Train Operator

Job Title

Metro Transit is currently seeking Train Operators to carry out the mission, vision, and values of the organization. These individuals are responsible for operating Metro Transit Light Rail vehicles in a safe, dependable, efficient and on-time manner. Train Operators follow rules, procedures, policies and regulatory requirements to ensure safe efficient and courteous service to customers.

We are committed to supporting a diverse workforce that reflects the communities we serve.

Job Description

Operates Metro Transit light rail vehicles during revenue and non-revenue service including, main line operations, travel through yard and shop, car wash as well as assigned maintenance and testing periods.

Operates vehicles safely in accordance with all operating rules, procedures and scheduled running times.

Maintains continuous safety awareness and focus on railway and rail conditions during operation of light rail vehicles; maintains constant contact and communication with Rail Control Center (RCC) in operating light rail vehicles.

Electronically and manually operates switches and other systems when necessary.

Announces station stops, bus connections and other communications pertaining to light rail operations and guides and assists customers in accessing alternate bus service in the event of rail service disruption.

Performs other related duties.

Work Schedule: Train operators work 8-hour days, five days per week, and could be scheduled any day of the week, including Saturdays and Sundays. Work schedules could require working weekends, late evenings, overnights and holidays.

Training Schedule: Train Operators attend approximately 13 weeks of paid training and must pass a six-month probation or evaluation period upon successful completion of the operator training program.

Minimum Qualifications

Work History Requirement: Three (3) years of verifiable work experience within the past seven (7) years, and you must have worked for one of these employers for at least one (1) full year.

License Requirements: Must have been actively driving with a valid driver's license for the past five years. Must have either:

1. A valid Minnesota Class A or B Commercial Driver's License with a Passenger Endorsement and no restriction to Air Brakes

OR

2. A valid Minnesota Driver's License and a Commercial Learner's Permit with a Passenger endorsement and no restriction to Air Brakes.

If you have a Wisconsin Driver's License, an HR Representative will discuss your options with you.

Driving Record: No more than two (2) moving violations and/or suspensions within the past three (3) years. No suspensions, longer than 90 days, within the past three (3) years. No revocations or withdrawals of license within the past three (3) years.

Candidates will be automatically disqualified if they have any of the following driving related convictions within the past ten (10) years:

DWI/DUI, Careless or Reckless Driving, Inattentive Driving, Open Bottle, Leaving the scene of an accident, Committing a felony while operating a motor vehicle, Refusing to comply with implied consent, Violating state or local law (other than parking violations) arising in connection with a fatal accident.

Language Literacy: Ability to read, write and speak English in order to learn training materials, communicate with customers and write reports.

Desired Qualifications

Ability to read and comprehend detailed instructions. Ability to complete necessary forms and written reports. Requires mental alertness, concentration and ability to sustain focus on one or more tasks while avoiding distractions. Requires tact, courtesy and cooperation in interactions with others where the primary purpose is the exchange of information. Promotes an equitable, positive and respectful work environment that values cultures and diversity among all employees.

What You Can Expect From Us

Employee safety is a priority at Metro Transit, and we ensure that all drivers/operators are properly equipped with the necessary safety and protective equipment. We offer the opportunity to make a difference and positively influence the Twin Cities metropolitan area. We encourage our employees to develop their skills through on-site training opportunities. We offer opportunities for career advancement. We provide a competitive salary, and excellent medical, dental and retirement benefits. Operators are eligible for benefits 30 days after their hire date.

Additional Information

Union/Grade: ATU Grade 45 FLSA Status: Non-Exempt Safety Sensitive: Yes. Subject to random DOT drug tests.

Work Environment: Position works both inside and outside in varying weather and environmental conditions. One-third to two-thirds of the time works near moving parts or equipment, vibrations and around risk of electrical shock. Typical noise level for this position is loud. Physical Requirements: Regularly required to: sit for long periods, stand/walk occasionally, speak using a two-way radio, hear normal conversations and over a two-way radio, reach with hands/arms frequently below chest height and occasionally overhead, on a rare occasion, lift/carry/push/pull up to 50 pounds, must have adequate close vision, distance vision, normal color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus.

What steps the recruitment process involves:

• We review your minimum qualifications.
• We review your Work Record Evaluation (for ATU employees only)
• We conduct an agility test.
• We conduct a structured panel interview.
• We review your Driver's License

Once you have successfully completed the steps above, then:

If you are new to the Metropolitan Council, you must pass a drug test, and a background check which verifies education, employment, and criminal history. If you have a criminal conviction, you do not automatically fail. The Metropolitan Council considers felony, gross misdemeanor, and misdemeanor convictions on a case-by-case basis, based on whether they are related to the position and whether the candidate has demonstrated adequate rehabilitation. A driving record and/or physical may be conducted if applicable to the position.

If you are already an employee of the Metropolitan Council, you must pass a drug test (if moving from a non-safety sensitive position to a safety sensitive position), and a background check which verifies education and employment if not previously verified. A driving record and/or physical may be conducted if applicable to the position.

If the position you're applying for is safety-sensitive, is a supervisory or management position, is in the Finance, Information Services, Audit, or Human Resources departments, or has access to financial records, files/databases, cash, vouchers or transit fare cards, you must pass a criminal background check. If you have a criminal conviction, you do not automatically fail. The Metropolitan Council considers felony, gross misdemeanor, and misdemeanor convictions on a case-by-case basis, based on whether they are related to the position and whether the candidate has demonstrated adequate rehabilitation.

IMPORTANT: If you make a false statement or withhold information, you may be barred from position consideration. The Metropolitan Council is an Equal Opportunity, Affirmative Action, and veteran-friendly employer. The Council is committed to a workforce that reflects the diversity of the region and strongly encourages persons of color, members of the LGBTQ community, individuals with disabilities, women, and veterans to apply. If you have a disability that requires accommodation during the selection process, please email View email address on click.appcast.io.