General Attorney / Sr General Attorney (Labor & Employment)

BNSF Railway•Fort Worth, TX

27d•$130,000 - $185,000•Hybrid

About The Position

We are one of the largest U.S. railroads transporting the nation’s freight across 28 western states and 3 Canadian provinces. As a member of our team, you will play a role in supporting the movement of essential products and materials that help feed, clothe, supply, and power communities throughout America and the world. We are committed to a culture where all employees are included, belong, and have equal opportunity to achieve their full potential. Come make a difference with us! Learn more about BNSF and our Benefits The BNSF Railway Law and Claims Department provides expert in-house counsel and collaborates with outside counsel to ensure the railroad operates safely and meets all legal and contractual obligations. Our licensed attorneys and legal professionals are dedicated to upholding the highest legal compliance standards. Additionally, our specialized Claims team promotes safety, investigates incidents, and resolves them ethically. This role provides strategic legal support to the BNSF Railway Labor Relations team and plays a key role in managing complex labor litigation, advising internal stakeholders, and supporting a workforce operating under the Railway Labor Act (RLA). This is a full-time position located in Fort Worth, TX. For certain positions, including this one, employees can work one day per week remotely. Our leaders also foster a culture where work life balance, which requires flexibility for when life happens, is important and respected. Travel is minimal, less than 15% Daily work is conducted in an indoor office environment. The duties and responsibilities in this posting are representative categories to be used in deciding whether to apply for this position. This is not an exhaustive list of the position’s duties. At BNSF Railway, we encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply, showcasing their skills, experiences and development. We provide resources and tools to help you reach your full potential, fostering a supportive and inclusive environment.

Requirements

Able to work now and in the future without BNSF’s assistance (whether monetary, through sponsorship, or otherwise) in obtaining, maintaining, or extending employment authorization (including H-1B, STEM OPT/CPT, or TN nonimmigrant status).
J.D. degree from an accredited law school
Current law license in at least one U.S. jurisdiction (Texas preferred, but not mandatory)
2+ years of labor and employment law practice
Knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite and other web-based legal research tools

Nice To Haves

6+ years of relevant work experience as a practicing lawyer (in-house, law firm or government) handling litigation, arbitration, and traditional labor matters
Excellent legal research and oral advocacy skills and ability to communicate effectively with both legal and non-legal audiences
Strong negotiation skills and ability to build consensus and communicate compelling legal/business justification for position
Sound judgement, strong organizational skills, and the ability to manage multiple matters simultaneously
Demonstrated experience with the Railway Labor Act or analogous federal labor frameworks strongly preferred
References, non-confidential writing samples, and law school transcript may be requested

Responsibilities

Advise and counsel the Labor Relations team and company leadership on all aspects of labor law, including matters arising under the Railway Labor Act (RLA).
Oversee and manage labor litigation and administrative proceedings, including: RLA disputes; whistleblower and retaliation claims; arbitration and adjustment board matters; and agency proceedings and related appeals.
Provide strategic input on labor agreements, grievance handling, and discipline-related issues.
Assist in developing proactive labor strategies that mitigate risk and support operational and workforce goals.
Monitor and evaluate legal developments and trends affecting labor relations and advise on their potential impact.
Assist with overseeing and managing employment litigation and agency investigations and proceedings, including: charges filed with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission; 49 U.S.C. § 20109 complaints filed with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration; and claims progressing to hearings before a Department of Labor Administrative Law Judge.
Partner with outside counsel on litigation strategy, case management, and budgeting while maintaining oversight to ensure alignment with company objectives.
Collaborate closely with fellow attorneys and paralegals across the Law Department, including those responsible for employment, claims, compliance, and commercial matters.

Benefits

An industry-leading 401(k) and renowned Railroad Retirement program.
A range of robust health care options for you and your dependents (including domestic partners), including medical, dental, vision, telemedicine, mental health, cancer support, and high-quality care network options.
Health care spending accounts (HSA) with employer contributions, as well as life and disability insurance, provided at no cost.
Family benefits including parental, pediatric and family building support, adoption and surrogacy reimbursement, and dependent care spending account (with employer match).
Access to discounts on travel, gym memberships, counseling services and wellness support.
Annual bonus (Incentive Compensation Program)
Generous leave / time off policies.

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