Electrical Apprentice Signal Trainee

2026 Electrical Apprentice Signal Trainee (Cincinnati OH)
Date: Jul 20 2026

Location: Cincinnati OH US 45203

Company: Norfolk Southern Corp.

Requisition 40093: 2026 Electrical Apprentice Signal Trainee (Cincinnati OH) 1



Description

At Norfolk Southern we believe that our people power progress. Our culture is built on our SPIRIT valuesSafety Performance Integrity Respect Innovation and Teamworkwhich guide how we work lead and grow together. If youre ready to launch a career in railroad signal maintenance and contribute to the safety and reliability of train operations we invite you to explore the Apprentice Signal Trainee role.

This hands-on field-based position prepares individuals for a career in signal maintenance through structured classroom instruction and on-the-job training. Apprentice Signal Trainees learn to install inspect and maintain signal systems that are critical to safe and efficient rail operations.



What Should You Know

This is a seniority-based union position. You will be required to bid on available positions which may be located outside your training location. Relocation may be necessary based on the outcome of the bid process. Relocation assistance is not provided for this position.

You must be available to work on-call 24/7 including holidays nights and weekends.

Extensive travel is required during training (up to 75%).

You will be required to join the Brotherhood of Railroad Signalmen (BRS) within 60 days of establishing seniority.

You must obtain a Class A CDL within 90 days of hire (training provided by Norfolk Southern)



Training

Training lasts approximately 52 weeks and includes both classroom and field instruction.

Click on the link below to learn more about our training program:

Training: Three sessions (3 weeks each) at the NS Training Center in McDonough GA. Hotel accommodations mileage reimbursement and meal stipends provided.

Field Training: Hands-on experience with construction and maintenance crews across your seniority district.

Evaluations: Periodic written and practical assessments.

Successful completion of the training program places apprentices on the seniority roster and makes them eligible to bid on Signal Maintainer position.

Seniority Districts:

Eastern Region North (ERN)

Norfolk & Western (NW)

Southern Lines East (SLE)

Southern Lines West (SLW)

WRE (Western Region East (WRE)

Western Region West (WRW)

A detailed overview of the seniority districts is available in the following video: Responsibilities

Perform FRA-required inspections and testing of signal systems and grade crossings.

Install maintain and repair signal equipment including signal lights switch machines and electrical switch locks

Crossing warning devices and interlocking systems

Positive Train Control (PTC) and cab signal systems

Read and interpret electrical schematics and technical diagrams.

Operate hand tools electrical testing instruments and heavy equipment

Accurately document inspections repairs and installations.

Work safely in outdoor environments under varying weather conditions.

Respond to on-call assignments including nights and weekends.



Qualifications Required

You must be 18 years or older.

High school diploma or GED.

Valid drivers license and reliable transportation.

You must obtain a Class A CDL within 90 days of hire (training provided by Norfolk Southern)

This includes passing a commercial driver medical certification examination.

Must pass pre-employment Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) drug and alcohol screening.

Must not have a conviction for or completed state action to cancel revoke suspend or deny a motor vehicle drivers license for operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of or impaired by alcohol or a controlled substance

In the past 36 months Must not have conviction for or completed state action to cancel revoke suspend or deny a motor vehicle drivers license for refusal to undergo such testing as is required by State or foreign law when a law enforcement official seeks to determine whether a person is operating a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or a controlled substance

Must be legally authorized to work in the U.S.



Qualifications Preferred

Technical certificate or associate degree in Electrical Technology Electronics Engineering or related field.

OSHA 10/30 First Aid/CPR TWIC card.

12 years in electrical mechanical or field service work.

Strong mechanical and electrical aptitude.

Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Proficient in basic computer applications (Excel Word Outlook).

Effective time management and communication skills.





Physical and Mental Job Requirements



Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs.

Capable of climbing bending stooping and working at heights.

Ability to walk long distances on uneven terrain.

Must pass FRA/FMCSA physical standards including:

Visual acuity (at least 20/40 in each eye separately and both together with or without corrective lenses).

Color vision (must pass FRA-approved tests; lenses to improve color vision are not permitted).

Hearing (no hearing loss greater than 40B average atand 2000 Hz in better ear; may be met with hearing aid).



Work Conditions

Outdoor field work in all weather conditions.

Extensive travel during training (up to 75%).

On-call and weekend availability required.

Union membership required (BRS).



Compensation and Benefits

Weeks 13 (Classroom): $1200 /week

Apprentice Periods:

First 130 days: $36.48/hr

Second 130 days: $36.85/hr

Post-Apprenticeship (Signal Maintainer): $37.98/hr



Benefits Include:

Medical coverage begins the first day of the second month after hire

Health insurance (80/20 or 85/15 plan)

$20000 life insurance

401(k) eligibility from day one

Dental and vision coverage after one year of service


You must be 18 years or older.

High school diploma or GED.

Valid drivers license and reliable transportation.

You must obtain a Class A CDL within 90 days of hire (training provided by Norfolk Southern)

This includes passing a commercial driver medical certification examination.

Additional Qualifications/Responsibilities
Qualifications Preferred

Technical certificate or associate degree in Electrical Technology Electronics Engineering or related field.

OSHA 10/30 First Aid/CPR TWIC card.

12 years in electrical mechanical or field service work.

Strong mechanical and electrical aptitude.

Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Proficient in basic computer applications (Excel Word Outlook).

Effective time management and communication skills.