Signalling technician jobs

THE WORK AND ALL THAT IS INVOLVED IN IT

Signaling technicians are responsible for the installation and maintenance of the railway industry's signaling and communications systems.

In order to keep passengers and other trains on the railway as well as the trains themselves safe, railway signals direct train movements. In addition to this, they assist in the management of train movements throughout the rail network to ensure that the track is used to its full potential.

The following are some of the systems that technicians work on:

electronic control centers that are integrated and employ high-tech equipment to regulate the approximately 100 miles of track that they are responsible for.

Panel signal boxes are electro-mechanical relay devices that operate anything from ten to fifty miles of rail and are also known as panel signal cabs.

Boxes with levers that are linked to semaphore or color light signals and points are what are known as manual lever frame boxes. These boxes are frequently found in rural locations with low levels of foot traffic and operate a single station or a few miles of rail.

Drivers are provided with several color light signals that notify them when to move, slow down, or stop.

Control systems for the points that move trains from one track to another and interlock them with the signals are called point control systems.

Displays that notify signallers and controllers of train movements, which enables them to manage the flow of traffic and maintain order.

Systems that notify the driver or automatically halt the train if it is traveling at an unsafe speed or if it passes a signal while in danger.

These systems run mechanical, electrical, electronic, and computerized equipment and displays, and they transfer information between signalling centers and the trackside via copper and fiber-optic cables. In addition to that, they have their own own power supply.

Technicians in the field of signaling could work on:

Renewing the signaling for existing layouts or installing new systems for new tramlines, subterranean lines, or rail linkages are examples of new signalling installations.

Maintaining Existing Signalling Installations include doing periodic inspections on signals and points in order to ensure that everything is working as it should.

Fault-Finding refers to the process of looking for problems and addressing issues that might be causing trains to be delayed or put in risk.

The task requires the use of hand tools in addition to machine equipment. Technicians in signaling may collaborate with signal engineers and fitters, railway engineers, and track workers in the course of their job.

The average work week for a signaling technician is around 37 hours. They will most certainly work shifts, and it is possible that they may be required to put in extra hours.

Technicians who operate in the signaling system spend part of their time doing their duties outside, along the track. This is the path that the wires take, as well as the location of the control boxes. Work may also be performed on stations, signal boxes, or areas nearby, as well. The technicians need to be ready to operate in any kind of weather and should be outfitted with safety clothes such as high-visibility overalls and rainwear, hard helmets, boots, and ear protection.

Technicians often have the flexibility to work in a variety of locations. These locations may be rather far from the main facility, necessitating a significant amount of time spent on the road or on a train, as well as an overnight stay away from home. They have to spend a lot of time on their feet, kneeling, crouching, bending, lifting, and walking. There is also the possibility of working at heights. A valid driver's license may be required for some positions.

Because they are constantly exposed to potential dangers, technicians must always keep safety at the forefront of their minds while they are on the job.

There is a possibility that beginning compensation for signaling technicians will be close to £13,000 annually.

HOW TO BEGIN THIS OPTION FOR A PROFESSIONAL CAREER

Network Rail, the London Underground, Metronet and Tubelines, the Docklands Light Railway, and Translink are all examples of companies that employ signalling experts, as are new city tramway and metro systems all throughout the UK. With over a thousand different signal boxes and control centers, Network Rail is the biggest employer in the country.

Private contractors, which may be huge civil engineering firms or specialized signalling businesses, are another source of employment for signaling specialists. These technicians work on signaling renewals and significant building projects.

Every company is responsible for its own recruitment efforts. There is also the possibility that employment openings may be publicized on websites such as www.railnews.co.uk/jobs.

EDUCATIONAL AND SKILLS DEVELOPMENT

It is feasible to get an entry-level job as an apprentice right after finishing school and gaining experience on the job. Apprenticeships that lead to NVQs or SVQs are offered by a lot of different firms. Another option is to transition from a similar field, such as engineering or electronics, where one now works.

English, mathematics, and science are the subjects that are most desired by employers; however, other options, such as a BTEC first diploma, may also be considered. Employers typically want three to five GCSE's or S grades (A-C/1-3). It may be beneficial to get a double GCSE in engineering in addition to other GCSEs in fields such as technology.

As part of the hiring process, candidates must submit to a medical checkup that evaluates their level of physical fitness, as well as tests of their vision, hearing, and ability to resist the influence of drugs and alcohol. There is a strict policy in place regarding the usage of drugs and alcohol, and random tests may be carried out at any moment. It's possible that you'll also need to take a test of your aptitude or have your knowledge and abilities evaluated.

Apprenticeships and Advanced Apprenticeships are two types of programs that offer a structured learning environment with an employer. You must be paid at least £95 a week if you are an apprentice, and it is likely that you will be paid more. According to the findings of a recent poll, the typical salary for apprentices is £170 per week. Your salary will be determined by the industry in which you work, as well as by your age, the region in which you reside, and the point in the apprenticeship program that you are now working toward.

SKILLS AND PERSONAL QUALITIES NEEDED

Technicians in charge of signaling should:

Have experience with both hand tools and machine tools.

Have at least a basic understanding of mathematics in order to do mental computations.

A rational approach is essential, as is the ability to identify and localize problems.

Understand engineering drawings and instructions.

Have ICT skills.

Ability to work successfully both alone and as part of a team.

Maintain a high regard for personal safety.

Have healthy vision, whether or whether you use corrective lenses.

To be able to operate with color-coded wiring and components, you need to have normal color vision.

Maintain your physical fitness and a strong stamina.

YOUR OPPORTUNITIES IN THE LONG TERM

The Institution of Railway Signal Engineers is accepting applications for membership from signaling technicians who have the necessary experience and qualifications. The Institution provides a path to become a registered engineering technician as well as the possibility of becoming an incorporated or chartered engineer.

They have the potential to advance through the ranks of junior technician, senior technician, team leader, and finally manager. Senior signaling technicians are tasked with a wider range of tasks. They could be responsible for testing and commissioning new signal installations, or they can work in a drafting office on the design of new systems.

Technicians with a great deal of expertise in signaling might further their careers by taking on more difficult design work or by entering the consulting industry.