Signal Apprentice - Lincoln, NE

Signal Apprentice - Lincoln, NE

BNSF Railway is one of the largest U.S. railroads transporting the nation’s freight across 28 western states and 3 Canadian provinces. As part of our team, you will support the movement of essential products and materials that help feed, clothe, supply, and power communities across America and the world.

We value safety, inclusion, and excellence. We are committed to a culture where all employees are included, belong, and have equal opportunity to achieve their full potential. Come make a difference with us!

• Location:
  
  Lincoln, NE
• Other Potential Locations:
  Lincoln, NE
• Anticipated
  
  Start Date:
  
  03/09/2026
• Number of Positions: 1
• Salary Range:
  Entry rate approx. $36.44/hr; avg annual pay $85K-95K with 3-5 years seniority.
• Full-time (40 hrs/wk) with on-call, overtime, nights, alternating shifts, weekends, and holidays.

Apply early as this job may be removed or filled prior to the closing date, which is approximately seven days after the posting date.

Travel is required up to 90% outside of the headquarters location. Travel may also be required to (and remain at) job sites for extended periods, sometimes for days or weeks at a time, in the designated seniority region. Travel costs will be covered according to the collective bargaining agreement when traveling outside of the seniority district.

Training for this position is company-paid on-the-job and classroom training and will include travel to the BNSF Training Center. Successful candidates will enter an apprenticeship program, pass progressive exams, and demonstrate field proficiency. Pay rates will increase with each completed step of qualification.

• Perform construction, reconditioning, installation, maintenance, repair, inspection, and testing of wayside signal devices.
• Loading and unloading supplies, installing underground and overhead cables including trenching and hand digging, and working around or operating heavy machinery.
• Working on or around highway grade crossings, climbing signal masts, bridges, and ladders, and handling cables and wires for electrical connections.
• Using various power and non-power tools, including shovels, picks, axes, sledgehammers, micrometers, voltmeters, amp meters, computer-based systems, screwdrivers, wrenches, pliers, tape measures, drills, and power saws.
• Operating equipment (backhoes, trenchers, boom trucks, and directional boring machines).
• Daily work is conducted in a safety sensitive environment where the working conditions can include diverse and extreme weather conditions (hot, cold, rain, snow, and sleet), walking and performing work on uneven surfaces, working around loud noises, fumes, and heavy/moving machinery.

BNSF prioritizes safety as a core value of how we do business. Employees engage in daily safety conversations to achieve our vision. They must adhere to safety regulations, rules, and policies, including wearing safety equipment, responding to concerns, and taking action in emergencies.

There is a 90‑day probationary period and relocation assistance is not available.

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.

• Able to work now and in the future without BNSF’s assistance (whether monetary, through sponsorship, or otherwise) in obtaining, maintaining, or extending employment authorization (including H‑1B, STEM OPT/CPT, or TN non‑immigrant status).
• At least 18 years of age or will be by the anticipated start date listed above.
• Possess a valid state‑issued driver’s license.
• Ability to report for duty at the designated work location.
• Ability to travel for extended periods of time (fly, drive, or ride).
• Able to work safely in the above working conditions.
• Able to work the above shift/hours.
• Able to meet the above travel…