Conductor Trainee — Sioux

Overview

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 support 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!

Learn more about BNSF and our benefits.

Job location: Sioux City

Other potential locations: Sioux City, IA

Anticipated start date: 05/25/2026

Number of positions: 10

Salary range: Entry rate approx. $250.26 per day with an average annual salary of $70,000 – $82,000.

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.

This is a full‑time (40 hours/week) Conductor Trainee position that is 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 is required, with the ability to travel 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, including 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 (from date of hire) to return to their hiring location if called back to stabilize the workforce.

• Communication responsibilities: 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.
• Switching functions: Operate track switches and derails to change train routing and check switch points for proper alignment.
• Train and equipment inspections: Switch and spot cars, determine train make‑up, and inspect cars per federal regulations; monitor track conditions for issues and report passing train conditions.
• Daily work: Conducted in a safety‑sensitive environment with diverse and extreme weather conditions (hot, cold, rain, snow, sleet), uneven surfaces, loud noises, fumes, and heavy/moving machinery.

At BNSF, safety is a core value. Employees engage in safety conversations and adhere to safety rules, policies, and federal and state regulations, including wearing personal protective equipment, responding to concerns, and taking appropriate action in emergencies.

Relocation assistance is not available. A 60‑day probationary period follows completion of training and the first tour of compensated services.

The duties and responsibilities listed are representative categories for applying. This is not an exhaustive list of the position’s duties.

• Able to work without BNSF assistance (e.g., sponsorship) to maintain 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.
• Able to work safely in the working conditions described.
• Able to work the above shift/hours.
• Able to meet the travel requirements.
• Ability to read, write, and communicate (speak, hear, and understand) English.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 80 pounds.
• Ability to interpret hand signals and determine speed and distance of moving objects.
• Ability to visually distinguish colors (red, blue, green, yellow, and clear light) and see at night.
• Ability to distinguish colors on computer displays.
• Ability to differentiate verbal and non‑verbal sounds and understand verbal communication in the work environment.
• Ability to use hands and hand tools for holding, grasping, turning, and pulling.
• Ability to climb ladders and get on/off equipment.
• Ability to work at various…