Electrical Apprentice Signal Trainee; Cincinnati, OH

Description

Requisition 39570: 2026 Electrical Apprentice Signal Trainee (Cincinnati, OH)

This hands‑on, field‑based position prepares individuals for a career in signal maintenance through structured classroom instruction and on-the-job training. Apprentice Signal Trainees learn to install, inspect, and maintain signal systems that are critical to safe and efficient rail operations.

• Senior‑seniority based union position; you will be required to bid on available positions, which may be located outside your training location.
• Relocation may be necessary based on the outcome of the bid process; relocation assistance is not provided for this position.
• You must be available to work on‑call, 24/7, including holidays, nights, and weekends.
• Extensive travel is required during training (up to 75%).
• You will be required to join the Brotherhood of Railroad Signalmen (BRS) within 60 days of establishing seniority.
• You must obtain a Class A CDL within 90 days of hire (training provided by Norfolk Southern).
• Must pass a commercial driver medical certification examination.
• Must pass pre‑employment Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) drug and alcohol screening.
• Must not have a conviction for, or completed state action to cancel, revoke, suspend, or deny a motor‑vehicle driver license for, operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or a controlled substance.
• In the past 36 months, must not have a conviction for refusal to undergo testing required by State or foreign law when a law enforcement official seeks to determine whether a person is operating a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or a controlled substance.
• Must be legally authorized to work in the U.S.

Training lasts approximately 52 weeks and includes both classroom and field instruction.

Link for more details:

• Classroom Training:
  • Three sessions (3 weeks each) at the NS Training Center in McDonough, GA.
  • Hotel accommodations, mileage reimbursement, and meal stipends provided.
• Field Training:
  • Hands‑on experience with construction and maintenance crews across your seniority district.
• Evaluations:
  • Periodic written and practical assessments.

Successful completion of the training program places apprentices on the seniority roster and makes them eligible to bid on Signal Maintainer position.

• Eastern Region North (ERN)
• Norfolk & Western (NW)
• Southern Lines East (SLE)
• Southern Lines West (SLW)
• WRE (Western Region East (WRE)
• Western Region West (WRW)

• Perform FRA‑required inspections and testing of signal systems and grade crossings.
• Install, maintain, and repair signal equipment including signal lights, switch machines, and electrical switch locks.
• Work with crossing warning devices and interlocking systems.
• Operate on Positive Train Control (PTC) and cab signal systems.
• Read and interpret electrical schematics and technical diagrams.
• Operate hand tools, electrical testing instruments, and heavy equipment.
• Accurately document inspections, repairs, and installations.
• Work safely in outdoor environments under varying weather conditions.
• Respond to on‑call assignments, including nights and weekends.

• Must be 18 years or older.
• High school diploma or GED.
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation.
• Must obtain a Class A CDL within 90 days of hire (training provided by Norfolk Southern).
• Must pass a commercial driver medical certification examination.
• Must pass pre‑employment Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) drug and alcohol screening.
• Must not have a conviction for, or completed state action to cancel, revoke, suspend, or deny a motor‑vehicle driver license for, operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or a controlled substance.
• Must be legally authorized to work in the U.S.

• Technical certificate or associate degree in Electrical Technology, Electronics Engineering, or related field.
• OSHA 10/30, First Aid/CPR, TWIC card.
• 1–2 years in electrical, mechanical, or field service work.
• Strong mechanical and electrical aptitude.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Proficient in basic computer applications (Excel, Word,…