Track Maintenance - Laborer- Aurora, IL

Job Overview

Be part of a team that values safety, inclusion, and excellence. We are one of the largest U.S. railroads transporting the nation’s freight across 28 western states and 3 Canadian provinces. As a member of our team, you will play a role in supporting the movement of essential products and materials that help feed, clothe, supply, and power communities throughout America and the world.

We are committed to a culture where all employees are included, belong, and have equal opportunity to achieve their full potential. Come make a difference with us!

Job Location: Aurora, IL

Other Potential Locations: Aurora, IL

Anticipated

Start Date:

05/04/2026

Number of Positions: 2

Salary Range: Entry rate is approx. $36.30/hr

This is a full-time (40 hrs/wk) position and is subject to on-call, overtime, nights, alternating shifts, weekends, and holidays.

Travel is required to and remain at job sites for extended periods, sometimes for days or weeks at a time, in the designated seniority region.

Maintenance of Way employees must reside within their hired district for the duration of employment. Employees are required to:

• Maintain residency within the hired district or within 50 miles of a designated BNSF depot serving that district.
• Notify and obtain written approval from BNSF before any change of residence outside of the hired district.
• Failure to comply may result:
• Loss of travel pay benefits
• Repayment of previously paid travel expenses
• Impact to employment status

Training for this position is company-paid on-the-job and classroom training and will include travel to the BNSF Training Center.

• Track maintenance repair and installation: repair and rebuild railroad track as well as perform maintenance by pulling spikes, cutting, welding, or drilling rail. Also maintain a clean right-of-way by removing hazards such as brush, trees, vegetation, litter, and cargo spillage.
• Maintain trackbed: manually compress ballast, remove/uninstall ties, replace ties, cut and adjust rail, and lift and carry materials with assistance.
• Operate equipment: power hand tools such as electric, pneumatic or hydraulic tools (drills, impact wrenches, jacks, power saws and grinders) as well as non-powered hand tools and shovels, picks, saws, and grinders.
• Perform work in a safety-sensitive environment where weather conditions may be hot, cold, rain, snow, or sleet. Work on uneven surfaces and around loud noises, fumes, and heavy/moving machinery.
• Adhere to safety regulations, rules, and policies, wearing safety equipment and responding to safety concerns and emergencies.

• Able to work now and in the future without BNSF’s assistance in obtaining, maintaining, or extending employment authorization (including H-1B, STEM OPT/CPT, or TN nonimmigrant status).
• At least 18 years of age or will be by the anticipated start date.
• Possess a valid state‑issued driver’s license.
• Ability to report for duty at the designated work location.
• Able to work safely in the above working conditions.
• Able to work the above shift/hours.
• Able to meet the above travel requirements.
• Able to read, write, and communicate in English.
• Available to travel to and remain on job sites in the designated seniority region for extended periods, sometimes days or weeks at a time.
• Able to lift and carry up to 60 lbs occasionally.
• Able to visually distinguish colors - red, blue, green, yellow, and clear light.
• Ability to discriminate and differentiate between verbal and non‑verbal signals (alarm, etc.) in the work environment.
• Able to use hands for holding, grasping, turning, and pulling.
• Occasionally climb on/off equipment.
• Bend, walk, stand, and sit for extended time; use hand tools.
• Follow safety policies and procedures and wear required personal protective equipment.
• Maintain residency within the hired district or within 50 miles of a designated BNSF depot serving that district.

Union membership is with the Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employees (BMWE) and union dues are required per union agreement.

Seniority district transfers are handled per union agreement, are seniority based, and…