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Mechanic Diesel Engine-Richmond CA - Military Veterans

at BNSF Railway

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: Richmond
Other Potential Locations: Richmond, CA 
Anticipated Start Date: 12/16/2024
Number of Positions: 2 
Salary Range: Pay rate $34.50 - $41.07/hr with annual pay of $71,757.50 - $85,425.60 with 3 - 5 years seniority.

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 the Mechanical Department offers you the opportunity to be part of a dedicated team focused on safety, efficiency, and continuous improvement. The Mechanic Diesel Engine position involves maintaining and repairing diesel engines for optimal performance and safety.

This is a full-time job (40 hrs/wk), subject to seniority and governed by union agreement. Also subject to work overtime, nights, different shifts, weekends, and holidays. Mechanical shops operate 24 hours/day, 7 days/week with three 8-hour shifts.

Travel is minimal. 

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

Key responsibilities may include:  

Inspecting, repairing, and maintaining engines and mechanical components of diesel locomotives that include repair running gears (wheels, springs, hangers, and brake rigging traction motors). 

Test and restore brake systems, safety appliances, couplers, draft systems, air compressors, safety valves, lube oil pumps filter systems, fuel systems, radiators, and shutters. 

Install, disassemble, assemble, repair, or replace locomotive diesel engine components. 

Perform scheduled and preventative maintenance on tools and equipment, inspect locomotive components and diagnose malfunctions in diesel engines, air equipment and trucks. 

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 a 60-calendar day probationary period for new hires and 122 workday probationary period for apprentices.  

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.
  • 18 years of age or will be by the anticipated start date listed above.
  • Ability to report for duty at the designated work location. 
  • Able to work safely in the above working conditions. 
  • Able to work the above shift/hours. 
  • Ability to read, write and communicate (speak, hear, and understand) English. 
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs. 
  • Possess a valid state-issued driver’s license. 
  • Ability to visually distinguish colors - red, blue, green, yellow. 
  • Ability to differentiate between verbal and non-verbal sounds (signals, alarms, etc.) and discriminate (comprehend) verbal communication in the work environment.
  • Ability to use hands and use hand tools to perform activities involving holding, grasping, turning, and pulling. 
  • Ability to climb ladders and get on/off equipment. 
  • Ability to occasionally work at various heights above the ground, including working on top of a locomotive. 
  • Ability to bend, walk, stand, and sit occasionally with breaks. 
  • Follow safety policies and procedures; wear the required personal protective equipment.  

 Union membership is with the International Association of Machinist and Aerospace Workers 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.

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 | Mechanical Transitioning Military  | Operations - Mechanical | Richmond, CA | 94807 

Richmond, CA

BNSF Railway

At BNSF, we salute your service, value your skills and welcome your unique experience and talents. Since 2005, BNSF has hired more than 9,000 U.S. military veterans.

BNSF actively seeks candidates with military experience and offers rewarding career opportunities, competitive pay, benefits, training, and advancement opportunities to transitioning service members, veterans, and members of National Guard and Reserves. 

Today's BNSF Railway is the product of nearly 400 different railroad lines that merged or were acquired over the course of 160 years.

While many different railroads combined to form BNSF, the people who worked at those railroads shared many traits. The people who built BNSF were — and continue to be — a unique breed, blending the forward-thinking of dreamers with the pragmatism of results-oriented business leaders.

This heritage played a central role in settling and growing the American West, and today, BNSF continues to have a significant impact in meeting the needs of shippers and serving the economy.

Find out how your military experience relates to career opportunities at BNSF. Be sure to read our important military tips on how to complete your application.

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