Signal and Track Switch Repairers

What signal and track switch repairers do

Install, inspect, test, maintain, or repair electric gate crossings, signals, signal equipment, track switches, section lines, or intercommunications systems within a railroad system.

Typical tasks

1. 1Inspect and test operation, mechanical parts, and circuitry of gate crossings, signals, and signal equipment such as interlocks and hotbox detectors.
2. 2Inspect electrical units of railroad grade crossing gates and repair loose bolts and defective electrical connections and parts.
3. 3Test and repair track circuits.
4. 4Drive motor vehicles to job sites.
5. 5Install, inspect, maintain, and repair various railroad service equipment on the road or in the shop, including railroad signal systems.
6. 6Tighten loose bolts, using wrenches, and test circuits and connections by opening and closing gates.
7. 7Inspect switch-controlling mechanisms on trolley wires and in track beds, using hand tools and test equipment.
8. 8Replace defective wiring, broken lenses, or burned-out light bulbs.
9. 9Inspect, maintain, and replace batteries as needed.
10. 10Record and report information about mileage or track inspected, repairs performed, and equipment requiring replacement.

Technology used

• Microsoft Excel
• Microsoft Office software
• Microsoft Outlook
• Microsoft PowerPoint
• Microsoft Word

How to become one

Education

The most common level among workers surveyed is a less than a high school diploma (34%). Most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree.

Experience

Previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required for these occupations. For example, an electrician must have completed three or four years of apprenticeship or several years of vocational training, and often must have passed a licensing exam, in order to perform the job.

Training

Employees in these occupations usually need one or two years of training involving both on-the-job experience and informal training with experienced workers. A recognized apprenticeship program may be associated with these occupations.