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: Topeka
Other Potential Locations: Topeka, KS 
Anticipated Start Date: 02/24/2025
Number of Positions: 1 
Salary Range: $80,000 - $111,300

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.

Duties / Responsibilities:

Conduct failure analyses on components and materials, working with stakeholders to support specification improvements, warranty claims, and cost recoveries.Conduct new product and new material evaluations for stakeholders to assure specification compliance, improve performance, and decrease life cycle costs.Work with BNSF legal counsel on investigations of materials and equipment involved in personal injury cases. Manage legal documentation and provide legal testimony in a court of law as required.Become proficient in programming, operation, calibration, and repair of laboratory instruments such as data acquisition and recording systems, cyclic testing machines, 3D scanners, 3D printers, ultrasonic inspection arrays, glow discharge spectrometers, fourier transform infra red spectrometer, x-ray diffractometer, unmanned aerial systems.Conduct operation of BNSF research and test cars, including computer operation/data logging, test equipment installation and maintenance, mechanical / electrical / plumbing system operation and maintenance.Become proficient in derailment investigation techniques and procedures. Perform derailment investigation training and assist BNSF field operations employees investigations.Compile, consolidate, and communicate technical findings to internal and external stakeholders.Design and fabricate mechanical and electrical test fixtures for laboratory and field use.Safely and effectively operate and maintain shop tools (band saw, lathe, knee mill, etc)Assist with development and application of new technologies to improve BNSF safety, velocity, and efficiency.Subject to rotating on-call periods for emergency on-site derailment response.

 

Basic Qualifications:

Bachelor degree in Engineering, the Physical Sciences, Computer Science and/or equivalent formal experience/training in laboratory testing, research & development.Working knowledge of physics (electricity, electronics, statics, dynamics, fluid dynamics, metallurgical fundamentals)Basic skills in statistics and data analysisExperience with computer aided design software (CAD)Communications skills to clearly quantify and summarize scientific results for non-technical consumers.Must be able to work in a shop and laboratory environment.Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills. Organizational and time management skills to handle multiple concurrent projects.Ability to work individually or on a team.Must be self-starting and self-directing.

 

Preferred Qualifications:

Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical or Electrical engineeringAdvanced degree (MS or PhD) in Mechanical or Electrical engineeringLicensed professional engineerBasic skills and knowledge of Solidworks CAD systemStrong working knowledge of railroad safety and operationsExperience in a laboratory or testing environment in an analytical capacityExperience in root cause failure analysisBasic knowledge of forensic investigation techniques.Ability to safely operate shop tools (i.e. saw, lathe, mill, welder, 3d printer)Certifications in physical testing, such as ultrasonic testingExperience with sensors and their application (i.e. strain gauge, accelerometers, pressure gauges, cabling, connectors, etc)Working knowledge of electrical power systems (generators, motors, and their controls)Working knowledge of vehicle dynamics (rail, automotive, marine, or aerospace)Computer programming experienceWorking knowledge of microcontrollers, PLC’s or other computer controlsUnderstanding of FRA and AAR regulations and standardsFAA Part 107 UAS certificate.

 

Travel – up to 25%

 

 

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.

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.

SF: MO; Internal Posting Only | [[mfield5]] | Operations - Admin | Topeka, KS | 66607