Student Train Operator

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

About The Position

Train Operators operate Light Rail Vehicle (LRV) trains in revenue and non-revenue service. They perform pre-departure checkouts, make public address announcements, monitor and report passenger movements, use judgment during onboard vehicle failures, prepare vehicle defect reports, and assist with on-the-job instruction for student personnel. The role is part-time only, scheduled for approximately 25–32 hours per week. Additional hours are frequently assigned to provide employees an equal opportunity to work extra hours, but a specific number of weekly hours is not guaranteed. The Transportation Department operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Shift assignments are bid in seniority order, and operators should expect nights, weekends, and holidays until seniority allows them to bid for other shifts and days off. Part-time employees may be promoted to full-time roles in seniority order as openings 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. The next Train Operator Academy begins January 4, 2027. The application review remains open until the position is filled. The listed hourly pay is $30.09, or $24.96 per hour during the 11-week student training period.

Requirements

Must be at least 21 years old at the time of appointment.
Must possess and maintain a valid California driver's license.
Must have at least three years of current, satisfactory driving experience and submit a valid California driving record.
Must demonstrate effective oral and written communication skills.
Must be able to learn, read, understand, and apply MTS policies, regulations, and union labor contracts.
Must be able to write clear, concise, grammatically correct letters, memoranda, and reports.
Must be able to communicate clearly and effectively in person-to-person or small-group situations using tact and diplomacy.
Must be able to prioritize and complete assignments by deadlines without detailed instructions, organize and multitask, verify forms and reports, coordinate and initiate actions, and delegate responsibilities as appropriate.
Must exercise prudent, timely judgment in normal and emergency situations.
Must be able to sit for long periods in a confined area and maintain a flexible schedule, including availability for 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.
Must satisfactorily pass applicable examinations, including a pre-employment physical, drug screen, reference check, and background check.
Candidates should demonstrate stable employment, good attendance records, and a favorable attitude toward public service.

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 for Employees.
Apply safety policies and procedures and exercise sound judgment to protect passengers and equipment.
Operate LRVs during onboard failures that render features such as propulsion or braking inoperative.
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, including moving LRVs through an automated car wash, coupling and uncoupling train sets, and manually operating track switches.
Move trains into and out of shop buildings for repairs.
Operate test trains for equipment acceptance, repair, and checkouts as required.
Prepare detailed reports about unusual events.
Assist with on-the-job instruction for student personnel qualifying for the Train Operator position.
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

Medical, dental, and vision coverage for employees and their families (the description notes that part-time employees do not receive full MTS Rail employee benefits).
Paid time off.
Retirement plans.
Wellness programs.
Incremental pay increases.
Employer-paid holidays.
Employer-paid DMV licensing when additional licensing is required.
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.