Signal Apprentice -Jacksonville, IL

Signal Apprentice – Jacksonville, IL

Location: Jacksonville, IL
Start date: 03/09/2026
Number of positions: 1
Salary: Entry rate approx. $36.44/hr avg annual pay $85k–$95k with 3‑5 years of seniority.

We are one of the largest U.S. railroads, transporting freight across 28 western states and 3 Canadian provinces. As a Signal Apprentice you will support the movement of essential products and materials that help feed, clothe, supply, and power communities throughout America and the world.

• 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; operating heavy machinery.
• Working on or around highway grade crossings, climbing signal masts, bridges, and ladders, and handling cables and wires for electrical connections.
• Using various power and hand tools (shovels, picks, axes, sledgehammers, micrometers, voltmeters, amp meters, screwdrivers, wrenches, pliers, tape measures, drills, power saws).
• Operating equipment such as backhoes, trenchers, boom trucks, and directional boring machines.
• Working in a safety‑sensitive environment with diverse and extreme weather conditions (hot, cold, rain, snow, sleet) and loud noises, fumes, and heavy/moving machinery.

Training is company‑paid on‑the‑job and classroom training, including travel to the BNSF Training Center. Successful candidates will enter an apprenticeship program, pass progressive exams and demonstrate field proficiency. Pay rates increase with each completed step of qualification.

Travel up to 90% outside of the headquarters location on and off the seniority district; travel may also be required to (and remain at) job sites for extended periods such as days or weeks. Travel costs will be covered according to the collective bargaining agreement when traveling outside of the seniority district.

Working hours are full‑time (40 hrs/week) subject to on‑call (24/7), overtime, nights, alternating shifts, weekends and holidays. Shift patterns may vary (5–8 hrs/day followed by 2 days off; 4–10 hrs/day followed by 3 days off; 8–10 hrs/day followed by 6 days off).

• Able to work in the U.S. without company sponsorship now and in the future.
• At least 18 years of age or will be by the start date.
• Possess a valid state‑issued driver’s license.
• Ability to report for duty at the designated work location.
• Ability to travel for extended periods (fly, drive or ride).
• Able to work safely in the aforementioned conditions.
• Able to work the above shift/hours.
• Able to meet the above travel requirements.
• Able to read, write and communicate in English.
• Able to lift and carry up to 60 lbs occasionally and 15‑30 lbs frequently.
• Able to visually distinguish colors (red, blue, green, yellow and clear).
  
  • Able to discriminate and differentiate between verbal and non‑verbal sounds (signals, alarms).
• Able to use hands and hand tools for activities involving holding, grasping, turning, pushing, and pulling.
• Frequently climb ladders, get on/off equipment, and climb signal poles or platforms for installations and maintenance.
• Bend, walk, stand, or sit for periods of time.
• Learn, comprehend and follow safety policies and procedures; wear required protective equipment.
• Ability to perform work on various terrain types (uneven, snow, mud, rock, sand).

Union membership required. The Signal positions are based on seniority and collective bargaining agreements with the Brotherhood of Railroad Signalmen.

• Health care options (medical, dental, vision, telemedicine, mental health, wellness coaching, 2nd opinion services).
• Life insurance at no cost.
• Railroad Retirement program and competitive 401(k) plan.
• Family benefits including parental, pediatric support, adoption and surrogacy reimbursement, and spending accounts.
• Discounts on travel, gym memberships and more.
• Benefits may vary by union agreement.

All positions require pre‑employment background verification, medical review and a drug screen. 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 veteran status.