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Signalman Railroad Jobs (NOW HIRING)

CDL Electric

Railroad Signal Maintainer

New Orleans, LA · On-site

Railroad Signal Maintainer New Orleans, Louisiana area Incentives Include: * Company vehicle, laptop, and cell phone provided. * Wages are negotiable as per experience. Benefits Include : * Health ...

CDL Electric

Railroad Signal Maintainer

Labelle, FL · On-site

Railroad Signal Maintainer Fort Myers/LaBelle, Florida area Incentives Include: * Company vehicle, laptop, and cell phone provided. * Wages are negotiable as per experience. Benefits Include

Federal Railroad Administration

TX · On-site

$89K/yr

As a Railroad Safety Inspector (Signal & Train Control), you will enforce Federal safety and health regulations that are concern with signal and train contrl and highway-rail grade crossing warning ...

CDL Electric

Railroad Signal Maintainer

Okeechobee, FL · On-site

Employee referral bonuses Summary A Railroad Signal Maintainer for CDL is responsible for testing, maintaining and improving signal systems at grade crossings and way-side signal locations in ...

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$32

How much do signalman railroad jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for signalman railroad in the United States is $24.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.63 and $28.37 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are signalman railroad?

A signalman in the railroad industry is responsible for operating and maintaining the signaling systems that control train movements. Their work ensures trains run safely and efficiently by managing track switches, signals, and communication between trains and control centers. Signalmen may work from signal boxes, control rooms, or on the track itself, performing inspections and repairs as needed. Their job is crucial for preventing accidents and ensuring the smooth flow of rail traffic.

How to become a railroad signalman?

To become a railroad signalman, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, and must complete on-the-job training or an apprenticeship program. Knowledge of safety procedures, signaling systems, and communication tools is essential, and some positions may require certification or licensing depending on the region. Physical fitness and the ability to work in various weather conditions are also important.

What are the most common challenges a Signalman faces when maintaining railroad signaling equipment?

Signalmen often encounter challenges such as working in adverse weather conditions, troubleshooting complex electrical systems, and adhering to strict safety protocols. The role requires precise attention to detail, as even minor errors can impact train schedules and safety. Additionally, Signalmen must be prepared to respond to emergencies at any time and collaborate closely with train dispatchers, maintenance crews, and engineers to ensure seamless railway operations.

What is the highest paid railroad job?

The highest paid railroad jobs are typically executive or management positions, such as railroad presidents or chief operating officers, which can earn six-figure salaries. Among operational roles, locomotive engineers and signal supervisors also earn high wages, often supplemented by overtime and benefits. Salary levels depend on experience, location, and company size.

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

To thrive as a Signalman Railroad, you need a solid understanding of railroad signaling systems, electrical circuitry, and safety regulations, typically gained through vocational training or an apprenticeship. Familiarity with specialized diagnostic tools, signal testing equipment, and computerized signal control systems is essential. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are valuable soft skills for this role. These competencies are crucial to maintain safe and efficient railway operations and to quickly address signal malfunctions or emergencies.

What jobs pay 500,000 a year in the US?

In the US, high-paying jobs such as senior railroad signalmen or managers in the transportation industry can reach or exceed $500,000 annually, especially with experience, overtime, and additional responsibilities. These roles often require specialized skills, certifications, and working in demanding environments, with compensation reflecting the level of expertise and risk involved.

What does a railroad signal man do?

A railroad signal man is responsible for operating and maintaining signals and track switches to ensure the safe movement of trains. They monitor signal systems, communicate with train crews, and work outdoors in various weather conditions, often requiring certification and knowledge of safety protocols.

What is the difference between Signalman Railroad vs Track Inspector?

AspectSignalman RailroadTrack Inspector
CertificationsRailroad safety and signaling certificationsTrack inspection certifications, such as OSHA or FRA standards
Work EnvironmentRail yards, signal towers, on or near tracksRail tracks, maintenance sites, outdoor environments
Employer & Industry UsageRailroads, transit agenciesRailroads, transportation agencies
Common Search & ComparisonYesNo

Signalman Railroad and Track Inspector roles both operate within the railroad industry, focusing on safety and infrastructure. Signalmen primarily manage signaling systems to ensure train movement safety, while Track Inspectors focus on inspecting and maintaining track conditions. Both roles require safety certifications and work outdoors near tracks, but their specific responsibilities differ. Understanding these distinctions helps job seekers find the right career path in rail safety and maintenance.

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Signalman Railroad jobs near you
Infographic showing various Signalman Railroad job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 89% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,682 per year, or $24.4 per hour.

Railroad Signal Maintainer Helper

MASSACHUSETTS COASTAL RAILROAD LLC

Taunton, MA

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

Railroad Signal Maintainer Helper

The Signal Maintainer Helper position is a full-time, hourly paid, at-will position governed by the Mass Coastal Employee Handbook, NORAC, FRA, and any other employee rules and regulations in effect. The incumbent is supervised by the Signal Supervisor and is responsible for assisting in all duties related to signal maintenance. Mass Coastal Railroad offers complete and detailed training for this position, as well as the opportunity for professional growth and advancement. Operating in a safe manner will take place over any other job function.


Primary Responsibilities:

  • Ensure compliance with all safety regulations and industry standards while performing all assigned duties with safety as key priority.
  • Assist Maintainer with daily responsibilities, inlcluding:
    • Inspect and test gate crossings, signals, and signal equipment on active highway Grade Crossings.
    • Inspect electrical units of railroad grade crossing gates to detect loose bolts, defective electrical connections and parts.
    • Test signal circuit connections using standard electrical testing equipment.
    • Replace defective wiring, broken lenses, and burned-out light bulbs.
    • Lubricate moving parts on gate crossing mechanisms and swinging signals.
    • Inspect batteries to ensure that batteries are filled with battery water or determine the need for replacement.
    • Compile reports indicating mileage or track inspected, repairs made, and equipment requiring replacement.
    • Maintain and repair Highway Grade Crossings in accordance with federal regulations.
  • Attend mandatory on-site trainings for qualifications, as required.
  • Perform other related duties as assigned.

Requirements/Preferences:

  • Prior experience in the Railroad Signal Field in the area of installation/construction or maintenance is preferred but not required.
  • High School Diploma or equivalent is required; Assoc. degree in electrical preferred, but not required.
  • Ability to comprehend electrical blueprints to troubleshoot, identify and correct various defects is beneficial, but not necessary.
  • Available as a back-up on-call Maintainer for required trouble call responses.
  • Must be able to work nights and weekends if necessary.
  • Self-starter with excellent organizational skills.
  • Must be committed to promoting a safe workplace.
  • Ability to walk on level or uneven ground, bend, twist, stoop, push, pull, and lift a minimum of 50 pounds.
  • Must have a valid Driver?s License.
  • Must be able to work outdoors in all weather conditions.

Benefits:

  • Health, vision, dental, and life insurance

  • Earned Paid Time Off and Paid Holidays

  • Railroad Retirement

  • Short & Long-term disability
  • 401K

  • Employee Assistance Program

All positions require pre-employment background check verification, a pre-employment physical and a pre-employment drug screen with random and for-cause screenings after employment begins. Marijuana usage, notwithstanding any statute, ordinance, regulation, or other law that legalizes or decriminalizes the use or possession of marijuana, whether for medical, recreational, or other use will disqualify you for hire and/or for continued employment.

We are an EEO/Affirmative Action Minority/Female employer, and we welcome all to apply. We consider candidates regardless of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, sexual orientation, and sexual expression), ethnicity, age, disability, veteran status, marital status, ancestry, genetic information, citizenship, and any other personal characteristics protected by law.

Apply