Are you able to lift 50-85 pounds, work in confined or enclosed spaces, and spend much of your day bending, kneeling, and climbing?
"I read through the physical requirements of this role before applying to BNSF, and rest assured, I can meet the physical requirements of this position. I go to the gym all the time, and when I don't have time for the gym. I lift weights and jump rope at home. I am physically fit and able to meet every requirement of this role. In my current job, I have to crawl into small spaces and spend a lot of my day standing and walking while lifting up to 80 pounds repetitively all day. I don't have any restrictions or phobias as far as heights are concerned, or tight spaces."
For many of the positions at BNSF, the work can be physically demanding. Your interviewer has grown accustomed to interviewing candidates who are capable of meeting the physical requirements of the job, as well as those who want to believe they are up to the task. They are also interested in distinguishing those candidates who are thoroughly familiar with the job requirements and took time to prepare for their interview versus those who are not.
Thoroughly familiarize yourself with the physical expectations of the job, and with what to expect after you are offered a job. Many positions require their employees to "work both indoors and outdoors in extreme weather conditions (hot, cold, rain, snow, and sleet), working in a shop or field environment, climbing ladders, walking on uneven surfaces safely and walking on elevated grated surfaces." Additionally, many will be required to "undergo a Physical Capabilities Test" where you'll perform strength testing both on and off exercise equipment, testing your physical capabilities before risking your safety on the job.
Community answers are written by other candidates practicing this set. Reading how others frame the same question is one of the fastest ways to sharpen your own.
Anonymous Answer
I am able to lift up to 100lbs. I can work in confined spaces while bending and kneeling throughout the day.
Marcie's Feedback
Great! How do you know that you can lift up to 100 lbs? Do you work out and strive to stay physically fit? If this is the case, mention this. Do you have experience lifting these amounts of weight, working in enclosed spaces, and doing a lot of bending, kneeling, and climbing? If so, talk about this as well to show the interviewer that you're definitely capable. Good job!
Anonymous Answer
"I read through the physical requirements of this role before applying to BNSF Railway Company. I can lift heavy objects and do not have restrictions as far as heights, or crawling into tight spaces."
Marcie's Feedback
Nice! It's great that you're able to meet the physical requirements of the role. Do you have any experience doing this sort of work in the past? Do you frequently work out? Mentioning a few additional details that show you have a track record in this area will further strengthen your answer.
Unlock all 30 BNSF Railway Company questions
Master safety-focused questions that BNSF interviewers use to assess railroad readiness.
Get Started