ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Signal Apprentice Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

STR

Senior Signal Processing Researcher

Arlington, VA

$139K - $170K/yr

As a Senior Algorithm & Signal Processing Researcher, you will develop and apply state-of-the-art algorithms and techniques for HF communications that include signal detection, channel equalization ...

STR

Senior Signal Processing Researcher

Washington, DC

$139K - $170K/yr

As a Senior Algorithm & Signal Processing Researcher, you will develop and apply state-of-the-art algorithms and techniques for HF communications that include signal detection, channel equalization ...

STR

Senior Signal Processing Researcher

Arlington, VA · On-site

$139K - $170K/yr

As a Senior Algorithm & Signal Processing Researcher, you will develop and apply state-of-the-art algorithms and techniques for HF communications that include signal detection, channel equalization ...

Sila Services

Plumbing Apprentice

Manassas, VA

$18/hr

Plumbing Done Right, Every Time - Plumbing Apprentice - Entry Level (Plumbing Academy Program ... signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment ...

Sila Services

Plumbing Apprentice

Manassas, VA · On-site

$18/hr

Plumbing Done Right, Every Time - Plumbing Apprentice - Entry Level (Plumbing Academy Program ... signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment ...

Sila Services

Plumbing Apprentice

Manassas, VA

$18/hr

Plumbing Done Right, Every Time - Plumbing Apprentice - Entry Level (Plumbing Academy Program ... signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment ...

Suburban Propane

Service Technician Apprentice

Waldorf, MD · On-site

$22.90 - $28.50/hr

... apprentices with the necessary tools to jumpstart a rewarding career. At the conclusion of the ... and signals in the English language. This includes the ability to read and speak the English ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsSignal Apprentice JobsSignal Apprentice Jobs in Washington

Signal Apprentice information

See Washington salary details

$15

$20

$27

How much do signal apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for signal apprentice in Washington is $20.83, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $24.76 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the highest paying apprentice job?

Signal apprentice jobs typically offer lower wages compared to other skilled trades apprenticeships, but specialized fields like electrical or telecommunications apprenticeships can lead to higher-paying positions once completed. Advanced certifications, experience, and working in high-demand industries can significantly increase earning potential for apprentices in technical trades.

What is the difference between Signal Apprentice vs Signal Technician?

AspectSignal ApprenticeSignal Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job training; sometimes technical certificationsHigh school diploma; technical certifications or associate degree often preferred; extensive on-the-job training
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, rail yards, or maintenance areas; supervised training settingFieldwork on railways, transit systems, or infrastructure; more independent
Employer & Industry UsageRailroads, transit agencies, construction companiesRailroads, transit authorities, infrastructure contractors

The main difference between a Signal Apprentice and a Signal Technician is experience and responsibility. An apprentice is in training, focusing on learning skills and gaining experience, while a technician is fully qualified to perform maintenance, troubleshooting, and repairs independently. Apprentices typically work under supervision, whereas technicians handle more complex tasks on their own.

How to become a signal apprentice?

To become a signal apprentice, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, and must pass a background check and drug screening. Apprenticeship programs often require completion of technical training, on-the-job experience, and may involve earning certifications such as OSHA safety training or signal system knowledge. These programs usually last several years and prepare individuals for a career in railway signaling or related fields.

Is 27 too old for an apprenticeship?

There is no age limit for a Signal Apprentice position, as apprenticeships are open to individuals of various ages seeking to develop skills in the field. Employers typically value relevant interest, aptitude, and commitment over age, and many apprenticeships welcome mature candidates who bring life experience and dedication. Age should not be a barrier to starting an apprenticeship in this trade.

What is a signal apprentice?

A signal apprentice is an entry-level worker in the railway industry who assists with installing, maintaining, and repairing signal systems that control train movements. The role typically requires learning about electrical systems, safety protocols, and may involve on-the-job training or certifications. Signal apprentices often work under the supervision of experienced signal technicians in a maintenance or construction environment.

What are Signal Apprentices?

Signal Apprentices are entry-level workers who assist with the installation, maintenance, and repair of railway signaling systems. They usually work under the supervision of experienced signal technicians or engineers while learning the skills necessary to ensure the safe operation of trains. Signal Apprentices handle tasks such as wiring, testing equipment, troubleshooting faults, and following strict safety procedures. This position typically involves a combination of on-the-job training and classroom instruction, and it is a pathway to becoming a fully qualified Signal Technician.

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

To thrive as a Signal Apprentice, you need a basic understanding of electrical systems, mechanical aptitude, and usually a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with signaling tools, wiring diagrams, safety procedures, and sometimes certifications like OSHA 10 are important. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and teamwork make a candidate stand out in this role. These skills are crucial for ensuring the safe and efficient installation and maintenance of railroad or transit signaling systems.

What are some common challenges Signal Apprentices face during their training, and how can they overcome them?

Signal Apprentices often encounter challenges such as mastering complex technical concepts, adapting to strict safety protocols, and working in varying weather conditions. Success in this role typically requires strong attention to detail, a willingness to learn hands-on from experienced technicians, and effective communication with team members. Apprentices can overcome these challenges by seeking guidance from mentors, actively participating in training sessions, and staying proactive in asking questions and practicing new skills on the job.

What Is a Signal Apprentice?

A signal apprentice works for a rail company, learning the duties of a signal maintainer through on-the-job training and experience. As part of this apprenticeship, you work on a railway to assist a seasoned signal maintainer as they install, repair, inspect, and test signal equipment. You drive along railways and assess all signal and safety equipment at train crossings. To carry out your job responsibilities, you need an understanding of these safety systems and how to install and repair them. As a signal apprentice, you learn the skills needed to complete your job, especially those related to wiring the equipment.

More about Signal Apprentice jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Signal jobs in Washington? The most popular types of Signal jobs in Washington are:
What are popular job titles related to Signal Apprentice jobs in Washington? For Signal Apprentice jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Signal Apprentice jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Signal Apprentice jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Signal Apprentice jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Signal Apprentice job openings:
Signal Apprentice jobs near you
Infographic showing various Signal Apprentice job openings in Washington as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, and 10% Part Time. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $43,318 per year, or $20.8 per hour.
Senior Signal Processing Researcher

Senior Signal Processing Researcher

STR

Arlington, VA

$139K - $170K/yr

Other

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

About the Team:

The Sensors Division at STR focuses on technology development for advanced sensor systems to add national security capabilities, particularly in the areas of airborne/surface-based radar, electronic warfare, underwater acoustics, hyperspectral imaging, and EO/IR sensing. Within these areas, we perform work on emerging concepts & technologies, component & system development and prototyping, and experimental campaigns.

The Optical & Novel Sensing (ONS) Group within the Sensors Division pursues physics-driven research across multiple domains to provide warfighter and intelligence mission performance unachievable with traditional sensors. Our main customer focus is on Department of War and Intelligence Community research and development programs, with work spanning concept formulation through validation prototyping.

The Role:

As a Senior Algorithm & Signal Processing Researcher, you will develop and apply state-of-the-art algorithms and techniques for HF communications that include signal detection, channel equalization, and geolocation.  You'll have opportunities to engage directly with our customers to communicate technical analyses for their most critical challenges. You'll work with a team of researchers in creating innovative system capability and collaborate with the engineering team to develop and demonstrate and optimize system capabilities.

A successful candidate will have demonstrated strong analysis skills and expertise in several of the following areas: adaptive signal processing, equalization, High Frequency (HF) radio propagation, ionospheric physics, machine learning, algorithm development, algorithm integration, test & evaluation, model & simulation, systems engineering, or communications systems. They will apply first principles of physics to model and simulate realistic environments to support system performance modeling at HF radio frequencies to develop realistic simulations of complex propagation environments. This position requires skills contributing to a multi-disciplinary team designing, analyzing, integrating, and demonstrating signal processing algorithms for complex systems.

What you will Do: 

  • Work closely with program leadership to spearhead efforts that align with program and company priorities
  • Apply cutting-edge signal processing techniques to solve complex HF propagation challenges for critical national security missions
  • Collaborate with diverse teams, learning from the different perspectives to develop and deploy prototype systems that demonstrate our ability to extend the boundaries of what's possible
  • Document and present products to a community of scientists and subject matter experts

Who You Are: 

  • Ability to obtain a Top Secret security clearance, for which U.S. citizenship is needed by U.S. Government. 
  • PhD, MS, or BS in Electrical Engineering, Applied Mathematics, Physics, or related technical discipline
  • 3+ years of experience on RF programs, including the development of advanced signal- and data-processing algorithms from mathematical/analytical derivation through testing and verification of system performance
  • Experience in two or more of the following areas: RF signal processing, HF propagation (or propagation in dispersive, heterogeneous media), adaptive signal processing, algorithm development, system model & simulation, and geolocation
  • Excellent communicator with ability to develop and tailor technical briefs to influence a range of technical and non-technical audiences
  • Proficiency in one or more scientific or mathematical programming languages, such as MATLAB, Python, and C/C++
  • Strong mathematical, troubleshooting, written, and verbal communication skills

Even Better: 

  • Active Top Secret Clearance
  • Demonstrated ownership of complex research, development, and engineering efforts 
  • Advanced degree in Electrical Engineering, Applied Mathematics, Physics, or a related technical discipline 
  • Experience with HF propagation modes and an understanding of the underlying physics, end-to-end signal processing chain
  • Ability to apply novel, innovative and interdisciplinary approaches to challenging engineering problems

Pay Information
Full-Time Salary Range: $139,000 - $170,000

The salary range listed is based on external market data. Offers are based on factors, such as but not limited to, the candidate's experience, education, training, key skills/critical skills, security clearances, and prevailing market and business conditions.

Apply