Signal Apprentice; District - Ottumwa, IA

Sign Apprentice (District
1) – Ottumwa, IA – BNSF Railway

Join BNSF Railway, 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.

Job Details

Job Location:

Ottumwa
Other Potential Locations:
Ottumwa, IA
Anticipated

Start Date:

04/06/2026
Number of Positions: 1
Salary Range:
Entry rate approx. $36.44/hr; avg annual pay $85K–$95K with 3–5 years seniority.
Travel: up to 90% outside the headquarters location; travel costs covered by collective bargaining agreement.

Shift: Full-time 40 hrs/wk; on‑call (24/7), overtime, nights, alternating shifts, weekends, holidays.
Training:
Company‑paid on‑the‑job and classroom training, including travel to the BNSF Training Center. Pay increases with each completed step of qualification.
Probation: 90‑day period. Relocation assistance not available.

• Perform construction, reconditioning, installation, maintenance, repair, inspection, and testing of wayside signal devices.
• Load and unload supplies; install underground and overhead cables, trenching and hand digging; operate heavy machinery.
• Work on or around highway grade crossings, climb signal masts, bridges, and ladders; handle cables and wires for electrical connections.
• Use 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.
• Operate equipment such as backhoes, trenchers, boom trucks, and directional boring machines.
• Perform work in a safety‑sensitive environment with diverse and extreme weather conditions, uneven surfaces, loud noises, fumes, and heavy/moving machinery.
• Adhere to safety regulations, wear required personal protective equipment, and participate in daily safety conversations.

• Able to work now and in the future without BNSF’s assistance in obtaining or extending employment authorization (including H‑1B, STEM OPT/CPT, or TN status).
• At least 18 years of age.
• Valid state‑issued driver’s license.
• Ability to report for duty at the designated work location.
• Capability to travel for extended periods (fly, drive, or ride).
• Ability to work safely in the specified working conditions.
• Ability to work the above shift/hours and meet travel requirements.
• Read, write, and communicate in English.
• Lift and carry up to 60 lbs occasionally and 15–30 lbs frequently.
• Recognize colors (red, blue, green, yellow, and white).
• Discriminate between verbal and non‑verbal sounds (signals, alarms, etc.).
• Use hands and hand tools for holding, grasping, turning, pushing, and pulling.
• Climb ladders and signal poles/platforms for installations and maintenance.
• Bend, walk, stand, or sit for periods.
• Follow safety policies and procedures; wear required protective equipment.
• Perform work on various terrain types (uneven, snow, mud, rock, sand).

• Health care options for you and dependents: medical, dental, vision, telemedicine, mental health, wellness coaching, 2nd opinion services, and high‑quality care network options.
• Life insurance at no cost.
• Railroad Retirement program and competitive 401(k) plan.
• Family benefits: 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 required with the Brotherhood of Railroad Signalmen; seniority and collective bargaining agreements apply.

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.