Rail Operator Trainee

City of Charlotte, NC•Charlotte, NC

72d•$24 - $27

About The Position

Operates Light Rail Vehicles (LRVs) in a safe, efficient, and controlled manner. Keeps the Rail Operations Control Center (ROCC) informed of any unusual situations via a radio. Performs pre-trip safety inspections on LRVs before operating them and completes walk-around inspections as necessary. Must be customer service focused and must be able to always keep an LRV on schedule. Must be able to communicate both orally and in writing and be able to comply with an extensive set of rail operating rules and procedures. Must be able to work flexible hours and days to include nights, weekends, holidays, and during inclement weather. This position is classified as safety-sensitive and security-sensitive.

Requirements

Comprehend rules and procedures and complete the Rail Operator training program.
Ability to maintain a continuous focus on safety and ability to operate LRVs during varying operating and weather conditions.
Follow oral and written instructions with minimal supervision.
Must demonstrate a favorable attitude toward public service.
Ability to communicate effectively and clearly in English both orally and in writing.
Some computer skills to include Microsoft Office programs.
Must have a good driving record.
The candidate may be required to work irregular hours, including shifts, in inclement weather, and overtime as needed. Candidates may be required to respond to emergencies on a 24-hour, 7-day-a-week basis.
Must complete 6-month probationary period after completing training.
Must be able to accurately document work on logs, spreadsheets, documents, and forms as well as use a computerized train operator display.
Must complete all training assignments and maintain qualifications where required.
Must have the ability to operate LRV controls and all LRV accessories effectively.
Must be able to safely couple, uncouple, and operate LRVs in the yard and shops.
Must be able to work in the safety-critical environments associated with the operation of a rail system.
Must have regular and consistent attendance and meet requirements of attendance program.
All required training must be completed, and necessary qualifications and employee requirements must be maintained.
Must meet Physical and Sensory Requirements and the Special Provisions listed below.
This position is considered "Safety Sensitive" under FTA guidelines and will be subject to random drug and alcohol testing.
Must be able to stand and walk on uneven surfaces while working.
Must be able to sit for extended periods and can reach at shoulder level or above.
Must be able to work in all required Personal Protective Equipment and Safety gear.
Must be able to work in the assigned uniform approved by CATS.
Ability to work both inside and outside in varying weather and environmental conditions.
Must be able to hand crank the equipment located inside the LRV/Streetcar a minimum of 50 times.
Individuals must be able to safely board and disembark from Light Rail Vehicles (LRVs) on ballast tracks.
Speech
Touch
Hearing
Vision - 20/20 or correctable to 20/20 (near, distance, and peripheral)
This position is considered a security and safety sensitive position and will be subject to random drug and alcohol testing under FTA DOT guidelines.
High school graduation or equivalent
Minimum age at time of employment in the classification of Rail Operator is 21.
Possess a Class B or A Commercial Driver License (CDL) or Permit with passenger endorsement
Valid DOT Medical Examiner's Certificate

Responsibilities

Operates CATS LRVs during revenue and non-revenue service, including mainline operations.
Operates LRVs safely following CATS operating rules, procedures, and scheduled running times.
Utilizes two-way radio systems per CATS established rules and Federal Communications Commission (FCC) regulations.
Responsible for operating powered or manual switches on the mainline and in the yard and other systems as required.
Conducts pre-trip inspection of assigned light rail vehicle equipment by rules and standard operating procedures.
Performs en-route troubleshooting on vehicle problems to restore service.
Assists patrons as required, such as announcing station stops, bus connections, and other communication about Light Rail Operations, and guides and assists customers with accessing alternate bus service.
Must be able to work variable shifts, weekends, holidays, and overtime as required for operational efficiency.
Notifies ROCC of any emergency, abnormal, or unsafe conditions as required.
Maintains knowledge and adheres to rules, procedures, policies, bulletins, and notices.
Must be able to follow regulatory requirements about rail operations to ensure a safe, efficient, and courteous service to customers.
Must be able to attend and pass required training classes to maintain required license and rail operator certification.
Completes forms and paperwork such as accident/incident reports and defect cards as required.
Performs other duties as assigned.
As part of your responsibility to support the CATS Safety Culture, report safety concerns and issues through the various methods established by CATS, as outlined in the Agency Safety Plan (ASP).