Signals & Communications Technician

Signals & Communications Technician

Basic Function: Performs fault diagnosis, inspections, tests, and adjustments as well as routine and emergency maintenance on rail signals and communications equipment. Performs duties in a safe, efficient manner and in compliance with applicable rules and safety procedures.

Responsibilities and Specific Duties:

• Performs signals and communications equipment fault diagnosis, inspection, testing, modification, maintenance, and repair using specialized tools.
• Inspects, repairs and maintains mechanical, electrical, and electronic equipment such as grade crossing mechanisms, switch machines, multiplexers, programmable logic controllers, surveillance cameras, relays, axle counters, track circuits, and other complex electronic and electrical circuitry components.
• Assists in the development and refinement of inspection and preventive maintenance programs for the signals and communications section.
• Assists in the development and revision of Standard Operating Procedures, safety procedures and work rules for both startup and revenue operations.
• Works with staff and vendors to ensure adequate spare parts, tools and other necessary equipment is on hand to support revenue operations.
• Completes vendor training on signals and communications equipment and maintenance procedures as well as METRO training associated with safety and technical subjects.
• Records and documents maintenance and diagnostic data.
• Provides variable shift coverage to accommodate maintenance assignments during peak, off-peak and non-revenue hours.
• Prioritizes emergency maintenance tasks in the absence of on-site supervision.
• Provides on-call availability for emergency repairs and unscheduled incidents.
• May serve as "Lead" Technician in the absence of the Signals and Communications Supervisor.
• Works closely with peers, management and contractors to ensure a safe, reliable and efficient light rail operation.
• Provides excellent customer service to METRO internal and external customers.
• Applies SMS (Safety Management System) methods and principles in daily routine and supports all aspects of the agency's Public Transportation Agency Safety Plan (PTASP).
• Promotes safety awareness and follows safety procedures to reduce or eliminate accidents.
• Performs other job-related duties as assigned.

Pay Range: $54,300 - $71,200

Education Requirement: A high school diploma is required. An associate degree in electrical/electronic technology is preferred.

Years & Experience Required: Minimum three (3) years of increasingly responsible electrical, electronic, mechanical and hydraulic maintenance experience. Experience with transit system equipment (track, traction power and/or signals and communications) and tools is preferred.

Knowledge & Skills Required: Good (verbal/written) communication skills are essential to resolve maintenance issues. Must have a Class C driver's license and meet METRO's requirements regarding motor vehicle records.

Additional Information: The Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County, Texas has a zero-tolerance drug and alcohol policy for all employees. All internal and external applicants will be required to undergo drug testing before employment and will be subject to further drug and/or alcohol testing throughout their employment. Further, employees who perform safety-sensitive functions will submit to drug and/or alcohol testing in accordance to the Department of Transportation (DOT) and the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) regulatory requirements. We provide equal opportunity to all qualified individuals regardless of race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, veteran status, genetic information, or disability.