For someone who wants to work as a signal maintainer, there are several options. These railroad employees are in charge of ensuring that the traffic signaling systems are functioning properly. They deal with routine maintenance and repair, as well as troubleshooting and emergencies involving malfunctioning signals. Because crises must be dealt with immediately and cannot wait for personnel to return to work, the job may require long shifts and hours on weekends and holidays.
Train with the railroad as a signal maintainer is one option. It’s possible that you’ll be able to start working under supervision. Supervisors can provide hands-on training in signal maintenance as well as regulations and rules training. People often begin their careers as signaling personnel or in jobs around a rail yard before progressing to maintenance positions. Learning enough to apply for senior positions that require working independently and supervising other rail employees may take several years.
Another option is to pursue formal education in order to gain job skills. Electronics, circuits, and computer systems training are some of the courses that can be taken to prepare someone for a career as a signal maintainer. Colleges and technical schools may provide the necessary training, with some specializing in train signal work. It is also possible to enroll in an electrical apprenticeship and progress through the stages of training to become a journeyman electrician. It may be possible to apply for maintenance jobs with this qualification.
To become a signal maintainer, some railroads may require applicants to pass a physical and drug test. They must demonstrate that they are in good physical condition and have adequate color vision, as this is a potential safety issue. An examination may also include questions about basic safety, electrical topics, and regulations. Study guides are available to assist people in their preparation, including detailed overviews of railroad industry standards and practices.
It’s important to stay current with industry advancements and changes once you’ve been hired. Railroad signaling technology changes on a regular basis, and people must be prepared to change with it. After someone has become a signal maintainer, systems may need to be retrofitted or modified to comply with new regulations and standards, and it is helpful to be familiar with them ahead of time. A person who is ready for these changes can start planning them out and discussing them with other personnel, instead of needing to race to get acquainted with them before they’re required.