What are the responsibilities and job description for the Signal Maintenance Technician position at City of Spokane?
Class Summary
Performs skilled craft and technical work in the construction, installation, maintenance and repair of communication systems, traffic signals, street lighting, intelligent transportation systems, video systems and the installation, operational testing, maintenance and repair of digital and microprocessor electronics of these systems.
Examples Of Job Functions
Open Entry Requirements:
Applicants must meet all requirements of one of the following paths:
For information on what to expect with the hiring process, a test information guide, and frequently asked questions, please visit our website.
Applicants must meet the minimum qualifications and pass the examination for this position to be eligible for hire.
Qualified applicants are encouraged to apply immediately. All applicants must complete and submit a City of Spokane employment application online by 4:00 p.m. on the filing cut-off date.
Upon request, at time of application, City of Spokane will provide alternative accessible tests to individuals with disabilities that impair manual, sensory or speaking skills needed to take the test, unless the test is intended to measure those skills.
The examination will consist of a multiple-choice test, with weights assigned as follows:
This is an online examination and will require a computer. If you do not have access to a computer, please notify Civil Service so that one may be provided. Computer reservations can also be made through your local, public library.
Multiple-choice examination links with instructions will be emailed prior to 12:00 a.m. Pacific Time on the start date and will expire at 11:59 p.m. on the due date as listed below. Keep in mind that the test link will be emailed from City of Spokane (info@governmentjobs.com).
The Examination May Include Such Subjects As
Benefit Compensation Value
In addition to a salary, The City of Spokane provides a generous benefits package valued between $24,902 - $34,218.
Insurance Benefits
Eligibility: Coverage begins for new hires and their dependents on the first day of the month following 30 consecutive days of employment.
Eligible Dependents: Spouse or Domestic Partner, birth, adopted children or children placed for adoption, Domestic Partner's children, step-children who live with employee, and any child for whom employee is legal guardian or for whom coverage is required by a Qualified Medical Support Order. Adult children under age 26 are eligible.
Medical
Qualified employees may select from two health carrier options; a Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) administered by Kaiser Permanente or a Preferred Provider Option (PPO) administered by Premera Blue Cross. The monthly premium varies dependent upon plan and coverage level selected.
Vision
Vision coverage is included in the medical plan selected. Costs for eye exams and hardware; lenses, frames or contacts varies depending on the medical plan selected.
Dental
Dental insurance is provided by Delta Dental of Washington. The City pays the monthly premium in full for employee and eligible dependents.
Life Insurance - Employee Only
Basic Term Life Insurance is provided at one-and-a-half times the employee's annual base salary to a maximum of $150,000. The City pays the monthly premium in full.
Life Insurance - Eligible Dependent(s)
Basic Term Life Insurance is provided at $5,000 for spouse/domestic partner and $2,000 for each child. The City pays the monthly premium in full.
Flexible Spending Account
The City offers two optional Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) - Health Care FSA and Dependent Care FSA. The Health Care FSA allows an employee to use pre-tax dollars to receive reimbursement for eligible medical, dental, and vision expenses. The Dependent Care FSA allows an employee to receive reimbursement for eligible daycare expenses for dependent children up to age 13 and other eligible dependents as defined by IRS Code.
AFLAC
Supplemental insurance is optional and is provided by AFLAC to help pay benefits that major medical insurance does not cover. The employee pays 100% of the monthly premium.
AudioNet Hearing Aid Benefit
AudioNet Hearing Aid Benefit is optional. The City of Spokane has partnered with AudioNet America to offer a discounted Hearing Aid Program with fixed out-of-pocket costs.
LegalShield/ID Shield
Prepaid legal services and/or prepaid identity theft programs are optional. These programs pay for a limited number of documents to be reviewed, limited trial defense representation, the preparation of a standard will, identity theft consultation, restoration and monitoring according to terms of contract.
Pet Insurance
Get cash back on the everyday care your pet needs to stay healthy! Nationwide/Voluntary Pet Insurance is an optional plan in which City of Spokane Employees can enroll.
Voluntary Term Life Insurance
Voluntary Term Life Insurance is optional and is provided through The Standard Insurance Company and is subject to application review and approval. Additional coverage up to $300,000 is available for employees and their spouse/domestic partner. Dependent children can be insured for up to $10,000 each. The employee pays 100% of the monthly premium.
Continued Medical/Dental Insurance
Employees separating from City service have the option to continue medical and/or dental insurance benefits in accordance with the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (COBRA). The employee pays 100% of the monthly premium in addition to a small monthly administrative fee.
Retirement Benefits
Spokane Employees' Retirement System
The Spokane Employees' Retirement System (SERS) is a defined benefit pension plan covering non-uniformed, permanent employees. As a participant, you contribute 11% of your salary toward your retirement. Contributions and earnings are tax-deferred. The City also contributes 11% of your salary toward your retirement. Employees hired on or after January 1, 2015 become vested (eligible for a monthly benefit at retirement age) at seven years of service.
Deferred Compensation
Enrollment in the City-sponsored 457 Deferred Compensation Plan administered by MissionSquare Retirement allows participants, on a voluntary basis, to defer a portion of their salary on a before or after tax basis. Contributions and associated earnings contributed on a before tax basis are eligible to receive City matching contributions and are tax deferred (not taxed until taken out). You can also choose to participate in the 457 Roth (after tax) contribution option. You may enroll in the 457 plan or change your contribution at any time. Minimum contribution is $15 per paycheck up to and is subject to the IRS annual limitations. The City will match employee contributions up to $120/month.
PAID TIME OFF
Official Holidays
The City observes seven official holidays as paid. An official holiday that falls on a Saturday will be observed on the preceding Friday. An official holiday that falls on a Sunday will be observed on the Monday immediately following. The City observes Martin Luther King Jr's birthday but has not declared that day as an official holiday. For this reason, employees hired before the third Monday of January receive an additional eight hours of floating holiday time to be used in accordance with Local 270 Collective Bargaining Agreement provisions.
Floating (Personal) Holidays
Up to 48 hours administered throughout the year. Floating holiday hours may not be carried over into the next year and any unused hours will not be paid at termination.
Vacation Leave
Employees must be in paid status for 80% of that pay period to accrue vacation leave. The amount of vacation earned depends on the employee's length of service - from 12 days per year for a new employee to 27 days per year after 20 years of employment. Unused vacation hours carry over each year.
Sick Leave
Sick leave accrues at a rate of six (6) hours per biweekly pay period. Employees must be in paid status for 80% of that pay period to accrue sick leave. There is no maximum accumulation and unused sick leave hours carry over each year.
Other Leaves
The City also provides several other paid and unpaid leaves, such as: bereavement leave, Family and Medical Leave, maternity leave, jury duty, and military duty leave.
WORK/LIFE PROGRAMS
Employee Assistance Program
The Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is a referral and counseling service administered by Deer Oaks. It provides a myriad of services to employees and their household members. Services include receiving confidential assistance for personal issues, such as managing stress, depression, parenting, alcohol/drugs, grief, etc. Each household member is eligible to receive up to eight counseling sessions per issue per year at no charge. There is also a benefit relating financial or legal concerns in addition to Worklife/Convenience services and online tools.
Employer Sponsored Bus Pass (ESBP) Program
The City of Spokane encourages employees to use alternatives to driving alone to work and participates in the ESBP Program offered by Spokane Transit Authority (STA). The program provides a bus pass for unlimited rides free of charge.
Revised March 15, 2022
01
Please note: applicants must meet all requirements of one of the following two paths: Education Path: Completion of a two-year or equivalent program in electronics, electrical technology, or related field from an accredited academic, trade, or technical institution; or completion of a military training program in electronics, electrical work or related field. Experience Path: Completion of 2000 hours of documented electrical trainee work experience toward journey-level certification as an electrician, or one year of experience in installation, construction, maintenance, or repair of traffic signals. Licenses: Applicants must possess a valid driver's license and obtain a Class "B" Commercial Driver's License (CDL) without air brake restriction during the probationary period. These questions will assist us in determining your qualifications. All information must be documented on your application or in attachments to your application as requested. Have you completed a two-year or equivalent program in electronics, electrical technology, or related field from an accredited academic, trade, or technical institution? (If yes, attach documentation of your program via transcript/diploma.)
Have you completed 2000 hours of documented electrical trainee work experience toward journey level certification as an electrician? (You must attach documentation of this trainee work if used to qualify.)
Have you completed a military training program in electronics, electrical work or related field? (You must attach documentation of this program if used to qualify.)
Do you have one year or more of work experience in installation, construction, maintenance, or repair of traffic signals? (Ensure that experience is documented on your application work history.)
Have you attached a copy of your certification or transcripts referenced in the previous questions? (Note: If you do not attach your certificate or documentation, you will not qualify to test for this position via education/training.)
Do you possess a valid Driver's License?
Performs skilled craft and technical work in the construction, installation, maintenance and repair of communication systems, traffic signals, street lighting, intelligent transportation systems, video systems and the installation, operational testing, maintenance and repair of digital and microprocessor electronics of these systems.
Examples Of Job Functions
- Responds to reports of malfunctioning traffic, communications systems, intelligent transportation systems equipment and related equipment within the City during normal working hours, when assigned to weekend standby, and when reporting for 24/7 emergency call-outs; determines the nature of the problem, effects necessary repairs.
- Installs, modifies, tests, maintains and repairs electrical and electronic devices including, but not limited to traffic signal communication systems, intersection control systems, detection and video monitor systems.
- Installs, maintains and repairs overhead and underground electrical equipment, including installation of signal and lighting poles and the installation and splicing of cables and wiring. Installs, maintains and repairs traffic signals, street lighting, intelligent transportation system (ITS) devices, and general electrical wiring systems. Utilizes various hand and power tools in the installation and repair of various systems. Performs emergency repairs and/or adjustments, identifies and repairs electrical/electronic failures. Configures and programs various electronic systems using computers and proprietary software.
- Performs underground utility locates.
- Read and interpret signal and lighting plans and electronic schematics. Lays out equipment in the field according to plans.
- Maintains proper stocking levels of spare parts and tools on maintenance vehicles and in work areas.
- May be assigned to shop or field duty. Will be required to work at heights in an aerial manlift basket, work underground, dig trenches or post holes, and drive a repair truck.
- Drives various vehicles, including aerial bucket truck, flusher, tank, flatbed, dump, front end loader, bobcat, and trucks pulling various trailers. May be required to assist in snow removal operations as needed.
- Prepares and maintains records.
- Performs related work as required.
Open Entry Requirements:
Applicants must meet all requirements of one of the following paths:
- Education: Completion of a two-year or equivalent program in electronics, electrical technology, or related field from an accredited academic, trade, or technical institution; or completion of a military training program in electronics, electrical work or related field.
- Experience: Completion of 2000 hours of documented electrical trainee work experience toward journey-level certification as an electrician, or one (1) year of experience in traffic signal installation, construction, maintenance, or repair.
- Certifications: Applicants must possess a valid driver's license and obtain a Class "B" Commercial Driver's License (CDL) without air brake restriction during the probationary period.
- Job offer is contingent on passing a lift test.
- Ability to lift 90 lbs.
For information on what to expect with the hiring process, a test information guide, and frequently asked questions, please visit our website.
Applicants must meet the minimum qualifications and pass the examination for this position to be eligible for hire.
Qualified applicants are encouraged to apply immediately. All applicants must complete and submit a City of Spokane employment application online by 4:00 p.m. on the filing cut-off date.
Upon request, at time of application, City of Spokane will provide alternative accessible tests to individuals with disabilities that impair manual, sensory or speaking skills needed to take the test, unless the test is intended to measure those skills.
The examination will consist of a multiple-choice test, with weights assigned as follows:
- Multiple-choice Test 100%
This is an online examination and will require a computer. If you do not have access to a computer, please notify Civil Service so that one may be provided. Computer reservations can also be made through your local, public library.
Multiple-choice examination links with instructions will be emailed prior to 12:00 a.m. Pacific Time on the start date and will expire at 11:59 p.m. on the due date as listed below. Keep in mind that the test link will be emailed from City of Spokane (info@governmentjobs.com).
- Applicants who apply and meet the minimum qualifications between Monday, April 6th, 2026, and Monday, April 20th, 2026, will test Thursday, April 23rd, 2026, through Monday, April 27th, 2026.
The Examination May Include Such Subjects As
- Electrical/Electronics
- Safety & Occupational Hazards
- Traffic Signals & Construction
Benefit Compensation Value
In addition to a salary, The City of Spokane provides a generous benefits package valued between $24,902 - $34,218.
Insurance Benefits
Eligibility: Coverage begins for new hires and their dependents on the first day of the month following 30 consecutive days of employment.
Eligible Dependents: Spouse or Domestic Partner, birth, adopted children or children placed for adoption, Domestic Partner's children, step-children who live with employee, and any child for whom employee is legal guardian or for whom coverage is required by a Qualified Medical Support Order. Adult children under age 26 are eligible.
Medical
Qualified employees may select from two health carrier options; a Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) administered by Kaiser Permanente or a Preferred Provider Option (PPO) administered by Premera Blue Cross. The monthly premium varies dependent upon plan and coverage level selected.
Vision
Vision coverage is included in the medical plan selected. Costs for eye exams and hardware; lenses, frames or contacts varies depending on the medical plan selected.
Dental
Dental insurance is provided by Delta Dental of Washington. The City pays the monthly premium in full for employee and eligible dependents.
Life Insurance - Employee Only
Basic Term Life Insurance is provided at one-and-a-half times the employee's annual base salary to a maximum of $150,000. The City pays the monthly premium in full.
Life Insurance - Eligible Dependent(s)
Basic Term Life Insurance is provided at $5,000 for spouse/domestic partner and $2,000 for each child. The City pays the monthly premium in full.
Flexible Spending Account
The City offers two optional Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) - Health Care FSA and Dependent Care FSA. The Health Care FSA allows an employee to use pre-tax dollars to receive reimbursement for eligible medical, dental, and vision expenses. The Dependent Care FSA allows an employee to receive reimbursement for eligible daycare expenses for dependent children up to age 13 and other eligible dependents as defined by IRS Code.
AFLAC
Supplemental insurance is optional and is provided by AFLAC to help pay benefits that major medical insurance does not cover. The employee pays 100% of the monthly premium.
AudioNet Hearing Aid Benefit
AudioNet Hearing Aid Benefit is optional. The City of Spokane has partnered with AudioNet America to offer a discounted Hearing Aid Program with fixed out-of-pocket costs.
LegalShield/ID Shield
Prepaid legal services and/or prepaid identity theft programs are optional. These programs pay for a limited number of documents to be reviewed, limited trial defense representation, the preparation of a standard will, identity theft consultation, restoration and monitoring according to terms of contract.
Pet Insurance
Get cash back on the everyday care your pet needs to stay healthy! Nationwide/Voluntary Pet Insurance is an optional plan in which City of Spokane Employees can enroll.
Voluntary Term Life Insurance
Voluntary Term Life Insurance is optional and is provided through The Standard Insurance Company and is subject to application review and approval. Additional coverage up to $300,000 is available for employees and their spouse/domestic partner. Dependent children can be insured for up to $10,000 each. The employee pays 100% of the monthly premium.
Continued Medical/Dental Insurance
Employees separating from City service have the option to continue medical and/or dental insurance benefits in accordance with the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (COBRA). The employee pays 100% of the monthly premium in addition to a small monthly administrative fee.
Retirement Benefits
Spokane Employees' Retirement System
The Spokane Employees' Retirement System (SERS) is a defined benefit pension plan covering non-uniformed, permanent employees. As a participant, you contribute 11% of your salary toward your retirement. Contributions and earnings are tax-deferred. The City also contributes 11% of your salary toward your retirement. Employees hired on or after January 1, 2015 become vested (eligible for a monthly benefit at retirement age) at seven years of service.
Deferred Compensation
Enrollment in the City-sponsored 457 Deferred Compensation Plan administered by MissionSquare Retirement allows participants, on a voluntary basis, to defer a portion of their salary on a before or after tax basis. Contributions and associated earnings contributed on a before tax basis are eligible to receive City matching contributions and are tax deferred (not taxed until taken out). You can also choose to participate in the 457 Roth (after tax) contribution option. You may enroll in the 457 plan or change your contribution at any time. Minimum contribution is $15 per paycheck up to and is subject to the IRS annual limitations. The City will match employee contributions up to $120/month.
PAID TIME OFF
Official Holidays
The City observes seven official holidays as paid. An official holiday that falls on a Saturday will be observed on the preceding Friday. An official holiday that falls on a Sunday will be observed on the Monday immediately following. The City observes Martin Luther King Jr's birthday but has not declared that day as an official holiday. For this reason, employees hired before the third Monday of January receive an additional eight hours of floating holiday time to be used in accordance with Local 270 Collective Bargaining Agreement provisions.
Floating (Personal) Holidays
Up to 48 hours administered throughout the year. Floating holiday hours may not be carried over into the next year and any unused hours will not be paid at termination.
Vacation Leave
Employees must be in paid status for 80% of that pay period to accrue vacation leave. The amount of vacation earned depends on the employee's length of service - from 12 days per year for a new employee to 27 days per year after 20 years of employment. Unused vacation hours carry over each year.
Sick Leave
Sick leave accrues at a rate of six (6) hours per biweekly pay period. Employees must be in paid status for 80% of that pay period to accrue sick leave. There is no maximum accumulation and unused sick leave hours carry over each year.
Other Leaves
The City also provides several other paid and unpaid leaves, such as: bereavement leave, Family and Medical Leave, maternity leave, jury duty, and military duty leave.
WORK/LIFE PROGRAMS
Employee Assistance Program
The Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is a referral and counseling service administered by Deer Oaks. It provides a myriad of services to employees and their household members. Services include receiving confidential assistance for personal issues, such as managing stress, depression, parenting, alcohol/drugs, grief, etc. Each household member is eligible to receive up to eight counseling sessions per issue per year at no charge. There is also a benefit relating financial or legal concerns in addition to Worklife/Convenience services and online tools.
Employer Sponsored Bus Pass (ESBP) Program
The City of Spokane encourages employees to use alternatives to driving alone to work and participates in the ESBP Program offered by Spokane Transit Authority (STA). The program provides a bus pass for unlimited rides free of charge.
Revised March 15, 2022
01
Please note: applicants must meet all requirements of one of the following two paths: Education Path: Completion of a two-year or equivalent program in electronics, electrical technology, or related field from an accredited academic, trade, or technical institution; or completion of a military training program in electronics, electrical work or related field. Experience Path: Completion of 2000 hours of documented electrical trainee work experience toward journey-level certification as an electrician, or one year of experience in installation, construction, maintenance, or repair of traffic signals. Licenses: Applicants must possess a valid driver's license and obtain a Class "B" Commercial Driver's License (CDL) without air brake restriction during the probationary period. These questions will assist us in determining your qualifications. All information must be documented on your application or in attachments to your application as requested. Have you completed a two-year or equivalent program in electronics, electrical technology, or related field from an accredited academic, trade, or technical institution? (If yes, attach documentation of your program via transcript/diploma.)
- Yes
- No
Have you completed 2000 hours of documented electrical trainee work experience toward journey level certification as an electrician? (You must attach documentation of this trainee work if used to qualify.)
- Yes
- No
Have you completed a military training program in electronics, electrical work or related field? (You must attach documentation of this program if used to qualify.)
- Yes
- No
Do you have one year or more of work experience in installation, construction, maintenance, or repair of traffic signals? (Ensure that experience is documented on your application work history.)
- Yes
- No
Have you attached a copy of your certification or transcripts referenced in the previous questions? (Note: If you do not attach your certificate or documentation, you will not qualify to test for this position via education/training.)
- Yes
- No
Do you possess a valid Driver's License?
- Yes
- No
- Required Question
Salary : $120 - $150,000