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Railway Signal Maintainer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Minnesota Commercial Railway

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Signal Maintainer

Saint Paul, MN · On-site

$26 - $38/hr

The Signal Maintainer is responsible for the upkeep and functionality of railway signaling systems, ensuring safety and operational compliance. This role primarily involves independent work ...

Pratt Railway Services Inc

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Signal Maintainer

Westborough, MA · On-site

$60K - $80K/yr

Automatic Block Signal Systems Rail-Highway Grade Crossing Protection Signal Systems. · Construct ... The work of a signal maintainer performing test and inspections, or the work of a signal ...

CDL Electric

Railroad Signal Technician

Venice, FL · On-site

Railroad Signal Maintainer in the Venice, FL area Incentives Include: * Company vehicle, laptop, and cell phone provided. * Wages are negotiable as per experience. Benefits Include : * Health, dental ...

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How much do railway signal maintainer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for railway signal maintainer in the United States is $73,848.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55,000.00 and $90,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a railway signal maintainer?

Railway Signal Maintainers are skilled technicians responsible for installing, inspecting, maintaining, and repairing the signaling equipment and systems used on railways. Their work ensures that train signals, switches, and safety mechanisms function correctly, which is crucial for safe and efficient railway operations. These professionals often work outdoors and may be required to respond to emergencies or perform maintenance during off-hours to minimize service disruptions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a railway signal maintainer?

To thrive as a Railway Signal Maintainer, you need strong knowledge of electrical systems, mechanical aptitude, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent with technical training. Familiarity with diagnostic tools, circuit testing equipment, and railway signaling systems is essential, and some employers may require specific certifications in railway safety or electrical work. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure that signaling equipment operates reliably, which is vital for rail safety and minimizing service disruptions.

What are some of the common challenges faced by railway signal maintainers during their daily work?

Railway Signal Maintainers often work outdoors in all weather conditions and may be required to respond to urgent maintenance issues at any time, including nights and weekends. A key challenge is troubleshooting complex electrical and mechanical systems under time pressure to ensure train operations remain safe and on schedule. Additionally, strict safety procedures must be followed, and maintainers frequently collaborate with train dispatchers and other maintenance crews to coordinate work without disrupting service. Adaptability and attention to detail are vital in addressing unexpected technical problems efficiently.

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

AspectRailway Signal MaintainerRailway Electrician
CredentialsTypically requires technical certifications or apprenticeships in signaling systemsRequires electrical certifications or licenses, often with similar technical training
Work EnvironmentPrimarily on railway tracks, signal boxes, and control centersOn railway infrastructure, electrical systems, and sometimes in maintenance shops
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly employed by railway companies to maintain signaling equipmentEmployed by railway companies and contractors for electrical system maintenance

The Railway Signal Maintainer and Railway Electrician roles share technical skills and work environments related to railway infrastructure. However, signal maintainers focus specifically on signaling systems, while electricians handle broader electrical systems. Both roles are essential for railway safety and operations, often requiring similar certifications and working in overlapping environments.

How long is railway signal maintainer training?

Railway signal maintainers typically undergo several months of training, which includes classroom instruction, hands-on practice, and safety procedures. Training duration can vary depending on the employer and the complexity of the signaling systems involved, but it generally lasts from three to six months before they are fully qualified to perform maintenance independently.

How to become a railway signal maintainer?

To become a railway signal maintainer, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by technical training or an apprenticeship in electrical or electronic systems. Relevant skills include knowledge of signaling equipment, troubleshooting, and safety procedures, and some positions may require certifications or licenses depending on the employer or region.
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Railway Signal Maintainer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Railway Signal Maintainer job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 33% As Needed, and 67% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $73,848 per year, or $35.5 per hour.

Railroad Signal Maintainer

Janesville, WI • On-site

CDL Electric
See more jobs at CDL Electricexternal

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 26 days ago

Job description

Signal Technician in the Madison, WI area

Incentives Include:

  • Company vehicle, laptop, and cell phone provided.
  • Wages are negotiable as per experience.

Benefits Include:

  • Health, dental, vision, and 401-K plan.
  • Employer paid long term disability and life insurance for all full-time employees.
  • Paid holidays after 60 days of employment.
  • Employee referral bonuses
Summary
A Railroad Signal Maintainer for CDL is responsible for testing, maintaining and improving signal systems at grade crossings and way-side signal locations in accordance with FRA and CDL standards. Alacrity, Dependability, Pride, Ownership, Teamwork and having a Safety Mindset are the hallmarks of a top performer in this job class.
A signal maintainer will be evaluated in 5 basic areas:
  • Safety
  • Maintenance & Improvements
  • Testing & Inspections
  • Trouble Calls & Troubleshooting
  • Team Player

Preferred Experiences:

  • Knowledge of basic electronics and electrical fundamentals with an emphasis in low-voltage AC & DC circuits and relay or ladder logic. Must be able to read wiringdiagrams and use multi-meter.
  • Knowledge of rail operations generally and railroad signaling principals specifically. The focus of a signal maintainer will be grade crossing warning systems, defect detectors andAEI readers and possibly radio communications.
  • Signal maintaining is a largely independent job thus good time management and personal initiative are essential.
  • Must be proficient with a personal computer and the MS Office line of products.
  • High school diploma or GED equivalent unless otherwise approved by upper management.
  • Relatable experience in HVAC, Avionics, Communications, Motor Control and PLCs will also be evaluated as requirements for the job. Responsible for testing, maintaining, and improving grade crossing warning, AEI, or defect detector systems on an assigned territory. Follow regulations and testing procedures as set forth in the Blue Book.
  • Willing to be On-Call much of the time and respond to dispatch and supervisor Trouble Calls in a timely manner.
  • Understand and comply with FRA rules and regulations around railroad signaling, including the Hours-of-Service Law.
  • Be responsible for all paperwork and retention schedules. Paperwork can include testing records, HOS forms, timesheets, material handling forms and trouble tickets. The responsibility for complete and accurate testing records and HOS documentation may continue after separation from CDL; voluntary or involuntary.
  • Foster good relationships with local railroad customers and supplier.
  • Be a team player willing to help on other territories and railroads. Assist with special projects, when assigned.
  • Responsible for the safety of themselves and those around them. Reports any unsafe conditions that may exist.
  • Keep company vehicle, equipment, tools and meters in good working order, following all maintenance and calibration schedules.
  • Responsible for implementing strategies to maximize profitability in their area of responsibility.
  • Other duties assigned by leadership team.
  • Demonstrate and attain CDL Core Values: SAFETY, PEOPLE, INTEGRITY, ACCOUNTABILITY, AND EXCELLENCE
  • Demonstrate and attain CDL Core Focus: CUSTOMER SERVICE

Physical Demands:

  • Standing, walking, bending, kneeling and/or sitting for long periods of time.
  • Climbing ladders to reach ceilings and other high objects.
  • Push/Pull/Lift/Moving 50 pounds repeatedly.
  • Working in adverse weather conditions.
  • Walk and stand on uneven surfaces

Apply