Bridge Operator (TCU) - Ft. Madison, IA

Be part of a team that values safety, diversity, 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: Fort Madison
Other Potential Locations: Fort Madison, IA 
Anticipated Start Date: 09/25/2024
Number of Positions: 1 
Salary Range: Entry Rate is $231.60/day; Full rate $298.25/day (after 36 months)

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.

SAFETY 

At BNSF, Safety is a core value of how we do business. Each and every day, our employees are committed to approach one another about safety, which is key in realizing our vision. Employees are also expected to comply with company and federal safety & health regulations, safety rules & policies, as well as procedures that guide work practices to reduce risk to exposure.  Such work practices include but are not limited to wearing required safety equipment, responding to safety concerns, and taking appropriate actions in the event of an emergency. 

DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES 

• Monitor and direct marine and railroad traffic, raising and lowering the lift bridge as needed  

• Give trackage rights for Maintenance of Way gangs and B&B personnel 

• Protect personnel and equipment during train movement 

• Operate railroad radio, marine radio, and phones 

• Communicate with Dispatching Office and Trainmasters as needed for proper train movement 

• Relay information from the USCG to barge traffic about restrictions at the bridge 

• Perform various administrative functions such as ordering and maintaining small amounts of office supplies, preparing various reports, and completing various forms 

• Perform basic janitorial duties necessary to keep work area clean 

• Perform routine inspection and maintenance 

• May be required to handle hazardous materials 

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. 

TYPING REQUIREMENT 

• This position requires successful candidates to take and pass a typing test, arranged through BNSF 

• The minimum net typing rate required for this position is 25 wpm 

WORKING CONDITIONS 

• Extreme, all-weather conditions 

• Walk and perform work on uneven surfaces 

• Loud noise and fumes 

• Work on and around heavy and moving machinery 

• Safety sensitive work environment 

SHIFTS/HOURS 

• Shifts are governed by union agreement, typically based on seniority 

• This position requires being available to cover all different types of shifts (e.g., days, afternoons, nights, swing), including shifts that occur on weekends and holidays 

• There is no guarantee of minimum hours per week 

• Depending on business needs, this position may require mandatory overtime   

• 40-hour work week, subject to overtime and alternate shifts that may include weeknights, weekends and holidays 

TRAVEL 

• Minimal 

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS 

• At least 18 years of age, or will be by the anticipated start date listed above

• Valid, state-issued driver's license 

• 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  

• Ability to meet the above typing requirement 

• Ability to read, write and communicate (speak, hear and understand) English 

• Ability to lift and carry up to 30 pounds  

• Ability to visually distinguish colors - red, blue, green, yellow and lunar (clear light) 

• Ability to discriminate and differentiate between verbal and non-verbal sounds (signals, alarms, etc.) in the work environment 

• 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 perform basic functions on a personal computer (PC) 

• Ability to use hands and hand tools to perform activities involving holding, grasping, turning and pulling 

• Ability to occasionally climb ladders and on/off equipment 

• Ability to work at various heights above the ground and over water, including working in a suspended tower and walking on a bridge 

• Ability to bend, walk, stand and sit for several hours with breaks 

• Follow safety policies and procedures and wear the required personal protective equipment required for the job in a safe manner 

TRAINING 

• Company-paid on-the-job training 

RELOCATION 

• Assistance not available 

UNION 

• Transportation Communications Union  

• Dues required per union agreement 

PROBATIONARY PERIOD 

• 60 days 

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.

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 | Admin/Other Trades Transitioning Military  | Operations - Transportation | Fort Madison, IA | 52627