Conductor Trainee - Primary Recall (3 years) Sheridan, Wyoming

About the role

BNSF Railway is one of the largest U.S. railroads, moving freight across 28 western states and 3 Canadian provinces. As a Conductor Trainee you will support the movement of essential products and materials that feed, clothe, supply, and power communities nationwide and worldwide. The position is based in Sheridan, WY (with potential work in Sheridan, WY) and has an anticipated start date of February 1, 2027. Five positions are available. This is a “Primary Recall” location: employees hired here have a three‑year obligation (from date of hire) to return to the hiring location if called back to stabilize the workforce. Relocation assistance is not provided, and there is a 60‑day probationary period after training and the first tour of compensated service.

Responsibilities

• Obtain, receive, and act on oral and written information via various devices; monitor and report daily work.
• Climb on/off equipment, manage hand brakes, connect/disconnect air hoses, replace broken railcar knuckles.
• Interpret signals for train movement; judge and control speed and clearance distances.
• Operate track switches and derails to change train routing; check switch points for proper alignment.
• Switch and spot cars, determine train make‑up, and inspect cars per federal regulations.
• Monitor track conditions for issues/problems and report on passing train conditions.
• Work in a safety‑sensitive environment that may include extreme weather (hot, cold, rain, snow, sleet), uneven surfaces, loud noises, fumes, and heavy/moving machinery.
• Adhere to safety rules, policies, federal and state regulations; wear required personal protective equipment; respond to concerns and take appropriate action in emergencies.

Requirements

• At least 18 years of age (or will be by the start date).
• Ability to report for duty at the designated work location.
• Ability to work safely in the described conditions (weather, uneven surfaces, noise, fumes, machinery).
• Ability to work the required shift/hours (full‑time, on‑call 24/7, nights, weekends, holidays).
• Ability to meet travel requirements, including frequent travel and extended stays in the seniority region.
• Ability to read, write, and communicate (speak, hear, understand) English.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 80 pounds.
• Ability to learn to identify, interpret, and use hand signals from near and far; visually judge speed and distance of moving objects.
• Ability to distinguish colors red, blue, green, yellow, and lunar (clear light) and see at night.
• Ability to distinguish colors on computer display screens.
• Ability to differentiate between verbal and non‑verbal sounds (signals, alarms, etc.) and comprehend verbal communication in the work environment.
• Ability to use hands and hand tools for holding, grasping, turning, pulling.
• Ability to climb ladders and get on/off equipment.
• Ability to work at various heights (locomotives, railcars, other equipment).
• Ability to bend, lift, walk, and stand occasionally with breaks.
• Ability to walk/perform work on uneven surfaces.
• Ability to sit frequently with breaks.
• Follow safety policies and procedures; wear required personal protective equipment.
• Union membership is with SMART‑TD or BLET; union dues are required per union agreement.
• Seniority district transfers eligibility varies by location and may require up to 3 years’ employment and Director approval.

Benefits

• Comprehensive health care options: medical, dental, vision, telemedicine, mental health, wellness coaching, second‑opinion services, high‑quality care network.
• Life insurance provided at no cost.
• Railroad Retirement program and competitive 401(k) plan.
• Family benefits: parental and pediatric support, adoption and surrogacy reimbursement, spending accounts.
• Discounts on travel, gym memberships, and more.
• Benefits vary by union collective bargaining agreement.

Pay

Entry rate is approximately $259.65 per day, with an average annual salary range of $70,000 – $82,000.

Schedule

Full‑time position (40 hours/week) subject to on‑call availability 24/7, including nights, weekends, and holidays. Work may be seasonal due to weather or business needs, 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.