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Signals & Communications Apprentice

At CN, we are committed to our pursuit of excellence. We take pride in delivering work of the highest standard, continually innovating to shape the railroad of the future. As responsible railroaders, we make the right decisions every time, putting safety first, acting with unwavering integrity, and holding ourselves accountable for our actions. We believe in succeeding together-by fostering inclusivity and collaboration, we sustainably deliver exceptional results for our customers.

If you are a skilled trades person or interested in skilled trades and continuous learning in a safety-focused environment, working at CN could be a great fit for you. You'll be working on all types of equipment and structures designed to support the distribution of freight across North America. Enjoy paid training and evolve your skills. The careers we offer are meaningful because the work we do matters. Join us and get your career moving!  

Job Summary

The Signals and Communications Apprentice (S&C) is responsible for installing, repairing, testing, and maintaining various signals and communications systems and apparatuses, including railway signaling systems, wayside information systems, and highway grade crossing protection systems.

Working Conditions

• Must be available for shift work, including weekends and nights
• Work is performed outdoors, sometimes in extreme weather conditions and on uneven terrain and surfaces
• Regular exposure to dust, pollen, fumes, noise, and vibrations
• Must meet medical fitness for duty requirements
• Ability to grasp and work at heights and elevations
• Able to perform repetitive physical activities
• Must be able to lift and carry up to 50 pounds frequently, and up to 85 pounds occasionally
• Must be available to work away from home in isolated locations

Major Responsibilities

• Install, repair, maintain, test, and inspect signal systems and apparatus, including automatic blocks, traffic controls, train stops, train controls, cab signals, and interlocking systems
• Perform construction duties, including digging holes and trenches to lay cables, wiring apparatus, setting piers, and installing equipment
• Perform highway grade crossing protection and automatic classification yards
• Use a wide variety of hand tools, bonding rail, and testing signal plans, including on track high-rail equipment and test instruments to bury cable and wire equipment
• Ensure a safe working environment by following CN's safety policies and procedures

Requirements

• Grade 12 Diploma or General Educational Development (GED)
• Successful completion of CN's apprenticeship program, including in-class theory and laboratory work, as well as hands-on skill development in the field
• Valid Driver's License
• Valid Commercial Driver's License (CDL)
• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Collaborates and maintains positive interactions with others.
• Ability to work independently, well organized, and maintain schedules.
• Ability to understand and apply electrical, electronic, and mechanical principles.
• Ability to follow company safety procedures, apply critical thinking, and maintain safety awareness.
• Capable of making effective decisions in unfamiliar locations and when responding to changes, as well as interruptions in work processes
• Ability to judge the condition of objects and parts for wear and defects.
• Meet established standards of quality, productivity, and client satisfaction.
• Hand-eye coordination
• Good climbing and balancing skills for performing installation and maintenance activities.
• Knowledge of signals or Rail Operating Rules
• Basic computer knowledge

Assets

• Completion of a Bachelor's Degree, or a 2- or 3-year College level program in Electronics, Engineering or other related field such as Physics or Mathematics

What We Offer

• Competitive Wages, Benefits, and Pension Plan
• Paid Training and Career Development
• Medical, vision, and dental insurance
• 24/7 Telemedicine Service
• Employee Share Investment Plan
• Educational Financial Assistance Program
• Employee Resource Groups (ERGs)
• Extensive Employee Discount Program
• Employee & Family Assistance Program (EFAP)

Paid Training:

S&C Apprentices will receive 4 weeks classroom paid training sessions at 40 hours per week at the CN Campus (Homewood, IL) during the one-year apprentice training program. The training is primarily on health and safety rules, standard codes of practice, installation methods, testing and maintenance procedures, and equipment familiarization.

Successful completion of the classroom training is mandatory to work as a Signal Maintainer. Once qualified, the role is subject to promotion as a Signals and Communications Maintainer and protect seniority as vacancies arise.

Successful Candidate Process:

• Medical assessment (including drug, hearing, and vision). 
• Criminal background check
• Offer Letter

Paid Training Structure:

• 4 weeks at CN Campus (Classroom training & Knowledge Checks)
• 4 x2-week training at CN Campus
• 1+ year to become qualified S&C Maintainer