Apprentice Operator Jobs in Nebraska (NOW HIRING)

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: Lincoln
Other Potential Locations: Lincoln, NE
Anticipated Start Date: 05/04/2026
Number of Positions: 1
Salary Range: Entry rate is approx. $36.44/hr; avg annual pay 85K-95K with 3-5 years seniority.
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.
Embark on a fulfilling career at BNSF Railway, where joining our Engineering Department means contributing to the backbone of our nation's rail infrastructure. The Signal Apprenticeis an apprenticeship for the positions of Signalman, Signal Maintainer and/or Shop Signalman.
This is a full-time (40hrs/wk) position that is subject to on-call (24/7), overtime, nights, alternating shifts, weekends, and holidays. Shifts may vary (5 - 8/hr days followed by 2 days off; 4 - 10/hr days followed by 3 days off; 8 - 10/hr days followed by 6 days off).
Travel is required up to 90% outside of the headquarter location on and off the seniority district. Travel may also be required to (and remain at) job sites for extended periods, sometimes for days or weeks at a time, in the designated seniority region. Travel costs will be covered according to the collective bargaining agreement when traveling outside of the seniority district.
Training for this position is company-paid on-the-job and classroom training and will include travel to the BNSF Training Center. Successful candidates will enter an apprenticeship program, pass progressive exams, and demonstrate field proficiency. Pay rates will increase with each completed step of qualification.
Key responsibilities may include:
Performing construction, reconditioning, installation, maintenance, repair, inspection, and testing of wayside signal devices.
Loading and unloading supplies, installing underground and overhead cables including trenching and hand digging, and working around or operating heavy machinery.
Working on or around highway grade crossings, climbing signal masts, bridges, and ladders, and handling cables and wires for electrical connections.
Using 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.
Operating equipment (backhoes, trenchers, boom trucks, and directional boring machines).
Daily work is conducted in a safety sensitive environment where the working conditions can include diverse and extreme weather conditions (hot, cold, rain, snow, and sleet), walking and performing work on uneven surfaces, working around loud noises, fumes, and heavy/moving machinery.
BNSF prioritizes safety as a core value of how we do business. Our employees engage in daily safety conversations to achieve our vision. In addition, they must adhere to safety regulations, rules, and policies, including wearing safety equipment, responding to concerns, and taking action in 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.
At BNSF Railway, we encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply, showcasing their skills, experiences and development. We provide resources and tools to help you reach your full potential, fostering a supportive and inclusive environment.
Basic Qualifications:

• Able to work now and in the future without BNSF's assistance (whether monetary, through sponsorship, or otherwise) in obtaining, maintaining, or extending employment authorization (including H-1B, STEM OPT/CPT, or TN nonimmigrant status).
• At least 18 years of age or will be by the anticipated start date listed above.
• 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 (Fly, Drive, or Ride).
• Able to work safely in the above working conditions.
• Able to work the above shift/hours.
• Able to meet the above travel requirements.
• Able to read, write and communicate (speak, hear, and understand) English language.
• Able to lift and carry up to 60 lbs occasionally and 15 to 30lbs frequently
• Able to visually distinguish colors - red, blue, green, yellow, and lunar (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 the required personal protective equipment.
• Ability to perform work on various terrain types (Uneven, Snow, Mud, Rock, sand, etc).

Union membershipis with the Brotherhood of Railroad Signalmen and union dues are required per union agreement. Signal positions are based on seniority and collective bargaining agreements.
Seniority district transfers are handled per union agreement, are seniority based and are permitted once during apprenticeship period with seniority forfeited upon transfer.
Here are some of the perks/benefits you can expect as a BNSF employee
At BNSF, you will have access to a comprehensive and competitive benefits package that meets you where you are, a few of those benefits include:

• A range of health care options for you and your dependents including medical, dental, vision, telemedicine, mental health, wellness coaching, 2nd opinion services, and high-quality care network options. You will also have life insurance, provided at no cost to you.
• A Railroad Retirement program and competitive 401(k) plan to help you meet your retirement goals.
• Family benefits including 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.
• For more information, visit Benefits.

Please be aware of potential fraud that can occur when searching for new career opportunities. Please review our FAQ for more information and awareness.
All positions require pre-employment background verification, medical review and pre-employment drug screen. You can find more information by reviewing the Hiring Process. Federal authority requires BNSF employees, whose work requires unescorted access to secure areas of port facilities, to obtain a TWIC. More information is available at https://www.tsa.gov/for-industry/twic
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.
F: MO | Engineering Transitioning Military | Operations - Engineering | Lincoln, NE | 68508