Mechanical Shop Laborer (Hostler Helper) Chicago​/Cicero

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!

Learn More About BNSF And Our Benefits

Job Location: Chicago

Other Potential Locations: Chicago, IL

Anticipated

Start Date:

09/01/2026

Number of Positions: 1

Salary Range: Entry rate $32.70-$39.99/hr with approximate annual pay of $68,020 - $83,179

Embark on a fulfilling career at BNSF Railway where joining the Mechanical Department offers you the opportunity to be part of a dedicated team focused on safety, efficiency, and continuous improvement. The Mechanical Shop Laborer (Hostler/Helper) position plays a critical role for ensuring efficient operation and maintenance of locomotives and equipment within the mechanical facility.

This is a full-time (40hrs/wk)
position
, seniority-based and governed by union agreement. Subject to overtime, nights, alternating shifts, weekends, and holidays. Mechanical shops operate 24 hours/day, 7 days/week with three 8-hour shifts.

Travel is minimal.

Training for this position is company-paid on-the-job training.

• Operating locomotives, fuel trucks, shop tractors, and power hand tools which includes driving fuel tanker trucks on roadways and BNSF property to refuel locomotives as needed.
• Keeping work areas clean and orderly and operating industrial maintenance equipment.
• Sand, fueling, and cleaning locomotives as well as cleaning and organizing shop work areas (sweeping and cleaning, storing parts, emptying, and discarding garbage).
• Operating power-driven equipment (vacuum cleaner, electric broom, or steam cleaning gun).

A CDL is required, and the position is assigned based on seniority and business needs.

Daily work is conducted in a safety sensitive environment where the working conditions can include 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.

At BNSF safety is one of our core values that guides us through everything we do. Our employees engage in safety conversations, through an approaching others mindset to help us achieve our tremendous potential. In addition, our employees must adhere to safety rules, policies, as well as federal and state regulations, which could include wearing personal protective equipment, responding to concerns, and taking appropriate action in emergencies.

Relocation assistance is not available, and there is a 100 working day probationary period.

The duties and responsibilities in this posting are representative categories to be used in deciding whether to apply for this position. This is notan exhaustive list of the position’s duties.

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.

• Able to work now and in the future without BNSF’s assistance (whether monetary, through sponsorship, or otherwise) in obtaining, maintaining, or extending employment authorization (including H-1B, STEM OPT/CPT, or TN nonimmigrant status).
• 21 years of age or older.
• Have a valid CDL, with test endorsements for combination vehicle, air brake, and HAZMAT or able to obtain one within 60 days of employment.
• Available to work in the geographic area indicated.
• Able to read, write and communicate (speak, hear and understand) English.
• Able to work outdoors in all weather conditions (hot, cold, rain, snow, and sleet)
• Work a 40-hour work week. Shifts are governed by union agreement and subject to seniority. Mechanical shops operate 24 hours per day, 7 days per week…