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: Seattle
Other Potential Locations: Seattle, WA 
Anticipated Start Date: 01/13/2025
Number of Positions: 1 
Salary Range: approx. $36.68/hr

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 our Engineering Department means contributing to the backbone of our nation’s rail infrastructure. A Bridge Control Operator ensures the safe, efficient operation of movable bridges, coordinating with dispatchers, vessel operators, and maintenance crews to maintain railroad fluidity and reliability.

This is a full-time (40hrs/wk) position and is subject to on-call (24/7), overtime, nights, alternating shifts, weekends, and holidays. Bridges may be staffed 24/7.

Travel is minimal.

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: 

Operating Railroad Drawbridges/Movable Bridges and authorizing railroad movements across them, lifting or swinging drawbridges for the safe passage of vessels or trains, requiring communication via telephone and two-way radio.

Coordinating Marine and Railroad Traffic to include with Maintenance of Way, Electricians, and Structures personnel, and protecting personnel and equipment during train movement.

Issuing written or verbal permission for railroad movement and operating railroad and marine radios, ensuring proper communication for train movement.

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.  

BNSF prioritizes safety as a core value of how we do business. Our employees engage in daily safety conversations to achieve our vision. In addition, they must adhere to safety regulations, rules, and policies, including wearing safety equipment, responding to concerns, and taking action in emergencies. 

Relocation assistance is not available and there is a 60-day probationary period. 

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 in the US without company sponsorship now AND in the future. 
• I am at least 18 years of age or older or will be by the anticipated start date listed in the job description.                 
• Ability to report for duty at the designated work location.  
• Able to read, write and communicate (speak, hear, and understand) English.         
• Able to lift and carry up to 50 pounds without assistance.  
• Possess a valid state-issued driver’s license.          
• Meet hearing and visual acuity standards, including being able to visually distinguish among red, blue, green, and yellow colors.                  
• Able to use hands to perform activities involving holding, grasping, turning, and pulling.  
• Able to perform work at various heights above the ground and over water including working in an elevated tower and walking on a bridge to perform routine inspection and maintenance. 
• Able to climb ladders and on/off equipment.  
• Able to bend, lift, work, walk, stand, and sit in confined spaces for extended periods of time and use hand and power tools.  
• Must pass the required Bridge Control Operator and Maintenance of Way Rules examinations.

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

Seniority district transfers are handled per union agreement, are seniority based and are permitted once during apprenticeship period with seniority forfeited upon transfer. 

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 Admin/Other Trades  | Operations – Engineering | Seattle, WA | 98107