Trainee Rail Excavator Operator Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Description 

At Norfolk Southern, we believe that our people power progress. Our culture is built on our SPIRIT values-Safety, Performance, Integrity, Respect, Innovation, and Teamwork-which guide how we work, lead, and grow together. If you're ready to launch a career in telecommunications and contribute to the reliability of critical railroad communication systems, we invite you to explore the Communications Electronic Technician Trainee role. 

This hands-on, field-based position prepares individuals for a career in communications maintenance through structured classroom instruction and on-the-job training. Trainees learn to install, inspect, and maintain telecommunications equipment essential for safe and efficient rail operations. 

What Should You Know 

• This is a seniority-based union position. You will be required to join the designated union within 60 days of establishing seniority. 

• You must be available to work a 6-day (6th day as standby/on call) schedule with one scheduled rest day. 

• Extensive travel may be required. 

• You must obtain a Class A CDL once hired (training provided if needed). 

• Ability to obtain and maintain an FCC license or NABOR certificate is required after hire. 

Training 

Training includes both classroom and field instruction: 

• Training : Hires in the Northern Region will report to 1 Week Training in Bellevue, OH, hires in the Southern Region will report to our Training Center in McDonough, GA.  

• On-the-Job Training (OJT): Up to 1 year to qualify as a Communications Electronic Technician (CET). Possibility to promote sooner based on performance and qualifications. 

• Evaluations: Periodic written and practical assessments. 

Successful completion of the training program places trainees on the seniority roster and makes them eligible for promotion to Communications Electronic Technician. 

Job Responsibilities 

• Ensure compliance with all railroad rules and FRA safety regulations. 

• Install, maintain, replace, and test communication equipment and detectors (Southern agreement) including: radios, digital microwave (MW), RF data link equipment, cables, computers, printers, monitors, telephones, modems, wireless components, security cameras, batteries, connectors, and testing devices. 

• Install and maintain VHF radios, detectors (Southern agreement), data circuits, automatic equipment identification systems, CCTV, radar, speaker systems, and other communication facilities. 

• Cut, splice, and pull cable on ground, poles, and towers. 

• Use trenching equipment to bury cables and equipment. 

• Manage inventory: receive deliveries, retrieve parts, and transport tools/equipment to job sites. 

• Install wiring in offices and field locations. 

Qualifications - Required 

• High school diploma or GED. 

• Valid driver's license. 

• 18 years of age or older. 

• Ability to obtain and maintain FCC (GROL) license or NABOR certificate after hire. 

• Ability to obtain Class A CDL after hire. 

• Ability to work a 6-day schedule with one standby day. 

Qualifications - Preferred 

• FCC General Radiotelephone Operator License. 

• Two-year technical degree or equivalent experience in network management. 

• Experience operating heavy equipment. 

Skills and Abilities 

• Time management and prioritization. 

• Strong communication skills. 

• Ability to multi-task and organize work effectively. 

• Proficiency in MS Excel, Outlook, and Word. 

Physical and Mental Job Requirements 

• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs. 

• Capable of climbing, bending, stooping, and working at heights. 

• Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions. 

Work Conditions 

• Outdoor field work in all weather conditions. 

• On-call and weekend availability required. 

• Extensive travel may be required. 

• Union membership required. 

Compensation and Benefits 

Training Pay: 75% of CET hourly rate ($31.61/hr). 

After Promotion: Approximately $8,978.18/month. 

Benefits include: 

• Medical coverage begins the first day of the second month after hire. 

• Health insurance (80/20 or 85/15 plan), $20,000 life insurance, and 401(k) eligibility from day one. 

• Dental and vision coverage after one year of service.