Assistant Signalman-Communications
Job ID: 14264
Business Unit: Long Island Rail Road
Location: Jamaica, NY, United States
Regular/Temporary: Regular
Department: Engineer Commun Maintenance
Date Posted: Jan 15, 2026
Description
Job Title: Assistant Signalman - Communications
Department: Engineering
MTA Agency: Long Island Rail Road
Primary Location(s): Various
Pay Rate: $43.00* (See Wage Progression Chart)
Regulated/Safety Sensitive: Safety Sensitive
Union Affiliation: Brotherhood of Railroad Signalman
Closing Date (if applicable): Open until filled
Shift (if applicable): Day
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.
JOB SUMMARY:
Systems Maintenance
Responsible for the installation and maintenance of underground cable systems, tunnel cable systems, wayside and office voice/data/video communications and cable systems, voice/data/video transport systems, IP systems, electronics and enclosures/huts/rooms, radio systems, security systems, customer information systems, optical systems, alarm systems. All systems elements (hardware/software/interfaces, etc.) are included. The individual will be responsible to demonstrate sufficient aptitude to learn this information and accept training. The individual must perform all assigned tasks safely and responsibly.
Systems Radio
The individual is expected to work under the direction of other members of the Communications Department and learn the work generally recognized as communications work under the scope of the Brotherhood of Railroad Signalmen (BRS) agreement with the LIRR. Communications work includes, but is not limited to, the installation and maintenance of VHF radio systems, Positive Train Control (PTC) radio systems, data radio systems, point to point and Line of Sight (LoS) systems including ancillary equipment and underground cable systems, tunnel cable systems, conduit, Distributed Antenna Systems (DAS), Radio Over IP (ROIP), Software Defined Radio (SDR), etc. All systems elements (hardware/software/interfaces, etc.) are included. Knowledge of wired system interfaces and equipment (IP, T1, etc) is required. The individual will be responsible to demonstrate sufficient aptitude to learn this information and accept training. The individual must perform all assigned tasks safely and responsibly. The Company provides a training program consisting of both classroom and field training. Failure to qualify as a Mechanic within the four (4) year training program will result in termination of employment. Qualification as a Mechanic (Radio Tech) requires the candidate pass a written oral and practical test, receive good reviews, demonstrate proficiency in tools and techniques used to install and troubleshoot equipment.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
Install and maintain underground cable systems, tunnel cable systems, wayside and office voice/data/video communications and cable systems, voice/data/video transport systems, IP systems, electronics and enclosures/huts/rooms, radio systems, security systems, customer information systems, optical systems and alarm systems.
Excavate along right-of-way for installation of signal cables, and foundations for communications huts and outdoor equipment enclosures.
Trim trees, cut brush, and paint various signal and communications equipment.
Assist mechanics in the assembly, installation and testing of communication equipment/electronics.
Provide protection for gangs in accordance with LIRR Rules and Roadway Worker Safety Rule, and all other duties normally considered as signal and communications work.
Grind/drill/cut using power tools within confined area.
Operate dust, grit or fume producing power tools or machinery.
Operate sand, grit or shot blasting tools or machinery.
Perform other work involving acids, toxic materials, gases, or fumes.
Use of emergency generators.
May be asked to serve as watch person for assigned work gang while on the right-of-way.
REQUIRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:
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 required.
Must have a demonstrated aptitude for electronic/electrical work with the ability to use various hand tools.
Must possess some electronics or electrical experience.
Must possess a basic electronic background, either acquired through formal training and/or practical experience, including knowledge of OHM's law and series/parallel circuits.
Must have ability to perform heavy lifting tasks up to 100 lbs.
Must possess demonstrated ability to work with others, demonstrating a professional attitude at all times.
Must possess a valid driver's license.
Must be skilled in the use of various hand tools.
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.
For promotion to Mechanic, must possess CDL B driver's license, and demonstrate his/her proficiency via oral/written and /or practical examinations.
Must pass a written electrical test, panel interview, and practical exam to proceed through the selection process.
Candidates hired into the position must complete a computer-based training program.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
A two year technical degree from accredited school OR completion of any electronics training program.
Field/office work on any of the following: Security intrusion detection systems and CCTV. Telephone systems, Computers; Data Networking systems, Public Address Systems; General Electronic Equipment; Voice/Data/Video Transport Technologies, including optical transport systems.
FCC General Radio Operator License (GROL)
Networking (CCENT, CCNA, etc.) certifications or related training.
Prior knowledge of Communications, information systems, security systems.
Military Electronics; Telephone Installation; Electronics Repair/Maintenance; Other Railroad/Transit Communications Departments; Prior construction helper or heavy lifting experience.
Strong troubleshooting skills.
Working knowledge of electronic systems including PBX, CCTV, Radio, Networking, intrusion detection/access control, etc.
Use of various @types of electronic test equipment (Multimeters, OTDRs, IFRs, etc.).
WAGE PROGRESSION:
If hired prior to 9/24/14:
70% - 1st 365 Calendar Days - $30.10
75% - 2nd 365 Calendar Days - $32.25
80% - 3rd 365 Calendar Days - $34.40
85% - 4th 365 Calendar Days - $36.55
Permanently Promoted to Mechanic 95% - $40.47.
After 365 Calendar Days 100% - $43.00
If hired after 9/24/14:
70% - 1st 365 Calendar Days - $30.10
70% - 2nd 365 Calendar Days - $30.10
75% - 3rd 365 Calendar Days - $32.25
80% - 4th 365 Calendar Days - $34.40
90% - 5th 365 Calendar Days -$36.55
Permanently Promoted to Mechanic 95% - $40.47.
After 365 Calendar Days 100% - $43.00
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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OTHER INFORMATION:
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.
Safety Sensitive
LIRR: In addition to meeting the minimum requirements of the position, the selection process may include but is not limited to, a pre-screening assessment (i.e., physical, written, and/ or practical evaluation) and interview. Candidates forfeit further consideration in the process if they fail to participate in any step of the process when scheduled. Make-up dates/times will not be given. In addition, LIRR employee applicants must be in their current position for the 12 months immediately preceding the close date of this posting and must possess a satisfactory work history, including attendance and discipline record. A record of more than ten sick days without medical documentation in two of the last three years is considered unsatisfactory attendance. Not all qualified applicants are guaranteed an interview due to the competitive selection process. A medical examination and safety-sensitive drug/alcohol test may also be required.
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EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY / ADA DISCLAIMER:
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.
