Signal Apprentice - Paola, KS

Join to apply for the Signal Apprentice - Paola, KS role at BNSF Railway

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, water, and other resources 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: Paola

Other Potential Locations: Paola, KS

Anticipated

Start Date:

05/04/2026

Number of Positions: 1

Salary Range: Entry rate approx. $36.44/hr; avg. annual pay $85K‑95K with 3‑5 years seniority.

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

Travel is required up to 90 % outside the headquarter location and may include extended stays at job sites.

Training is company‑paid on‑the‑job and classroom, 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.

• 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, and 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 such as shovels, picks, axes, sledgehammers, micrometers, voltmeters, ammeters, computer‑based systems, screwdrivers, wrenches, pliers, tape measures, drills and power saws.
• Operate equipment such as backhoes, trenchers, boom trucks and directional boring machines.
• Daily work is conducted in a safety‑sensitive environment where conditions can include diverse and extreme weather, uneven surfaces, loud noises, fumes and moving machinery.

BNSF prioritizes safety as a core value. Employees engage in daily safety conversations, adhere to regulations, wear required protective equipment and respond to emergencies.

There is a 90‑day probationary period and relocation assistance is not available.

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.

• Able to work now and in the future without BNSF’s assistance in obtaining, maintaining or extending employment authorization (including H‑1B, STEM OPT/CPT or TN non‑immigrant status).
• At least 18 years of age or will be by the anticipated 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 of time.
• Able to work safely in the required working 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 to 30 lbs frequently.
• Able to visually distinguish colors: red, blue, green, yellow and clear light.
• Ability to discriminate and differentiate between verbal and non‑verbal sounds (signals, alarms, etc.) in the work environment.
• Able to use hands and hand tools to perform activities involving holding, grasping, turning, pushing and pulling.
• Frequently climb ladders; get on/off equipment; climb signal poles/platforms to perform installations and maintenance.
• Bend, walk, stand or sit for periods of time.
• Learn, comprehend, and follow safety policies and procedures; wear required personal protective equipment.
• Ability to perform work on various terrain types (uneven,…