Conductor Trainee - Laurel, MT

Be part of a team that values safety, inclusion, and excellence

We are one of the largest U.S. railroads transporting the nation's freight across 28 western states and 3 Canadian provinces. As a member of our team, you will play a role in supporting the movement of essential products and materials that help feed, clothe, supply, and power communities throughout America and the world.

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!

Learn more about BNSF and our Benefits.

Laurel

Other Potential Locations: LAURELML, MT

Anticipated

Start Date:

04/27/2026

Number of Positions: 6

Salary Range:
Entry rate is approx. $240.64 per day with an average annual salary of $70,000 - $82,000.

Apply early as this job may be removed or filled prior to the closing date, which is approximately seven (7) days after the posting date.

Embark on a fulfilling career at BNSF Railway where joining the Transportation Department means ensuring efficient and safe freight movement through advanced technology, real‑time data coordination, and rigorous safety protocols. Conductor Trainees are integral to this team, learning to manage train operations, ensure compliance with safety protocols, and contribute to the overall efficiency and sustainability of the rail network.

Full‑time (40 hours/week) position: 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 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.

NOTE: This posting is for a "Primary Recall" location. Employees hired at a "Primary-Recall" location have a three‑year obligation (from date of hire) to return to their hiring location if called back to stabilize the location's workforce.

• Obtain, receive, and act on information (oral and written) through various devices, as well as 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/control speed and clearance distances.
• Operate track switches and derails to change train routing and check switch points for proper alignment.
• Switch and spot cars, determine train make‑up, and inspect cars per federal regulations. 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 (hot, cold, rain, snow, and sleet), walking and performing work on uneven surfaces, working around loud noises, fumes, and heavy/moving machinery.
• Engage in safety conversations, adhere to safety rules, policies, and federal/state regulations, wear personal protective equipment, respond to concerns, and take appropriate action in emergencies.

• Must be eligible to work now and in the future without BNSF assistance in obtaining, maintaining, or extending employment authorization.
• At least 18 years of age (or will be by start date).
• Ability to report for duty at the designated work location.
• Ability to work safely in the above working conditions.
• Ability to work the above shift/hours.
• Ability to meet the above travel requirements.
• Ability to read, write and communicate in English.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 80 pounds.
• Ability to identify, interpret and use hand signals from near and far and visually judge speed and distance of moving objects.
• Ability to visually distinguish colors (red, blue, green, yellow and 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.
• Ability to use hand tools for holding, grasping,…