Engineering Signal Management Trainee 2026

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!

 

Learn more about BNSF and our Benefits

 

Job Location: Chicago
Other Potential Locations: Chicago, IL; Kansas City, KS; Vancouver, WA 
Anticipated Start Date: 2/9/2026, 6/1/2026, or 9/21/2026
Number of Positions: 3 
Salary: $80,000

 

Signal Engineering Management Trainee hiring rate of $80,000. Within approximately 12 months, opportunity to promote to next level at range of $80,000 - $92,300.

As a Signal Engineering Management Trainee, you'll dive into the critical technology ensuring train safety and efficiency across a vast freight network. Your role will cover the spectrum of signal systems, from design and installation to maintenance, including advanced train control mechanisms and grade crossing protections. Under the guidance of seasoned professionals, you'll learn how innovative technologies are applied to maintain and enhance railway operations. This program not only sets the stage for a thriving career in signal engineering but also opens pathways to leadership opportunities within the railway's technological forefront.

Learn more about our Management Trainee Program

 

This is a full-time (40hrs/wk) position in a 24x7 operations environment, subject to on-call, overtime, nights, alternating shifts, weekends, and holidays. 

Travel and Relocation is required. After the 12-month program, candidates must be flexible with their location (as they could be moved depending on business needs), must have reliable transportation to and from work and travel up to 75% of the time.

Accelerate your career over 12 months of training.

• Begin with an invigorating one-week orientation at our Fort Worth headquarters, immersing yourself in BNSF culture and forging connections with industry leaders.
• Sharpen your skills at our Technical Training Center for two to three weeks in Overland Park, delving into technical intricacies and personnel management.
• The remainder of your journey entails immersive on-the-job field training, offering hands-on experience across diverse departments.

 

Applicants will be notified via e-mail regarding potential interviews, testing, and hiring events for this position. Please check your e-mail daily.  

 

Key Responsibilities:

Inspect, maintain, repair, and construct our signal infrastructure, along our right of way including wayside signals, highway grade crossings, and signal bungalows.

Plan/Schedule required maintenance and repairs and verify the quality of work completed.

Expand and update BNSF infrastructure and oversee projects that interact with BNSF property.

Responsible for the safety of their teams.

Manage the finances & schedules of their project and communication with project stakeholders.

Opportunity to shadow positions such as Signal Supervisor, Signal Construction Supervisor, Signal Maintainer, Signal Manager, and Director of Signal to gain boots on the ground experience.  

Daily work is conducted in an indoor/o