Signal Apprentice, McCook, NE

Signal Apprentice – McCook, NE – BNSF Railway

Join BNSF Railway, a leading U.S. railroad, as a Signal Apprentice. This full‑time (40 hrs/wk) apprenticeship provides on‑the‑job and classroom training, travel to the BNSF Training Center, and opportunities to progressively advance to Signalman, Signal Maintainer, or Shop Signalman roles. The anticipated start date is 04/06/2026.

• Perform construction, reconditioning, installation, maintenance, repair, inspection, and testing of wayside signal devices.
• Load and unload supplies; install underground and overhead cables including trenching and hand‑digging; work around or operate heavy machinery.
• Work on or around highway grade crossings, climb signal masts, bridges, and ladders, and handle cables and wires for electrical connections.
• Use various power and non‑power tools (shovels, picks, axes, sledgehammers, micrometers, voltmeters, amp meters, computer‑based systems, screwdrivers, wrenches, pliers, tape measures, drills, and power saws).
• Operate equipment such as backhoes, trenchers, boom trucks, and directional boring machines.
• Conduct daily work in a safety‑sensitive environment with diverse and extreme weather conditions (hot, cold, rain, snow, sleet) and uneven surfaces, loud noise, fumes, and heavy/moving machinery.
• Adhere to BNSF safety regulations and daily safety conversations.
• Complete a 90‑day probationary period (relocation assistance is not available).

This role may require on‑call shifts, overtime, nights, alternating shifts, weekends, and holidays. Up to 90% of the time travel is expected, often to job sites for extended periods. Travel costs are covered per the collective bargaining agreement.

• Able to work without BNSF assistance to obtain, maintain, or extend employment authorization (e.g., H‑1B, STEM OPT/CPT, TN).
• At least 18 years of age (or will be by the anticipated start date).
• Possess a valid state‑issued driver’s license.
• Can report for duty at the designated work location.
• Can travel for extended periods (fly, drive, or ride).
• Can work safely in the specified working conditions.
• Can work the required shifts/hours.
• Can meet the travel requirements.
• Can read, write, and communicate effectively in English.
• Can lift and carry up to 60 lbs occasionally and 15 to 30 lbs frequently.
• Can visually distinguish colors (red, blue, green, yellow, and clear light).
• Can discriminate and differentiate between verbal and non‑verbal sounds (signals, alarms, etc.).
• Can use hands and hand tools for holding, grasping, turning, pushing, and pulling.
• Frequently climbs ladders; gets on/off equipment; climbs signal poles/platforms for installations and maintenance.
• Can bend, walk, stand, or sit for periods of time.
• Can learn, comprehend, and follow safety policies and procedures; wears required personal protective equipment.
• Can perform work on various terrain types (uneven, snow, mud, rock, sand, etc.).

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

Union membership is with the Brotherhood of Railroad Signalmen; union dues are required per the union agreement.

All positions require pre‑employment background verification, medical review, and pre‑employment 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 protected veteran status.