2027 Electrical Apprentice Signal Trainee (Kansas City MO)

Norfolk Southern Corp. • Kansas City, MO

4d • Onsite

About The Position

Norfolk Southern is hiring an Electrical Apprentice Signal Trainee for a hands-on, field-based role that prepares individuals for a career in railroad signal maintenance. The approximately 52-week training program combines classroom instruction and on-the-job field training. Apprentices learn to install, inspect, maintain, and repair signal systems that support 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 apprentice’s seniority district, and includes periodic written and practical assessments. 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 the training location, and relocation may be necessary depending on the bid outcome. Relocation assistance is not provided. The role requires availability for on-call assignments 24/7, including nights, weekends, and holidays, as well as extensive travel during training of up to 75%. Employees are required to join the Brotherhood of Railroad Signalmen within 60 days of establishing seniority and obtain a Class A CDL within 90 days of hire; CDL training is provided by Norfolk Southern.

Training pay is $1,200 per week for classroom weeks 1–3. During the apprentice period, pay is $36.48 per hour for the first 130 days and $36.85 per hour for the second 130 days. After apprenticeship, Signal Maintainer pay is $37.98 per hour or more. Benefits include medical coverage beginning the first day of the second month after hire, health insurance plans, $20,000 of life insurance, 401(k) eligibility from day one, and dental and vision coverage after one year of service.

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 (FRA) drug and alcohol screening.
• Must not have a disqualifying conviction or state action relating to 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 disqualifying conviction or state action for refusing required testing to determine whether the person was operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or a controlled substance.
• Must be legally authorized to work in the United States.
• Join the Brotherhood of Railroad Signalmen (BRS) within 60 days of establishing seniority.
• Be available for on-call work 24/7, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Travel extensively during training, up to 75%.
• Ability to 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 specified visual acuity, color vision, and hearing requirements.
• Work outdoors in all weather conditions.

Nice To Haves

• Technical certificate or associate degree in Electrical Technology, Electronics Engineering, or a related field.
• OSHA 10/30 certification, First Aid/CPR, or a TWIC card.
• One to two 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.
• Participate in classroom and field training and complete periodic written and practical assessments.

Benefits

• Medical coverage begins 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 and vision coverage after one year of service.
• Hotel accommodations, mileage reimbursement, and meal stipends during classroom training.

What This Job Offers

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