Mechanical Foreman I - LOCO - Chicago, IL

Job Title

We are committed to a culture where all employees are included, belong, and have equal opportunity to achieve their full potential.

Job Location: Chicago Other Potential Locations: Chicago, IL Anticipated Start Date: 07/16/2026 Number of Positions: 1 Salary Range: $101,700 Salary Band: 28

Communication with applicants may be done via email. Please check your email daily.

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 BNSF Railway Mechanical Department is responsible for maintaining and improving the performance of our large fleet of locomotives and railcars. You will utilize your technical expertise to guarantee the reliability and safety of our equipment through thorough inspections, repairs, and preventive maintenance. Join our team and help support the foundation of efficient and successful rail transportation, ensuring that BNSF continues as a leader in the industry.

This is a full-time position. Shift, weekend and holiday work is required.

Travel may be required for this position.

Training for this position is on the job.

Key responsibilities may include:

• Directly supervise shop craft employees to safely execute terminal or shop operating plan.
• Ensure labor and equipment is positioned to inspect, test and repair equipment to meet the needs of the daily plan.
• Prepare and conduct job safety briefings with all employees.
• Provide periodic updates to General Foreman to ensure daily plan requirements are met.
• Schedule repairs away from terminal to ensure equipment is returned to service quickly.
• Provide technical support to apprentice employees.
• Provide information to assess equipment damage and derailment recovery processes.
• Ensure compliance with BNSF's employment policies, safety rules, scheduled agreements and Association of American Railroads (AAR)/Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) regulations.
• Conduct operational testing to support safety action plans.
• Relocation assistance is available.

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).
• Must be proficient in coordinating information from several sources to move cars and locomotives.
• Must supervise and motivate scheduled (union represented) employees.
• Candidate must demonstrate initiative and decisiveness and be able to inspire others to excel.
• Must have basic accounting and computer skills and possess technical ability to conduct analysis of computer generated reports.
• Must be able to work well under pressure and tight deadlines and handle conflict resolution.
• Capable of working in a shop or field environment, climbing ladders and walking on uneven surfaces safely.
• First Line Supervisor (FLS) certified.
• Ability to visually distinguish colors - red, blue, green, yellow.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Basic knowledge of locomotive and/or freight car maintenance practices including American Association of Railroads (AAR), Federal Railroad Association (FRA) equipment repair regulations and BNSF Policies and Procedures.
• Bachelor's degree.
• Candidate must have previous mechanical department or equivalent industry experience.
• Basic knowledge of railroad craft union agreements.
• Basic skills in the use of Microsoft desktop applications including Excel, Word and Power Point.
• Basic knowledge of company operations relative to the Mechanical Department.

At BNSF, you will have access to a comprehensive and competitive benefits package including:

• An industry-leading 401(k) and renowned Railroad Retirement program.
• A range of robust health care options for you and your dependents (including domestic partners), including medical, dental, vision, telemedicine, mental health, cancer support, and high-quality care network options.
• Health care spending accounts (HSA) with employer contributions, as well as life and disability insurance, provided at no cost.
• Family benefits including parental, pediatric and family building support, adoption and surrogacy reimbursement, and dependent care spending account (with employer match).
• Access to discounts on travel, gym memberships, counseling services and wellness support.
• Annual bonus (Incentive Compensation Program)
• Generous leave / time off policies.
• For more information, visit Benefits.

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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

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.