Student Train Operator

San Diego Metropolitan Transit System (MTS)•San Diego, CA

About The Position

Do you love to drive? Are you technically and academically inclined? Have you been searching for a company and a career that gives back to society and the environment? Are you ready to master a trade that has career growth and promotional opportunities? Then this is the CAREER for you! Why become a Train Operator? Incremental wage increases and career growth Promotional opportunities (We love to promote!) CalPers pension & other retirement options Health, dental and vision benefits Vacation time and holiday pay Employment stability Community impact Environmental impact - be a part of the solution! And MUCH MORE! CLICK HERE [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vb6kJeM5IxE] to view a video and see Train Operators in action! Train Operators are responsible for operating Light Rail Vehicle (LRV) trains in revenue and non-revenue service, performing pre-departure checkouts, making public address announcements, monitoring and reporting passenger movements, exercising prudent judgment during any onboard vehicle failures, preparing vehicle defect reports and assisting in providing on-the-job instruction to student personnel. Train Operators are hired as part-time employees only and are scheduled to work approximately 25-32 hours per week. Additional hours are frequently assigned to employees in a manner designed to give employees an equal opportunity to work extra hours. The Transportation Department works 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and Train Operator shift assignments are bid on in seniority order. Train Operators can expect to be assigned to work nights, weekends, and holidays until such time as their individual seniority allows them to bid to more desirable shifts and days off. Part-time employees are eligible for promotion to full-time positions in seniority order, as full-time positions become available. Candidates should assume that they would be working in a part-time status for five or more years. Part-time employees are not guaranteed any specific number of working hours per week, nor do they receive full MTS Rail employee benefits.

Requirements

The minimum age at time of appointment is 21.
Candidates should demonstrate stable employment, good attendance records and a favorable attitude toward public service.
Candidates must demonstrate ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
Must possess and maintain a valid California driver's license.
A minimum of three years current and satisfactory driving experience.
Candidates must turn in a valid California's Driving Record.
Must satisfactorily pass all applicable examinations including, but not limited to, a pre-employment physical, drug screen, reference check and background check.

Nice To Haves

Bilingual skills are preferred and encouraged.

Responsibilities

Operates Light Rail Vehicle (LRV) trains in revenue and non-revenue service in strict compliance with the MTS Rail Rules and Instructions for Employees.
Exercises good judgment and adheres to all safety policies and procedures to ensure the safety of passengers and equipment.
Operates LRV's during onboard vehicle failures where specific features, i.e., propulsion, braking, etc., are rendered inoperative.
Makes required public address announcements regarding the impact of specific mainline occurrences on train service, as well as other announcements as instructed by Transportation Supervisors/Controllers.
Reports all unusual occurrences to the controller.
Assists with wheelchair or basic equipment trouble shooting.
Uses a variety of keys, levers, and buttons to activate the train, accelerate, brake, operate doors, and uses the public address system, horn, headlights and TWC (Train to Wayside Control).
Prepares trains for service, as determined by schedule requirements or Supervisor/Controller instructions.
Performs yard switching activities, including movement of LRVs through an automated car wash, coupling and uncoupling of train sets, and manual operation of track switches.
Operates trains into and out of shop buildings for repairs.
Operates test trains for acceptance of equipment, repair and checkouts as required.
Prepares detailed reports pertaining to unusual events.
Assists in providing on-the-job instruction to student personnel qualifying for the Train Operator position.
Provides superficial first aid and/or requests medical assistance for ill or injured passengers.
Maintains a thorough and up-to-date knowledge of current Rules and Regulations and other standard operating procedures pertaining to the Trolley.
Performs such other duties as assigned.