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Signal Helper Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Iteris

Sr. Signal Optimization Engineer

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$85K - $95K/yr

Iteris is seeking an experienced Sr. Signal Optimization Engineer to monitor the health and status ... Iteris' cloud-enabled solutions help public transportation agencies, municipalities, commercial ...

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

$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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Signal Helper information

See Washington salary details

$19

$30

$37

How much do signal helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 27, 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.

How much do signal maintainers make?

Signal maintainers typically earn between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and union agreements. The role often requires technical skills in electrical or telecommunications systems and may involve shift work or working outdoors in various weather conditions.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

Jobs that can pay $2,000 a day include specialized roles such as high-level consultants, certain construction project managers, or skilled trades like commercial pilots and some offshore workers. These positions often require extensive experience, certifications, or working in high-risk environments, and may involve long hours or remote work settings.

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 are Signal Helpers?

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 does a signal helper do?

A signal helper assists with the installation, maintenance, and repair of railway signals and related equipment. They work under the supervision of signal operators or technicians, often using tools and safety protocols to ensure proper functioning of signaling systems in rail environments.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

A signal helper typically does not earn $10,000 a month without specialized skills or experience. High-paying jobs that can reach this level often involve roles in sales, real estate, or entrepreneurship, which may not require a degree but do demand strong skills, networking, and sometimes certifications. Most jobs paying this much without a degree are rare and usually involve significant experience or risk.
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.
Sr. Signal Optimization Engineer

Sr. Signal Optimization Engineer

Iteris

Fairfax, VA • On-site

$85K - $95K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Iteris is seeking an experienced Sr. Signal Optimization Engineer to monitor the health and status of over 1,500 VDOT signals in the NoVA District, under the direction of VDOT NRO staff on a real-time basis. The primary work location is in the Signal Operations Center (SOC) in the McConnell Public Safety and Transportation Operations Center (PSTOC) in Fairfax, VA.
What you will be doing:
  • Analyze traffic data, data mining and statistical analysis
  • Monitor intersections with cameras and adjust signal times within that corridor as appropriate
  • Demonstrate skills of computers and software applications to proficiently operate central signal system
  • Respond effectively to concerns related to traffic signal operations
  • Prepare correspondence and technical reports
  • Experience in conducting a wide array of traffic engineering analyses
  • Navigate the regional ATMS solution and all relevant systems that operate and/or will operate in the Northern Virginia District and the Northern Region Operations

What you need to be successful in this role:
  • B.S., or M.S in Civil Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related field
  • Over five (5) years experience in a Transportation Engineering field
  • Valid Professional Engineer's License is preferred
  • Demonstrated experience in transportation engineering applications/programs, listed below, as required
  • VDOT's computerized traffic signal system: Statewide Central Signal System (KITS)
  • Traffic signal optimization and simulation software, including but not limited to Synchro, Simtraffic, VISSIM and other traffic analysis software
  • Traffic monitoring systems include but are not limited to: ATMS (OpenTMS), Automated Signal Performance Measures (ATSPM), and RITIS
  • Demonstrated experience and proficiency in Synchro, VISSIM, ATSPM, KITS and other programs is preferred
  • Knowledge of traffic signal and traffic engineering applications
  • Experience in analyzing traffic data, data mining and statistical analysis
  • Knowledge of state and federal transportation specifications and standards
  • Skill in the use of computers and software applications
  • Proficiency to operate central signal system
  • Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing

Iteris anticipates paying a base salary between $85,000 and $95,000 for this role, in addition to quarterly commissions. Actual pay offered may be below or above these amounts, depending on the individual's job-related knowledge, skills, and experience.
#LI-ONSITE
#srsignaloptimizationengineer
What's in it for you:
  • Incentive-based yearly bonus
  • 401(k) with immediate matching and no vesting period
  • Open Paid-Time-Off [PTO]
  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
  • Life insurance
  • Medical reimbursement plans
  • Disability coverage
  • Education assistance program

Iteris, Inc. is a provider of smart mobility infrastructure management solutions and part of the Almaviva Group businesses serving the transportation and logistics industry. Iteris' cloud-enabled solutions help public transportation agencies, municipalities, commercial entities, and other transportation infrastructure providers monitor, visualize, and optimize mobility infrastructure to make mobility safe, efficient, and sustainable. As a pioneer in intelligent transportation systems technology, Iteris' advanced detection sensors, mobility and traffic data, software-as-a-service offerings, and consulting services represent a comprehensive range of mobility infrastructure management solutions that serve customers in the United States and internationally. For more information, visit Iteris' website at www.iteris.com.
The Almaviva Group designs, implements, and manages advanced technological solutions and systems and related logistics structures for companies and public administrations operating in a variety of sectors, including, but not limited to, transport, logistics, agriculture, digital health, defense and security, energy, utilities, financial services, industry, telecommunications, and media. For more information, visit Almaviva's website at www.almaviva.it.
Iteris, Inc. is an Affirmative Action and Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of age, race, gender identity and expression, color, sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy or related conditions (including breastfeeding), national origin/ancestry, religion, military/veteran status, genetic information, citizenship status or any other characteristic and group protected by applicable law. Iteris, Inc. complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act to ensure equal access to all qualified individuals with a physical or mental disability. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training. A valid driver's license may be required based on essential duties.

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