Conductor Trainee - Primary Recall-Bakersfield

Conductor Trainee – Primary Recall – Bakersfield

Conductor Trainees learn to manage train operations, ensure compliance with safety protocols, and contribute to the overall efficiency and sustainability of the rail network.

Job Location: Bakersfield
Other Potential Locations: Bakersfield, CA
Anticipated

Start Date:

09/21/2026
Number of Positions: 5
Salary Range: Entry rate approx. $259.65 per day with average annual $70,000 – $82,000

Key Responsibilities:

• Communication responsibilities: Obtain, receive, and act on information (oral and written) through various devices; monitor and report daily work; climb on/off equipment; manage hand brakes; connect/disconnect air hoses; replace broken railcar knuckles; interpret signals for train movement; judge/control speed and clearance distances.
• Switching functions: Operate track switches and derails to change train routing and check switch points for proper alignment.
• Train and equipment inspections: Switch and spot cars; determine train make‑up; inspect cars per federal regulations; monitor track conditions for issues; report on passing train conditions.
• Daily work is conducted in a safety‑sensitive environment with diverse and extreme weather conditions (hot, cold, rain, snow, sleet); walking and performing work on uneven surfaces; working around loud noises, fumes, and heavy/moving machinery.

Basic Qualifications:

• Able to work now and in the future without BNSF’s assistance in obtaining, maintaining, or extending employment authorization.
• At least 18 years of age or will be by the start date.
• 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.
• Ability to read, write and communicate in English.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 80 pounds.
• Ability to use hand signals and visually judge speed and distance of moving objects.
• Ability to distinguish colors, including red, blue, green, yellow, and clear light at night; and on computer displays.
• Ability to distinguish verbal and non‑verbal sounds; comprehend verbal communication in the work environment.
• Ability to use hands and hand tools for holding, grasping, turning, and pulling.
• Ability to climb ladders and get on/off equipment.
• Ability to work at various heights above the ground, including on locomotives and railcars.
• Ability to bend, lift, walk, and stand occasionally with breaks.
• Ability to walk/perform work on uneven surfaces.
• Ability to sit frequently with breaks.
• Follow safety policies and procedures; wear required personal protective equipment.

Union membership: Required with the SMART‑TD or BLET; union dues per agreement.

Seniority district transfers: Eligibility varies by location; may require up to three years’ employment and director approval.

Benefits:

• Health care options for you and dependents including medical, dental, vision, telemedicine, mental health, wellness coaching, second‑opinion services, and high‑quality care network options; life insurance at no cost.
• Railroad Retirement program and competitive 401(k) plan.
• Family benefits: parental and pediatric support, adoption and surrogacy reimbursement, spending accounts.
• Access to discounts on travel, gym memberships and more.
• Benefits vary by union collective bargaining agreement.

All positions require pre‑employment background verification, medical review, and pre‑employment drug screen. BNSF employees may need a TWIC for unescorted access to secure areas of port facilities.

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.