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Signal Foreman Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Traffic Signal Foremen is responsible for leading teams in the maintenance, repair, installation, and ongoing operation of traffic signals, ITS (Intelligent Transportation Systems) electrical ...

A TRAFFIC SIGNAL INSTALLER IS RESPONSIBLE FOR MAINTAINING A CLEAN, SAFE, AND EFFICIENT CONSTRUCTION ... Brings problems to the attention of the foreman, safety director or HR manager. * Maintain and ...

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Signal Foreman information

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$10

$29

$43

How much do signal foreman jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for signal foreman in the United States is $29.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.80 and $33.41 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Signal Foreman, you need a solid understanding of railway signaling systems, electrical principles, and supervisory experience, often supported by relevant technical qualifications or apprenticeships. Familiarity with railroad signal maintenance tools, safety regulations, and systems like CTC (Centralized Traffic Control) and PTC (Positive Train Control) is typically required. Leadership, problem-solving, and effective communication are vital soft skills for managing teams and responding to on-site challenges. These competencies ensure the safe, efficient operation of railway signaling, minimizing service disruptions and maintaining regulatory compliance.

What is a signal foreman?

A Signal Foreman is a supervisory professional responsible for overseeing the installation, maintenance, and repair of railway signaling systems. They lead a team of signal technicians and workers, ensuring that all signal equipment, such as lights, switches, and automated crossing gates, operate safely and efficiently. Signal Foremen also coordinate work schedules, inspect completed work for compliance with safety standards, and respond to emergencies or malfunctions on the rail network. Their role is critical in maintaining the safe operation of trains and minimizing service disruptions.

What is the difference between Signal Foreman vs Signal Technician?

AspectSignal ForemanSignal Technician
CertificationsOSHA safety training, industry-specific certificationsOSHA safety training, industry-specific certifications
Work EnvironmentSupervises field crews, oversees installation and maintenance of signalsPerforms installation, troubleshooting, and repairs of signal systems
Employer & Industry UsageRailroads, transit agencies, construction projectsRailroads, transit agencies, signaling companies

The Signal Foreman typically supervises and coordinates signal installation and maintenance crews, ensuring safety and adherence to standards. The Signal Technician focuses on hands-on installation, troubleshooting, and repairs of signal systems. While both roles require similar certifications and work in related environments, the Foreman has a supervisory role, whereas the Technician is more technical and operational.

What are some common challenges signal foremen face when managing on-site crews during railway projects?

Signal Foremen often encounter challenges such as coordinating multiple tasks under strict safety protocols, adapting to changing schedules due to weather or operational delays, and ensuring clear communication among diverse team members. They must also resolve technical issues promptly to minimize downtime and keep projects on track. Effective leadership and problem-solving skills are essential for balancing project deadlines with safety and quality standards.
More about Signal Foreman jobs
Infographic showing various Signal Foreman job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,657 per year, or $29.2 per hour.

FOREMAN OF TRAFFIC SIGNAL REPAIRMEN

City of Chicago

Chicago, IL • On-site

$12K/mo

Other

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

FOREMAN OF TRAFFIC SIGNAL REPAIRMEN Job Number: 416484
Description

BID/JOB ANNOUNCEMENT

FOREMAN OF TRAFFIC SIGNAL REPAIRMEN

CHICAGO DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Electrical Operations (DEO)

Number of Positions: 1

(Additional vacancies possible pending budget approval)

Starting Annual Salary: PR $12,779.87/month

This position is open to the public and all current City employees covered under the City's collective bargaining agreement with I.B.E.W. - LOCAL 9 (BARGAINING UNIT 29). Only employees in City job titles in this bargaining unit are eligible to bid.

BID INSTRUCTIONS: Apply on the bid site: https://chicago.taleo.net/careersection/103/jobsearch.ftl?lang=en AND

1. Check the box on your profile titled "Currently employed by the City of Chicago"

2. Enter your employee ID (located on your pay stub labeled 'payee/employee number')

3. Select your correct bargaining unit

FAILURE TO FOLLOW THESE INSTRUCTIONS WILL RESULT IN A REJECTED BID APPLICATION

Applications for this position will be accepted from 8/7/26 until 11:59pm CDT on 8/21/26

Under general supervision, supervises staff engaged in installing and repairing traffic signal control devices and related electrical equipment in the field or in the shop, and performs related duties as required

ESSENTIAL DUTIES

  • Positions assigned to field operations supervise Traffic Signal Repairmen in the repair of malfunctioning mechanical and electronic traffic signals, underground and aerial cabling and related traffic signal control equipment
  • Supervises construction crews installing new traffic signal intersection equipment. Oversees testing of traffic signal systems to ensure equipment is working per engineer specifications. Updates and maintains all field work reports
  • Positions assigned to shop operations supervise shop personnel assigned to installing and wiring component parts within new traffic controller cabinet. Oversee repair and reconstruction of damaged component parts and controller cabinets
  • Contributes to the design and programming of traffic signal control systems. Oversees the installation of traffic timing sequence programs
  • Makes daily work assignments to ensure efficiency and productivity and re-assigns crews to respond to emergency situations
  • Inspects and monitors work in progress to ensure adherence to installation plans, departmental standards, and safety procedures
  • Prepares requisitions to order materials and equipment needed by staff to complete jobs
  • Reviews traffic signal timing plans issued by Traffic Signal Engineers and prepares timing changes, sequence changes, and traffic cabinet drawings
  • Prepares work reports detailing job requirements, manpower, and materials used and man hours to complete jobs
  • Reviews and updates traffic signal intersection paperwork including underground cable plans, field wiring diagrams and timing and signal plans and ensures proper archiving and filing of plans and paperwork
  • Ensures work site and crew are equipped with required safety equipment and in compliance with departmental safety procedures, and federal and state safety regulations. Trains staff in proper safety procedures and practices
  • Monitors work performance and evaluate staff. Responds to performance issues and initiates and enforces disciplinary actions as required.
  • Prepares various administrative and operational reports relating to productivity

Additional duties may be required for this position.

Location: 2451 S. Ashland

Days: Monday-Friday

Hours: 6:00 AM-2:00 PM

THIS POSITION IS IN THE CAREER SERVICE

Qualifications
  • Successful completion of a US Department of Labor registered Lineman apprentice training program and journeyman status, PLUS four (4) years of journey-level work experience in traffic signal repairs and installation and/or electrical power line or telecommunications line repairs and installations; OR

Should the above criteria not be fulfilled, the following options are available:

  • Successful completion of an industry or company sponsored apprenticeship training program as a Lineman or as an Electrical/Wireman or a Traffic Signal Repairman, PLUS six (6) years of journey-level work experience in traffic signal repairs and installation and/or electrical power line or telecommunications line repairs and installations
  • Ten (10) years of journey-level Lineman and/or as an electrical power line or telecommunications line installer and repairer and/or as a traffic signal installer or repairman work experience
  • International Municipal Signal Association (IMSA) - Level Two Certification is required OR International Public Safety Institute (IPSI) - Level Two Certification is required
  • A valid State of Illinois driver's license is required
  • Must have the permanent use of an automobile that is properly insured, including a clause specifically insuring the City from accident liability

WORKING CONDITIONS

* General office environment

* Exposure to outdoor weather conditions

* Exposure to hazardous conditions (e.g., traffic)

* Work performed above or below ground level

* Work performed using scaffolds and ladders

* Work performed at great heights with the use of safety belts

EQUIPMENT

* Standard office equipment (e.g., telephone, printer, photocopier, fax machine, calculator)

* Computers and peripheral equipment (e.g., personal computer, computer terminals, hand-held computer, modems)

* Hand tools (e.g., hammer, screwdriver, wrench, pliers)

* Testing and monitoring equipment (e.g., multimeters, calibration equipment, fiber optics)

* Measuring tools (e.g., tape measure, ruler, calipers, measuring wheel)

* Personal protective equipment (e.g., hard hat, shoes, glasses, gloves, vest, pads)

* Safety devices or equipment (e.g., cones, barricades, metal plates, scaffolding, ropes)

* Communications equipment (e.g., two-way radio, dispatch equipment, multi-channel system)

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

* Substantial lifting (up to 50 pounds) is required

* Ability to stand and walk for extended or continuous periods of time

* Ability to quickly bend, stretch, twist, or reach out with one's body, arms, and/or legs

* Ability to climb staircases, ladders, and/or step stools

* Ability to operate applicable hand tools, power tools, and equipment

* Ability to tolerate heights while working

SELECTION REQUIREMENTS

This position requires applicants to successfully pass a written test / skills assessment and complete an interview. Test results will be sent out by the Department of Human Resources after test results have been analyzed and compiled. The interviewed candidate(s) receiving a passing score on the test and possessing the qualifications best suited to fulfill the responsibilities of the position will be selected.

For Information on our employees benefits please visit our benefits website at:

https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/depts/fin/benefits-office.html

For Information on our salary and title structure visit our classifications website at:

https://my.chicago.gov/dam/intranet/documents/depts/dhr/INFORMATION/2026_Classification_and_Pay_Plan.pdf

APPLICATION EVALUATION: Initial evaluation will be based on information provided on the application and the documents submitted.Department of Human Resource staff will review applications after the final posting date. Staff will follow any and all required Employment/Hiring Plan provisions, federal, state and local laws, and Collective Bargaining Agreements when applicable. Staff will apply hiring preferences as required by the municipal code. Placement on an eligibility list is not an offer or guarantee of an interview nor employment with the City of Chicago.

COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY: To further our commitment to hiring applicants with diverse experience the City of Chicago has adopted the following ordinances 2-74-020 and 2-74-075. The ordinances provide a preference to applicants who meet minimum qualifications and who are veterans of the Armed Forces, and/or residents of Socio-Economically Disadvantaged Areas (SEDA) and/or Chicago Public School (CPS) high school graduates to be referred to departments for consideration. These hiring preferences do not apply to bidders, as Collective Bargaining Agreements define the hiring process for bidders. For positions covered by a collective bargaining agreement, bidders will be considered before external candidates. To learn more about our hiring practices click here.

ALL REFERENCES TO POLITICAL SPONSORSHIP OR RECOMMENDATION MUST BE OMITTED FROM ALL APPLICATION MATERIALS SUBMITTED FOR CITY EMPLOYMENT.