About The Position

The Road Foreman of Engines for the OTC District reports directly to the Director, Suburban Operations (UP/OTC District and the Kenosha Subdivision). The position supervises district staff, train and engine crews, and clerks; manages daily operations to support performance and efficiency; and performs other duties as assigned. The role oversees compliance with federal regulations and operating and safety rules, conducts operational monitoring check rides, and coordinates responses to accidents and service disruptions. It also manages crew and equipment assignments, schedules, staffing decisions, employee performance, investigations, and claims. The Road Foreman is responsible for the organization's safety objectives and compliance with applicable safety requirements. The work may take place indoors or outdoors in prevailing heat, cold, rain, and snow. The position may require operating locomotives, switchers, and cab cars in emergencies or as needed, travel within Metra's six-county region, and availability on call 24 hours a day, seven days a week, including weekends and holidays. The role is subject to random drug and alcohol testing.

Requirements

  • High school diploma or GED.
  • Currently working as a Locomotive Engineer or Engineer Supervisor.
  • At least five years of experience as a Locomotive Engineer.
  • No decertifications in the last three years.
  • Excellent knowledge of 49-CFR-240 certification.
  • Thorough knowledge of operating rules and union contracts.
  • Thorough knowledge of electrical, mechanical, and air brake functions for diesel locomotive coaches.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication and organization skills.
  • Operating Rules Certification.
  • Locomotive Engineering License or Conductor Certification.
  • Valid driver's license, which must be maintained.
  • Ability to stand, walk, and/or sit for extended periods.
  • Hearing and visual acuity, including far and near vision, depth perception, field of vision, and color vision.
  • Ability to operate a vehicle.
  • Willingness to travel within Metra's six-county region.
  • Availability on call 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year, including weekends and holidays.

Nice To Haves

  • College degree.
  • Supervisory experience.

Responsibilities

  • Supervise train and engine crews to ensure compliance with federal regulations, operating and safety rules, and customer service standards.
  • Conduct annual Operational Monitoring Performance check rides with engineers and triennial check rides with newly promoted engineers.
  • Coordinate with local authorities and Metra Police to resume train operations after accidents; remain at accident sites until staff and cleanup crews have left, arrange medical attention for employees as necessary, and maintain injury and accident reports.
  • Conduct formal investigations in compliance with labor agreements and handle time and mileage claims.
  • Coordinate and modify crew and equipment assignments to use locomotives, cars, and staff efficiently and respond to special events, equipment failures, and service disruptions.
  • Coordinate with PACE, CTA, and other bus companies to provide vehicles when necessary.
  • Approve time off, coordinate staff schedules, fill vacancies as needed, and ensure compliance with departmental and company policies and objectives.
  • Make and implement staffing decisions, performance evaluations, and performance improvement, disciplinary, or termination procedures.
  • Oversee the organization's safety objectives, goals, and program, ensuring compliance with applicable safety rules and regulations.
  • Operate locomotives, switchers, and cab cars in emergency situations or as needed.
  • Perform other related duties as assigned to meet the organization's ongoing needs.
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