2026 Communications Electronic Technician (Forest Park/Atlanta, GA)

Norfolk Southern Corp.•Forest Park, GA

17h•Onsite

About The Position

This hands-on, field-based position prepares individuals for a career in communications maintenance through structured classroom instruction and on-the-job training. Trainees learn to install, inspect, and maintain telecommunications equipment essential for safe and efficient rail operations. This is a seniority-based union position. You will be required to join the designated union within 60 days of establishing seniority. You must be available to work a 6-day (6th day as standby/on call) schedule with one scheduled rest day. Extensive travel may be required. You must obtain a Class A CDL once hired (training provided if needed). Ability to obtain and maintain an FCC license or NABOR certificate is required after hire. Training includes both classroom and field instruction: Hires in the Northern Region will report to 1 Week Training in Bellevue, OH, hires in the Southern Region will report to our Training Center in McDonough, GA. On-the-Job Training (OJT): Up to 1 year to qualify as a Communications Electronic Technician (CET). Possibility to promote sooner based on performance and qualifications. Evaluations: Periodic written and practical assessments. Successful completion of the training program places trainees on the seniority roster and makes them eligible for promotion to Communications Electronic Technician.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED.
Valid driver’s license.
18 years of age or older.
Ability to obtain and maintain FCC (GROL) license or NABOR certificate after hire.
Ability to obtain Class A CDL after hire.
Ability to work a 6-day schedule with one standby day.

Nice To Haves

FCC General Radiotelephone Operator License.
Two-year technical degree or equivalent experience in network management.
Experience operating heavy equipment.

Responsibilities

Ensure compliance with all railroad rules and FRA safety regulations.
Install, maintain, replace, and test communication equipment and detectors (Southern agreement) including: radios, digital microwave (MW), RF data link equipment, cables, computers, printers, monitors, telephones, modems, wireless components, security cameras, batteries, connectors, and testing devices.
Install and maintain VHF radios, detectors (Southern agreement), data circuits, automatic equipment identification systems, CCTV, radar, speaker systems, and other communication facilities.
Cut, splice, and pull cable on ground, poles, and towers.
Use trenching equipment to bury cables and equipment.
Manage inventory: receive deliveries, retrieve parts, and transport tools/equipment to job sites.
Install wiring in offices and field locations.