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Locomotive Trainee Jobs in Kansas (NOW HIRING)

Locomotive Trainee information

See Kansas salary details

$19K

$42K

$72.4K

How much do locomotive trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for locomotive trainee in Kansas is $41,961.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $33,110.00 and $45,913.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a locomotive trainee?

Locomotive Trainees are entry-level employees who are training to become qualified locomotive engineers or conductors. They learn how to safely operate trains, understand railroad regulations, and perform essential checks and maintenance. The training involves both classroom instruction and hands-on experience under the supervision of experienced personnel. Upon successful completion of training and required certifications, they are eligible to operate locomotives independently.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a locomotive trainee?

To thrive as a Locomotive Trainee, you need a high school diploma or GED, strong mechanical aptitude, and basic knowledge of safety regulations. Familiarity with train control systems, radio communication devices, and completion of federally mandated certification programs is typically required. Attention to detail, strong communication, and the ability to stay calm under pressure are standout soft skills for this role. These skills are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and compliant train operations in a dynamic rail environment.

What are some common challenges a locomotive trainee might face during their initial months on the job?

As a Locomotive Trainee, you may find adjusting to irregular work hours and shift rotations to be a significant challenge, since rail operations often run 24/7. Learning and adhering to strict safety protocols, as well as quickly mastering the technical aspects of train operation and signaling systems, can also be demanding. Additionally, you'll be expected to work closely with experienced engineers and conductors, so effective communication and teamwork are essential for success and for ensuring safe operations.

What is the difference between Locomotive Trainee vs Locomotive Driver?

AspectLocomotive TraineeLocomotive Driver
QualificationsHigh school diploma, training certificationValid driving license, experience, certification
Work EnvironmentTraining sites, rail yardsOn the train, rail routes
Job RoleLearning train operations, safety proceduresOperating trains, ensuring safety and schedule adherence

The main difference is that a Locomotive Trainee is in training to become a licensed Locomotive Driver, focusing on learning and gaining experience. A Locomotive Driver is a qualified professional responsible for operating trains independently. Trainees are in the learning phase, while drivers are fully licensed and perform the actual train operations.

What are popular job titles related to Locomotive Trainee jobs in Kansas?

For Locomotive Trainee jobs in Kansas, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Locomotive Trainee jobs in Kansas look for?

The top searched job categories for Locomotive Trainee jobs in Kansas are:

Mechanical (Shop Environment) Management Trainee 2027

BNSF

Kansas City, KS

$84K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

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: Barstow, CA; Chicago, IL; Commerce, CA; Denver, CO; Kansas City, KS; Lincoln, NE; Northtown, MN

Please note: Applying to this posting places you in consideration for positions at any of the locations listed above. One application covers all listed locations, and additional applications are not required. Candidates may be selected for any of these locations based on business needs and staffing requirements. 
Anticipated Start Date: 2/1/2027, 6/14/2027, or 9/20/2027
Number of Positions: 14 
Salary: $84,000

A Mechanical Management Trainee position at BNSF Railway offers a unique entry point for emerging mechanical professionals into the railway industry. This program equips trainees with in-depth knowledge and hands-on experience in locomotive and freight car maintenance and repair. Participants will hone their leadership skills and project management capabilities through mentorship and technical training. It's an ideal steppingstone for those looking to significantly impact the operational efficiency and safety of BNSF Railway's mechanical endeavors.

 Learn more about our Management Trainee Program

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

Travel and Relocation is required for this program. Trainees must be flexible with their location, as they could be moved depending on business needs. Must have reliable transportation to and from work. 

Accelerate your career over 6 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: 

Manage mechanical shop and field operations, work on projects, and prepare for a field operations supervisory position.

Responsible for the safety of their teams and conduct job safety briefings with employees.  

Provide periodic updates to the General Foreman to ensure daily plan requirements are met. 

Supervise shop craft employees to safely execute terminal or shop operating plan. 

Ensure labor and equipment is positioned to inspect, test and repair equipment to meet the needs of the daily plan. 

Safeguard compliance with BNSF's employment policies, safety rules, union agreements, and Association of American Railroads (AAR)/Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) regulations. 

Possess leadership, teamwork, clear communication, adaptability, and resilience to overcome obstacles and meet deadlines in a dynamic work environment.

Daily work is conducted in an indoor/outdoor 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, climbing ladders, walking on uneven or elevated surfaces and heavy/moving machinery.   

This role does not involve design of railcars, locomotives, or other equipment.

The duties and responsibilities in this posting are representative categories to be used in deciding whether to apply for this position.This is notan 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:

  • Legally authorized to work in the United States and will be at least eighteen (18) years old upon hire.
  • Does not require BNSF's assistance, now or in the future, (whether monetary, through sponsorship, or otherwise) to obtain, maintain, or extend employment authorization (including H-1B, STEM OPT/CPT, or TN nonimmigrant status).
  • Able to visually distinguish among red, blue, green, yellow and lunar (clear light) colors & able to see at night AND I am able to hear and, with training, distinguish auditory signals.  
  • Capable of working in a 24/7 environment, including nights, weekends, and holidays, and can safely perform duties outdoors in all weather conditions or in a shop, terminal, or field environment. Role includes climbing ladders and navigating uneven surfaces, with the ability to travel up to 25% of the time based on business needs.
  • Able and willing to relocate anywhere on the BNSF Railway operating system (western 28 states) upon hire, for the summer, and travel to other locations as required. If you have any location restrictions, please answer "No."
  • Pursuing a Bachelors or Graduate degree in Business, Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Automotive, Technical, Engineering (Industrial, Mechanical, etc.), OR a similar degree program from an accredited university.
  • Have and will maintain at least a 2.75 cumulative GPA.
  • Have LESS THAN three (3) years of professional work experience/military service, EXCLUDING internships, part-time jobs, or positions held while pursuing my undergraduate and/or graduate degree.
  • Ability to visually distinguish colors - red, blue, green, yellow.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Prior internship experience or less than 3 years of work experience in Business, Automotive, Engineering, or a related field.
  • Have or have held a leadership position in a campus, community, or extracurricular organization.

At BNSF, you will have access to a comprehensive and competitive benefits package including:

  • An industry-leading 401(k) and renowned Railroad Retirement program.
  • A range of robust health care options for you and your dependents (including domestic partners), including medical, dental, vision, telemedicine, mental health, cancer support, and high-quality care network options.
  • Health care spending accounts (HSA) with employer contributions, as well as life and disability insurance, provided at no cost.
  • Family benefits including parental, pediatric and family building support, adoption and surrogacy reimbursement, and dependent care spending account (with employer match).
  • Access to discounts on travel, gym memberships, counseling services and wellness support.
  • Annual bonus (Incentive Compensation Program)
  • Generous leave / time off policies.
  • 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.

Posting Date: 08/11/2025

SF: MO | [[mfield5]] | Operations - Mechanical | Lincoln, NE | 66106