agreement, are seniority-based, and are permitted once during the apprenticeship period with seniority forfeited upon transfer.

Comprehensive Benefits Package

As a BNSF employee, you will have access to a comprehensive and competitive benefits package designed to meet your needs:

• Health Care Options: A range of health care options for you and your dependents, including medical, dental, vision, telemedicine, mental health, wellness coaching, 2nd opinion services, and high-quality care network options.
• Life Insurance: Provided at no cost to you.
• Retirement Programs: A Railroad Retirement program and a competitive 401(k) plan to help you achieve your retirement goals.
• Family Benefits: Including parental and pediatric support, adoption and surrogacy reimbursement, and spending accounts.
• Employee Discounts: Access to discounts on travel, gym memberships, and more!

Note: Benefits vary by union collective bargaining agreement. For more information, please visit Benefits.

Hiring Process & Compliance

• All positions require pre-employment background verification, medical review, and pre-employment drug screen. More information is available by reviewing the Hiring Process.
• Federal authority requires BNSF employees whose work requires unescorted access to secure areas of port facilities to obtain a TWIC (Transportation Worker Identification Credential). More information is available at https://www.tsa.gov/for-industry/twic.
• BNSF Railway is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.

At BNSF Railway, we encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply, showcasing their skills, experiences, and development. We provide resources and tools to help you reach your full potential, fostering a supportive and inclusive environment.