Assistant Director Of Maintenance (2003)

Septa • Philadelphia, PA

7d • $93,080 - $116,350

About The Position

SEPTA is seeking an Assistant Director of Maintenance for the Power Discipline to lead maintenance operations supporting safe, reliable transit service. The role oversees power distribution infrastructure and maintenance personnel, drives operational excellence, and ensures the performance of SEPTA’s electrical systems. Within the Engineering, Maintenance & Construction (EM&C) Division, the position is responsible for inspection, maintenance, and renewal of infrastructure systems, structures, fixed plant, and equipment. The Assistant Director supervises Maintenance Managers and location operations and must be capable of filling in for the Director and managing the entire operation on a short-term basis.

The Power Discipline portfolio includes traction power and electrical distribution systems, such as electrical substations, high-voltage breakers and switchgear, transformers, inverters, overhead catenary, underground cables, and associated infrastructure. The position oversees the Suburban Power Department and supports safe, efficient transit operations.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Maintenance, Production, Design, or a related technical field and 3–5 years of relevant experience, including at least 2 years of supervisory experience; OR a High School Diploma/GED and at least 7 years of progressively responsible maintenance, engineering, production, or related technical experience, including supervisory responsibility.
• Valid driver's license; a CDL may be required based on operational needs.
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication abilities.
• Proficiency with computer applications and maintenance management systems.
• Commitment to workplace safety and continuous improvement.
• Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship.

Nice To Haves

• Experience within City Transit, Regional Rail, Suburban Rail, or other transportation power systems environments.
• Knowledge of electrical distribution systems, traction power systems, substations, SCADA systems, and related infrastructure.
• Experience managing unionized workforces.
• Knowledge of blueprint reading and surveying.
• Technical, safety, or industry certifications applicable to electrical or power systems operations.

Responsibilities

• Lead and supervise a diverse maintenance workforce to ensure safe, efficient, and productive operations.
• Schedule and manage employee work assignments to maximize productivity and service reliability.
• Develop, implement, and continuously improve maintenance and preventive maintenance programs.
• Monitor labor and material expenditures and ensure adherence to budgetary goals.
• Coach, train, and provide professional development opportunities for maintenance personnel.
• Collaborate with union representatives, peers, and senior leadership to resolve operational challenges and maintain positive working relationships.
• Diagnose complex maintenance issues and oversee corrective actions.
• Manage procurement of required tools, materials, and equipment.
• Participate in disciplinary and grievance processes as required.
• Monitor attendance, overtime, workplace injuries, and related performance metrics, maintaining accurate records.
• Prepare operational reports and provide regular updates to the Director of Maintenance.
• Support recruitment, interviewing, and selection of maintenance personnel.
• Schedule and supervise inspection, maintenance, and repair of electrical substations, high-voltage breakers and switchgear, transformers, inverters, and other power system assets.
• Coordinate SCADA system installations and oversee Electronics Lab activities.
• Manage inspection and maintenance programs for overhead catenary and traction power systems.
• Direct reconstruction and infrastructure renewal projects using SEPTA force-account labor.
• Supervise underground electrical cable inspections, maintenance, and repair.
• Manage repair and replacement work involving power cables, switchgear, bonds and splices, duct banks, manholes, and associated infrastructure.
• Ensure reliable operation of traction power and general service electrical distribution systems.
• Oversee all aspects of the Suburban Power Department.
• Fill in for the Director and manage the entire operation on a short-term basis when needed.

Benefits

• Medical, prescription, dental, and vision plans with little to no employee premiums.
• Defined Benefit Pension Plan and 457B Deferred Compensation Plan.
• Paid parental leave, vacation time, and paid holidays.
• Wellness programs and resources supporting physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
• Tuition reimbursement.
• Eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program.
• Free SEPTA Transportation Pass with unlimited access to SEPTA services.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager