Signal and Track Switch Repairers
Install, inspect, test, maintain, or repair electric gate crossings, signals, signal equipment, track switches, section lines, or intercommunications systems within a railroad system.
Common Job Titles
- Signal Inspector
- Signal Maintainer
- Signalman
- Train Control Electronic Technician
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey 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
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
- Web browser software
Tools & Equipment
- Adjustable hand wrenches
- Articulating aerial lift equipment
- Audio spectrum analyzers
- Brush cutting equipment
- Clamp-on ammeters
- Closed circuit television CCTV systems
- Digital oscilloscopes
- Digital still cameras