Rail Transit Compliance Specialist

State of Oregon•Salem, OR
•$6,090 - $9,444•Hybrid

About The Position

The Oregon Department of Transportation’s Commerce and Compliance Division is seeking a Rail Transit Compliance Specialist (Compliance Specialist 3) for its Rail Safety & Regulatory Programs Branch / State Safety Oversight in Salem. The position administers the federally mandated State Safety Oversight (SSO) program for Rail Fixed Guideway Public Transportation Systems (RFGPTS) that are not regulated by the Federal Railroad Administration. The specialist monitors compliance with state and federal laws, rules and regulations; investigates accidents and complaints; reviews internal audit programs; and provides technical assistance to RFGPTS. The role includes conducting annual reviews of operating plans, preparing annual reports for submission to the Federal Transit Administration, reviewing accident and incident reports, tracking findings and corrective action plans, and developing compliance standards, procedures and recommendations. The work is performed in a typical office setting about 50% of the time, with the remainder outdoors in all weather conditions. A flexible schedule is required to meet operational needs, and accident or incident investigations may require timely responses, long hours or overnight stays. The employee must attend and pass the Public Transportation Safety Certification training program for state and federal employees.

Requirements

  • Five years of experience conducting administrative research that included compiling and evaluating facts to recommend management action or determine compliance or eligibility with program guidelines and regulations; three of the five years must be above the technical support level.
  • College-level coursework may substitute for experience at 45 quarter units per year, up to a maximum of three years.
  • A valid U.S. driver license and an acceptable driving record; driving is an essential function of the position.
  • Attend and pass the Public Transportation Safety Certification training program for state and federal employees.

Nice To Haves

  • Prior experience working at a rail transit agency.
  • Experience as a subject matter expert in rail transit, rail equipment maintenance and/or rail transit track maintenance.
  • Demonstrated ability to audit records for compliance with rules and regulations.
  • Strong attention to detail and ability to communicate complex information to diverse audiences.
  • Experience in field inspection methods.

Responsibilities

  • Administer the federally mandated State Safety Oversight program for Rail Fixed Guideway Public Transportation Systems.
  • Conduct annual reviews of current operating plans and recommend changes.
  • Draft annual reports of activities for RFGPTS and submit them to the Federal Transit Administration.
  • Review and approve RFGPTS accident and incident reports, and maintain a tracking log of findings and corrective action plans.
  • Develop standards and procedures for compliance and enforcement activities, program goals and action plans.
  • Prepare technical documents for existing and proposed rule changes.
  • Develop and provide recommendations to improve program effectiveness.
  • Investigate accidents, take witness testimony and testify in court as a technical expert when needed.
  • Perform on-site safety and compliance reviews of RFGPTS.
  • Investigate regulatory complaints and maintain confidentiality during compliance investigations.
  • Attend and pass the Public Transportation Safety Certification training program, and attend courses, workshops and meetings as necessary.

Benefits

  • 11 paid holidays a year.
  • Flexible work schedules.
  • Paid leave.
  • Public Service Loan Forgiveness opportunity.
  • Comprehensive and equitable base salary offer within the listed range.
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