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Electrical Apprentice Signal Trainee (Cleveland, OH)

Norfolk Southern · Cleveland, OH · 1 mo ago
Management$36.48/hrFull-time

About the Role

At Norfolk Southern, we believe that our people power progress. Our culture is built on the SPIRIT values—Safety, Performance, Integrity, Respect, Innovation, and Teamwork—which guide how we work, lead, and grow together. The Apprentice Signal Trainee position is a hands‑on, field‑based role that prepares individuals for a career in railroad signal maintenance through structured classroom instruction and on‑the‑job training. Trainees learn to install, inspect, and maintain signal systems that are critical to safe and efficient rail operations.

Additional Information

  • This is a seniority‑based union position; you will be required to bid on available positions, which may be located outside your training location.
  • Relocation may be necessary based on the outcome of the bid process; relocation assistance is not provided.
  • Availability to work on‑call, 24/7, including holidays, nights, and weekends is required.
  • Extensive travel is required during training (up to 75%).
  • You must join the Brotherhood of Railroad Signalmen (BRS) within 60 days of establishing seniority.
  • You must obtain a Class A CDL within 90 days of hire (training provided by Norfolk Southern).

Training Program

Training lasts approximately 52 weeks and includes both classroom and field instruction.

  • Classroom Training: Three sessions (3 weeks each) at the NS Training Center in McDonough, GA. Hotel accommodations, mileage reimbursement, and meal stipends are provided.
  • Field Training: Hands‑on experience with construction and maintenance crews across your seniority district.
  • Evaluations: Periodic written and practical assessments.
  • Successful completion places apprentices on the seniority roster and makes them eligible to bid on Signal Maintainer positions.
  • Seniority districts include Eastern Region North (ERN), Norfolk & Western (NW), Southern Lines East (SLE), Southern Lines West (SLW), Western Region East (WRE), and Western Region West (WRW).

Learn more about the training program: Training Overview Video

Job Responsibilities

  • Perform FRA‑required inspections and testing of signal systems and grade crossings.
  • Install, maintain, and repair signal equipment including signal lights, switch machines, and electrical switch locks.
  • Work with crossing warning devices and interlocking systems, Positive Train Control (PTC) and cab signal systems.
  • Read and interpret electrical schematics and technical diagrams.
  • Operate hand tools, electrical testing instruments, and heavy equipment.
  • Accurately document inspections, repairs, and installations.
  • Work safely in outdoor environments under varying weather conditions.
  • Respond to on‑call assignments, including nights and weekends.

Qualifications

Required

  • Age 18 or older.
  • High school diploma or GED.
  • Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation.
  • Obtain a Class A CDL within 90 days of hire (training provided).
  • Pass a commercial driver medical certification examination.
  • Pass pre‑employment FRA drug and alcohol screening.
  • No recent convictions or state actions that would revoke, suspend, or deny a driver’s license for alcohol or controlled‑substance impairment.
  • Legally authorized to work in the United States.

Preferred

  • Technical certificate or associate degree in Electrical Technology, Electronics Engineering, or a related field.
  • OSHA 10/30, First Aid/CPR, and TWIC card.
  • 1–2 years of experience in electrical, mechanical, or field service work.
  • Strong mechanical and electrical aptitude.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Proficiency with basic computer applications (Excel, Word, Outlook).
  • Effective time‑management and communication skills.

Physical and Mental Requirements

  • Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lb.
  • Capable of climbing, bending, stooping, and working at heights.
  • Ability to walk long distances on uneven terrain.
  • Pass FRA/FMCSA physical standards, including:
    • Visual acuity of at least 20/40 in each eye separately and both together (with or without corrective lenses).
    • Color vision that meets FRA‑approved tests (lenses to improve color vision are not permitted).
    • Hearing no worse than 40 dB average at 500, 1000, and 2000 Hz in the better ear (hearing aid may be used).

Compensation and Benefits

Pay Rates

  • Weeks 1–3 (Classroom): $1,200 per week.
  • Apprentice Period – First 130 days: $36.48 /hr.
  • Apprentice Period – Second 130 days: $36.85 /hr.
  • Post‑Apprenticeship (Signal Maintainer): $37.98 /hr +.

Benefits

  • Medical coverage begins the first day of the second month after hire.
  • Health insurance options (80/20 or 85/15 plan).
  • $20,000 life insurance.
  • 401(k) eligibility from day one.
  • Dental and vision coverage after one year of service.

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, the company operates a customer‑centric, operations‑driven freight transportation network. Committed to sustainability, Norfolk Southern helps its customers avoid 15 million tons of yearly carbon emissions by shipping via rail. The team delivers more than 7 million carloads annually, spanning agriculture to consumer goods, and is the largest rail shipper of auto products and metals in North America. Norfolk Southern also operates 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, the Gulf of Mexico, and the Great Lakes. Learn more at www.NorfolkSouthern.com.

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