Signal Maintainer

Genesee & Wyoming Inc.; Salem (OR); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical benefits

Life Insurance

Flexible Spending Account

Health Savings Account

Employee Assistance Program

401(k) Retirement Plan

On the Job Training

Paid Time Off

Tuition Reimbursement

Job summary

Genesee & Wyoming Inc. in Salem, OR is seeking a Signal Maintainer to ensure railway signal systems operate safely and reliably.

You will inspect, test, and maintain grade-crossing devices, power switches, and related equipment, supporting safe train movements and on‑time service. This full‑time role requires reading schematic diagrams, adhering to federal and railroad safety regulations, and working a varied 24/7 schedule outdoors in all weather.

Qualifications

• Associates degree or equivalent required.
• Valid driver's license required.
• CDL preferred or obtainable if required.
• Must be 18 years of age or older.

Responsibilities

• Comply with federal, state, and railroad safety regulations.
• Inspect and test signal circuitry using standard equipment.
• Maintain batteries and signal equipment (grade crossings, switches, controllers).
• Prepare inspection/repair reports and replace faulty equipment as needed.
• Operate vehicles to install, inspect, test, and maintain signals and related equipment.
• Respond to service interruptions to keep rail traffic flowing.
• Ensure compliance with all rules and safety standards.

Skills

Schematic reading

Signal maintenance

Troubleshooting

Communication

Safety awareness

Education

Associate degree or equivalent

Tools

Basic computer skills

Job description

Company / Benefits Overview: Are you ready to build a rewarding career in the railroad industry? Join the Genesee & Wyoming Inc. (G&W) team — part of a legacy that is over 125 years old. With a network of 100+ individual freight railroads and 4,000 employees across North America, we provide transportation and logistics services to more than 2,000 customers.

Job Details

Description

Company / Benefits Overview: Are you ready to build a rewarding career in the railroad industry? Join the Genesee & Wyoming Inc. (G&W) team — part of a legacy that is over 125 years old. With a network of 100+ individual freight railroads and 4,000 employees across North America, we provide transportation and logistics services to more than 2,000 customers.

• Medical, Dental, Vision & Telehealth
• Life Insurance
• Optional benefit coverages for Accident, Critical Illness, Hospital, ID Theft & Life Insurance
• Flexible Spending & Health Savings account plans
• Employee Assistance Program
• 401(k) Retirement Plan
• On the Job Training
• Paid Time Off
• Tuition Reimbursement
• And more!
• Benefits are subject to change and may vary by labor agreement

Explore your future with G&W today and learn more about the opportunities to grow across our organization!

Job Summary

As a Signal Maintainer, you’ll be at the forefront of rail safety – ensuring that the signal systems guiding train movement are functioning flawlessly. These systems are the railroad’s version of traffic lights, and your work directly impacts the safety of train crews and the communities we serve. This role is ideal for someone who’s technically skilled, detail-oriented, and committed to keeping rail operations running safely and smoothly. Your work will help ensure every train moves safely and efficiently making you a vital part of the railroad’s success.

Responsibilities

• Comply with all federal, state, and other applicable railroad safety and operational regulations
• Inspect and test signal circuitry, using standard electrical and/or electronic testing equipment
• Inspect, test, and maintain batteries and signal equipment to ensure proper operation of signals and signal equipment such as grade-crossing warning devices, power switches, and switch air unit controllers
• Compile reports including inspections, tests performed, and repairs made; replace required equipment when needed
• Operate rail or highway vehicle for transportation to wayside locations to install, inspect, test, and maintain or repaired grade-crossing warning systems, signals, and signal equipment
• Respond to service interruptions to keep rail traffic safely flowing through the territory
• Ensure equipment meets all relevant rules, regulations and safety standards
• Manage projects and perform other duties as assigned

Working Conditions / Physical Requirements

• Full-time (40 plus hours weekly)
• Varying schedule in a 24/7 work environment that includes nights, holidays, weekends, and on-call as needed
• Outdoor work in all weather conditions
• Walking on uneven surfaces and climbing ladders and equipment always ensuring three points of contact
• Able to squat, bend and lift overhead for extended periods of kneeling or crouching (bending at the knees)
• Occasional lifting of equipment and tools up to 89 pounds

Skills And Experience

• Ability to read schematic diagrams in maintenance and instruction manuals and to understand mechanical principles
• Knowledge of wayside/crossing detection and control and other signal-related apparatuses preferred (Example: ABS, CTC, Search Light and Color Light Signals, Hot Box Detectors, Interlockers and AEI Readers, GCP3000+, MS4000, XP4, PMD-3, GCP4000/5000)
• Ability to operate and carry tools required for performing maintenance, repair and installation of equipment
• Ability to plan and maintain your own schedule to accomplish inspection and territory requirements
• Ability to work independently and alone for extended periods of time while being safe, productive and compliant
• Ability to operate independently with little supervision
• Effective written and oral communication skills
• Strong analytical skills
• Basic computer skills (Microsoft Office, applications, reporting, etc.)
• Possess situational awareness and decision-making abilities to respond effectively in a safety sensitive environment

Required Education And Credentials

• Associate’s degree or an equivalent combination of high school diploma / GED and experience
• Must possess a valid driver’s license
• Commercial Driver's License (CDL) is a plus or able to obtain one if required
• At least 18 years of age

Employment Requirements

• Pre-employment physical, hearing, and vision medical review
• May be subject to federally mandated drug and alcohol testing including pre-employment drug screening
• Background screening including criminal and motor vehicle driving history

Relocation

Must live within 50 miles of assigned location or be willing to relocate.

This position is employed by the specific entity set forth in the job posting.