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: Cicero
Other Potential Locations: Corwith, IL; Cicero, IL 
Anticipated Start Date: 03/16/2026
Number of Positions: 14 
Salary Range: Entry pay rate is $29.30/hr; Full rate is $34.47/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.

The Intermodal Department of BNSF Railway specializes in the transportation of shipping containers and truck trailers, facilitating efficient and flexible movement of goods across various transportation modes including rail, truck, and ship. This department leverages an extensive network of intermodal facilities and strategic partnerships to streamline logistics and reduce transit times for customers.

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

Travel is minimal.

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

Key responsibilities may include: 

The position has 3 levels of graduated proficiency handling intermodal equipment in railroad intermodal facility.  Intermodal Equipment Operators may perform one level primarily; all Operators are expected to perform other levels as needed.  Operate heavy equipment: cranes, side-loaders, forklifts, hostler trucks.

Ground Support Workers assist Crane/Lift Operators with loading and unloading on railcars and chassis, handling Interbox connectors up to 16 lbs, setting container pedestals up to 50 lbs, and managing trailer hitches.

Hostler Truck Operators operate heavy trucks (up to 65,000 lbs) with trailing units in the yard, maneuvering tight spaces, using on-board computers to communicate with management, and handling railcar spotting and chassis management.

Crane/Lift Equipment Operators operate cranes or similar equipment to lift 20-57 ft trailers and containers, weighing up to 65,000 lbs, on/off railcars and intermodal chassis. 

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 an 8-month 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: 

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

• Able to work in the US without company sponsorship now AND in the future. 

• Read, write and communicate (speak, hear and understand) English. 

• Able to work outdoors in all weather conditions. 

• Able to work full-time (40 hrs/wk) subject to overtime, nights, on-call (24/7), weekends, holidays.

• Lift/carry up to 50 lbs. 

• Possess a valid state-issued driver's license. 

• Able to visually distinguish colors - red, blue, green, yellow; hear, and with training, distinguish auditory signals. 

• Accurately input data in computer systems 

• Able to use hands to perform activities involving holding, grasping, turning and pulling. 

• Able to perform work on uneven surfaces; frequently climb on/off equipment. 

• Able to work in conditions with loud noise and fumes; work on/around heavy/moving machinery; bend, walk, stand, sit for extended time and use hand tools. 

Union membership is with the Transportation Communications International Union (TCU) 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 | Cicero, IL | 60632