Sr PTC Onboard Systems Specialist

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 commuter service.

Metra's rail operations are overseen by the Deputy Executive Director, Operations, who provides executive direction and guidance to the chief officers of the Engineering, Mechanical and Transportation departments as well as the Training and Certification and Operations Training departments. The division also provides executive oversight and direction to contract carriers (BNSF and Union Pacific) to ensure that rail operations are consistent with Metra's standards and practices.

The Senior PTC Onboard Systems Specialist provides technical/administrative systems supports in the installation, maintenance, and operations of PTC equipment onboard Metra trains; monitors, analyzes, and diagnoses PTC equipment malfunctions; advises technicians on system upgrades and equipment repairs; document systems events and issues in the ticketing system; and prepare reports.

The primary duties include: Create, review, complete, close, reassign, and report repair and maintenance tickets in the Servicemax onboard ticket system; analyze diagnostic data to identify trends, potential issues, and areas for improvement; and document analysis, relevant findings, and mitigation. Coordinate and oversee regulatory maintenance of onboard equipment; provide information on system specifications; troubleshoot system problems and determine repair solutions; provide guidance in resolving and mitigating issues to repair technicians; and test system hardware and software to ensure repairs were performed properly. Participate in mechanical projects related to the installation or upgrading of PTC hardware ensuring all work follows safety plan specifications, quality standards, and Federal Railroad Administration requirements. Compile system operational documentation and data to assist in the preparation of reports, presentations, audits, and inspections. Perform system administration functions including monitoring regulatory updates and communicating changes to management; and preparing and distributing information to all district mechanical personnel on onboard system defects and mitigations, functionality changes, and industry updates relevant to PTC hardware. Coordinate team's day-to-day activities, assign tasks/projects and monitor performance, and provide guidance and training, but is not a supervisor. Promote safe work practices and maintain and foster a safe work environment. Responsible for the safety objectives, goals, and program of the organization ensuring compliance with applicable safety rules and regulations. Incumbents work under both inside and outside environmental conditions under prevailing conditions of heat, cold, rain, and snow. This position is subject to random drug and/or alcohol testing. Perform other related duties as assigned to meet the ongoing needs of the organization.

Final salary will be determined in part by the qualifications of the selected candidate.

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

1. Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Electrical/Electronic Engineering or in lieu of a specified degree, any combination of education and experience may be substituted for the required degree that equals four years in mechanical operations or the installation and maintenance of mechanical equipment.
2. In addition to #1, must have five years of experience in the installation, maintenance, and repair of locomotive train control systems, specifically positive train control locomotive hardware.
3. Considerable knowledge of onboard train control system maintenance and repair; including vendor diagnostic codes and applicable troubleshooting processes.
4. Good knowledge of PTC system components and system interoperability.
5. Good knowledge of railroad safety and operating rules.
6. Good knowledge of Federal Railroad Administration PTC rules and regulations, 49 CFR Part 236, and knowledge of Passenger Equipment Safety Standards, 49 CFR Part 238.
7. Good organizational, analytical, and problem solving skills.
8. Skill in reading and comprehending mechanical/electrical drawings and schematics. Good verbal and written communication skills.
9. Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite.
10. Ability to work with vendors and provide guidance on mechanical repairs to technicians.
11. Ability to manage multiple activities and adapt to changing priorities.
12. Ability to conform to shifting priorities, demands, and timelines promptly and efficient.
13. Must possess or be able to obtain Title 49, CFR Part 238 Certification within 60 days of hire.
14. Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license.
15. Ability to stand, walk, and/or sit, for extended periods of time.
16. Hearing/Visual acuity, far/near, depth perception, field of vision, color vision.
17. Ability to lift and move up to 10 pounds.
18. Must be willing to travel within and outside of Metra's 6-county region.
19. Include significant travel to include attendance at PTC Seminars, Committees & Conferences.
20. Must be available to work flexible hours in the early morning, late afternoon, evenings, or weekends.

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.