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Signal Helper Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

In this role, you'll apply your expertise to help train next-generation AI systems. Your work will ... Apply expert judgment to assess the accuracy and adequacy of interval safety findings, signal ...

In this role, you'll apply your expertise to help train next-generation AI systems. Your work will ... Apply expert judgment to assess the accuracy and adequacy of interval safety findings, signal ...

In this role, you'll apply your expertise to help train next-generation AI systems. Your work will ... Apply expert judgment to assess the accuracy and adequacy of interval safety findings, signal ...

In this role, you'll apply your expertise to help train next-generation AI systems. Your work will ... Apply expert judgment to assess the accuracy and adequacy of interval safety findings, signal ...

In this role, you'll apply your expertise to help train next-generation AI systems. Your work will ... Apply expert judgment to assess the accuracy and adequacy of interval safety findings, signal ...

In this role, you'll apply your expertise to help train next-generation AI systems. Your work will ... Apply expert judgment to assess the accuracy and adequacy of interval safety findings, signal ...

Traffic Engineer

Iowa City, IA · On-site

$85K - $116K/yr

... helped improve lives and shape the infrastructure systems that connect us. As an employee-owned ... Design and Prepare traffic signal plans for new and modified intersections, including construction ...

Traffic Engineer

Muscatine, IA · On-site

$81K - $111K/yr

... helped improve lives and shape the infrastructure systems that connect us. As an employee-owned ... Design and Prepare traffic signal plans for new and modified intersections, including construction ...

Traffic Engineer

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$85K - $116K/yr

... helped improve lives and shape the infrastructure systems that connect us. As an employee-owned ... Design and Prepare traffic signal plans for new and modified intersections, including construction ...

Traffic Engineer

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$85K - $116K/yr

... helped improve lives and shape the infrastructure systems that connect us. As an employee-owned ... Design and Prepare traffic signal plans for new and modified intersections, including construction ...

Traffic Engineer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$84K - $115K/yr

... helped improve lives and shape the infrastructure systems that connect us. As an employee-owned ... Design and Prepare traffic signal plans for new and modified intersections, including construction ...

Data Engineer

Urbandale, IA · On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

You will help translate raw signals into actionable insights through analytics, dashboards, and monitoring tools. Responsibilities * Design, build, and maintain cloud-based data pipelines and data ...

Support roadmap sequencing discussions by helping surface tradeoffs, dependencies, and effort/impact signals What We're Looking For * Currently enrolled in an MBA, master's, or other graduate program ...

Support roadmap sequencing discussions by helping surface tradeoffs, dependencies, and effort/impact signals What We're Looking For * Currently enrolled in an MBA, master's, or other graduate program ...

Showing results 21-40

Signal Helper information

See Iowa salary details

$17

$29

$34

How much do signal helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for signal helper in Iowa is $29.10, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.01 and $34.42 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Signal Helper, you need a solid understanding of railway signaling systems, basic electrical knowledge, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with hand tools, signal testing equipment, and safety protocols is typically required, and some employers may prefer OSHA safety certification. Attention to detail, strong communication, and teamwork are crucial soft skills for ensuring safe and efficient operations. These abilities are important because they help maintain the reliability and safety of rail transportation systems while supporting the work of signal maintainers and engineers.

What does a signal helper do?

Signal helpers assist signal maintainers with the repair, maintenance, and construction of signal equipment, such as electric switch machines, crossing equipment, and wayside signals, for a railroad. Your responsibilities in this career include digging, wiring, cabling, and painting over or removing graffiti from equipment for inside and outside locations. You may be asked to serve as a watchman when necessary. You are also expected to use company vehicles occasionally. Other duties include cleaning, lubing, inspecting, and troubleshooting signal equipment, changing light bulbs and broken lenses, and removing snow during emergency and storm duty. You may also be asked to cut trees and shrubs that interfere with signal equipment.

What is the difference between Signal Helper vs Signal Maintainer?

AspectSignal HelperSignal Maintainer
CredentialsTypically requires a high school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingRequires more advanced certifications or technical training
Work EnvironmentAssists in installing, inspecting, and maintaining signals, often working outdoors or in rail yardsPerforms detailed maintenance, troubleshooting, and repairs on signaling systems
Employer & IndustryRailroads, transit agencies, construction companiesRailroads, transit authorities, specialized signaling companies

In summary, Signal Helpers assist with basic tasks and support Signal Maintainers, who perform more complex maintenance and repairs on signaling systems. Signal Helpers typically have less formal training and focus on assisting roles, while Signal Maintainers handle detailed technical work.

What are some common challenges signal helpers face when working on active railway tracks, and how can they address them?

Signal Helpers often work in close proximity to active railway lines, which requires constant vigilance and strict adherence to safety protocols. One of the main challenges is coordinating effectively with train dispatchers and other crew members to ensure safe track access and avoid service disruptions. Additionally, unpredictable weather and tight maintenance schedules can add pressure. Effective communication, a strong understanding of safety procedures, and teamwork are key to successfully navigating these challenges.

What is a signal helper?

Signal Helpers are entry-level railroad workers who assist Signal Maintainers and Signal Inspectors in installing, maintaining, and repairing railroad signaling equipment. Their duties often include handling tools, preparing materials, digging trenches for cables, and ensuring the safety of the work environment. Signal Helpers play a crucial role in maintaining the safety and efficiency of train operations by supporting the upkeep of signal systems that control train movements. This position is physically demanding and requires adherence to safety protocols. Over time, Signal Helpers may advance to more skilled positions within the railroad industry.
What are the most commonly searched types of Signal jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Signal jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Signal Helper jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Signal Helper job openings:

Transportation Engineer - Traffic Technology

Olsson

Des Moines, IA

$75K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago


Job description

Company Description

We are Olsson. We engineer and design solutions that improve the world around us. As a company, we promise to always be responsive, transparent, and focused on results – for our people, our clients, and our company.

We're a people-centric firm, so it's no surprise our greatest asset is our people. The impact this creates is an environment that encourages our people to grow and be creative with their talents. This approach builds a culture that is uniquely Olsson. It allows us to grow our people as we grow our business. This, in turn, creates a lasting impact on the world around us.

Job Description

At Olsson, our Traffic/Technology team specializes in delivering comprehensive traffic solutions, catering to our clients' diverse project needs. Our team handles traffic operation studies, pedestrian circulation studies, and intersection improvement/design projects. We specialize in traffic signal design and have notable expertise in signal timing. Additionally, we work on pavement marking design, street lighting analysis and design, DMS boards, bike ped-trail alignments, and evaluating and designing Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS). Our team is also proficient in more complex projects, including conducting citywide safety studies and improving signal systems.

As an Assistant Engineer for the Traffic/Technology team, you will use CAD software to create design plans, perform traffic studies, and assist in other traffic analysis-related work. Your responsibilities will include designing traffic signals, roundabouts, pavement markings, signing, facilities for vehicular and multimodal users, and temporary traffic control. You will conduct traffic studies for both public and private clients, ranging in complexity, and typically evaluate the safety and operational performance of transportation systems. Additionally, you will analyze traffic patterns and data to optimize roadway designs, manage congestion, and enhance road safety.

We provide comprehensive support to help our employees seamlessly transition into their roles, offering mentorship and training to ensure a successful and fulfilling start to their careers.

Qualifications

You are passionate about:

  • Working collaboratively with others.
  • Having ownership in the work you do.
  • Using your talents to positively affect communities.

You bring to the team:

  • Strong communication skills.
  • Ability to contribute and work well on a team.
  • Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering.
  • 0-4 years of engineering experience.
  • Must obtain or have an Engineer Intern (EI) certificate.
  • Experience with AutoCAD (or similar software).
  • Synchro experience is preferred, but not required.
  • OSP Fiber experience is preferred, but not required.
  • Skilled in using Excel for data analysis and complex formula creation preferred.

#LI-DNP

Additional Information

Olsson specializes in engineering and design, client advisory services, planning, field services, and environmental. Improving the world has been our mindset from the very beginning, back when Olsson first opened for business in 1956. And it will be our mindset for years to come.

As an Olsson employee, you will:

  • Receive a competitive 401(k) match
  • Be empowered to build your career with tailored development paths
  • Have the possibility for flexible work arrangements
  • Engage in work that has a positive impact on communities
  • Participate in a wellness program promoting balanced lifestyles

In addition, full-time employees will receive our traditional benefits package (health care, vision, dental, paid time off, etc.) and the opportunity to participate in a bonus system that rewards performance.

Olsson is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We encourage qualified minority, female, veteran, and disabled candidates to apply and be considered for open positions. We do not discriminate against any applicant for employment or any employee because of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender, disability, age, military status, or other protected status.

Olsson understands the importance of privacy and is committed to protecting job applicants' personal information. Pursuant to the California Consumer Privacy Act, as amended by the California Privacy Rights Act (collectively, the "CCPA"), this notice explains Olsson's practices regarding the collection, use, and disclosure of personal information for job applicants residing in California. Please read this Notice carefully to understand our privacy practices.

For more information about the types of information we collect and how we use it in connection with your general access and use of our website, please review our general California Privacy Notice here.