Traction Power Systems Technician

Valley Metro • Operations Maintenance Center: 605 S. 48th St. Phoenix 85034, AZ

2d

About The Position

The Traction Power Systems Technician helps ensure the safe, reliable, and continuous operation of rail services by inspecting, maintaining, troubleshooting, and repairing traction power substations, overhead catenary systems, and related high-voltage electrical infrastructure. The role performs preventive and corrective maintenance on AC and DC electrified rail systems, responds to routine and emergency work orders, and supports field operations using specialty vehicles, tools, and equipment. This is a safety-sensitive position subject to Valley Metro RPTA’s Drug and Alcohol Program. Employment is contingent on passing a DOT physical examination, pre-employment drug test, and background investigation. The technician must qualify to operate light rail vehicles, obtain a Class B CDL permit within 90 days of attending New Employee Orientation, and obtain a full Class B CDL with air brake endorsement within six months of hire. The full pay range is $35.60 to $53.40 per hour, with an anticipated starting rate between $35.60 and $44.50 per hour; the offered rate depends on factors including skills, qualifications, experience, education, certifications, training, and internal equity. Work takes place in office, vehicle, and outdoor environments and involves high places, confined spaces, energized circuits, high-voltage systems, and physical and environmental hazards.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED and one year of experience in electrical maintenance of traction power and catenary systems, skilled trades involving high-voltage systems, or equipment and tool maintenance in electrified environments; an equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to perform the duties may qualify. Additional education cannot substitute for experience.
• Valid Arizona Driver’s License and ability to maintain insurability under Valley Metro’s Vehicle Insurance Policy.
• Successfully qualify to operate light rail vehicles.
• Obtain a Class B CDL permit within 90 days of attending New Employee Orientation and a full Class B CDL with air brake endorsement within six months of hire.
• Pass a DOT physical examination, pre-employment drug test, and background investigation.
• Knowledge of common overhead catenary system maintenance processes; traction power substation equipment and operations; electrical safety practices and procedures; troubleshooting methods for electrified systems; inventory control and parts management; record-keeping and maintenance documentation; tool and equipment maintenance; and computer and related software use.
• Skill in inspecting and diagnosing overhead and substation systems; safely repairing and maintaining electrified power components; operating high-rail vehicles, specialty tools, and equipment; responding to emergency maintenance calls; maintaining logs and inventory; assisting colleagues and contractors; performing cleaning and preventive maintenance; and communicating and exchanging information.

Responsibilities

• Inspect, test, maintain, troubleshoot, and repair overhead catenary systems, traction power substations, and related high-voltage electrical infrastructure.
• Perform preventive and corrective maintenance on AC and DC electrified rail systems to support safe and reliable power delivery.
• Work at height using ladders and bucket trucks, and work safely in confined spaces using required specialty equipment and PPE.
• Assist in training less experienced Traction Power Systems Technicians.
• Diagnose and resolve electrical malfunctions using appropriate tools, test equipment, and established troubleshooting methods.
• Work safely around energized circuits and high-voltage systems in compliance with safety rules, procedures, and regulatory requirements.
• Respond to routine and emergency work orders; operate specialty vehicles and equipment; and support field operations.
• Maintain accurate records, inspection logs, and inventory; participate in safety activities; assist team members and contractors; and complete special projects as assigned.
• Perform other duties of a similar nature and level as assigned.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Education Level: High school or GED