Signal Apprentice - Livingston, MT

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!

Job Location: Missoula
Other Potential Locations: Missoula, MT
Anticipated

Start Date:

03/09/2026
Number of Positions: 1
Salary Range: Pay rate is approx. $27.45/hr; approximate annual salary $57,096

Apply early as this job may be removed or filled prior to the closing date, which is approximately seven (7) days after the posting date.

Embark on a fulfilling career at BNSF Railway, where joining our Engineering Department means contributing to the backbone of our nation's rail infrastructure. The Signal Apprentice is an apprenticeship for the positions of Signalman, Signal Maintainer and/or Shop Signalman. The Signal department works to minimize delays and enhance safety by maintaining the integrity of signal equipment in addition to collaborating with other departments to support the overall operational efficiency of the railroad.

This is a full-time (40hrs/wk) position is subject to on-call(24/7), overtime, nights, alternating shifts, weekends, and holidays.
Shifts may vary (5 – 8hr days followed by 2 days off; 4 – 10hr days followed by 3 days off; 8 – 10hr days followed by 6 days off).

Travel is position based and is subject to travel up to 90% outside of the headquarter location on and off the seniority district. Travel costs will be covered according to the collective bargaining agreement when traveling outside of the seniority district.

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

Performing 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, and working around or 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 non-power tools
, including shovels, picks, axes, sledgehammers, micrometers, voltmeters, amp meters, computer-based systems, screwdrivers, wrenches, pliers, tape measures, drills, and power saws.

Operating equipment such as backhoes, trenchers, boom trucks, and directional boring machines.

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.

BNSF prioritizes safety as a core value of how we do business. Our employees engage in daily safety conversations to achieve our vision. In addition, they must adhere to safety regulations, rules, and policies, including wearing safety equipment, responding to concerns, and taking action in emergencies.

Relocation assistance is not available and there is a 60-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 not an 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…