Install, inspect, test, maintain, or repair electric gate crossings, signals, signal equipment, track switches, section lines, or intercommunications systems within a railroad system.
SOC: 49-9097.00
Common Job Titles
Signal Inspector
Signal Maintainer
Signalman
Train Control Electronic Technician
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
KnowledgeAnalyze signal system malfunctions and track switch defects using diagnostic equipment and technical specifications in railroad environments.
Proficient
Hands-onPerform repair and maintenance procedures on electric gate crossings and signal equipment following safety protocols and regulatory requirements independently.
Proficient
Hands-onOperate digital oscilloscopes, voltage meters, and relay testers to diagnose electrical system failures in track switch equipment.
Proficient
KnowledgeEvaluate signal and track switch system performance against compliance standards during routine inspections and testing procedures.
Proficient
KnowledgeApply mechanical, electrical, and telecommunications knowledge to troubleshoot complex signal system failures under time pressure.
Proficient
Hands-onCoordinate physical inspection activities and equipment handling tasks while working on elevated structures and around active rail operations.
Proficient
KnowledgeAssess work priorities and resource allocation needs when managing multiple repair assignments across railroad system sections.
Proficient
MindsetIntegrate safety protocols with operational efficiency requirements when coordinating with train operations and maintenance teams.
Proficient
KnowledgeInterpret technical schematics, wiring diagrams, and system specifications to guide installation and repair of signal and track switch components.
Proficient
Hands-onExecute installation procedures for intercommunication systems and section lines using hand tools and power equipment within railroad infrastructure.
Developing
KnowledgeDocument inspection findings, maintenance activities, and compliance test results using maintenance management software and standardized reporting formats.
Developing
MindsetParticipate in knowledge transfer and technical training activities with team members to maintain current understanding of railroad signal technology.
Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Signal and Track Switch Repairers (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
8,210
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $57,410. 25th percentile: U.S. $75,680. 50th percentile: U.S. $83,600. 75th percentile: U.S. $95,620. 90th percentile: U.S. $104,860. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$57,410
10% of workers earn the following or more
$104,860
Workers on average earn
$84,940
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
Transportation3.7/5
Mechanical3.7/5
English Language3.6/5
Public Safety and Security3.5/5
Telecommunications3.1/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
Microsoft Excel
Microsoft Office software
Microsoft Outlook
Microsoft PowerPoint
Microsoft Word
Technology Skills
Maintenance management software
Supervisory control and data acquisition SCADA software
