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Traveling Apprentice Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

Apprentice

Talladega, AL ยท On-site

$15.75 - $20.25/hr

Able and willing to travel long distances on short notice. * Able and willing to work for extended periods in various locations. * Able and willing to work in all types of weather environments ...

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Traveling Apprentice information

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$8

$15

$23

How much do traveling apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for traveling apprentice in Alabama is $15.67, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.08 and $16.97 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a traveling apprentice?

Traveling Apprentices are individuals who learn a skilled trade or craft by working under the supervision of experienced professionals while moving between different locations or job sites. This type of apprenticeship provides hands-on experience in various environments, which helps apprentices develop a broader range of skills and adaptability. Traveling Apprentices often work in trades such as construction, electrical, or industrial fields, and may relocate frequently to follow projects or employers. This setup allows them to gain exposure to diverse techniques, work cultures, and industries, enhancing their employability and expertise.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a traveling apprentice?

To thrive as a Traveling Apprentice, you generally need a foundational understanding of your trade, a high school diploma or equivalent, and a willingness to learn on the job. Familiarity with basic hand and power tools, safety regulations, and sometimes completion of an OSHA certification are common requirements. Strong communication, adaptability, and reliability are important soft skills for adjusting to different work environments and collaborating with diverse teams. These skills ensure apprentices can safely and effectively support skilled workers while gaining valuable hands-on experience across various job sites.

What are some common challenges faced by traveling apprentices and how can they be managed?

Traveling Apprentices often encounter challenges such as adapting to new work environments, frequent relocation, and balancing travel with learning responsibilities. To manage these, it's important to stay organized, maintain clear communication with supervisors, and be proactive about asking questions in unfamiliar settings. Building a strong network with both local teams and fellow apprentices can also help ease transitions and foster a supportive learning experience.

What is the difference between Traveling Apprentice vs Traveling Journeyman?

AspectTraveling ApprenticeTraveling Journeyman
CredentialsTypically requires a basic apprenticeship program and relevant certificationsHas completed apprenticeship, holds journeyman certification
Work EnvironmentOn-the-job training, supervised, traveling to various job sitesIndependent work, skilled tasks, traveling between multiple locations
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by construction, electrical, plumbing industries during training phasesUsed once training is complete, in skilled trades across similar industries

The main difference between a Traveling Apprentice and a Traveling Journeyman is their level of certification and experience. A Traveling Apprentice is still in training, working under supervision, while a Traveling Journeyman has completed their apprenticeship and is qualified to work independently across various locations.

What are the most commonly searched types of Traveling jobs in Alabama?

The most popular types of Traveling jobs in Alabama are:

What cities in Alabama are hiring for Traveling Apprentice jobs?

Cities in Alabama with the most Traveling Apprentice job openings:

Infographic showing various Traveling Apprentice job openings in Alabama as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 65% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 18% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,584 per year, or $15.7 per hour.

Electrical Apprentice Signal Trainee (Birmingham, AL)

Norfolk Southern Corp.

Sylacauga, AL โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted yesterday


Key responsibilities

  • Perform FRA-required inspections and testing of signal systems and grade crossings

  • Install, maintain, and repair signal equipment including signal lights, switch machines, and electrical switch locks, crossing warning devices, interlocking systems, PTC, and cab signal systems

  • Read and interpret electrical schematics and technical diagrams


Job description

Requisition 40169: Electrical Apprentice Signal Trainee (Birmingham, AL)ย 

We are accepting applications to build a pipeline of qualified candidates for upcoming hiring needs. Candidates who successfully complete the hiring process may be considered for training classes between late 2026 and mid-2027, based on business needs and location availability.ย 

Descriptionย 

At Norfolk Southern, we believe that ourpeoplepower progress. Our culture is built on our SPIRIT values-Safety, Performance, Integrity, Respect, Innovation, and Teamwork-whichย guideย how we work, lead, and grow together. Ifyou'reready to launch a career in railroad signal maintenance and contribute to the safety and reliability of train operations, we invite you to explore the Apprentice Signal Trainee role.ย 

This hands-on, field-based position prepares individuals for a career in signal maintenance through structured classroom instruction and on-the-job training. Apprentice Signal Trainees learn to install, inspect, andmaintainsignal systems that are critical to safe and efficient rail operations.ย 

What Should You Knowย 

  • This is a seniority-based union position.You willย be requiredย to bid onย available positions, which may beย locatedย outside your training location.Relocation may be necessary based on the outcome of the bid process.Relocationassistanceis not provided for this position.ย 

  • You must be available to work on-call, 24/7, includingholidays,nightsand weekends.ย 

  • Extensive travel isrequiredduring training (up to 75%).ย 

  • You willbe requiredto join the Brotherhood of Railroad Signalmen (BRS) within60 daysofestablishingseniority.ย 

  • You must obtainย a Classย A CDL within90 daysof hire (training provided by Norfolk Southern)ย 

Trainingย 

Training lasts approximately52 weeksand includes both classroom and field instruction.ย 

Click on the link below tolearn more about our training program:ย 

https://vimeo.com/871474435/990fe84216ย 

  • Classroom Training:Three sessions (3 weeks each) at the NS Training Center in McDonough, GA. Hotel accommodations, mileage reimbursement, and meal stipends provided.ย 

  • Field Training:Hands-on experience with construction and maintenance crews across your seniority district.ย 

  • Evaluations:Periodic written and practical assessments.ย 

Successful completionof the training programplaces apprentices on the seniority roster and makes them eligible to bid on Signal Maintainerposition.ย 

SeniorityDistricts:ย 

  • Eastern Region North (ERN)ย 

  • Norfolk & Western (NW)ย 

  • Southern Lines East (SLE)ย 

  • Southern Lines West (SLW)ย 

  • WRE (Western Region East (WRE)ย 

  • Western Region West (WRW)ย 

A detailed overview of the seniority districts is available in the following video:https://statics.teams.cdn.office.net/evergreen-assets/safelinks/2/atp-safelinks.htmlย 

Job Responsibilitiesย 

  • Perform FRA-required inspections and testing of signal systems and grade crossings.ย 

  • Install,maintain, and repair signal equipment includingsignal lights, switch machines, and electrical switch locksย 

  • Crossing warning devices and interlocking systemsย 

  • Positive Train Control (PTC) and cab signal systemsย 

  • Read and interpret electrical schematics and technical diagrams.ย 

  • Operate hand tools, electrical testing instruments, and heavy equipmentย 

  • Accurately document inspections, repairs, and installations.ย 

  • Work safely in outdoor environments under varying weather conditions.ย 

  • Respond to on-call assignments, including nights and weekends.ย 

Qualifications - Requiredย 

  • You mustbe 18 years or older.ย 

  • High school diploma or GED.ย 

  • Valid driver's license and reliable transportation.ย 

  • You must obtainย a Classย A CDL within90 daysof hire (training provided by NorfolkSouthern)ย 

  • This includes passing acommercialdrivermedical certification examination.ย 

  • Must pass pre-employment Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) drug and alcohol screening.ย 

  • Must not have a conviction for, or completed state action to cancel, revoke, suspend, or deny a motor vehicledriverslicense for,operatinga motor vehicle while under the influence of or impaired by alcohol or a controlled substanceย 

  • In the past36 months,ย Mustย not have conviction for,or completed state action to cancel, revoke, suspend, or deny a motor vehicle driver's license for, refusal to undergo such testing as is required by State or foreign law when a law enforcement official seeks to determine whether a person is operating a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or a controlled substanceย 

  • Must be legally authorized to work in the U.S.ย 

Qualifications - Preferredย 

  • Technical certificate or associate degree in Electrical Technology, Electronics Engineering, or related field.ย 

  • OSHA 10/30, First Aid/CPR, TWIC card.ย 

  • 1-2 years in electrical, mechanical, or field service work.ย 

  • Strong mechanical and electrical aptitude.ย 

  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.ย 

  • Proficient in basic computer applications (Excel, Word, Outlook).ย 

  • Effective time management and communication skills.ย 

Physical and Mental Job Requirementsย 

  • Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs.ย 

  • Capable of climbing, bending, stooping, and working at heights.ย 

  • Ability to walk long distances on uneven terrain.ย 

  • Must pass FRA/FMCSAphysical standardsincluding:ย 

  • Visual acuity (at least 20/40 in each eye separately and both together withorwithout corrective lenses).ย 

  • Color vision (must pass FRA-approved tests; lenses to improve color vision are notpermitted).ย 

  • Hearing (no hearing loss greater than 40B average at 500, 1000, and 2000 Hz in better ear; may be met with hearing aid).ย 

Work Conditionsย 

  • Outdoor field work in all weather conditions.ย 

  • Extensive travel during training (up to 75%).ย 

  • On-call and weekend availabilityrequired.ย 

  • Union membershiprequired(BRS).ย 

Compensation and Benefitsย 

  • Weeks 1-3 (Classroom): $1,200/weekย 

  • Apprentice Periods:ย 

  • First130 days: $36.48/hrย 

  • Second130 days: $36.85/hrย 

  • Post-Apprenticeship (Signal Maintainer): $37.98/hr+ย 

Benefits Include:ย 

  • Medical coverage begins the first day of the second month after hireย 

  • Health insurance (80/20 or 85/15 plan)ย 

  • $20,000 life insuranceย 

  • 401(k) eligibility from day oneย 

  • Dental and vision coverage after one year of serviceย 

Company Overview

Norfolk Southern Corporation (NYSE: NSC) is a Fortune 300 organization and one of the nation's premier transportation companies. Its Norfolk Southern Railway Company subsidiary operates approximately 19,500 route miles in 22 states and the District of Columbia, serves every major container port in the eastern United States, and provides efficient connections to other rail carriers. Norfolk Southern is a major transporter of industrial products, including chemicals, agriculture, and metals and construction materials. In addition, the railroad operates the most extensive intermodal network in the East and is a principal carrier ofย coal, automobiles, and automotive parts.

At Norfolk Southern, we believe in celebrating our individuality. By leveraging the unique backgrounds and viewpoints of our employees, we can create a culture of innovation, respect, and inclusion. We know that employees thrive in a workplace where differing viewpoints, ideas, and experiences are freely shared and valued. As such, we encourage all employees to contribute their distinctive skills and capabilities to our organization.

Equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants regardless of race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetic information, veteran status, sexual orientation, and gender identity. Together, we power progress.