2027 Electrical Apprentice Signal Trainee (Elkhart, IN)

Norfolk Southern Corp. • Elkhart, IN

26d • Onsite

About The Position

Norfolk Southern is building a pipeline of qualified candidates for upcoming hiring needs. Candidates who successfully complete the hiring process may be considered for training classes between late 2026 and mid-2027, depending on business needs and location availability.

This hands-on, field-based role prepares individuals for signal maintenance through approximately 52 weeks of classroom instruction and on-the-job training. Trainees learn to install, inspect, and maintain signal systems essential to safe and efficient rail operations. Classroom training consists of three three-week sessions at the NS Training Center in McDonough, Georgia; hotel accommodations, mileage reimbursement, and meal stipends are provided. Field training takes place with construction and maintenance crews across the trainee’s seniority district, with periodic written and practical evaluations. Successful completion places apprentices on the seniority roster and makes them eligible to bid on Signal Maintainer positions.

This is a seniority-based union position. Employees must bid on available positions, which may be outside their training location, and relocation may be necessary; relocation assistance is not provided. Employees must be available for on-call work at any time, including nights, weekends, and holidays; travel during training may reach 75%. Membership in the Brotherhood of Railroad Signalmen is required within 60 days of establishing seniority. A Class A CDL must be obtained within 90 days of hire, with training provided by Norfolk Southern.

The role involves outdoor field work in all weather conditions and requires lifting and carrying up to 50 pounds, climbing, bending, stooping, working at heights, and walking long distances over uneven terrain. Applicants must meet FRA/FMCSA physical standards, including specified visual acuity, color vision, and hearing standards.

Compensation is $1,200 per week during the first three classroom weeks, followed by $36.48 per hour for the first 130 apprentice days and $36.85 per hour for the next 130 days. The post-apprenticeship Signal Maintainer rate is $37.98 per hour or more. Medical coverage begins the first day of the second month after hire; 401(k) eligibility begins on day one. Dental and vision coverage begin after one year of service.

Requirements

• At least 18 years of age.
• High school diploma or GED.
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation.
• Obtain a Class A CDL within 90 days of hire and pass a commercial driver medical certification examination; training is provided by Norfolk Southern.
• Pass pre-employment Federal Railroad Administration drug and alcohol screening.
• Meet the stated motor vehicle license and impaired-driving history restrictions, including the restriction concerning refusal of required testing within the past 36 months.
• Be legally authorized to work in the United States.
• Join the Brotherhood of Railroad Signalmen within 60 days of establishing seniority.
• Be available for on-call work 24/7, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Meet FRA/FMCSA physical standards: visual acuity of at least 20/40 in each eye separately and both together, with or without corrective lenses; pass FRA-approved color vision tests (color-improving lenses are not permitted); and have no hearing loss greater than 40 dB average at 500, 1,000, and 2,000 Hz in the better ear, with hearing aids permitted.
• Lift and carry up to 50 pounds; climb, bend, stoop, work at heights, and walk long distances on uneven terrain.
• Travel extensively during training, potentially up to 75%.
• Bid on available positions in the seniority-based system; positions may be outside the training location and relocation may be necessary.

Nice To Haves

• Technical certificate or associate degree in Electrical Technology, Electronics Engineering, or a related field.
• OSHA 10/30 certification, First Aid/CPR certification, or TWIC card.
• One to two years of electrical, mechanical, or field service work experience.
• Strong mechanical and electrical aptitude.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Proficiency with basic computer applications, including Excel, Word, and Outlook.
• Effective time management and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Perform FRA-required inspections and testing of signal systems and grade crossings.
• Install, maintain, and repair signal equipment, including signal lights, switch machines, and electrical switch locks.
• Work with 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 outdoors in varying weather conditions.
• Respond to on-call assignments, including nights and weekends.
• Complete classroom and field training, including periodic written and practical assessments.
• Bid on available positions after completing training and establishing seniority.

Benefits

• Hotel accommodations, mileage reimbursement, and meal stipends for classroom training.
• Medical coverage beginning the first day of the second month after hire.
• Health insurance with 80/20 or 85/15 plan options.
• $20,000 life insurance.
• 401(k) eligibility from day one.
• Dental coverage after one year of service.
• Vision coverage after one year of service.
• Class A CDL training provided by Norfolk Southern.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED