AccountingFinance Management Trainee Topeka KS 2027

BNSF; Topeka (KS); Hybrid; USD 65,000 - 79,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k) plan

Health insurance

Life insurance

Disability coverage

Parental leave benefits

Travel discounts

Job summary

BNSF Railway is seeking a Management Trainee in the Finance department located in Topeka, KS. The program provides training in accounting, financial analysis, budgeting, and reporting, preparing you for future leadership roles in an essential transportation company.

Participants will work with senior leaders on strategic financial projects, gaining exposure across FP&A, cost control, and revenue management while supporting cross-functional teams and maintaining strong stakeholder relationships.

Qualifications

• Pursuing or holding a degree in Accounting or Finance completed before hire.
• Minimum 2.75 GPA and US work authorization (18+).
• Less than three years of professional work experience (excluding internships).

Responsibilities

• Reporting and reconciliation for internal/external needs, safeguarding sensitive information.
• FP&A and budgeting support across operating and corporate sectors.
• Monitor expenses and forecast trends with robust models and reports.
• Data analysis and reporting to uncover operational financial implications.
• Oversight of revenue management for freight-related charges and collections.
• Collaborate with IT/tech to enhance controls and efficiency; support management projects.

Skills

Work authorization

No sponsorship needed

GPA 2.75+

Less than 3 years experience

Education

Accounting or Finance degree

CPA (preferred)

Job description

Be part of a team that values safety, inclusion, and excellence

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

Job Location: Fort Worth Other Potential Locations: Topeka, KS Anticipated Start Date: 2/1/2027, 6/14/2027, or 9/20/2027 Number of Positions: 2 Salary: $72,000

The Management Trainee role in our Finance department is designed for individuals passionate about accounting or finance and the transportation industry. Through a comprehensive training program, trainees will gain financial analysis, planning, budgeting, and reporting expertise. Working alongside experienced leaders, you will contribute to projects that significantly impact strategic decisions and financial outcomes. This role offers professional growth and preparation for future leadership positions within the dynamic freight transportation sector.

Learn more about our Management Trainee Program

This is a full-time position located in Topeka, KS. 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, must have reliable transportation to and from work.

Relocation is required if located more than 50 miles from the location.

Training will start with a week orientation in Fort Worth, Texas, offering a company overview and networking with leaders. This will be followed by support on ongoing projects and practical training with the department.

Applicants will be notified via e-mail regarding potential interviews, testing, and hiring events for this position. Please check your e-mail daily.

Key Responsibilities:

Reporting and Reconciliation: internal and external reporting, account reconciliations, contract research, and safeguarding sensitive information, alongside assisting in system updates and handling ad-hoc requests.

Financial Planning and Analysis (FP&A)/Budgets: Collaborate with key stakeholders to provide critical financial insights for operating and corporate departments across the BNSF network.

Expense Monitoring and Forecasting: Develop robust processes, models, and reports to accurately track and predict expenses within assigned areas. Analytical analysis will drive informed decision-making.

Data Analysis and Reporting: Utilize various tools to dissect complex data, uncover operational trends, and assess their financial implications. Findings empower managers and business partners to optimize costs.

Revenue Management Oversight: Manage the end-to-end process for freight-related charges, from shipping instructions to payment collection. Attention to detail ensures smooth financial transactions.

Technology Solutions and Process Enhancement: Collaborate with technology management to enhance controls and efficiency. Whether through application development, reporting, or project management, you'll contribute to our financial evolution.

Support robust relationships: Engage with customers, employees, and business partners through effective issue resolution and ongoing enhancement efforts, all while upholding the integrity of the business. Possess leadership, teamwork, clear communication, adaptability, and resilience to overcome obstacles and meet deadlines in a dynamic work environment.

Possess leadership, teamwork, clear communication, adaptability, and resilience to overcome obstacles and meet deadlines in a dynamic work environment.

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.

Basic Qualifications:

• Legally authorized to work in the United States and will be at least eighteen (18) years old upon hire.
• Does not require BNSF's assistance, now or in the future, (whether monetary, through sponsorship, or otherwise) to obtain, maintain, or extend employment authorization (including H-1B, STEM OPT/CPT, or TN nonimmigrant status).
• Pursuing a Bachelors or Graduate degree in Accounting or Finance from an accredited university to be completed prior to hire OR I have obtained an Accounting degree.
• Have and will maintain at least a 2.75 cumulative GPA.
• Have LESS THAN three (3) years of professional work experience, EXCLUDING internships, part-time jobs, or positions held while pursuing my undergraduate and/or graduate degree.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Have your Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license or have the Intention to pursue CPA.
• Prior intern experience or less than 3 years of work experience in Accounting or Finance.
• Have or have held a leadership position in a campus, community, or extracurricular organization.

At BNSF, you will have access to a comprehensive and competitive benefits package including:

• 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.
• For more information, visit Benefits.

All positions require pre-employment background verification, medical review and pre-employment drug screen. You can find more information by reviewing the Hiring Process. Federal authority requires BNSF employees, whose work requires unescorted access to secure areas of port facilities, to obtain a TWIC. More information is available at https://www.tsa.gov/for-industry/twic

BNSF Railway is an Equal Opportunity Employer, all qualified applicants receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.