Assistant Signalman-Signal
Description
Job Title: Assistant Signalman - Signal | Department: Engineering |
MTA Agency: Long Island Rail Road | Primary Location(s): Various |
100% Hourly Rate of Pay: $44.71* (See Wage Progression Chart) | Safety Sensitive |
Union Affiliation: Brotherhood of Railroad Signalman (BRS-Local 56) | Repost Date: 10/27/2025 Closing Date: 11/04/2025 |
Chartered in 1834, the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) is the largest, busiest, and oldest continuously operating commuter railroad in the United States. In 2024, this 24/7/365 operation served 75.5 million riders on a system that stretches nearly 120 miles – from Penn Station and Grand Central Madison in Manhattan to Montauk on the eastern tip of Long Island. | |
Summary
The Assistant Signalman - Signal is a training position in the Signal Department of the Long Island Rail Road. The Signal Department is responsible for the equipment and circuitry associated with the operation of crossing gates, signals and switches. The Assistant Signalman - Signal is required to perform various physical labor duties including digging, painting, lifting, cutting and driving. The Assistant Signalman - Signal is also responsible for learning how to install, maintain and test the various types of equipment and systems of the Signal System. They are also responsible to assist qualified mechanics in the assembly of, installation and testing of same equipment.
Responsibilities
Responsibilities may include but are not limited to:
- Assist in the assembly, installation and testing of signal equipment and systems.
- Demonstrate progressive knowledge of Signal System.
- Excavate for installation cables, air lines and foundations.
- Trim trees and cut brush.
- Paint various types of signal equipment.
- Drive company vehicles.
- Provide protection for gangs in accordance with LIRR Rules and Roadway Worker Rules.
- Work indoors and outdoors in all types of weather and conditions, including confined spaces and heights.
Qualifications
- A four-year high school diploma or its educational equivalent (GED or TASC) approved by a State's Department of Education or recognized accredited organization.
- Some electronics or electrical experience, on the job training experience and/or completion of a technical or trade school.
- Knowledge of OHM's law and series/parallel circuits.
- An aptitude for electronic/electrical work.
- Ability to demonstrate the use of meters.
- Ability to demonstrate circuit analysis.
- Ability to demonstrate trouble-shooting skills.
- Ability to use various hand tools.
- Ability to perform heavy lifting tasks.
- Must possess a valid driver's license.
- Must qualify as a Mechanic within a four-year period. Employees who fail to qualify within the four-year period are subject to termination of employment.
PREFERRED/DESIRABLE SKILLS/QUALIFICATIONS:
- Some college course work completed in electronic technology.
- Military Electricity/Electronics; Electronics Repair/Maintenance.
- Other Railroad/Transit Signal Departments.
- Prior construction helper or heavy lifting experience.
- Mechanical experience, i.e., auto mechanic, airplane mechanic.
- Strong troubleshooting skills.
Candidates hired into the position must complete a computer-based training program. Employees who fail to successfully complete the training within 48 hours of computer time are subject to termination of employment.
Wage Progression Rates-Hired on or After 9/25/2014
Step 1- 70% (1st year) - $30.10
Step 2- 70% (2nd year) - $30.10
Step 3- 75% - $32.25
Step 4- 80% - $34.40
Step 5- 85% - $36.55
Step 6- 85% - $36.55
Permanently Promoted to Mechanic 95%
After 365 calendar days 100%
Employees Hired Prior to 9/24/2014
Step 1- 70% - $30.10
Step 2- 75% - $32.25
Step 3- 80% - $34.40
Step 4- 85% - $36.55
Permanently Promoted to Mechanic 95%
After 365 calendar days 100%
After 365 calendar days 100%
Employees Hired Prior to 9/24/2014
Step 1- 70% - $30.10
Step 2- 75% - $32.25
Step 3- 80% - $34.40
Step 4- 85% - $36.55
Permanently Promoted to Mechanic 95%
After 365 calendar days 100%
Benefits:
- Commuting Assistance – based on operating MTA agency (complimentary transportation pass within the MTA’s jurisdiction and tax-advantaged accounts)
- Low Premium – High Quality Health Insurance Plans (lifetime coverage for eligible retirees and their dependents)
- Pension plans and retirement savings accounts for eligible employees
- Generous Paid Time Off and Holidays provided.
- Tuition Reimbursement for eligible employees
- Employee Assistance Programs
- MTA Exclusive Employee Discount Programs
- Work Life Services team and Office of the Chaplains unit
- Employee Resource Groups
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- Layout 1 (mta.info)
Other Information
- Pursuant to the New York State Public Officers Law & the MTA Code of Ethics, all employees who hold a policymaking position must file an Annual Statement of Financial Disclosure (FDS) with the NYS Commission on Ethics and Lobbying in Government (the “Commission”).
- Actual salary offers may vary based on individual work experience. The annual salary range is subject to change and may be modified at the company’s discretion.
- Employees driving company vehicles must complete defensive driver training once every three years for current MTA drivers; or within 180 days of hire or transfer for an employee entering an authorized driving position.
- Current employees should be in their current position 12 months prior to starting a new role and must possess a satisfactory work history, including attendance and discipline record.
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Equal Employment Opportunity
MTA and its subsidiary and affiliated agencies are Equal Opportunity Employers, including those concerning veteran status and individuals with disabilities.
The MTA encourages qualified applicants from diverse backgrounds, experiences, and abilities, including military service members, to apply.
If you require reasonable accommodation for a medical condition or disability to participate in the job application or interview process, please notify your MTA representative once you have been contacted regarding the role.