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Signal Apprentice Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

OSW Equipment & Repair, LLC, a subsidiary of Federal Signal Corporation, is the largest truck body ... Completion of a formal apprenticeship, welding program, successful completion of an in-company ...

OSW Equipment & Repair, LLC, a subsidiary of Federal Signal Corporation, is the largest truck body ... Completion of a formal apprenticeship, welding program, successful completion of an in-company ...

OSW Equipment & Repair, LLC, a subsidiary of Federal Signal Corporation, is the largest truck body ... Completion of a formal apprenticeship, welding program, successful completion of an in-company ...

OSW Equipment & Repair, LLC, a subsidiary of Federal Signal Corporation, is the largest truck body ... Completion of a formal apprenticeship, welding program, successful completion of an in-company ...

Production Line Welder II OSW Equipment & Repair, LLC, a subsidiary of Federal Signal Corporation ... Completion of a formal apprenticeship, welding program, successful completion of an in-company ...

... signals analysis, and intelligence production; strict requirements for handling classified ... apprenticeships, and other Navy College Program opportunities. Specific options depend on the ...

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Signal Apprentice information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$15

$20

$27

How much do signal apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for signal apprentice in Seattle, WA is $20.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.68 and $24.90 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.

What are popular job titles related to Signal Apprentice jobs in Seattle, WA? For Signal Apprentice jobs in Seattle, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Seattle, WA are hiring for Signal Apprentice jobs? Cities near Seattle, WA with the most Signal Apprentice job openings:
Infographic showing various Signal Apprentice job openings in Seattle, WA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $43,551 per year, or $20.9 per hour.
Production Line Welder II-Snohomish,Washington

Production Line Welder II-Snohomish,Washington

Federal Signal

Redmond, WA

$30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago


Federal Signal rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

247th of 486 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

OSW Equipment & Repair, LLC, a subsidiary of Federal Signal Corporation, is the largest truck body and trailer manufacturer in the Pacific Northwest. OSW's main facility is located in the Maltby area in Snohomish County. OSW and has been in business for over 20 years and has branches in Edmonton, Canada and Tempe, Arizona.
As a Welder II on our growing Production Line, you are contributing to the success of the company by safely and efficiently welding, cutting, and brazing metal pieces and products using flame-cutting and hand welding equipment on dump trucks, trailers, and parts. If you are bright, highly motivated, and a team player we encourage you to apply!
Duties/Responsibilities:
  • Plans details of work order procedures; gathers required tools and materials based on instructions and specifications provided for the job.
  • Operate manual and automated welding units and equipment utilizing wire feed welding techniques.
  • Repairs and fabricates various items and equipment using blueprints, measuring devices, cutting, burning, and welding techniques and equipment.
  • Monitors the welding, burning, and fitting process to ensure parts are not overheated or damaged by warping, distortion, expansion, or shrinkage.
  • Prepares, assembles, and tacks weld parts and surfaces to be welded.
  • Maintains, organizes, and cleans equipment and the work area.
  • Notifies supervisor when faulty equipment or defective materials are discovered.
  • Conducts quality control evaluations completed welds.
  • Performs other related duties as assigned.

Required Skills/Abilities:
  • Thorough understanding of machines and tools used in welding including designs, uses, maintenance and repair.
  • Basic understanding of design techniques, principles, and tools necessary for the precise production of technical plans, drawings, models and blueprints.
  • Excellent ability to read and listen to assignments given in a variety of forms.
  • Basic understanding of mathematics as related to welding assignments.

Education and Experience:
  • Completion of a formal apprenticeship, welding program, successful completion of an in-company, three-year training program required. High School Graduate (preferred)
  • 1 - 4 years of Experience with wire feed welding Steel & Aluminum experience
  • 1-3 years of Fabrication with Welding & Layout experience
  • 1-3 years of Mechanical experience with Hydraulics (preferred)

Physical Requirements:
  • Must be able to weld components that are vertical, flat, or overhead.
  • Must have enough manual dexterity and stability as required for precision work.
  • Must be able to see details at close range.
  • Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds at times.
  • Must be able to traverse facilities and machinery by bending or twisting, kneeling, crouching, stooping, crawling, climbing, climbing on ladders, balancing, lifting, walking, carrying materials and standing for long periods of time.
  • Must be comfortable intermittently working at heights of 8 feet.
  • Requires working in cramped workspaces and getting into awkward positions.
  • Requires wearing specialized protective or safety equipment.

Additional Job Information:
  • Wage Expectations: $22.00 - $30.00 per hour
  • Pay: This is a non-exempt, hourly position and employees are paid on a bi-weekly basis
  • Typical Schedule: Four (4) Ten (10) hour days M-F, Overtime may be available on your 5th day of the week and/or Saturdays.
  • Location: On Site - 20812 Broadway Ave; Snohomish, WA 98296
  • Travel: Very minimal to none

Benefits:
  • Employees are eligible on the 1st of the month following the completion of 30 days of employment for:
    • Medical
    • Dental
    • Vision
    • Company Paid Life Insurance Policy for each full-time employee in the amount of $20,000.00.
    • Voluntary Life Insurance for Employees, their spouse (or domestic partner), and their children
    • Flexible Spending Accounts for Health-related expenses as well as Dependent Care related expenses
  • Employees are eligible or the following benefits as of their first day of employment:
    • 401(k) with partial company match
    • 100% vested immediately.
  • Upon the Completion of 90 days employees are eligible for:
    • PTO
    • 9 Paid Holidays

About Us:
OSW Equipment & Repair is the largest truck body and trailer manufacturer in the Pacific Northwest and has been in business for over 20 years. OSW Equipment & Repair manufactures products for the construction, transportation, industrial, and mining industries. OSW Equipment & Repair is a subsidiary of Federal Signal Corporation's Truck Bodies Equipment International group. For more information, visit www.oswequipment.com.
Federal Signal Corporation (NYSE: FSS) provides products and services to protect people and our planet. Founded in 1901, Federal Signal is a leading global designer and manufacturer of products and total solutions that serve municipal, governmental, industrial, and commercial customers. Headquartered in Oak Brook, IL, with manufacturing facilities worldwide, the Company operates in two groups: Environmental Solutions and Safety and Security Systems. For more information on Federal Signal, visit: www.federalsignal.com.
The Company is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will not be discriminated against on the basis of, and will receive consideration for employment without regard to, race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, genetic information, status as a protected veteran, or any other protected category, characteristic, or trait under applicable law. If you require reasonable accommodation in the application process, call Human Resources at 360-217-2426. All other applications must be submitted online.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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