Conductor Trainee - Dilworth, MN - Furloughed Employees Encouraged to Apply

About the role

We are one of the largest U.S. railroads transporting essential products and materials across 28 western states and 3 Canadian provinces. Join our team to support the movement of goods that help feed, clothe, supply, and power communities.

Responsibilities

• Obtain, receive, and act on information (oral and written) through various devices.
• Maintain safety protocols and ensure compliance with safety standards.
• Manage train operations, including climbing on/off equipment, managing hand brakes, connecting/disconnecting air hoses, and judging/control speed and clearance distances.
• Operate track switches and derails to change train routing and check switch points for proper alignment.
• Inspect cars per federal regulations and determine train make-up.
• Monitor track conditions for any issues/problems and report on passing train conditions.
• Work in a safety-sensitive environment with diverse and extreme weather conditions, walking and performing work on uneven surfaces, working around loud noises, fumes, and heavy/moving machinery.

Requirements

• Able to work now and in the future without BNSF's assistance (including H-1B, STEM OPT/CPT, or TN nonimmigrant status).
• At least 18 years of age or will be by the start date listed above.
• Able to report for duty at the designated work location.
• 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.
• Able to lift and carry up to 80 pounds.
• Able to learn to identify, interpret, and use hand signals from near and far and visually judge the speed and distance of moving objects.
• Able to visually distinguish colors - red, blue, green, yellow, and lunar (clear light) and able to see at night.
• Able to visually distinguish and differentiate colors on computer display screens.
• Able to differentiate between verbal and non-verbal sounds (signals, alarms, etc.) and discriminate (comprehend) verbal communication in the work environment.
• Able to use hands and use hand tools to perform activities involving holding, grasping, turning, and pulling.
• Able to climb ladders and get on/off equipment.
• Able to work at various heights above the ground including on locomotives, railcars, and other equipment.
• Able to bend, lift, walk, and stand occasionally with breaks.
• Able to sit frequently with breaks.
• Follow safety policies and procedures; wear required personal protective equipment.

Qualifications

• Union membership with SMART-TD or BLET and union dues required per union agreement.
• Seniority district transfers eligibility varies by location and may require up to 3 years' employment and Director approval.

Skills

Communication, switching functions, train and equipment inspections, monitoring track conditions, safety protocols, and compliance.

Benefits

• Comprehensive health care options including medical, dental, vision, telemedicine, mental health, wellness coaching, 2nd opinion services, and high-quality care network options.
• Life insurance provided at no cost to you.
• Railroad Retirement program and competitive 401(k) plan.
• Family benefits including parental and pediatric support, adoption and surrogacy reimbursement, and spending accounts.
• Discounts on travel, gym memberships, and more!

Pay

Entry rate is approx. $259.65 per day with an average annual salary of $70,000 - $82,000.

Schedule

This is a full-time (40 hours/week) position that is subject to on-call (24/7), nights, weekends, and holidays. Work may be seasonal due to weather or business, requiring availability in the posted geographic area and timely reporting to the assigned location. Frequent travel is required, with the ability to travel to and stay in the designated seniority region for extended periods of time.

Training

Training for this position is company-paid on-the-job and classroom training for up to 19 weeks and will include travel to BNSF’s training center in Overland Park, KS.

Location

Job Location: Dilworth
Other Potential Locations: Dilworth, MN

Start Date

Anticipated Start Date: 08/03/2026

Number of Positions

Number of Positions: 3

Relocation Assistance

Relocation assistance is not available.

Probationary Period

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.

Equal Opportunity Employer

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.