A bearing assembly for an induction machine, such as an alternating current motor, includes a magnetic bearing for supporting a rotating shaft. An auxiliary bearing, also supporting the shaft in the event of magnetic bearing failure, is aligned with the motor end shield and frame so that shaft loads supported thereby are transferred to the frame in a manner that reduces likelihood of magnetic bearing contact with the shaft or its deformation. The bearing assembly may incorporate shock absorbing and vibration damping/isolation elements, such as o-rings, between the auxiliary bearing and its support structure interface to the frame. The auxiliary bearing may be incorporated in a removable cartridge for ease of machine maintenance. The bearing assembly may include heat dissipating fins.