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Railroad Communication Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Wise Staffing Group

Railroad Labor

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$17/hr

Excellent communication skills to report daily activities accurately. * Must have Valid Drivers license. Benefits: * Competitive hourly wage at $17. * Opportunity to work for a reputable railroad ...

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Railroad Communication information

See Tennessee salary details

$17.7K

$44.5K

$64.4K

How much do railroad communication jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for railroad communication in Tennessee is $44,531.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37,700.00 and $50,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a railroad communication job?

Railroad communication jobs involve managing and maintaining the systems that enable safe and efficient communication between trains, stations, and control centers. These positions can include roles such as signal maintainers, communication technicians, and dispatchers, all of whom ensure that information about train movements, track conditions, and emergencies is accurately transmitted. Responsibilities range from installing and repairing communication equipment to monitoring radio transmissions and coordinating train traffic. Effective communication is crucial for preventing accidents, maintaining schedules, and ensuring the overall safety of railway operations.

How does a railroad communication specialist typically collaborate with train operators and maintenance teams?

A Railroad Communication specialist plays a vital role in ensuring smooth and safe operations by acting as a key liaison between train operators, dispatchers, and maintenance crews. On a daily basis, they are responsible for relaying important information about track conditions, schedules, and emergency procedures using radio systems and other communication tools. This role requires strong coordination skills, as specialists must accurately transmit updates, respond quickly to issues, and maintain detailed records. Effective collaboration helps prevent delays and enhances the safety and efficiency of railroad operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a railroad communication specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Railroad Communication Specialist, you need a solid understanding of communication protocols, radio systems, and safety regulations, often supported by technical training or certification in communications technology. Familiarity with dispatching software, digital radio systems, and railroad signaling equipment is typically required. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and clear verbal communication are vital soft skills for coordinating with train crews and ensuring safety. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining efficient and safe rail operations, minimizing risks, and ensuring timely responses to operational needs.

What is the difference between Railroad Communication vs Signal Maintainer?

AspectRailroad CommunicationSignal Maintainer
Required CertificationsFCC licenses, communication system trainingSignal system certifications, electrical training
Work EnvironmentControl centers, field communication linesRailway tracks, signal equipment sites
Industry UsageRailroads, transit agenciesRailroads, transit systems
Job FocusMaintaining communication systems for train operationsInstalling, repairing, and maintaining signal systems

Railroad Communication professionals focus on maintaining and operating communication systems used for train control and safety, often working in control centers or along tracks. Signal Maintainers specialize in the installation and repair of railway signals and related electrical systems. While both roles support railway safety and require technical certifications, their daily tasks and work environments differ significantly.

What are popular job titles related to Railroad Communication jobs in Tennessee?

For Railroad Communication jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Railroad Communication jobs in Tennessee look for?

The top searched job categories for Railroad Communication jobs in Tennessee are:

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Railroad Communication jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Railroad Communication job openings:

Railroad Communication jobs near you
Infographic showing various Railroad Communication job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 10% Internship, 70% Full Time, and 20% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $44,531 per year, or $21.4 per hour.

Communications Electronic Technician (Chattanooga, TN/Knoxville, TN)

Norfolk Southern Corp.

Chattanooga, TN • On-site

$8.9K/mo

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Requisition 40211: Communications Electronic Technician (Chattanooga, TN/Knoxville, TN) 

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 telecommunications and contribute to the reliability of critical railroad communication systems, we invite you to explore the Communications Electronic Technician Trainee role. 

This hands-on, field-based position prepares individuals for a career in communications maintenance through structured classroom instruction and on-the-job training. Trainees learn to install, inspect, and maintain telecommunications equipment essential for safe and efficient rail operations. 

What Should You Know 

  • This is a seniority-based union position. You will be required to join the designated union within 60 days of establishing seniority. 

  • You must be available to work a 6-day (6th day as standby/on call) schedule with one scheduled rest day. 

  • Extensive travel may be required. 

  • You must obtain a Class A CDL once hired (training provided if needed). 

  • Ability to obtain and maintain an FCC license or NABOR certificate is required after hire. 

Training 

Training includes both classroom and field instruction: 

  • Training : Hires in the Northern Region will report to 1 Week Training in Bellevue, OH, hires in the Southern Region will report to our Training Center in McDonough, GA.  

  • On-the-Job Training (OJT): Up to 1 year to qualify as a Communications Electronic Technician (CET). Possibility to promote sooner based on performance and qualifications. 

  • Evaluations: Periodic written and practical assessments. 

Successful completion of the training program places trainees on the seniority roster and makes them eligible for promotion to Communications Electronic Technician. 

Job Responsibilities 

  • Ensure compliance with all railroad rules and FRA safety regulations. 

  • Install, maintain, replace, and test communication equipment and detectors (Southern agreement) including: radios, digital microwave (MW), RF data link equipment, cables, computers, printers, monitors, telephones, modems, wireless components, security cameras, batteries, connectors, and testing devices. 

  • Install and maintain VHF radios, detectors (Southern agreement), data circuits, automatic equipment identification systems, CCTV, radar, speaker systems, and other communication facilities. 

  • Cut, splice, and pull cable on ground, poles, and towers. 

  • Use trenching equipment to bury cables and equipment. 

  • Manage inventory: receive deliveries, retrieve parts, and transport tools/equipment to job sites. 

  • Install wiring in offices and field locations. 

Qualifications - Required 

  • High school diploma or GED. 

  • Valid driver's license. 

  • 18 years of age or older. 

  • Ability to obtain and maintain FCC (GROL) license or NABOR certificate after hire. 

  • Ability to obtain Class A CDL after hire. 

  • Ability to work a 6-day schedule with one standby day. 

Qualifications - Preferred 

  • FCC General Radiotelephone Operator License. 

  • Two-year technical degree or equivalent experience in network management. 

  • Experience operating heavy equipment. 

Skills and Abilities 

  • Time management and prioritization. 

  • Strong communication skills. 

  • Ability to multi-task and organize work effectively. 

  • Proficiency in MS Excel, Outlook, and Word. 

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 work outdoors in all weather conditions. 

Work Conditions 

  • Outdoor field work in all weather conditions. 

  • On-call and weekend availability required. 

  • Extensive travel may be required. 

  • Union membership required. 

Compensation and Benefits 

Training Pay: 75% of CET hourly rate ($31.61/hr). 

After Promotion: Approximately $8,978.18/month. 

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, and 401(k) eligibility from day one. 

  • Dental and vision coverage after one year of service. 

Company Overview

Since 1827, Norfolk Southern Corporation (NYSE: NSC) and its predecessor companies have safely moved the goods and materials that drive the U.S. economy. Today, it operates a customer-centric and operations-driven freight transportation network. Committed to furthering sustainability, Norfolk Southern helps its customers avoid 15 million tons of yearly carbon emissions by shipping via rail. Its dedicated team members deliver more than 7 million carloads annually, from agriculture to consumer goods, and is the largest rail shipper of auto products and metals in North America. Norfolk Southern also has the most extensive intermodal network in the eastern U.S., serving a majority of the country's population and manufacturing base, with connections to every major container port on the Atlantic coast as well as the Gulf of Mexico and Great Lakes. Learn more by visiting www.NorfolkSouthern.com.

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.

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