Electrical Apprentice Signal Trainee (Knoxville, TN)

About the role

Norfolk Southern’s Apprentice Signal Trainee program is a hands-on, field-based position that prepares individuals for a career in railroad signal maintenance through structured classroom instruction and on-the-job training. Apprentice Signal Trainees learn to install, inspect, and maintain signal systems critical to safe and efficient rail operations.

Responsibilities

• Perform FRA-required inspections and testing of signal systems and grade crossings.
• Install, maintain, and repair signal equipment including signal lights, switch machines, electrical switch locks, crossing warning devices, and interlocking systems.
• Work with 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

• 18 years or older.
• High school diploma or GED.
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation.
• Must obtain a Class A CDL within 90 days of hire (training provided by Norfolk Southern).
• Must pass pre-employment Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) drug and alcohol screening.
• Must not have a conviction for, or completed state action to cancel, revoke, suspend, or deny a motor vehicle driver’s license for operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of or impaired by alcohol or a controlled substance in the past 36 months.
• Must not have conviction for, or completed state action to cancel, revoke, suspend, or deny a motor vehicle driver’s license for refusal to undergo such testing as is required by State or foreign law when a law enforcement official seeks to determine whether a person is operating a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or a controlled substance in the past 36 months.
• Must be legally authorized to work in the U.S.

Qualifications – Preferred

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

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 walk long distances on uneven terrain.
• Must pass FRA/FMCSA physical standards including:
  • Visual acuity (at least 20/40 in each eye separately and both together with or without corrective lenses).
  • Color vision (must pass FRA-approved tests; lenses to improve color vision are not permitted).
  • Hearing (no hearing loss greater than 40 dB average at 500, 1000, and 2000 Hz in better ear; may be met with hearing aid).

Work Conditions

• Outdoor field work in all weather conditions.
• Extensive travel during training (up to 75%).
• On-call and weekend availability required.
• Union membership required (Brotherhood of Railroad Signalmen).

Training

• 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 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).

Compensation

• Weeks 1–3 (Classroom): $1,200 / week.
• Apprentice Periods:
  • First 130 days: $36.48/hr.
  • 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 (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.