Dispatcher Trainee (Fort Worth, TX)

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: Fort Worth
Other Potential Locations: Fort Worth, TX 
Anticipated Start Date: 02/22/2027
Number of Positions: 18 
Salary Range: Entry rate is approx. $202.53/day, with an average annual salary of $99,561 - $140,0000

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 Transportation Department means ensuring efficient and safe freight movement through advanced technology, real-time data coordination, and rigorous safety protocols.  As a part of this team, the Dispatcher Trainee position coordinates train movements, optimizing traffic flow, and ensuring timely maintenance, which contributes to maintaining safety, efficiency, and reliability in railroad operations.

This is a full-time (40hrs/wk) position, subject to on-call, overtime, nights, alternating shifts, weekends, and holidays. Shifts are governed by union agreement and subject to seniority.

Compensation is approximately $202.53 per day during the 12-week classroom training period. After classroom training, dispatchers are subject to the negotiated entry rate schedule. Entry rates are 75% of the full rate of pay for the first 12 months; 80% for the next 12 months; 85% year 3; 90% year 4; 95% year 5; 100% year 6 and beyond. While training during the probationary period, dispatchers earn 80% of their applicable entry rate per 8-hour shift. When working a shift without a trainer, they earn 100% of their applicable entry rate. Probationary dispatchers must successfully complete 90 solo shifts to achieve train dispatcher qualification. The current full rate of pay is $539.72 per 8-hour shift, as determined by the collective bargaining agreement.

Travel is minimal.

Training for this position is company-paid on-the-job and classroom training.

Key responsibilities may include: 

Ensure the safe and efficient movement of trains over an assigned district in accordance with BNSF's operating and safety rules.

Optimizing track inspection, repair and improvement time of railroad track structure and signals for maximum maintenance efficiency.

Analytically planning and managing assigned territory.

Maintaining detailed records of train movements and track maintenance schedules using a variety manual processes and computerized software. 

Daily work is conducted in a safety sensitive environment where the working conditions can include indoor, fast-paced, pressure filled work environment with changing priorities.  

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 probation period is 90 days (not consecutive) working solo without train dispatcher supervision. 

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 18 years of age or will be by the start date listed above.       
• High School Diploma or GED.                           
• Must have 4-year degree or equivalent combination of post high school education and/or work/military experience. 
• Able to work safely in the above working conditions. 
• Able to work the above shift/hours.  
• Ability to report for duty at the designated work location.                                            
• Able to read, write and communicate (speak, hear, and understand) English, as well as issue oral instructions clearly and accurately using a variety of communication devices. 
• Able to visually distinguish among colors on a computer display screen and distinguish specific auditory information from background and/or competing sounds.                        
• Able to sustain concentration on processing multiple information inputs for extended periods of time.                                  
• Able to sit for extended periods of time.                                                                              

Union membership is with the American Train Dispatchers Association (ADTA) 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 | Admin/Other Trades Transitioning Military  | Operations - Transportation | Fort Worth, TX | 76131