Conductor Trainee - Newton/Dodge City, KS

BNSF Railway; Newton (KS); On-site; USD 70,000 - 82,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health care options including medical, dental, vision

401(k) plan

Life insurance

Union benefits and support

Job summary

BNSF Railway is looking for a Conductor Trainee in Newton, KS to play a vital role in train operations and safety compliance. This position involves a comprehensive training program, including up to 19 weeks of on-the-job and classroom training.

The trainees will ensure efficient freight movement while adhering to safety protocols. Candidates must be available for frequent travel and should possess the ability to meet various physical and communication requirements. BNSF offers a competitive salary package and comprehensive benefits.

Qualifications

• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Able to report for duty at the designated work location.
• Availability for frequent travel is required.
• Follow safety policies and procedures.

Responsibilities

• Manage train operations and ensure safety compliance.
• Participate in on-the-job and classroom training for 19 weeks.
• Contribute to the overall efficiency and sustainability of the rail network.

Skills

Ability to lift and carry up to 80 pounds

Ability to work safely

Ability to read, write and communicate in English

Ability to identify and interpret hand signals

Ability to work at various heights

Ability to bend, lift, walk and stand

Job description

Conductor Trainee - Newton/Dodge City, KS

life insurance, 401(k), relocation assistance

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!

Job Location: Newton
Other Potential Locations: Newton, KS
Anticipated Start Date: 08/03/2026
Number of Positions: 5
Salary Range: Entry rate is approx. $250.26 per day with an average annual salary of $70,000 - $82,000.

Transportation department ensures efficient and safe movement of freight by coordinating train operations, scheduling, and dispatching, utilizing advanced technology and real-time data. Safety is a vital focal point, with rigorous training programs, state-of-the-art safety systems, and continuous monitoring to protect employees, cargo, and the public. Conductor trainees are integral to this department, learning to manage train operations, ensure compliance with safety protocols, and contribute to the overall efficiency and sustainability of the rail network.

This is a full-time (at least 40 hours/week) position, that is subject to on-call (24/7), nights, weekends, and holidays. Work may be seasonal due to weather or business, requiring availability in the posted geographic area and timely reporting to the assigned location.

Frequent travel is required, with the ability to travel to and stay in the designated seniority region for extended periods of time.

Training for this position is company-paid on-the-job and classroom training for up to 19 weeks and will include travel to BNSF's training center in Overland Park, KS.

NOTE: This posting is for a "Primary Recall" location. Employees hired at a "Primary-Recall" location have a three-year obligation (from date of hire) to return to their hiring location if called back to stabilize the location's workforce.

Relocation assistance is not available and there is a 60-day probationary period.

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.

Basic Qualifications

• Able to work now and in the future without BNSF's assistance (whether monetary, through sponsorship, or otherwise) in obtaining, maintaining, or extending employment authorization (including H-1B, STEM OPT/CPT, or TN nonimmigrant status).
• At least 18 years of age or will be by the start date listed above.
• Ability to report for duty at the designated work location.
• Able to work safely in the above working conditions.
• Able to work the above shift/hours.
• Able to meet the above travel requirements.
• Ability to read, write and communicate (speak, hear and understand) English.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 80 pounds.
• Ability to learn to identify, interpret, and use hand signals from near and far and visually judge the speed and distance of moving objects.
• Ability to visually distinguish colors – red, blue, green, yellow and clear light and able to see at night.
• Ability to visually distinguish and differentiate colors on computer display screens.
• Ability to differentiate between verbal and non-verbal sounds (signals, alarms, etc.) and comprehend verbal communication in the work environment.
• Ability to use hands and use hand tools to perform activities involving holding, grasping, turning, and pulling.
• Ability to climb/descend ladders and get on/off equipment.
• Ability to work at various heights above the ground including on locomotives, railcars and other equipment.
• Ability to bend, lift, walk and stand occasionally with breaks.
• Ability to walk/perform work on uneven surfaces.
• Ability to sit frequently with breaks.
• Follow safety policies and procedures; wear the required personal protective equipment.

Union membership is with the SMART-TD or BLET, and union dues are required per union agreement.

Seniority district transfers eligibility varies by location and may require up to 3 years' employment and Director approval.

Perks and Benefits

At BNSF, you will have access to a comprehensive and competitive benefits package that meets you where you are. A few of those benefits include:

• A range of health care options for you and your dependents including medical, dental, vision, telemedicine, mental health, wellness coaching, 2nd opinion services, and high-quality care network options. You will also have life insurance, provided at no cost to you.
• A Railroad Retirement program and competitive 401(k) plan to help you meet your retirement goals.
• Family benefits including parental and pediatric support, adoption and surrogacy reimbursement, and spending accounts.
• Access to discounts on travel, gym memberships and more!
• Benefits vary by union collective bargaining agreement.
• For more information, visit BNSF Benefits.

All positions require pre-employment background verification, medical review, and pre-employment drug screen. Federal authority requires BNSF employees, whose work requires unescorted access to secure areas of port facilities, to obtain a 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.