Signal Maintainer - Madison, WI

Start a Watco Career and Discover the Difference. Keep the world’s supply chain moving. That’s what the Watco team does every day at our short‑line railroads, switching sites, terminals, ports, and logistics hubs. Whether you’re at one of these locations or in a support‑services role, there’s one thread that ties everyone together – we’re all on the same team. One Watco.

About the role

The Signal Maintainer is responsible for the inspection, maintenance, troubleshooting, repair, and installation of railroad signal and crossing systems. This position works as part of a mobile maintenance crew and travels to various locations to support the safe and reliable operation of railroad signal equipment. The role involves working with electrical, mechanical, and electronic components, following technical instructions and safety procedures, and making sound decisions in the field. A strong commitment to safety, quality workmanship, teamwork, and reliability is essential.

Responsibilities

• Perform construction, installation, modification, rehabilitation, and removal of railroad signal and highway grade crossing systems and associated equipment.
• Install and replace signal equipment including foundations, masts, signal heads, gates, flashers, instrument houses, cases, wiring, cable, conduit, junction boxes, and related components.
• Install, terminate, splice, and test signal and communication cable in accordance with plans, specifications, and applicable standards.
• Assist with cutovers, system upgrades, relocations, and commissioning of new or modified signal and crossing systems.
• Perform wiring and equipment installation inside signal houses, cases, and bungalows, including relays, terminals, power supplies, batteries, chargers, and electronic equipment.
• Use meters, test equipment, hand tools, power tools, hydraulic equipment, and construction equipment necessary to perform signal construction work.
• Perform excavation, trenching, conduit installation, cable placement, grounding, bonding, and other physical work associated with signal construction.
• Assist with testing and verification of installed or modified signal systems prior to being placed in service.
• Work as part of a mobile signal crew under the direction of a Signal Foreman.
• Maintain tools, vehicles, materials and equipment assigned to the crew and assist with loading, unloading, inventory, and job‑site organization.
• Follow railroad operating rules, roadway worker‑protection requirements, blueprints/plans, FRA requirements, company standards, and established signal practices.
• Travel extensively and work varying schedules, including nights, weekends, extended hours and emergency assignments as required by projects and railroad operations.

Qualifications

• Previous experience in railroad signal maintenance, electrical work, industrial maintenance, telecommunications, electronics, or a related technical field (preferred).
• Ability to learn and apply railroad signal rules, procedures, and technical requirements.
• Basic understanding of electrical and mechanical systems.
• Ability to troubleshoot problems and determine appropriate corrective action.
• Ability to read and understand technical documents, wiring diagrams, schematics, and instructions.
• Mechanical aptitude and the ability to use hand tools, power tools, and testing equipment.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to safety.
• Ability to work independently while also functioning effectively as part of a team.
• Ability to communicate clearly and professionally with coworkers and supervisors.
• Ability to prioritize work and respond effectively to changing conditions and unexpected problems.
• Dependable, punctual, and willing to work a flexible schedule, including nights, weekends, holidays, and overtime when required.
• Willing and able to travel extensively as part of a mobile maintenance crew.
• Ability to work outdoors in extreme temperatures, precipitation, and other challenging conditions.
• Ability to work safely around railroad tracks, moving trains, heavy equipment, electrical systems, and roadway traffic.
• Must possess or be able to obtain any required railroad qualifications, certifications, or licenses.
• Valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record required.

Education

Must be 18 years of age or older with a High School diploma or GED equivalent.