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Signal Helper Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Leidos

Signal Processing Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$87K - $157K/yr

You'll simultaneously get to work alongside scientists and experts in these fields to help grow ... signal processing - Fluent with tools such as MATLAB, Linux, Mathematica, Python, Simulink - and ...

Leidos

Signal Processing Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$87K - $157K/yr

You'll simultaneously get to work alongside scientists and experts in these fields to help grow ... signal processing - Fluent with tools such as MATLAB, Linux, Mathematica, Python, Simulink - and ...

Leidos

Signal Processing Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$87K - $157K/yr

You'll simultaneously get to work alongside scientists and experts in these fields to help grow ... signal processing - Fluent with tools such as MATLAB, Linux, Mathematica, Python, Simulink - and ...

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How much do signal helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for signal helper in Washington is $30.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.31 and $36.54 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.
More about Signal Helper jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Signal jobs in Washington? The most popular types of Signal jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Signal Helper jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Signal Helper job openings:
Signal Helper jobs near you
Infographic showing various Signal Helper job openings in Washington as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,247 per year, or $30.9 per hour.

Signal Processing Engineer

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory

Laurel, MD • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory rating

9.6

Company rating: 9.6 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

2nd of 73 rated research

Job description

Description
Do you love applying your signal processing experience to solve complex problems in the RF domain, in particular, electronic warfare?
Are you willing to take chances with new and creative methods to solve the nations toughest challenges?
Do you want to work in an atmosphere where risk taking, innovation, and creativity are openly encouraged and sought out?
If so, we're looking for someone like you to join our team at APL!
We are seeking a creative signal processing engineer to help us build innovative technology applications for the next generation of electronic warfare systems. Your work will contribute to ensuring the US and its allies dominate the RF spectrum. You'll be joining our hardworking team of system engineers, algorithm developers, FPGA and embedded software engineers, and advanced EW technology enthusiasts who enjoy working together to craft creative solutions to complex challenges. You will contribute to a variety of interesting projects in a team environment.
As a Signal Processing Engineer, you will ...
  • Develop novel concepts to defeat adversarial radar and communication systems; This work will involve a multitude of sub-disciplines in the signal processing field.
  • Study current and future radar systems and evaluate their performance.
  • Be involved in the end-to-end modeling and performance evaluation of new systems being designed.
  • Be involved in prototyping of new concepts.
  • Brief sponsors and internal APL staff.

Qualifications
You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you ...
  • Have earned a Bachelor's degree in engineering, physics, or mathematics with a concentration in signal processing, or another related discipline.
  • Have at least seven years of relevant experience related to signal processing design and analysis.
  • Have strong MATLAB or Python programming experience.
  • Are able to obtain an Interim Secret level clearance by your start date and can ultimately obtain a TS/SCI level security clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government security clearance investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship.

You'll go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you ...
  • Have earned a Master's or Ph.D. in signal processing, estimation theory or another related discipline.
  • Have at least ten years of experience in the signal processing field.
  • Have experience modeling electronic protection (EP) algorithms, seekers, angle estimation, digital arrays, space time adaptive processing, clutter, or trackers and C++ experience.
  • Have experience leading small technical teams and communicating with stakeholders.

#LI-AG1
About Us
Why Work at APL?
The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our nation's most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. While we are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, what makes us truly outstanding is our culture. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates.
At APL, we celebrate our differences of perspectives and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. APL's campus is located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area. Learn more about our career opportunities at https://www.jhuapl.edu/careers.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. APL is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contact Accessibility@jhuapl.edu.
The referenced pay range is based on JHU APL's good faith belief at the time of posting. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as geographic location, work experience, market conditions, education/training and skill level with consideration for internal parity. For salaried employees scheduled to work less than 40 hours per week, annual salary will be prorated based on the number of hours worked. APL may offer bonuses or other forms of compensation per internal policy and/or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be provided in the form of a sign-on bonus, relocation benefits, locality allowance or discretionary payments for exceptional performance. APL provides eligible staff with a comprehensive benefits package including retirement plans, paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, flexible spending accounts, education assistance, and training and development. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
Minimum Rate
$100,000 Annually
Maximum Rate
$245,000 Annually

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