Sign Maker Apprentice

Compensation Grade:

AT17

Salary Range:

$18.34-$29.04

Opening Date:

September 18, 2026

Closing Date:

October 3, 2026

Please Note: All job announcements close at 11:59 p.m. of the day before the posted closing date.

As a Sign Maker Apprentice in the Airports Authority’s Trades Apprentice Employment Program, you will have the opportunity to gain the experience and training that can lead to becoming a licensed, journey level Sign Maker.

Sign Maker Apprentice

This is a non-career, term job.

Serves in the Engineering and Maintenance Department at either Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) or Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD).

Participates in a state-approved Airports Authority Trades Apprentice Employment Program to develop the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to become a licensed, journey level Sign Maker. Performs progressively complex and responsible plumbing-pipefitting work as knowledge, skills and abilities in the trade increase. Training received is both on-the-job and in a classroom. Performs related functions.

GENERAL RESPONSIBILITIES

Learns to fabricate informational and regulatory signs and markings for airport buildings, offices, equipment, vehicles, roadways and grounds. Trades Apprentice Employment Program.

Learns to proficiently use manuals, technical guides, and hand and power tools, instruments and devices used in the trade.

Assists full performance (journey) level Sign Maker in using various graphic arts and sign-making equipment, including design software, RIPs, large-format printers and plotters, Laser engravers, and various finishing hand tools for preparation of signs and produces completed lettering, using a sign-making computer, for application to sign surfaces. 

Assists full performance (journey) level Sign Maker in fabricating traffic signs and stencils for roadway markings in accordance with Federal and State regulatory specifications

Guided by a full performance (journey) level Sign Maker lays out, and laminates signs, based on work orders, specifications, drawings, or oral instructions.

Guided by a full performance (journey) level Sign Maker uses software to determine layout of signs, inputting information concerning dimensions, letter size, symbols, and wording.

Performs other tasks as assigned including Job Planning, Consultations, & Field Surveys, identify the material needed for different applications. Input information and completes Work Orders & Training for MAXIMO

Learns and uses knowledge of building, fire, Federal Aviation Administration, and other codes and regulations pertinent to the trade, in general and in an airport environment.

Assists in preparing and maintaining work orders, trouble calls and preventive maintenance utilizing the Airports Authority’s computerized work order system.

Drives a pick-up truck or similar vehicle on the airport complex, landside and airside to work sites and to/from suppliers with tools, parts, etc.

Performs other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

Must be at least 18 years of age at the time of hire.

Must be eligible to work in the United States.

Ability to learn bodies of knowledge and gain skills in the Sign Maker trade consistent with the schedule for progression as an Apprentice in the Trades Apprentice Employment Program.

Ability to drive a pick-up truck and learn to use similar vehicle (with tools, parts, etc.).

Ability to work safely and knowledge of the safety rules, regulations, and procedures needed to do so.

Ability to effectively communicate verbally and in writing in English to understand and communicate, safety requirements, and operational information while performing work in the Airport Operations Area (AOA).

Skill in using a computer, computerized work order and time and attendance system.

Ability to successfully complete an Airports Authority’ background investigation.

EDUCATION

A high school diploma or a Certificate of General Educational Development (GED) at the time of hire.

Completion of at least one trades course (such as Electrical, HVAC, Plumbing, Automotive

Mechanics) in high school OR be currently enrolled in a degree or certificate program at a trades school accredited by an agency recognized by the US Department of Labor.

CERTIFICATIONS AND LICENSES REQUIRED

A state driver’s license in good standing.

NECESSARY SPECIAL FACTORS

Operates vehicle airside and landside (requires AOA permit).

Is subject to hold-over and recall on a 24-hour basis for essential services and emergencies such as snow removal.

A background security investigation will be required for all new hires.

Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority is an Equal Opportunity Employer.| Follow us on Twitter @MWAAcareers.