Telecom Electronic Maintainer - Ellensburg, WA

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: Ellensburg
Other Potential Locations: Ellensburg, WA 
Anticipated Start Date: 05/04/2026
Number of Positions: 1 
Salary Range: Approx. $9,110.30/month, with an average annual salary of $109,323

Apply early as this job may be removed or filled prior to the closing date, which is approximately seven (7) days after the posting date.

Embark on a fulfilling career at BNSF Railway where joining the Telecommunications Department offers you the opportunity to be part of a dedicated team focused on maintaining the communications systems across the network. The Telecom Electronic Maintainer position manages essential telecommunications systems that ensure safe and efficient train movements and communications.

This is a full-time (40hrs/wk) position, subject to on call (24/6), overtime, alternate shifts, nights, weekends, and holidays. Shift assignments are governed by union agreement, typically based on seniority.

Travel is 90% or greater. Travel to (and remain at) job sites for extended periods, sometimes for days or weeks at a time, in the designated seniority region. Travel costs will be covered according to the collective bargaining agreement and company policy when travel is required.  Must be located within a 50-mile radius of an international airport.

Training for this position is company-paid on-the-job and classroom training and will include travel to the BNSF Training Center.

Key responsibilities may include: 

On-Call duties for emergency services.

Installing, testing, inspecting, maintaining, repairing, and troubleshooting communications equipment, both inside and outside to include assembling and/or dismantling communications equipment, parts and related items. Includes, but not limited to microwave, RF communications, IP networks, VoIP, Automatic Equipment Identification (AEI), cameras/CCTV, voice and data communications, and front/end-of-train devices.

Install, terminate, and maintain overhead/underground copper and fiber optic cabling; splice/terminate fiber and copper as required.

Perform tower/antenna and dish work including erection, rigging, installation, inspection, and maintenance; climb frequently enough to maintain competencies.

Installing, testing, and maintaining fiber optics, cables, towers, antennas, power plants, and microwave/radio sites, as well as terminating overhead/underground cabling and performing tower erection, rigging, installation and maintenance. Includes climbing towers.

Installation and maintenance of power plants and site infrastructure at microwave/radio sites and RF transmission facilities.

Operating motor trucks and various construction equipment (tractors, trenchers, and digging machines) to support Telecom work.

Document work performed; use digital tools and test equipment to commission, validate, and troubleshoot systems.

Daily work is conducted in a safety sensitive environment where the working conditions can include diverse and extreme weather conditions (hot, cold, rain, snow, and sleet), walking and performing work on uneven surfaces, working around loud noises, fumes, and heavy/moving machinery.  

 At BNSF safety is one of our core values that guides us through everything we do.  Our employees engage in safety conversations, through an approaching others mindset to help us achieve our tremendous potential. In addition, our employees must adhere to safety rules, policies, as well as federal and state regulations, which could include wearing personal protective equipment, responding to concerns, and taking appropriate action in emergencies.

Relocation assistance is not available and there is a 180-day probationary period plus an additional 120 days to obtain a Commercial Driver’s License. 

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

• 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 21 years of age or will be by the start date listed
• High School diploma or GED
• Ability to report for duty at the designated work location.
• Able to work the above shift/hours.   
• Able to work safely in the above working conditions. 
• Able to meet travel requirements.
• Able to read, write and communicate (speak, hear, and understand) in English.  
• Able to visually distinguish red, blue, green, and yellow.
• Ability to differentiate between verbal and non-verbal sounds (signals, alarms, etc.) and discriminate (comprehend) verbal communication in the work environment.
• Able to lift and carry up to 60 pounds unassisted.
• Able to use hands and hand tools for holding, grasping, turning, and pulling.
• Able to bend, walk, stand, and sit occasionally with breaks.
• Able to climb on/off equipment and regularly work at heights (including towers in excess of 50 feet).
• Must successfully complete company fall‑protection training.
• Follow safety policies and procedures; wear required personal protective equipment 
• Possess a valid state-issued driver’s license.
• Ability to obtain a Class A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) within 300 days of hire.
• Two (2) years of verifiable electronics experience or post‑high‑school training. 

Union membership is with the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers and union dues are required per union agreement.

Here are some of the perks/benefits you can expect as a BNSF employee

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 Benefits.

Please be aware of potential fraud that can occur when searching for new career opportunities.  Please review our FAQ for more information and awareness.

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.

F: MO | Engineering Transitioning Military  | Technology Services | Ellensburg, WA | 98926