Conductor Trainee - Lincoln, NE

Company Overview

BNSF Railway is one of the largest U.S. railroads, transporting freight across 28 western states and 3 Canadian provinces. As a member of our team, you will support the movement of essential products and materials throughout North America.

At BNSF, we promote 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: Lincoln, NE
Other Potential Locations: Lincoln, NE
Anticipated

Start Date:

05/25/2026
Number of Positions: 12
Salary Range: Entry rate approx. $250.26 per day; average annual salary $70,000–$82,000

Apply early as this posting may be removed or filled within approximately seven days after the posting date.

The Transportation department ensures efficient and safe movement of freight by coordinating train operations, scheduling, and dispatching, utilizing advanced technology and real‑time data. Safety is a vital focal point, with rigorous training programs, state‑of‑the‑art safety systems, and continuous monitoring to protect employees, cargo, and the public.

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

Full‑time (at least 40 hours per week) position subject to on‑call (24/7), nights, weekends, and holidays. Work may be seasonal due to weather or business, requiring availability in the posted geographic area and timely reporting to the assigned location. Frequent travel required to and stay in the designated seniority region for extended periods.

Training is company‑paid on‑the‑job and classroom training for up to 19 weeks and will include travel to BNSF’s training center in Overland Park, KS.

NOTE: This posting is for a Primary Recall location. Employees hired at a Primary‑Recall location have a three‑year obligation to return to their hiring location if called back to stabilize the workforce.

• 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, and judge/control speed and clearance distances.
• Operate track switches and derails to change train routing and check switch points for proper alignment.
• Perform train and equipment inspections, including switching and spotting cars, determining train make‑up, and inspecting cars per federal regulations; monitor track conditions and report passing train conditions.
• Work in a safety‑sensitive environment, including diverse and extreme weather conditions (hot, cold, rain, snow, sleet), walking on uneven surfaces, and working around loud noises, fumes, and heavy or moving machinery.
• Adhere to safety rules, policies, and regulations; wear personal protective equipment, respond to concerns, and take appropriate action in emergencies.

• Can work without BNSF’s assistance in obtaining 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.
• Ability to work safely under the stated conditions.
• Ability to meet the shift/hours specified.
• Ability to meet travel requirements.
• English reading, writing, and communication skills.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 80 pounds.
• Ability to learn and use hand signals and judge speed and distance of moving objects.
• Ability to distinguish colors (red, blue, green, yellow, and clear light) and see at night.
• Ability to differentiate between verbal and non‑verbal sounds and comprehend communication in the work environment.
• Ability to use hand tools for holding, grasping, turning, and pulling.
• Ability to climb/descend ladders and use equipment.
• Ability to work at various heights above ground.
• Ability to bend, lift, walk, stand, and sit as required.
• Follow safety policies and procedures; wear required personal protective equipment.

Union membership is with the SMART‑TD or BLET and union dues are required per…