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Railroad Trainee Jobs (NOW HIRING)

BNSF Railway

Conductor Trainee - Lincoln, NE

Lincoln, NE · On-site

$70K - $82K/yr

Conductor trainees are integral to this department, learning to manage train operations, ensure ... the rail network. This is a full-time (at least 40 hours/week) position, that is subject to ...

BNSF Railway

Conductor Trainee - Willmar, MN

Willmar, MN · On-site

$70K - $82K/yr

Conductor trainees are integral to this department, learning to manage train operations, ensure ... the rail network. This is a full-time (at least 40 hours/week) position, that is subject to ...

Genesee & Wyoming Inc

Conductor

Hartford, CT · On-site

$35.32/hr

Pay Details: $27.84/hr. for Conductor Trainee. At 180 days, Qualified Rate is $34.80/hr. Responsibilities: * Comply with all federal, state, and other applicable railroad safety and operational ...

City of El Paso

Transit Operator Trainee

El Paso, TX

$32K - $47K/yr

... rail certification requirements. General Information For complete job specifications, click here. Training Class to begin: August 2026 Note: This is an unclassified contract position. Note: This is a ...

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All JobsRailroad Trainee Jobs

Railroad Trainee information

See salary details

$13

$21

$36

How much do railroad trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for railroad trainee in the United States is $21.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $24.28 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Railroad Trainee vs Railroad Conductor?

AspectRailroad TraineeRailroad Conductor
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; training programHigh school diploma; on-the-job training
Work EnvironmentTraining sites, rail yards, on-the-jobOn trains, stations, rail yards
Employer & Industry UsageRailroads during training periodActive train operation and passenger service
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Railroad Trainees are individuals in training programs preparing to become conductors. They typically undergo classroom and on-the-job training. Railroad Conductors are experienced professionals responsible for train operations, safety, and passenger or freight service. The trainee role is a stepping stone to becoming a conductor, with similar work environments but different experience levels.

What are some common challenges faced by Railroad Trainees during their initial training period?

Railroad Trainees often encounter challenges such as adapting to irregular work hours, learning safety protocols, and mastering the technical aspects of rail operations. The role requires attention to detail and the ability to quickly absorb new information, as trainees must demonstrate proficiency in both classroom and hands-on settings. Additionally, trainees are expected to work in various weather conditions and collaborate closely with experienced crew members, which can be demanding but also provides valuable learning experiences.

What are Railroad Trainees?

Railroad Trainees are entry-level employees who receive on-the-job training to prepare for various roles within the railroad industry, such as conductor, engineer, or maintenance specialist. They learn about railroad operations, safety protocols, equipment handling, and regulatory requirements under the guidance of experienced mentors. This position serves as a starting point for a career in rail transportation, offering hands-on experience and instruction necessary for advancement. Successful trainees often move on to specialized positions after completing their training program.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Railroad Trainee, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Railroad Trainee, you need a high school diploma or equivalent, basic mechanical aptitude, and the ability to follow safety protocols. Familiarity with railroad operations, safety regulations, and hands-on training with tools and equipment such as track inspection devices are typically required. Strong communication, attention to detail, and teamwork skills help trainees adapt quickly and work safely with others. These competencies are vital for ensuring safe, efficient railroad operations and minimizing risks in a safety-critical environment.
More about Railroad Trainee jobs
What cities are hiring for Railroad Trainee jobs? Cities with the most Railroad Trainee job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Railroad jobs? The most popular types of Railroad jobs are:
What states have the most Railroad Trainee jobs? States with the most job openings for Railroad Trainee jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Railroad Trainee jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Railroad Trainee jobs are:
Railroad Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Railroad Trainee job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, and 4% Part Time. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,990 per year, or $21.1 per hour.
2025 Electrical Apprentice Signal Trainee (Bellevue, OH)

2025 Electrical Apprentice Signal Trainee (Bellevue, OH)

Norfolk Southern Corp.

Bellevue, OH • On-site

$37.98/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Requisition 39957: 2025 Electrical Apprentice Signal Trainee (Bellevue, OH)
Norfolk Southern Electrical Signal Trainee Program (Day in the Life): https://vimeo.com/871474435/990fe84216
Primary Purpose:
Apprentice Signal Trainees will be trained to perform the duties of Signal Workers. Signal Workers are an important link between ensuring compliance to FRA regulations and customer satisfaction while achieving the safest most efficient railroad operations.
Principal Duties:
  • Signal Workers are primarily responsible for performing FRA regulatory test and inspections of the signals systems and crossings.
  • Install, repair, and maintain, test and inspect various equipment such as signals lights, switch machines, electrical switch locks, switch circuit controllers, as well as crossing warning devices as well as the maintenance and repair of automated classification yards.
  • Install, repair, maintain, test, and inspect signal systems including Automatic Block, Traffic Control, Positive Train Control, cab signal and interlocking systems.
  • Other general duties include cable locates, painting and housekeeping of signal housings & equipment; climb and troubleshoot signal structures and make electrical connections.
  • Use of a wide variety of hand tools, on track high-rail equipment, and test instruments
  • Perform construction duties, including digging holes and trenches to lay cables, wiring apparatus, setting foundations, installing equipment, etc.
  • This role requires travel and on-call availability including weekends.

Apprentice Signal Trainee Training Program
  • Successful applicants will participate in a 52-week paid apprenticeship training program that includes in-class theory and lab work with hands-on skill development in the field.
    • Week 1-3: Signal Training-1 (McDonough, GA)
    • Week 4-16: OJT Signal Construction Gang
    • Week 11-19: Signal Training-2 (McDonough, GA)
    • Weeks 20-40: OJT Signal Maintenance Training
    • Week 41-43: Signal Training-3 (McDonough, GA)
    • Weeks 44-52: Additional OJT training
  • The in-class portion of the training program consists of three sessions that are three weeks long each. These sessions are in McDonough, GA and are mandatory.
  • Apprentices will be required to pass a series of periodic tests relating to duties, responsibilities, and operating rules. In the circumstance that an apprentice fails any of the periodic testing, their application for employment may be rejected at that time.
  • Apprentices that successfully complete the training will then be placed on the seniority district roster hired and is eligible to bid on Signalman or Signal Maintainer roles.
    • Eastern Region North (ERN)
    • Norfolk & Western (NW)
    • Southern Lines East (SLE)
    • Southern Lines West (SLW)
    • WRE (Western Region East (WRE)
    • Western Region West (WRW)
  • Probation period is 90 days in which you must secure a Class A CDL.

Rate of Pay
Initial 3 weeks at the Norfolk Southern Training Center - Compensation is $1,200.00 per week.
First Period (through day 130) - Compensation is $36.48 per hour.
Second period (next 130 days) - Compensation is $36.85 per hour.
After completion of these 275 days, new hires will receive 100%, which is $37.98 per hour.
Medical Benefits
  • Company Benefits - Eligible 1st day of second month after hire (during training)
  • 80/20 plan for employee, spouse, and eligible dependents
  • Union Benefits (Brotherhood of Railroad Signalmen - BRS) available after mark-up from Trainee status.
  • Medical (Managed or 85/15 Plan)
  • $20K Life Insurance
  • 401 (K) First Day of Employment
  • After 1st year of service: Eligible for Dental / Vision

Job Related Experience:
  • Minimum Level: 1-2 years
  • Preferred Level: 3-5 years

Education:
  • Required: High School diploma or GED
  • Preferred Level: Technical Certification or Associate degree (AS)
  • Preferred Majors: Electrical Technician, Electronics Engineering or Electrical Engineer

Licenses / Certifications:
  • Required: CDL Class A License (must secure license within 111 days of hire date)
  • Required: None listed
  • Preferred: None listed

Skills and Abilities:
  • Time Management
  • Prioritizing Work Demands
  • Communication Skills
  • Multi-tasking
  • Planning and Organizing
  • MS Excel/Spreadsheets, MS Outlook, and MS Word/Word Processing

Career Path:
Predecessor Jobs: None
Future Jobs: Supervisor C&S
Environment: Outdoor/Field
Shift Work: No
On-Call: Yes
Weekend Work: Yes
Travel Required: Yes (75% during training; dynamic after mark-up)
Norfolk Southern Electrical Signal Trainee Program (Day in the Life): https://vimeo.com/871474435/990fe84216
BRS Seniority District and Bidding Overview video
Job Description
Work Conditions
Company Overview
Since 1827, Norfolk Southern Corporation (NYSE: NSC) and its predecessor companies have safely moved the goods and materials that drive the U.S. economy. Today, it operates a customer-centric and operations-driven freight transportation network. Committed to furthering sustainability, Norfolk Southern helps its customers avoid 15 million tons of yearly carbon emissions by shipping via rail. Its dedicated team members deliver more than 7 million carloads annually, from agriculture to consumer goods, and is the largest rail shipper of auto products and metals in North America. Norfolk Southern also has the most extensive intermodal network in the eastern U.S., serving a majority of the country's population and manufacturing base, with connections to every major container port on the Atlantic coast as well as the Gulf of Mexico and Great Lakes. Learn more by visiting www.NorfolkSouthern.com.
At Norfolk Southern, we believe in celebrating our individuality. By leveraging the unique backgrounds and viewpoints of our employees, we can create a culture of innovation, respect, and inclusion. We know that employees thrive in a workplace where differing viewpoints, ideas, and experiences are freely shared and valued. As such, we encourage all employees to contribute their distinctive skills and capabilities to our organization.
Equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants regardless of race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetic information, veteran status, sexual orientation, and gender identity. Together, we power progress.

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