Union Machinist (Diesel Engine Mechanic) - Enola, PA 2026

Norfolk Southern Corp. • East Pennsboro Township, PA

47d • Onsite

About The Position

Norfolk Southern is hiring for a seniority-based union position preparing individuals for locomotive mechanical maintenance through classroom instruction and on-the-job training. Trainees learn to inspect, service, and repair diesel-electric locomotives to support safe and efficient operations. Training lasts approximately seven weeks: one week of safety orientation and six weeks of craft training, delivered in classroom and field settings at locomotive shops and yards. Norfolk Southern provides lodging and reimburses travel according to the union agreement. Extensive travel for training may be required. Union membership is required within 60 days of establishing seniority.

The role is based in shop and outdoor environments and requires work across all three shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays. It is safety-sensitive and involves working around heavy, moving, potentially hazardous locomotive engines. Employees must remain alert and comply with railroad safety rules and medical requirements.

Pay progresses from $21.33 for the first 40 working days (50% of full rate), to $31.95 for the next 204 working days (75%), then $34.12 for the next 244 working days (80%). After two years or 488 working days, the full journeyman rate is $42.66. Medical coverage begins the first day of the second month after hire. Health insurance, $20,000 life insurance, and 401(k) eligibility are available from day one; dental and vision coverage begin after one year of service.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED.
• At least 18 years of age.
• Valid driver's license.
• Ability to pass pre-employment drug and alcohol screening and meet physical standards.
• Must pass a post-offer medical examination, including a drug screen.
• Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions and perform heavy physical labor.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to maintain alertness and concentration around heavy, moving equipment.
• Ability to stoop, bend, kneel, crouch, climb, and walk long distances over uneven terrain.
• Must meet FRA and company medical requirements, including visual acuity of at least 20/40 in each eye separately and together, with or without corrective lenses, and hearing requirements of no more than 40 dB average hearing loss at 500, 1,000, and 2,000 Hz in the better ear (hearing aids may be used).
• Must be available to work shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Union membership is required within 60 days of establishing seniority.
• Mechanical aptitude, strong communication skills, problem-solving and troubleshooting ability, and ability to make decisions under pressure.

Nice To Haves

• One or more years of mechanical experience.
• Two years of diesel mechanic experience.
• Experience reading and interpreting technical drawings or schematics.
• Completion of a mechanical vocational or trade school program.
• Veteran or transitioning service member experience in roles such as 2T331, MR, MK, 2161, 91H, or 44E.

Responsibilities

• Perform daily and periodic inspections, servicing, and maintenance on diesel-electric locomotives.
• Fuel locomotives and check or change oil and fluid levels.
• Replace engine air, air compressor, fuel, and lube oil filters.
• Replace and maintain engine components, traction motors, generators, air compressors, wheels, and truck components.
• Troubleshoot and diagnose diesel engine malfunctions and make required repairs.
• Disassemble, repair, replace, rebuild, reassemble, install, adjust, align, and lubricate mechanical equipment.
• Follow railroad safety rules and regulations and work safely to prevent accidents and injuries.
• Wear required protective equipment, including hearing protection, safety-toe boots, and safety glasses.
• Complete annual safety training and pass safety rules examinations and required assessments.
• Complete required reports and maintain accurate records using computer systems.

Benefits

• Health insurance (80/20 or 85/15 plan), with coverage beginning the first day of the second month after hire.
• $20,000 life insurance, with eligibility from day one.
• 401(k) eligibility from day one.
• Dental coverage after one year of service.
• Vision coverage after one year of service.
• Lodging for training and travel reimbursement per union agreement.

What This Job Offers

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