Rail Maintenance Of Way Maintainer Lead, Signals Lead

City of Charlotte

4d•$32 - $40•Onsite

About The Position

The Train Control (TC) Maintainer Lead, following the guidelines established by The Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS), will supervise the maintenance staff in their duties related to the maintenance, testing, inspection, operation, and repair of the Train Control and Communication systems, as well as associated equipment. This lead position will work alongside the staff to perform complex and specialized troubleshooting, both electrical and mechanical, along with preventive and corrective maintenance and overhauls of rail transit equipment and related subsystems. The equipment involved includes, but is not limited to, train-to-wayside communications, vital controllers, automatic train protection systems, vital track circuits, rail switch machines, grade crossing equipment, and signals. This position requires the capability to lead and conduct testing and troubleshooting of specialized electrical and electro-mechanical equipment. The lead will also assist supervisory staff in developing new and improved maintenance procedures and techniques as necessary. The TC Maintainer Lead will respond to incidents that could impact revenue service, working to ensure safety for patrons and employees while minimizing damage to equipment. This position entails providing emergency response support and may require involvement in other areas such as light rail service, special events, streetcar operations, public safety/service, and other assigned duties. The TC Lead is responsible for ensuring that equipment is maintained according to applicable IEEE, FTA, APTA, NCDOT, and CATS standards. The role may involve irregular hours, shift changes based on operational needs, and being on call for emergencies 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Requirements

Associate degree in Electrical/Electronic Engineering, or 2 years of experience in complex and specialized troubleshooting (both electrical and mechanical), preventative and corrective maintenance, and overhauls of train control equipment and associated subsystems.
A minimum of 2 years of direct experience as a foreman or in a lead role is required.
Military personnel who meet or exceed the minimum education and experience requirements and have completed a certification in electrical/electronic fields are encouraged to apply.
A valid driver's license is required, and candidates must be able to obtain and maintain a City Driving Permit throughout their employment.
Eligible candidates must also qualify for DMV clearance and able to obtain a Commercial Driver's License (CDL).
Understanding of train movements, signaling systems, and track layouts.
Deep knowledge of federal, state, and company safety rules, including FRA regulations (in the US).
Strong verbal and radio communication skills to relay instructions clearly and concisely.
Ability to interpret complex signaling data and identify the cause of delays or equipment issues.
Capacity to remain focused and calm during emergency situations or high-traffic disruptions.

Responsibilities

Coordinate work assignments, monitor workflow, and ensure timely completion of tasks.
Install and maintain rail signaling equipment, including lights, crossing gates, and switch controls.
Conduct regular inspections and preventive maintenance on signal systems to minimize the risk of failures and ensure compliance with safety regulations.
Diagnose and repair faults in signal systems, which may involve replacing or repairing worn or defective parts and wiring.
Work closely with other railway staff to coordinate maintenance schedules and minimize disruptions to rail services.
Ensure that all work complies with industry standards, safety regulations, and organizational policies.
Maintain accurate records of repairs, replacements, and maintenance schedules.
Respond to rail system incidents to mitigate service delays and recover from equipment failures, taking necessary actions to restore revenue service.
Oversee and collaborate with staff in the inspection, maintenance, and repair of all equipment related to systems, including but not limited to automatic train protection, train-to-wayside communication, grade crossings, interlocking systems, supervisory control and data acquisition, carrier transmission systems, control center software and hardware, and all maintenance and emergency support equipment.
Assist supervisory staff in conducting acceptance testing and pre-service testing of newly acquired rail system components and equipment, as well as any required multi-system tests.
Aid supervisory staff in overseeing planned maintenance as outlined by the OEM, FTA, APTA, NCDOT, and CATS management, while also evaluating needed changes or upgrades and submitting them for review.
Comply with and enforce all safety regulations set forth by CATS, OSHA, FTA, FRA, and NCDOT.
Prepare comprehensive reports and correspondence.
Utilize a computer-based maintenance and material management system to track and plan maintenance and repairs, as well as track materials needed for maintenance tasks.
Train other rail personnel as required.
Work collaboratively with other CATS and City departments, as well as contractors and utility companies.
Perform all other job-related duties as assigned.