Block Operator / Bridge Tender (Chicago, IL - 2026)

Norfolk Southern Corporation; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

Norfolk Southern in Chicago, IL seeks a Block Operator / Bridge Tender to manage moveable bridge operations and monitor traffic. The role requires attention to detail, independent work capabilities, and the ability to handle multiple shifts including weekends and holidays.

Candidates will be trained on the Cummings Draw Bridge, Hick Tower, and Landers Tower. Union membership is required with associated dues and health coverage eligibility date beginning after initial employment.

Qualifications

• Must pay close attention to detail and work independently.
• Monitor traffic and operate moveable bridge for passage.
• Input data into computer systems and prepare reports.
• Willing to work varying shifts, weekends and holidays.
• Instruct road/yard crews on movements and make-up of trains.

Responsibilities

• Operate and monitor moveable bridges to enable passage for vessels and trains.
• Input information into computers, prepare reports, and maintain records.
• Instruct road and yard crews on movement, make-up and placement of trains and cars.

Skills

Attention to detail

Independent work

Bridge operation

Shift work

Reporting & data entry

Job description

Block Operator / Bridge Tender (Chicago, IL - 2026)

Job Description

Job Requirements

• Attention to detail and ability to work independently.
• Monitor maritime and railroad traffic to safely operate a moveable bridge to allow the passage of vessels or trains
• Inputting information into computers and preparing reports, research, review, and record trailer inventory
• Ability to work various shifts, weekends, and holidays
• Instruct all road and yard crews as to the movement, make-up and placement of trains and cars in yard limits
• Candidates should expect to be trained on the Cummings Draw Bridge, Hick Tower , Landers Tower

Wage, benefits, and other duties are governed by the collective bargaining union agreement.

Union Membership Required with mandatory associated membership dues. New hires will typically join the union within 60 calendar days of the first day of service. They will typically become eligible for health benefits the first day of the calendar month that follows employment. Spouse and depends may be eligible for coverage.

Work Conditions

Work Environment

• 24/7 Operation
• Environment: Office
• On-Call: Yes
• Weekend Work: Yes
• Shift Work: Yes
• Must be able to work various Shifts (4A-6A,12P-2P,8P-10P )

Minimum Qualifications

• Applicants must be 18 years of age or older
• Must possess a valid Driver's License
• Must be able to perform heavy physical labor
• Must have basic computer and typing competencies

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.