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Rail Signal Electrician Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Traction Power Electrician

Saint Louis, MO ยท On-site

$24.25 - $33.25/hr

Traction Power Electrician Full Time 35.19 - 35.19 (Hourly) Benefits * Join a company committed to ... rail system such as wayside signal and traincontrol systems including highway grade crossing ...

Signal Specialist

Manhattan, NY ยท On-site

$130K - $190K/yr

Comstock & Company LLC is one of the largest specialty electrical contractors for transit rail ... Supervise foreman and electricians with groundwork installations, wiring & testing. * Maintain ...

Traction Power Electrician

Saint Louis, MO ยท On-site

$24.25 - $33.25/hr

Traction Power Electrician Full Time 35.19 - 35.19 (Hourly) Benefits * Join a company committed to ... rail system such as wayside signal and traincontrol systems including highway grade crossing ...

Electrician

Saint Louis, MO

$35.19 - $37.15/hr

... rail system such as wayside signal and train control systems including highway grade crossing ... Considerable experience as a fully qualified electrician with railroad or transit traction power ...

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Rail Signal Electrician information

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$5

$29

$44

How much do rail signal electrician jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for rail signal electrician in the United States is $29.60, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $38.22 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a rail signal electrician?

Rail Signal Electricians are skilled tradespeople who install, maintain, and repair the electrical signaling systems used on railways. These systems control train movements, ensuring the safe and efficient operation of trains by managing track signals, switches, and automated warning devices. Rail Signal Electricians work on both the hardware and wiring of these systems, performing regular inspections and troubleshooting faults to prevent accidents and delays. Their work is vital for railway safety and requires strong technical knowledge of electronics and railway regulations.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a rail signal electrician?

To thrive as a Rail Signal Electrician, you need in-depth knowledge of electrical systems, signaling principles, and safety regulations, typically supported by an electrical apprenticeship or relevant certification. Familiarity with signal testing equipment, fault-finding tools, wiring diagrams, and systems like relay-based or electronic interlocking is crucial. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective teamwork are standout soft skills in this field. These competencies ensure the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of railway signaling systems, which is critical for train safety and network performance.

What are common challenges faced by rail signal electricians?

Rail Signal Electricians often work in outdoor environments and must be prepared to handle challenging weather conditions and irregular hours, including nights and weekends. The role requires strict adherence to safety protocols due to the proximity to active rail lines and high-voltage equipment. Additionally, troubleshooting complex signal systems under time pressure to minimize rail service disruptions can be demanding. Collaboration with other rail operations and maintenance teams is essential to ensure safe and efficient train movement.

What is the difference between Rail Signal Electrician vs Signal Maintainer?

AspectRail Signal ElectricianSignal Maintainer
CertificationsElectrical licenses, industry-specific trainingElectrical certifications, specialized signal system training
Work EnvironmentRail yards, tunnels, outdoor tracksTrackside, control centers, outdoor environments
Industry UsageDesign, install, repair railway signaling systemsMaintain and troubleshoot signaling equipment

Rail Signal Electricians and Signal Maintainers both work with railway signaling systems, often sharing certifications and working environments. The main difference lies in their focus: Electricians typically handle installation and electrical repairs, while Maintainers focus on ongoing system upkeep and troubleshooting.

More about Rail Signal Electrician jobs
Infographic showing various Rail Signal Electrician job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,577 per year, or $29.6 per hour.

Electrical Apprentice Signal Trainee (Chattanooga, TN)

Norfolk Southern Corp.

Chattanooga, TN โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 2 days ago


Job description

Requisition 40170: Electrical Apprentice Signal Trainee (Chattanooga, TN)
We are accepting applications to build a pipeline of qualified candidates for upcoming hiring needs. Candidates who successfully complete the hiring process may be considered for training classes between late 2026 and mid-2027, based on business needs and location availability.
Description
At Norfolk Southern, we believe that our people power progress. Our culture is built on our SPIRIT values-Safety, Performance, Integrity, Respect, Innovation, and Teamwork-which guide how we work, lead, and grow together. If you're ready to launch a career in railroad signal maintenance and contribute to the safety and reliability of train operations, we invite you to explore the Apprentice Signal Trainee role.
This hands-on, field-based position prepares individuals for a career in signal maintenance through structured classroom instruction and on-the-job training. Apprentice Signal Trainees learn to install, inspect, and maintain signal systems that are critical to safe and efficient rail operations.
What Should You Know
  • This is a seniority-based union position. You will be required to bid on available positions, which may be located outside your training location. Relocation may be necessary based on the outcome of the bid process. Relocation assistance is not provided for this position.
  • You must be available to work on-call, 24/7, including holidays, nights and weekends.
  • Extensive travel is required during training (up to 75%).
  • You will be required to join the Brotherhood of Railroad Signalmen (BRS) within 60 days of establishing seniority.
  • You must obtain a Class A CDL within 90 days of hire (training provided by Norfolk Southern)

Training
Training lasts approximately 52 weeks and includes both classroom and field instruction.
Click on the link below to learn more about our training program:
https://vimeo.com/871474435/990fe84216
  • Classroom Training: Three sessions (3 weeks each) at the NS Training Center in McDonough, GA. Hotel accommodations, mileage reimbursement, and meal stipends provided.
  • Field Training: Hands-on experience with construction and maintenance crews across your seniority district.
  • Evaluations: Periodic written and practical assessments.

Successful completion of the training program places apprentices on the seniority roster and makes them eligible to bid on Signal Maintainer position.
Seniority Districts:
  • Eastern Region North (ERN)
  • Norfolk & Western (NW)
  • Southern Lines East (SLE)
  • Southern Lines West (SLW)
  • WRE (Western Region East (WRE)
  • Western Region West (WRW)

A detailed overview of the seniority districts is available in the following video: https://statics.teams.cdn.office.net/evergreen-assets/safelinks/2/atp-safelinks.html
Job Responsibilities
  • Perform FRA-required inspections and testing of signal systems and grade crossings.
  • Install, maintain, and repair signal equipment including signal lights, switch machines, and electrical switch locks
  • Crossing warning devices and interlocking systems
  • Positive Train Control (PTC) and cab signal systems
  • Read and interpret electrical schematics and technical diagrams.
  • Operate hand tools, electrical testing instruments, and heavy equipment
  • Accurately document inspections, repairs, and installations.
  • Work safely in outdoor environments under varying weather conditions.
  • Respond to on-call assignments, including nights and weekends.

Qualifications - Required
  • You must be 18 years or older.
  • High school diploma or GED.
  • Valid driver's license and reliable transportation.
  • You must obtain a Class A CDL within 90 days of hire (training provided by Norfolk Southern)
  • This includes passing a commercial driver medical certification examination.
  • Must pass pre-employment Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) drug and alcohol screening.
  • Must not have a conviction for, or completed state action to cancel, revoke, suspend, or deny a motor vehicle drivers license for, operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of or impaired by alcohol or a controlled substance
  • In the past 36 months, Must not have conviction for, or completed state action to cancel, revoke, suspend, or deny a motor vehicle driver's license for, refusal to undergo such testing as is required by State or foreign law when a law enforcement official seeks to determine whether a person is operating a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or a controlled substance
  • Must be legally authorized to work in the U.S.

Qualifications - Preferred
  • Technical certificate or associate degree in Electrical Technology, Electronics Engineering, or related field.
  • OSHA 10/30, First Aid/CPR, TWIC card.
  • 1-2 years in electrical, mechanical, or field service work.
  • Strong mechanical and electrical aptitude.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Proficient in basic computer applications (Excel, Word, Outlook).
  • Effective time management and communication skills.

Physical and Mental Job Requirements
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs.
  • Capable of climbing, bending, stooping, and working at heights.
  • Ability to walk long distances on uneven terrain.
  • Must pass FRA/FMCSA physical standards including:
  • Visual acuity (at least 20/40 in each eye separately and both together with or without corrective lenses).
  • Color vision (must pass FRA-approved tests; lenses to improve color vision are not permitted).
  • Hearing (no hearing loss greater than 40B average at 500, 1000, and 2000 Hz in better ear; may be met with hearing aid).

Work Conditions
  • Outdoor field work in all weather conditions.
  • Extensive travel during training (up to 75%).
  • On-call and weekend availability required.
  • Union membership required (BRS).

Compensation and Benefits
  • Weeks 1-3 (Classroom): $1,200 /week
  • Apprentice Periods:
  • First 130 days: $36.48/hr
  • Second 130 days: $36.85/hr
  • Post-Apprenticeship (Signal Maintainer): $37.98/hr+

Benefits Include:
  • Medical coverage begins the first day of the second month after hire
  • Health insurance (80/20 or 85/15 plan)
  • $20,000 life insurance
  • 401(k) eligibility from day one
  • Dental and vision coverage after one year of service

Company Overview
Norfolk Southern Corporation (NYSE: NSC) is a Fortune 300 organization and one of the nation's premier transportation companies. Its Norfolk Southern Railway Company subsidiary operates approximately 19,500 route miles in 22 states and the District of Columbia, serves every major container port in the eastern United States, and provides efficient connections to other rail carriers. Norfolk Southern is a major transporter of industrial products, including chemicals, agriculture, and metals and construction materials. In addition, the railroad operates the most extensive intermodal network in the East and is a principal carrier of coal, automobiles, and automotive parts.
At Norfolk Southern, we believe in celebrating our individuality. By leveraging the unique backgrounds and viewpoints of our employees, we can create a culture of innovation, respect, and inclusion. We know that employees thrive in a workplace where differing viewpoints, ideas, and experiences are freely shared and valued. As such, we encourage all employees to contribute their distinctive skills and capabilities to our organization.
Equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants regardless of race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetic information, veteran status, sexual orientation, and gender identity. Together, we power progress.