Mechanical Apprentice

Job Description

Please Note: Applying to this posting more than once may cause your application to be removed from consideration.

Metra is one of the largest and most complex commuter rail systems in North America, serving Cook, DuPage, Will, Lake, Kane, and McHenry Counties. The agency is linking communities in Northeastern Illinois by providing safe, reliable, and efficient service.

Metra is currently accepting applications for its Mechanical Apprenticeship Programs. These programs take approximately three (3) years to complete and include classroom work and on-the-job training leading to a journeyman’s certification.

The Mechanical Department is in charge of all rolling stock, which includes 150 locomotives, 845 coach cars, 186 highliners, and 530 fleet vehicles. The Mechanical Department ensures that rolling stock operates safely, effectively and efficiently throughout Metra System. Mechanical Department performs all Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) inspection, including daily, quarterly, semiannual, annual, Tri-annual, quad, etc., and provides daily cleaning services of all rolling stock. In addition, the Department purchases new equipment, rehabilitates, perform modification, maintenance, and wreck repairs, to all rolling stock to help improve state of good repair and on-time performance.

Carman: (Passenger Railcar Mechanic) - Carman apprentices learn how to inspect, repair, and maintain air brake systems and the interiors/exteriors of passenger railcars. Training includes formal classroom instruction and on-the-job training with an experienced Journeyman Carman.

Electrician: Electrician apprentices learn how to read and interpret electrical schematics and inspect, repair, and maintain electrical components/systems of passenger railcars and locomotives. Training includes formal classroom instruction and on-the-job training with an experienced Journeyman Electrician.

Machinist: (Diesel/Electric Locomotive Mechanic) - Machinist apprentices learn how to inspect, repair, and maintain air brake systems and diesel/electric locomotives. Training includes formal classroom instruction and on-the-job training with an experienced Journeyman Machinist.

Sheet Metal Worker: Sheet Metal Worker apprentices learn to install, repair, and maintain piping systems on railway equipment and for new facility services. Training includes formal classroom instruction and on-the job training with an experienced Journeyman Sheet Metal Worker.

This is a Lottery Position

Candidates can expect salary offers that range from the minimum to the mid-point of the salary range. Metra provides full pay ranges, so candidate can consider their growth potential.

Metra is a railroad employer subject to the provisions of the Railroad Retirement Tax Act, not the Social Security Administration.

Job Requirements

• Candidates must be at least 18 years of age.
• Candidates must have a high school diploma or GED.
• Candidates must complete the minimum qualifications on-line questionnaire within the application posting period.
• Candidates must be able to bend, stoop, and lift up to 50 lbs.
• Candidates must be able to work different shifts.

Preferences:

• Military, trade school, or college experience helpful.

Metra requires all new-hire employees to provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination prior to their first day of employment.

Metra employees in an active review period under the current discipline policy or who have documented attendance or performance issues will not be considered and/or selected for this position.

Please note: Regardless of any state laws that legalize marijuana, Metra prohibits applicants and employees’ use or possession of marijuana (or marijuana paraphernalia), or having detectable amounts of marijuana in their bodies, including synthetic and/or non-synthetic substances such as THC for any reason for pre-employment screening purposes, while on duty, subject to duty, on Metra property, or in Metra work equipment and vehicles.

Metra is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. It is our policy to fill vacant positions with qualified candidates without regard to race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age, gender identity, disability, or any protected categories, assuming an individual can perform the essential functions of the job with or without accommodation.

Metra is committed to ensuring that our career website and recruiting process are accessible to all individuals. If you encounter difficulties or limitations in using or accessing our online application, or if you require reasonable accommodations to complete this application, participate in interviews, complete any pre-employment testing, or engage in any other aspect of the employee selection process, please direct your inquiries to RAC@Metrarr.com.