Signals & Communications Apprentice

Job Description

The Signals and Communications Apprentice (S&C) is responsible for installing, repairing, testing, and maintaining various signals and communications systems and apparatuses, including railway signaling systems, wayside information systems, and highway grade crossing protection systems.

Working Conditions

•          Must be available for shift work, including weekends and nights.
•          Work is performed outdoors, sometimes in extreme weather conditions and on uneven terrain and surfaces.
•          Regular exposure to dust, pollen, fumes, noise, and vibrations.
•          Must meet medical fitness for duty requirements.
•          Ability to grasp and work at heights and elevations.
•          Able to perform repetitive physical activities.
•          Must be able to lift and carry up to 50 pounds frequently, and up to 85 pounds occasionally.
•          Must be available to work away from home in isolated locations.

Major Responsibilities

•  Install, repair, maintain, test, and inspect signal systems and apparatus, including automatic blocks, traffic controls, train stops, train controls, cab signals, and interlocking systems.
•  Perform construction duties, including digging holes and trenches to lay cables, wiring apparatus, setting piers, and installing equipment.
•  Perform highway grade crossing protection and automatic classification yards.
•  Use a wide variety of hand tools, bonding rail, and testing signal plans, including on track high-rail equipment and test instruments to bury cable and wire equipment.
•          Ensure a safe working environment by following CN’s safety policies and procedures.

Requirements

•          Grade 12 Diploma or General Educational Development (GED)
•          Successful completion of CN’s apprenticeship program, including in-class theory and laboratory work, as well as hands-on skill development in the field
•          Valid Driver’s License
•          Valid Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)
•          Must be at least 18 years of age.
•          Collaborates and maintains positive interactions with others.
•          Ability to work independently, well organized, and maintain schedules.
•          Ability to understand and apply electrical, electronic, and mechanical principles.
•          Ability to follow company safety procedures, apply critical thinking, and maintain safety awareness.
•          Capable of making effective decisions in unfamiliar locations and when responding to changes, as well as interruptions in work processes
•          Ability to judge the condition of objects and parts for wear and defects.
•          Meet established standards of quality, productivity, and client satisfaction.
•          Hand-eye coordination
•          Good climbing and balancing skills for performing installation and maintenance activities.
•          Knowledge of signals or Rail Operating Rules
•          Basic computer knowledge

Assets

•          Completion of a Bachelor’s Degree, or a 2- or 3-year College level program in Electronics, Engineering or other related field such as Physics or Mathematics **

What We Offer

• Competitive Wages, Benefits, and Pension Plan
• Paid Training and Career Development
• Medical, vision, and dental insurance
• 24/7 Telemedicine Service
• Employee Share Investment Plan
• Educational Financial Assistance Program
• Employee Resource Groups (ERGs)
• Extensive Employee Discount Program
• Employee & Family Assistance Program (EFAP)

This position is a unionized position, as such pay and benefits are governed by the applicable Collective Agreement.