Student Train Operator

San Diego Metropolitan Transit System•San Diego, CA

About The Position

Student Train Operators are hired as part-time employees and scheduled to work approximately 25–32 hours per week, although no specific number of hours is guaranteed. Additional hours are frequently assigned with the aim of providing employees equal opportunities to work them. The Transportation Department operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Shift assignments are selected by seniority, so operators should expect to work nights, weekends, and holidays until their seniority permits them to bid for other shifts and days off. Part-time employees may be promoted to full-time positions in seniority order as positions become available; candidates should expect to remain part-time for five or more years. Part-time employees do not receive full MTS Rail employee benefits. Train Operators operate Light Rail Vehicle (LRV) trains in revenue and non-revenue service, following MTS Rail rules and instructions. They prepare trains for service, perform pre-departure checks and yard switching, make public address announcements, monitor and report passenger movements and unusual occurrences, and use judgment during onboard equipment failures. They also prepare reports, provide basic assistance to passengers, and assist with on-the-job instruction for student personnel. The work is performed primarily in an LRV operator cubicle and sometimes in an office environment. Duties may involve variable or irregular hours and work exceeding eight hours per day. The next Train Operator Academy begins January 4, 2027. The position pays $24.96 per hour during the 11-week student training period and $30.09 per hour otherwise. Candidates must be at least 21, hold and maintain a valid California driver’s license, and have at least three years of current, satisfactory driving experience. A valid California driving record must be submitted. Candidates must pass applicable examinations, including a pre-employment physical, drug screen, reference check, and background check.

Requirements

Must be at least 21 years old at appointment.
Must possess and maintain a valid California driver’s license.
Must have at least three years of current and satisfactory driving experience.
Must submit a valid California driving record.
Must pass applicable examinations, including a pre-employment physical, drug screen, reference check, and background check.
Candidates should demonstrate stable employment, good attendance, and a favorable attitude toward public service.
Must communicate effectively orally and in writing, including writing clear, concise, grammatically correct letters, memoranda, and reports.
Ability to read, understand, and apply policies, regulations, and union labor contracts.
Ability to speak clearly and effectively with tact and diplomacy in individual or small-group situations.
Ability to prioritize and complete assignments by deadlines without detailed instructions; strong organizational skills and ability to multitask.
Ability to verify the accuracy and completeness of forms and reports.
Ability to coordinate and initiate actions to implement decisions and delegate responsibilities appropriately.
Ability to exercise prudent and timely judgment in normal and emergency situations.
Ability to sit for long periods in a confined area.
Must have a flexible schedule and be available to work days, nights, weekends, and holidays.
Must be able to fulfill physical demands including driving, walking, climbing stairs, stooping, sitting, bending, reaching overhead, and lifting up to 50 pounds.
Must be able to operate a motor vehicle and perform manual-dexterity tasks, including computer and 10-key use.
Must have good eyesight and maintain constant alertness under tedious circumstances.

Nice To Haves

Bilingual skills are preferred and encouraged.

Responsibilities

Operate LRV trains in revenue and non-revenue service in compliance with MTS Rail rules and instructions.
Exercise sound judgment and follow safety policies and procedures to protect passengers and equipment.
Operate LRVs during onboard failures affecting features such as propulsion or braking.
Make required public address announcements about service impacts and other matters as instructed by Transportation Supervisors or Controllers.
Report unusual occurrences to the controller.
Assist with wheelchairs or basic equipment troubleshooting.
Use train controls and equipment, including keys, levers, buttons, the public address system, horn, headlights, and Train to Wayside Control.
Prepare trains for service according to schedules or Supervisor/Controller instructions.
Perform yard switching, move LRVs through an automated car wash, couple and uncouple train sets, and manually operate track switches.
Move trains into and out of shop buildings for repairs.
Operate test trains for equipment acceptance, repairs, and checkouts as required.
Prepare detailed reports about unusual events.
Assist with on-the-job instruction for student personnel qualifying as Train Operators.
Provide superficial first aid or request medical assistance for ill or injured passengers.
Maintain current knowledge of rules, regulations, and standard operating procedures pertaining to the Trolley.
Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

Competitive medical, dental, and vision coverage for employees and their families, subject to part-time benefit limitations.
Paid time off.
Retirement plans.
Wellness programs.
Incremental pay increases.
Employer-paid holidays.
Employer-paid DMV licensing if additional licensing is required for the position.
Free transit pass for the employee and family.
Gym membership reimbursement.
Walk, run, and bike event reimbursement.
Employer-paid bereavement leave and jury duty.
Employer-paid uniforms.