Communications Electronic Technician (Allentown, PA)

Norfolk Southern Corp.•Allentown, PA

17d•Onsite

About The Position

Norfolk Southern is hiring a Communications Electronic Technician Trainee for a hands-on, field-based role preparing individuals for a career maintaining railroad telecommunications systems. Training combines classroom instruction and on-the-job training in the installation, inspection, testing, and maintenance of communications equipment that supports safe and efficient rail operations. Training lasts up to one year, with the possibility of qualifying and promoting sooner based on performance and qualifications. Successful completion places trainees on the seniority roster and makes them eligible for promotion to Communications Electronic Technician. Periodic written and practical assessments are part of the training program. This is a seniority-based union position. Employees must join the designated union within 60 days of establishing seniority and be available for a six-day schedule, including one standby/on-call day and one scheduled rest day. Extensive travel may be required. Employees must obtain a Class A CDL after hire, with training provided if needed, and obtain and maintain an FCC license or NABOR certificate after hire. Training location depends on region: Northern Region hires attend one week of training in Bellevue, Ohio, while Southern Region hires report to the Training Center in McDonough, Georgia. The position involves outdoor field work in all weather, working at heights, and required on-call and weekend availability. Training pay is 75% of the Communications Electronic Technician hourly rate ($31.61 per hour). After promotion, compensation is approximately $8,978.18 per month. Medical coverage begins the first day of the second month after hire. Health insurance, $20,000 life insurance, and 401(k) eligibility are available from day one; dental and vision coverage begin after one year of service.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED.
Valid driver's license.
Must be at least 18 years old.
Ability to obtain and maintain an FCC (GROL) license or NABOR certificate after hire.
Ability to obtain a Class A CDL after hire; training is provided if needed.
Ability to work a six-day schedule with one standby/on-call day.
Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
Ability to climb, bend, stoop, and work at heights.
Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions.
Availability for on-call work and weekends.
Must join the designated union within 60 days of establishing seniority.

Nice To Haves

FCC General Radiotelephone Operator License.
Two-year technical degree or equivalent experience in network management.
Experience operating heavy equipment.
Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Outlook, and Word.
Strong communication skills.
Time-management and prioritization skills.
Ability to multitask and organize work effectively.

Responsibilities

Comply with railroad rules and FRA safety regulations.
Install, maintain, replace, and test communications equipment and detectors, including radios, digital microwave and 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, data circuits, automatic equipment identification systems, CCTV, radar, speaker systems, and other communications facilities.
Cut, splice, and pull cable on the ground, poles, and towers.
Use trenching equipment to bury cables and equipment.
Manage inventory by receiving deliveries, retrieving parts, and transporting tools and equipment to job sites.
Install wiring in offices and field locations.
Attend classroom and field training and complete periodic written and practical assessments.