2027 Electrical Apprentice Signal Trainee (Chicago, IL)

Norfolk Southern Corp. • Chicago, IL

4d • $36 - $38 • Onsite

About The Position

Norfolk Southern is accepting applications to build a pipeline of qualified candidates for upcoming hiring needs. Applicants 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 work through approximately 52 weeks of structured classroom instruction and on-the-job training. Apprentices learn to install, inspect, maintain, and repair signal systems essential to safe and efficient rail operations. Training includes three three-week classroom sessions at the NS Training Center in McDonough, Georgia, and field experience with construction and maintenance crews across the assigned seniority district. Hotel accommodations, mileage reimbursement, and meal stipends are provided for classroom training. Apprentices undergo 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; relocation assistance is not provided. The role requires on-call availability 24/7, including nights, weekends, and holidays, and extensive travel during training, 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. Norfolk Southern provides CDL training.

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

Requirements

• Be at least 18 years old.
• Have a high school diploma or GED.
• Have a 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 the pre-employment Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) drug and alcohol screening.
• Meet the stated motor vehicle record restrictions relating to convictions or state actions involving driving under the influence or impairment by alcohol or a controlled substance.
• Have no conviction or completed state action in the past 36 months for refusing testing required by state or foreign law to determine whether a person was operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or a controlled substance.
• 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%.
• Meet FRA/FMCSA physical standards, including 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 meet the stated hearing standard, which may be met with a hearing aid.
• Lift and carry up to 50 pounds; climb, bend, stoop, work at heights, and walk long distances on uneven terrain.

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 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.

Benefits

• Hotel accommodations, mileage reimbursement, and meal stipends for classroom training.
• 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 coverage after one year of service.
• Vision coverage after one year of service.

What This Job Offers

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