2027 Transportation Operations Management Trainee (Various Locations)

Norfolk Southern; Norfolk (VA); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Norfolk Southern seeks motivated individuals for its Transportation Operations Management Trainee program in Norfolk, VA. The six‑plus month program provides foundational training and leadership development to prepare for Rail Operations Management, with hands‑on experience overseeing train operations and supervising conductors and locomotive engineers.

Project start January 2027. Candidates may hold a Bachelor's or Master's degree, or bring four years of leadership experience from military,

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree required or current seniors eligible.
• Four years of leadership experience in military, manufacturing, transportation, or logistics.
• Military personnel with the listed roles are encouraged to apply.

Responsibilities

• Oversee train operations and manage conductors and locomotive engineers.
• Ensure safe, efficient movement of freight across a 22-state network.
• Participate in conductor certification and terminal/territory operations training.
• Develop leadership and safety practices as part of the program.

Skills

Leadership

Safety awareness

Problem-solving

Communication

Adaptability

Relocation/travel willingness

Education

Bachelor's or Master's degree

Current college seniors eligible

Four years leadership experience

Job description

A resume helps you stand out to hiring managers and recruiters; your resume communicates your experience and your brand. While it is not required, we encourage you to include an up-to-date resume along with a job application to give you the best opportunity to be considered. A complete resume helps us to better understand your unique background, relevant experiences, and passions. We look forward to learning about you.

Transportation Operations Management Trainee

Norfolk Southern is seeking motivated individuals to join our Transportation Operations Management Trainee program. This structured program provides the foundational training and leadership development necessary to prepare for a career in Rail Operations Management. Trainees will gain hands‑on experience overseeing train operations, managing conductors and locomotive engineers, and ensuring the safe and efficient movement of freight across our 22‑state network.

Program Overview

The Rail Transportation Management Trainee program is designed to provide comprehensive training in railroad operations, leadership, and safety. Key components of this 6+ month training program include:

• Participation in a conductor certification course to gain practical experience in train operations.
• Instruction on managing terminal and territory operations, with exposure to key decision‑making responsibilities.
• Leadership development training focused on operational efficiency, safety, and workforce management.

Projected Start Date

The projected start date for this position isJanuary 2027.

What Makes a Successful Transportation Trainee?

• Commitment to safety and adherence to operational protocols.
• Demonstrated leadership abilities and a proactive mindset.
• Strong problem‑solving and decision‑making skills to navigate complex operational challenges.
• Effective communication and relationship‑building skills to engage with teams and stakeholders.
• Adaptability and resilience in a dynamic, fast‑paced work environment.
• Willingness to work a flexible schedule, including nights, weekends, and holidays, as well as in outdoor conditions.
• Willingness to travel and relocate.

Education & Experience

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in any field.
  • Current college seniors are eligible to apply - all offers are contingent on graduation prior to start date.
• OR a minimum of four years of leadership experience in industries such as military, manufacturing, transportation, or logistics.
• Military personnel with experience in the following roles are encouraged to apply:
  • Army: Railway Operations Crewmember (11B, 13B, 88M)
  • Navy/Marines: Logistics Specialist, Embarkation Specialist (0421)
  • Air Force: Traffic Management Apprentice (2T2X1)
  • Coast Guard: Machinery Technician (MK)

Career Progression

The program is designed to develop future leaders in railroad operations by gaining experience in different territories and terminals. This program develops future leaders in railroad operations, equipping them for advancing responsibilities.

Company Overview

Since 1827, Norfolk Southern Corporation (NYSE: NSC) and its predecessor companies have safely moved the goods and materials that drive the U.S. economy. Today, it operates a customer‑centric and operations‑driven freight transportation network. Committed to furthering sustainability, Norfolk Southern helps its customers avoid 15 million tons of yearly carbon emissions by shipping via rail. Its dedicated team members deliver more than 7 million carloads annually, from agriculture to consumer goods, and is the largest rail shipper of auto products and metals in North America. Norfolk Southern also has the most extensive intermodal network in the eastern U.S., serving a majority of the country's population and manufacturing base, with connections to every major container port on the Atlantic coast as well as the Gulf of Mexico and Great Lakes. Learn more by visiting www.NorfolkSouthern.com.

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 know that employees thrive in a workplace where differing viewpoints, ideas, and experiences are freely shared and valued. As such, we encourage all employees to contribute their distinctive skills and capabilities to our organization.

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.