Mechanical Laborer (Birmingham, AL) 2025

Requisition 38626: Mechanical Laborer (Birmingham, AL) 2025 2.0 

Please note, applying for a position outside of your department will require a departmental release.

A resume helps you stand out to hiring managers and recruiters; your resume communicates your experience and your brand. While it is not required, we encourage you to include an up-to-date resume along with a  job application to give you the best opportunity to be considered. A complete resume helps us to better understand your unique  background, relevant experiences, and passions. We look forward to learning about you.

Note for Safety-Sensitive Positions: Any safety-sensitive position with Norfolk Southern will require the following pre-employment screenings:

• FRA Drug and Alcohol Screen
• Medical Screening
• Background Check

The Mechanical team at Norfolk Southern is crucial to the maintenance and reliability of our rolling stock and equipment. We focus on the inspection, repair, and improvement of locomotives and freight cars, ensuring they operate safely and efficiently across our network. Our team employs advanced technologies and best practices to optimize performance and minimize downtime while adhering to stringent safety regulations. Collaborating closely with other departments, we strive to enhance operational efficiency and support the company’s strategic objectives. Join us in driving the future of rail transportation through exceptional mechanical expertise and innovation!

Job Description

Service and clean locomotives, transport supplies between work and storage sites, and perform a variety of support and clean-up activities in locomotive and car repair areas. 

Primary Responsibilities 

• Fueling locomotives 
• Check and replenishing oil level of locomotives
• Cleaning cabs of locomotives, including restroom facilities
• Sanding locomotives
• Operate forklifts and other equipment 
• Operate various vehicles, maybe required to obtain CDL for operation of Locomotive Service truck. 
• May be required to operate locomotives within shop limits
• Washing locomotives
• Clean and maintain related railroad facilities
• Complete other tasks as needed to ensure the proper and safe functioning of the locomotive 

 
Job Requirements

• A Mechanical Shop Laborers holds a safety sensitive position in which he/she must maintain alertness and concentration while at work.  Safety sensitive tasks may include:
  • Constantly working around heavy, moving, potentially hazardous locomotive engines.
  • Frequently climbing on/off locomotives inside and outside the shop in all weather conditions.
  • Operating and moving a locomotive engine (some of these movements may fall under the Hours-of-Service act).
• Work safely to prevent on the job accidents and injuries.
• Wear protective equipment such as hard hat, hearing protection, or safety-toe boots.
• Complete annual training and pass safety rules examinations.
• Must pass all required assessments.
• Must pass a background screening.
• Must pass a post-offer medical examination, including a drug test.
• This position is governed by a union position and membership is required.

Additional Information

Skills/Abilities

• Understand oral and written communication 
• Problem solving and troubleshooting skills 
• Time Management 
• Soft computer skills 
• Mechanical aptitude 
• Ability to obtain a license (Locomotive Service Engineer) through NS-provided training.  

 
Minimum Qualifications 

• High school diploma or GED 
• 18 years of age or older 
• Valid Driver's License 
• Veterans and transitioning service members are encouraged to apply. Military roles that often transition well to this position (but not limited to): 2T3X1, AE, AMT, 2141, 88U.  

 

Training
Mechanical Laborers will undergo 1 week of Mechanical Safety Orientation during their first week of employment at McDonough, GA. Norfolk Southern will pay reimburse travel and pay for lodging as required per union agreement.

 

Career Path
Predecessor Jobs: None
Future Jobs: Freight Car Repairer, Machinist (Locomotive Diesel Engine Mechanic), Locomotive Electrician

Compensation Data

Rate of Pay

• 1st 12 calendar months – 75% of F&O rate
• 2nd 12 calendar months- 80% of F&O rate
• Completion of 24 months of service in any shop craft position (or combination) – $33.87
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