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Train control and signal inspector jobs are some of the most important behind the scenes jobs in the railway industry. There’s a lot of work that goes into insuring that trains are able to operate correctly and safely. This job is one that takes on the most responsibility in this area. Their work entails making sure that the signals at all of the railroad crossings are working properly. This ensures that the train and those crossing railroad tracks are safe.

Maintenance and testing of all the different controls and signals for railway crossings need to be done on a regular basis. Most of the time each inspector will have their own area they are responsible for. Signal inspectors also conduct additional testing when they receive information from the train crews, law enforcement or the general public that there may be problems with the correct and safe operation of particular signals.

Train control and signal inspectors are also responsible for implementing safety training and education programs for company employees and, sometimes, the public at large. Many accidents involving trains can be avoided if people have the information they need about the risks involved in not paying attention to train crossings.  Since there are many intersections where there are signal lights but no rails that come down, people often try to beat the trains. The goal of these inspectors is to educate people into not taking such risks. As funding becomes available they make sure the new rails are installed at the most dangerous train crossings.

Train control and signal inspectors are often called to the scene of accidents to document the incident. All of this information is compiled to offer accurate data that can be used for intervention and prevention of future problems with train controls and signals.

As advances in technology allow, train control and signals are continually updated. An inspector in this role has to have the skills and training to keep up on this information. Most employers in the railway industry offer this ongoing training, but certification in various areas is required in order to secure such employment in the first place.

In addition, someone in this role needs to be in good physical condition. It can require long hours on the job in order to remedy potentially dangerous situations and to evaluate accident scenes. It can result in long walks along stretches of railroad tracks in the extreme heat or cold. In some areas, the train control and signal inspector will have to climb down into bridge areas to get to the mechanisms they need to test or repair.

These types of inspectors also have to be detail oriented because there is plenty of paperwork to complete on a regular basis. The demands of the job can be tough because you really never know how long a particular job is going to take. A routine inspection may turn into an all day event if things aren’t working as they should. Paying attention to the little things is very important because lives could be lost if the inspector doesn’t take the job seriously.

The role of a train control and signal inspector is very important. It allows numerous lives to be saved by ensuring the right equipment is in place and working correctly. Train companies also offer training and education programs to make sure people are aware of the dangers of not obeying these signals. While this type of job is very challenging it also offers plenty of rewards to those who want to make trains safe for everyone.

The pay for a train control and signal inspector varies by location. It is generally a very high paying job though because of the amount of risk involved in being where the trains pass and being exposed to chemicals and other items during derailments or train wrecks. Most railway companies require an inspector to have a four year degree in some area of science or engineering as well as experience in the field of railroad technology.

Do you have what it takes to become a Train Control and Signal Inspector?

Originally posted 2009-03-03 02:48:22. Republished by Old Post Promoter