BNSF is reducing its mechanical workforce in Minot and Mandan.

Amy McBeth, Minneapolis, BNSF public relations director for this region, said, “In response to our customers’ changing business conditions and projected lower demand for rail cars needed to ship commodities, BNSF has made the decision to close three maintenance facilities in Montana and Wyoming and reduce our mechanical workforce there and in several other locations.

“With volumes lower than anticipated due to several factors, including changes in the coal and energy sector, the number of rail cars and locomotives moving on our network and the repairs needed have decreased. Seven employees are impacted in Mandan and six in Minot. The employees in Minot are all carmen.”

Carmen inspect and perform maintenance on rail cars.

McBeth said the employees have been notified.

“We’re working to connect them with available resources,” McBeth said. “We are also offering the option to potentially transfer to a number of open positions at other locations in our network. Employees accepting a job in other locations will receive a relocation package to assist with the move. Some impacted employees will be able to exercise their seniority for these jobs as part of their collective bargaining agreements.”