Merle Link
Morton,IL
Summary
Signal maintenance professional skilled in ensuring safety and efficiency of railway systems. Expertise in troubleshooting, installation, and preventive maintenance of signal equipment. Strong collaborator with focus on achieving operational goals and adapting to changing needs. Reliable, safety-conscious, and adept in both independent and team environments.
Experienced with maintaining and repairing railway signal systems. Utilizes technical expertise to diagnose and resolve issues efficiently. Track record of ensuring safety and operational integrity in various settings.
Overview
29
29
years of professional experience
Work History
Signal Maintainer
Norfolk Southern
05.2003 - 12.2025
- Conducted routine inspections of signaling equipment to ensure operational safety and compliance.
- Diagnosed and repaired signal malfunctions using advanced diagnostic tools and software.
- Collaborated with team members to troubleshoot issues, enhancing system reliability and performance.
- Implemented maintenance schedules to reduce equipment downtime and optimize operations.
- Coordinated with engineering teams to facilitate upgrades and modifications on signaling infrastructure.
- Read and interpreted circuit prints, blueprints, schematics and drawings to efficiently complete job tasks and projects.
- Assisted in the training and development of new Signal Maintainers, sharing knowledge and expertise to help them become proficient in their roles.
- Responded to emergency situations promptly, taking necessary actions to restore signal functionality while maintaining safety for all involved parties.
- Improved signal system reliability by performing regular maintenance and troubleshooting tasks.
- Provided valuable input on proposed signal upgrades based on practical experience with existing equipment and observed performance trends.
- Documented repairs and maintenance performed and provided supervisor with regular reports.
- Enhanced communication between departments by participating in regular meetings to discuss ongoing projects, challenges, and potential solutions related to signal systems maintenance.
- Performed inspections, diagnostics and troubleshooting on structures, equipment and devices and determined appropriate repair work.
- Enhanced safety measures by conducting thorough inspections of signaling equipment and infrastructure.
- Maintained accurate records of all signal maintenance activities to ensure compliance with industry regulations.
- Collaborated with fellow team members to complete complex repair projects on time and within budget.
- Contributed to a positive work environment by adhering to safety protocols and supporting team efforts at all times.
- Ensured timely repairs by promptly addressing reported signal malfunctions and coordinating with necessary personnel.
- Streamlined maintenance processes by implementing time-saving techniques learned from training courses or best practices shared among colleagues.
- Pulled cable and wired structures at crossing locations, handling average of Number structures during each Number-hour shift.
- Performed periodic testing on various signaling equipment components for quality assurance purposes ensuring proper functioning at all times.
- Optimized signal performance through routine inspection, cleaning, and adjustment of components as needed.
- Increased efficiency in the workplace by organizing tools, equipment, and materials for easy access during maintenance tasks.
- Supported efficient train movement throughout the rail network through diligent monitoring of signals during both normal operations as well as during inclement weather or other adverse conditions.
Sales Associate
Eddie Bauer
07.2002 - 02.2003
Patriot Fire Control Enhanced Operator
United States Army
04.1997 - 05.2000
- Conducted routine inspections of signaling equipment to ensure operational safety and compliance.
- Diagnosed and repaired signal malfunctions using advanced diagnostic tools and software.
- Collaborated with team members to troubleshoot issues, enhancing system reliability and performance.
- Implemented maintenance schedules to reduce equipment downtime and optimize operations.
- Coordinated with engineering teams to facilitate upgrades and modifications on signaling infrastructure.
- Read and interpreted circuit prints, blueprints, schematics and drawings to efficiently complete job tasks and projects.
- Assisted in the training and development of new Signal Maintainers, sharing knowledge and expertise to help them become proficient in their roles.
- Responded to emergency situations promptly, taking necessary actions to restore signal functionality while maintaining safety for all involved parties.
- Improved signal system reliability by performing regular maintenance and troubleshooting tasks.
- Provided valuable input on proposed signal upgrades based on practical experience with existing equipment and observed performance trends.
- Documented repairs and maintenance performed and provided supervisor with regular reports.
- Enhanced communication between departments by participating in regular meetings to discuss ongoing projects, challenges, and potential solutions related to signal systems maintenance.
- Performed inspections, diagnostics and troubleshooting on structures, equipment and devices and determined appropriate repair work.
- Enhanced safety measures by conducting thorough inspections of signaling equipment and infrastructure.
- Maintained accurate records of all signal maintenance activities to ensure compliance with industry regulations.
- Collaborated with fellow team members to complete complex repair projects on time and within budget.
- Contributed to a positive work environment by adhering to safety protocols and supporting team efforts at all times.
- Ensured timely repairs by promptly addressing reported signal malfunctions and coordinating with necessary personnel.
- Streamlined maintenance processes by implementing time-saving techniques learned from training courses or best practices shared among colleagues.
- Pulled cable and wired structures at crossing locations, handling average of Number structures during each Number-hour shift.
- Performed periodic testing on various signaling equipment components for quality assurance purposes ensuring proper functioning at all times.
- Optimized signal performance through routine inspection, cleaning, and adjustment of components as needed.
- Increased efficiency in the workplace by organizing tools, equipment, and materials for easy access during maintenance tasks.
- Supported efficient train movement throughout the rail network through diligent monitoring of signals during both normal operations as well as during inclement weather or other adverse conditions.
Sales Associate
Sprint
07.2000 - 10.2002
- Assisted customers with product selection and inquiries, enhancing overall shopping experience.
- Executed daily sales transactions accurately using point-of-sale systems.
- Maintained store cleanliness and organization, ensuring optimal product visibility.
- Collaborated with team members to achieve monthly sales targets through strategic promotions.
- Resolved customer complaints efficiently, fostering positive relationships and repeat business.
- Monitored inventory levels and assisted in stock replenishment for popular items.
- Built relationships with customers to encourage repeat business.
- Managed returns, exchanges and refunds in accordance with store policy.
- Answered customer questions about sizing, accessories, and merchandise care.
- Provided positive first impressions to welcome existing, new, and potential customers.
Education
Associate of Arts - English
Illinois Central College
East Peoria, IL05.2011
Bachelor of Science - Business Administration And Management
Liberty University
Lynchburg, VASignal Engineer Training 1,2 & 3. - Signal Training
Norfolk Southern Railway Company
Atlanta, GA12.2004
Timeline
Signal Maintainer
Norfolk Southern
05.2003 - 12.2025
Sales Associate
Eddie Bauer
07.2002 - 02.2003
Sales Associate
Sprint
07.2000 - 10.2002
Patriot Fire Control Enhanced Operator
United States Army
04.1997 - 05.2000
Associate of Arts - English
Illinois Central College
Bachelor of Science - Business Administration And Management
Liberty University
Signal Engineer Training 1,2 & 3. - Signal Training
Norfolk Southern Railway Company