Trainmaster

Metra•Chicago, IL

About The Position

The Trainmaster supervises district train operations staff and manages daily operations to provide optimal performance and efficiency. The position reports directly to the Director (Sub Oper Rock Island Distr). It oversees train and engine crews, coordinates schedules and assignments, supports service recovery and construction projects, and promotes compliance with safety rules, regulations, and company policies. The role requires availability on call 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year, including weekends and holidays, and may involve work in indoor and outdoor conditions in heat, cold, rain, and snow. The position is subject to random drug and/or alcohol testing.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED.
At least five years of experience in railroad operating.
Knowledge of the operational characteristics, services, and activities of a comprehensive rail transportation system.
Knowledge of methods and techniques for evaluating rail operation.
Knowledge of federal, state, and local laws, rules, regulations, and administrative policies and procedures governing rail operations.
Knowledge of the principles of transit passenger and employee safety.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with people contacted in the course of work.
Ability to work under pressure and coordinate multiple activities.
Ability to analyze problems, identify alternative solutions, and implement recommendations.
General Operating Rules (GOR) 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/near vision, depth perception, field of vision, and color vision.
Ability to operate a vehicle.
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.
Locomotive Engineer License.

Responsibilities

Supervise train and engine crews to ensure compliance with federal regulations, operating and safety rules, and customer-service standards.
Coordinate with local authorities and Metra Police after accidents to resume operations as soon as possible; remain at accident sites until staff and cleanup crews have left, and arrange medical attention for employees as needed.
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 service needs, including events, equipment failures, and service disruptions.
Coordinate with PACE, CTA, and other bus companies to provide vehicles when necessary to augment service.
Work with the Engineering Department and contractors to establish parameters for construction projects and track outages, including on-site coordination and attendance at project meetings.
Approve time off, coordinate staff schedules, fill vacancies as necessary, and ensure compliance with departmental and company policies and objectives.
Promote safe work practices and maintain a safe work environment.
Support the organization's safety objectives, goals, and program, ensuring compliance with applicable safety rules and regulations.
Perform other related duties as assigned to meet the ongoing needs of the organization.