2027 Electrical Apprentice Signal Trainee (Louisville, KY)

Norfolk Southern Corp. • Louisville, KY

58d • $36 - $38 • Onsite

About The Position

Norfolk Southern is accepting applications to build 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 position prepares individuals for a career in railroad signal maintenance through approximately 52 weeks of structured classroom instruction and on-the-job training. Trainees learn to install, inspect, maintain, and repair signal systems that support safe and efficient rail operations. Training includes three three-week classroom sessions at the NS Training Center in McDonough, Georgia, followed by field experience with construction and maintenance crews across the assigned seniority district, as well as periodic written and practical evaluations. Hotel accommodations, mileage reimbursement, and meal stipends are provided for classroom sessions. 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. The role requires availability for on-call work 24/7, including nights, weekends, and holidays, and extensive travel during training of up to 75%. Employees must join the Brotherhood of Railroad Signalmen within 60 days of establishing seniority and obtain a Class A CDL within 90 days of hire, with training provided by Norfolk Southern.

Requirements

• Must be at least 18 years old.
• High school diploma or GED.
• Valid driver's license and reliable transportation.
• Obtain a Class A CDL within 90 days of hire; training is provided by Norfolk Southern.
• Pass a commercial driver medical certification examination.
• Pass pre-employment Federal Railroad Administration drug and alcohol screening.
• Must not have a conviction or completed state action to cancel, revoke, suspend, or deny a motor vehicle driver's license for operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of or impaired by alcohol or a controlled substance.
• In the past 36 months, must not have a conviction or completed state action to cancel, revoke, suspend, or deny a motor vehicle driver's license for refusing required testing when law enforcement seeks to determine whether the person is operating a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or a controlled substance.
• 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 holidays, nights, and weekends.
• Travel extensively during training, up to 75%.
• Lift and carry up to 50 pounds; climb, bend, stoop, work at heights, and walk long distances on uneven terrain.
• Pass FRA/FMCSA physical standards, including visual acuity of at least 20/40 in each eye separately and both together, with or without corrective lenses; FRA-approved color vision testing (color-improving lenses are not permitted); and hearing requirements of no more than 40 dB average hearing loss at 500, 1000, and 2000 Hz in the better ear, which may be met with a hearing aid.

Nice To Haves

• Technical certificate or associate degree in Electrical Technology, Electronics Engineering, or a related field.
• OSHA 10/30, First Aid/CPR, or TWIC card.
• 1–2 years of electrical, mechanical, or field service work.
• Strong mechanical and electrical aptitude.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Proficiency in 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.

Benefits

• Medical coverage begins the first day of the second month after hire.
• Health insurance with an 80/20 or 85/15 plan.
• $20,000 life insurance.
• 401(k) eligibility from day one.
• Dental and vision coverage after one year of service.
• Hotel accommodations, mileage reimbursement, and meal stipends for classroom training sessions.

What This Job Offers

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