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Railway Signal Maintainer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

CDL Electric

Railroad Signal Maintainer

Alma, MI

Railroad Signal Maintainer - Alma, Michigan area Incentives Include: * Company vehicle, laptop, and cell phone provided. * Wages are negotiable as per experience. Benefits Include : * Health, dental ...

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Railway Signal Maintainer information

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$25K

$73.8K

$133K

How much do railway signal maintainer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 1, 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 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.

What does a railroad signal maintainer do?

A railroad signal maintainer is responsible for inspecting, repairing, and maintaining railway signals and related equipment to ensure safe and efficient train operations. They work with electrical and mechanical systems, often using specialized tools, and may need certifications in electrical work or safety procedures. The role requires attention to detail and adherence to safety standards in a railway environment.

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.

How much do signal maintainers make at BNSF?

Signal maintainers at BNSF typically earn an average annual salary between $60,000 and $80,000, depending on experience, location, and certifications. They are responsible for inspecting, repairing, and maintaining railway signaling systems, often working in various weather conditions and on a flexible schedule.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Railway Signal Maintainer, and why are they important?

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 is the salary of railway signal engineer?

The salary of a railway signal maintainer or engineer typically ranges from $50,000 to $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Skilled workers with specialized knowledge of signaling systems and safety protocols tend to earn higher wages, often supplemented by overtime and benefits.

How much do railroad maintenance workers make?

Railway signal maintainers typically earn between $50,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and union agreements. They often work in environments requiring technical skills and may need certifications in signal systems or safety procedures.

What are Railway Signal Maintainers?

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.
More about Railway Signal Maintainer jobs
What cities are hiring for Railway Signal Maintainer jobs? Cities with the most Railway Signal Maintainer job openings:
What states have the most Railway Signal Maintainer jobs? States with the most job openings for Railway Signal Maintainer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Railway Signal Maintainer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Railway Signal Maintainer jobs are:
Railway Signal Maintainer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Railway Signal Maintainer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 5% As Needed, 91% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $73,848 per year, or $35.5 per hour.

Railroad Signal Maintainer

CDL Electric

Alma, MI

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

Railroad Signal Maintainer - Alma, Michigan 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. *This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a TWIC card.
A signal maintainer will be evaluated in 5 basic areas:
  • Safety
  • Maintenance & Improvements
  • Testing & Inspections
  • Trouble Calls & Troubleshooting
  • Team Player

Required 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 wiring
    diagrams 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 and
    AEI 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

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