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Signal Inspector Jobs in Boston, MA (NOW HIRING)

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Signal Maintainer

Westborough, MA · On-site

$60K - $80K/yr

Wire, inspect and test these new systems and place them in-service. · Perform periodic test, inspection and repair of in-service railroad signal systems using standard electrical and/or electronic ...

Install, construct, maintain, repair and inspect the signal system, signal telephone pole lines, and railroad crossing systems as assigned on the MBTA Commuter Rail System. * Have the ability to work ...

Quality Inspector Technician Department: Quality Employment Type: Full Time Location: Burlington ... signals through non-invasive wearable sensors, can restore the ability to use their arms and hands ...

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Signal Inspector information

See Boston, MA salary details

$22

$49

$67

How much do signal inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for signal inspector in Boston, MA is $49.78, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45.29 and $66.78 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a signal inspector?

A Signal Inspector is responsible for inspecting, testing, and maintaining railroad or transit signal systems to ensure they operate safely and comply with regulations. They examine signal equipment, wiring, switches, and related components for defects or malfunctions. Their duties often include troubleshooting issues, performing routine maintenance, and documenting inspections. Signal Inspectors work closely with maintenance and engineering teams to ensure the reliability of signaling systems. This role is critical for ensuring the safe and efficient movement of trains or transit vehicles.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a signal inspector?

Signal Inspectors typically spend their days inspecting, testing, and maintaining railway signaling equipment such as switches, relays, and track circuits. They ensure all systems are functioning correctly and in compliance with safety standards, often working outdoors in various weather conditions and locations along the rail network. Collaboration with maintenance crews, engineers, and supervisors is common, as is the need to keep detailed records of inspections and repairs. This hands-on role can require travel and irregular hours, but it offers the satisfaction of playing a critical role in transportation safety.

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

To thrive as a Signal Inspector, you need a strong understanding of railway signaling systems, safety regulations, and electrical/mechanical troubleshooting, often supported by relevant vocational training or certification. Familiarity with signal testing equipment, diagnostic tools, and compliance with industry-specific safety protocols like FRA regulations is essential. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and clear communication are vital soft skills that set top candidates apart. These skills ensure the reliability and safety of train operations, helping prevent accidents and costly downtime.

What are popular job titles related to Signal Inspector jobs in Boston, MA?

For Signal Inspector jobs in Boston, MA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Signal Inspector jobs in Boston, MA look for?

The top searched job categories for Signal Inspector jobs in Boston, MA are:

Infographic showing various Signal Inspector job openings in Boston, MA as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $103,546 per year, or $49.8 per hour.

Signal & Interlocking Inspector

Boston, MA • On-site

Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority
5 - 10K employees

$75.91/hr

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago


Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 27 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

At the MBTA, we envision a thriving region enabled by a best-in-class transit system. Our mission is to serve the public by providing safe, reliable, and accessible transportation. MBTA's core values are built around safety, service, equity, sustainability, culture, and accessibility, and each employee that works for the MBTA performs their roles based on our vision, mission, and values.

This includes attendance, participation, and contribution in local safety committee meetings as needed. Job Summary The Signal & Interlocking Inspector will assign, oversee, direct, and assist with the activities of the work crew(s) under their jurisdiction. Duties & Responsibilities Responsible for the testing, maintenance, repair, and installation of wayside control equipment as required for automatic train operation, block signal systems, and other related equipment.

Responsible for the construction, installation, testing, maintenance, and repair of a variety of equipment/systems/projects at miscellaneous Authority locations. Plan, order, schedule and expedite the procurement of all materials and equipment necessary to complete area projects, ensuring that all inventory is accounted for and safeguarded and that equipment and facilities under his/her control are protected and maintained in a safe operating condition. Use manual and/or automated systems for the preparation, documentation and maintenance of records detailing equipment usage, breakdowns, accidents, and maintenance.

Perform any signal equipment test to industry standards, such as MTBA's SM1 and SM2, manufacturers' equipment manuals, AREMA, FRA and DOT. Measure actual work results against established standards or custom requirements. Drive a company or personal vehicle to visit work sites and to assist at emergencies and/or events as needed.

Respond to each inquiry, whether from a customer, vendor, or co-worker in a professional and courteous manner. Work any and all shifts and/or locations as assigned or directed. Respond or report to work as directed by supervisory personnel for emergencies, extreme weather conditions, or any other abnormal conditions that impair service or the safety of service, twenty-four (24) hours per day, seven (7) days per week.

Uphold the rights and interests of the Authority while building and maintaining an effective relationship with employees. Assist in the management of a workforce by ensuring the fair and consistent application and strict adherence to the rules, regulations, collective bargaining agreements (if applicable) and policies of the Authority including the EEO, Anti-Discrimination and Anti- Harassment and Anti-Retaliation policies. Perform all other duties and projects that may be assigned.

Additional responsibilities may include focus on one or more departments or locations. See applicable addendum for department or location specific functions. Supervision None Minimum Requirements & Qualifications A high school diploma or equivalent (G.E.D.) from an accredited institution

Five (5) years of experience in rail or transit signaling where the major duties were the installation, maintenance, and repair of wayside control equipment, block signal systems, and other related automatic train operation equipment. Ability to inspect job sites to ensure compliance with work schedules, standards of quality, and safety requirements. Working knowledge of AC and DC electrical distribution systems.

Effective written and oral communication skills. Related experience in a supervisory capacity. Effective organizational and analytical skills.

Ability to use Microsoft Outlook, Word, and Excel as determined by the department for communication, preparation, and documentation of maintenance records. Excellent customer service skills. Ability to provide internal and external customers with a courteous and professional experience.

Valid driver's license in accordance with MBTA policy. Ability to supervise and work effectively with a diverse workforce. Successful applicants must have the English language skills required to perform the duties of the position effectively.

Substitutions None Preferred Experience & Skills Two (2) years of experience supervising the installation, maintenance and repair of wayside control equipment, block signal systems and other automatic train operations equipment. Job Conditions: Ability to effectively read, comprehend, communicate, and respond to instructions, orders, signs, notices, inquiries, etc. in English.

Be at least eighteen (18) years of age, except if participating in an approved high school internship / co-op program. Ability to commute to assigned work locations in the Boston, MA metro area, as required by the role. Ability to provide internal and external customers with courteous and professional experiences.

Ability to work effectively, independently, and as part of a diverse workforce team (or supervise, if required). Ability to uphold the rights and interests of the MBTA while building and maintaining effective relationships with employees and co-workers. Ability to adhere to rules, regulations, collective bargaining agreements (if applicable), and policies of the MBTA, including the EEO, anti-discrimination, anti-harassment, and anti-retaliation policies.

Have a satisfactory work record for the two (2) years immediately prior to the closing date of this posting (unless if current student or recent graduate), including overall employment, job performance, discipline, and safety records (infractions and/or offenses occurring after the closing of the posting and before the filling of a vacancy may preclude a candidate from consideration for selection). Ability to pass a Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) check, comprehensive background screening, and / or medical Clinic screening, potentially including physical examination and drug and alcohol screenings. Ability to work all shifts and / or locations assigned, directed, or necessary for this position, including (for some transit / operations roles) up to twenty-four (24) hours per day, seven (7) days per week as necessary to accommodate severe weather conditions, emergencies, or any other circumstances that may potentially impact service or the safety of service.

Intern / co-op staff must be enrolled full or part-time in an accredited educational program and maintain a cumulative GPA of at least 2.5 for the entire duration of the internship / co-op. Additionally, interns / co-ops must have valid work authorization and U.S. Social Security Number prior to starting pre-employment screenings / pre-boarding, working in their positions, and throughout the duration of their program

Disclaimers and Definitions: General Disclaimer: The statements contained in this job description are intended to describe a summary, general nature, and complexity of typical job functions and do not represent an exhaustive list of all duties, tasks, and responsibilities required of staff assigned to this position. Application Completion: It is each applicant's responsibility to ensure application details are entered completely and correctly, including updated work and education histories (past and current). Incomplete applications may not be considered.

Attachments do not substitute for application fields. The recruitment team does not have access to existing employee data / history. Application Deadlines: Applicants should apply as soon as possible, as the MBTA may stop considering applicants after a sufficiently large applicant pool is established.

Work Environment: The physical demands and work environment characteristics described here-in are representative of those an employee may encounter while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations can be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions. See job description for role-specific requirements.

Work Eligibility: All employees must be legally authorized to work in the United States and on an unrestricted basis. The MBTA does not have an employer work sponsorship program. However, if you have unrestricted work authorization, or are sponsored by a separate entity, you are welcome to apply.

Further, all persons hired will require a U.S. Social Security Number prior to starting the position and employees will be required to complete a Form I-9 to verify their identity and eligibility to work in the U.S. Interviews: Candidates should ensure they arrive on time, are prepared, can remain for the duration, and if remote, are in a quiet place without distraction, for the interview

Candidates who do not attend their interview without advance authorization, including an email confirmation of a rescheduled time/date from Human Resources, will be considered a no-show and disqualified from consideration for the position. Related to rescheduling, on a one-time basis, and due to something emergent, you may be allowed to reschedule the interview. In addition, Human Resources may require documentation supporting the request.

However, should you need to reschedule, you will need to contact your Recruiter directly by email. Safety Sensitive Positions: Employees working in this classification will be subject to periodic physical examinations plus random drug and alcohol testing. On-call or 24/7 Positions: Employees working in this classification must be available to respond to page / text / call and report to work as determined by assigned department or the Authority.

Essential / Emergency Staff: During declared "states of emergency," employees working in this classification are required to report to work for their assigned work hours or as directed by management. ADA Accommodations: The MBTA makes reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities. If you require an accommodation during this process, please contact the MBTA's ADA Unit at 617-222-5751 or hradaaa@mbta.com

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: The MBTA is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. For terms, descriptions, and definitions related to diversity, equity, inclusion, veteran status, and immediate family members that you may find on the application form, please visit mbta.com/careers-app-definitions. Intern / Co-Op Benefits: Employees taking part in an internship or co-op at the MBTA are eligible to receive accrued paid sick leave as well as a monthly transportation pass, based on the city from which the intern / co-op commutes to work, at no cost

However, no additional benefits are currently offered for interns or co-ops.


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