Description:

The BNSF Railway Law and Claims Department provides expert in-house counsel and collaborates with outside counsel to ensure the railroad operates safely and meets all legal and contractual obligations. Our licensed attorneys and legal professionals are dedicated to upholding the highest legal compliance standards. Additionally, our specialized Claims team promotes safety, investigates incidents, and resolves them ethically.

BNSF Railway is seeking a qualified attorney to join its Law Department as a General Attorney. This position provides legal support to internal business clients on a range of regulatory and operational matters. The successful candidate will work closely with legal colleagues and business stakeholders to support the company's transportation operations and strategic objectives.

The specific responsibilities of this position may be tailored to align with the selected candidate's experience, skills, and professional background. The final scope of duties will be calibrated based on the successful candidate's qualifications and business needs.

This is a full-time position located in Fort Worth, TX. For certain positions, including this one, employees can work one day per week remotely. Our leaders also foster a culture where work life balance, which requires flexibility for when life happens, is important and respected.

Key responsibilities may include:
  • Provide legal advice to operations leaders regarding administrative, regulatory, and operational health and safety issues arising under the auspices of the Federal Railroad Administration, the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials and Safety Administration, OSHA, and other federal and state agencies involved in oversight of aspects of railroad transportation, as well as related issues arising with state, local, and tribal governments across our network.
  • Prepare, handle, or supervise regulatory filings before various regulatory agencies.
  • Assist in or supervise litigation, arbitration, and administrative proceedings, including coordination with outside counsel and internal stakeholders.
  • Draft, review, and negotiate agreements pertaining to railroad operations.
  • Review and analyze pending federal and state legislation pertaining to railroad operations and safety, support government affairs teams with communications and testimony before legislative committees.
  • Travel domestically and internationally, on occasion.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.
  • Daily work is conducted in an indoor office environment.

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).
  • J.D. Degree
  • Strong academic background
  • Current law license (Texas preferred, but not mandatory)
  • Minimum of two (2) years of experience as a licensed attorney in a law firm, corporate law department, or regulatory agency.
  • Experience with litigation, administrative law, regulatory compliance, internal investigations, or a combination thereof
  • Strong legal research, writing, and communication skills.
  • Ability to manage multiple matters and meet deadlines in a fast‑paced environment.
  • Sound judgment and a practical, business‑focused approach.
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively with individuals at all levels of the organization.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office and online legal research tools.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience in regulated industries, with experience in the railroad industry or DOT modal agencies.
  • Litigation experience involving complex disputes, discovery management, and/or motion and appellate writing.