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Conductor Trainee - Minot, ND

BNSF Railway, Minot, ND, United States


Company Overview
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 help support the movement of essential products and materials that 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 Details
Location:

Minot, ND
Other potential locations:

Minot, ND
Anticipated start date:

04/27/2026
Number of positions:

4
Salary range:

Entry rate approx. $250.26 per day with average annual salary $70,000 - $82,000.

Position Summary
This is a full‑time (40 hours/week) position that requires on‑call (24/7), nights, weekends, and holidays. Work may be seasonal due to weather or business and may require availability in the posted geographic area and timely reporting to the assigned location. Frequent travel is required, with the ability to travel and stay in the designated seniority region for extended periods. Training is company‑paid on‑the‑job and classroom training for up to 19 weeks, including travel to BNSF’s training center in Overland Park, KS. This posting is a “Primary Recall” location; employees hired here must return to their hiring location if called back within a three‑year obligation.

Key Responsibilities

Obtain, receive, and act on oral and written information through various devices; monitor and report daily work; climb on/off equipment; manage hand brakes; connect/disconnect air hoses; replace broken railcar knuckles; interpret signals for train movement; judge/control speed and clearance distances.

Operate track switches and derails to change train routing; check switch points for proper alignment.

Inspect cars per federal regulations; determine train make‑up; monitor track conditions; report train conditions.

Work in diverse and extreme weather conditions; walk and perform work on uneven surfaces; work around loud noises, fumes, and heavy or moving machinery.

Adhere to safety rules, policies, and federal/state regulations; wear personal protective equipment; respond to emergencies.

Work Expectations
Shift/hours include nights, weekends, and holidays; work may be seasonal. Travel requirements include frequent travel and the ability to stay in the seniority region for extended periods.

Basic Qualifications

Able to work now and in the future without BNSF’s assistance in obtaining, maintaining, or extending employment authorization.

At least 18 years of age or will be by the start date.

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 in English.

Ability to lift and carry up to 80 pounds.

Ability to learn to identify, interpret, and use hand signals, and visually judge the speed and distance of moving objects.

Ability to visually distinguish the colors red, blue, green, yellow, clear light, and to see at night.

Ability to distinguish colors on computer displays.

Ability to differentiate between verbal and non‑verbal sounds, and comprehend verbal communication in the work environment.

Ability to use hand tools for holding, grasping, turning, and pulling.

Ability to climb ladders and get on/off equipment.

Ability to work at various heights above the ground, including on locomotives and railcars.

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 required personal protective equipment.

Union
Membership is with SMART‑TD or BLET. Union dues are required per union agreement. Seniority district transfer eligibility varies by location and may require up to 3 years’ employment and director approval.

Benefits
At BNSF, you will have access to a comprehensive and competitive benefits package that includes:

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. Life insurance is provided at no cost to you.

A Railroad Retirement program and competitive 401(k) plan.

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.

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. 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.

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