2026 Electrical Apprentice Signal Trainee (Chesapeake, VA )

Norfolk Southern Corp.; Chesapeake (VA); On-site; USD 36,000 - 38,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical coverage

401(k) eligibility

Meal stipends

Job summary

Norfolk Southern Corp. in Chesapeake, VA is seeking an Electrical Apprentice Signal Trainee to prepare for a career in signal maintenance. This hands-on position offers training at the NS Training Center and involves the installation and maintenance of critical signal systems.

Qualifications include a high school diploma or GED, valid driver's license, and the ability to obtain a Class A CDL. The role requires on-call availability and extensive travel during the training period.

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Qualifications

• Must be 18 years or older.
• Valid driver's license and reliable transportation.
• Must obtain a Class A CDL within 90 days of hire.
• Must pass pre-employment drug and alcohol screening.

Responsibilities

• Perform inspections and testing of signal systems.
• Install, maintain, and repair signal equipment.
• Read and interpret electrical schematics.
• Accurately document inspections and repairs.

Skills

Electrical aptitude

Mechanical skills

Communication

Time management

Education

High school diploma or GED

Technical certificate or associate degree in Electrical Technology

Tools

Basic computer applications (Excel, Word, Outlook)

Job description

2026 Electrical Apprentice Signal Trainee (Chesapeake, VA)

Company: Norfolk Southern Corp.

Requisition: 39939

At Norfolk Southern, we believe that our people power progress. Our culture is built on our SPIRIT values – Safety, Performance, Integrity, Respect, Innovation, and Teamwork – which guide how we work, lead, and grow together. If you’re ready to launch a career in railroad signal maintenance and contribute to the safety and reliability of train operations, we invite you to explore the Apprentice Signal Trainee role.

Job Overview

This hands‑on, field‑based position prepares individuals for a career in signal maintenance through structured classroom instruction and on‑the‑job training. Apprentice Signal Trainees learn to install, inspect, and maintain signal systems that are critical to safe and efficient rail operations.

This is a seniority‑based union position. You will be required to bid on available positions, which may be located outside your training location. Relocation may be necessary based on the outcome of the bid process. Relocation assistance is not provided for this position. You must be available to work on‑call, 24/7, including holidays, nights, and weekends. Extensive travel is required during training (up to 75%). You will be required to join the Brotherhood of Railroad Signalmen (BRS) within 60 days of establishing seniority. You must obtain a Class A CDL within 90 days of hire (training provided by Norfolk Southern).

Training

Training lasts approximately 52 weeks and includes both classroom and field instruction.

• Classroom Training: Three sessions (3 weeks each) at the NS Training Center in McDonough, GA. Hotel accommodations, mileage reimbursement, and meal stipends provided.
• Field Training: Hands‑on experience with construction and maintenance crews across your seniority district.
• Evaluations: Periodic written and practical assessments.

Successful completion of the training program places apprentices on the seniority roster and makes them eligible to bid on the Signal Maintainer position.

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.
• Operate 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 in outdoor environments under varying weather conditions.
• Respond to on‑call assignments, including nights and weekends.

Qualifications – Required

• Must be 18 years or older.
• High school diploma or GED.
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation.
• Must obtain a Class A CDL within 90 days of hire (training provided by Norfolk Southern). This includes passing a commercial driver medical certification examination.
• Must pass pre‑employment Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) drug and alcohol screening.
• Must not have a conviction for, 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 alcohol or a controlled substance.
• In the past 36 months, must not have a conviction for, or completed state action to cancel, revoke, suspend, or deny a motor vehicle driver’s license for refusal to undergo testing required by state or foreign law when a law enforcement official seeks to determine whether a person is operating a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or a controlled substance.
• Must be legally authorized to work in the U.S.

Qualifications – Preferred

• Technical certificate or associate degree in Electrical Technology, Electronics Engineering, or related field.
• OSHA 10/30, First Aid/CPR, TWIC card.
• 1–2 years in electrical, mechanical, or field service work.
• Strong mechanical and electrical aptitude.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Proficient in basic computer applications (Excel, Word, Outlook).
• Effective time management and communication skills.

Physical and Mental Job Requirements

• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs.
• Capable of climbing, bending, stooping, and working at heights.
• Ability to walk long distances on uneven terrain.
• Must pass FRA/FMCSA physical standards, including: visual acuity (at least 20/40 in each eye separately and both together with or without corrective lenses), color vision (must pass FRA‑approved tests; lenses to improve color vision are not permitted), hearing (no hearing loss greater than 40 B average at 500, 1000, and 2000 Hz in better ear; may be met with hearing aid).

Work Conditions

• Outdoor field work in all weather conditions.
• Extensive travel during training (up to 75%).
• On‑call and weekend availability required.
• Union membership required (BRS).

Compensation and Benefits

• First 130 days: $36.48/hr
• Second 130 days: $36.85/hr
• Post‑Apprenticeship (Signal Maintainer): $37.98/hr+
• Benefits:
• Medical coverage begins the first day of the second month after hire.
• Health insurance (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.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants regardless of race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetic information, veteran status, sexual orientation, and gender identity. Together, we power progress.

Company Overview

Norfolk Southern Corporation (NYSE: NSC) is a Fortune 300 organization and one of the nation’s premier transportation companies. Its Norfolk Southern Railway Company subsidiary operates approximately 19,500 route miles in 22 states and the District of Columbia, serves every major container port in the eastern United States, and provides efficient connections to other rail carriers. Norfolk Southern is a major transporter of industrial products, including chemicals, agriculture, and metals and construction materials. In addition, the railroad operates the most extensive intermodal network in the East and is a principal carrier of coal, automobiles, and automotive parts.

At Norfolk Southern, we believe in celebrating our individuality. By leveraging the unique backgrounds and viewpoints of our employees, we can create a culture of innovation, respect, and inclusion. We encourage all employees to contribute their distinctive skills and capabilities to our organization.

Contact Information

Norfolk Southern Corp.
650 W. Peachtree Street NW
Atlanta, Georgia 30308