Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County

Basic Function

The Light Rail Train Operator Trainee is required to complete the training class to be become a full-time LRT Operator. Upon successful completion of training, the LRT Operator Trainee will become certified and reclassified to the position of LRT Operator. Training includes classroom and on-the-job environment and requires working outside and in inclement weather conditions. Reporting and shift times, as well as days off may vary during the training process. LRT Operators are required to clearly understand the requirements and responsibilities for the position of LRT Operator as stated on the job description and become knowledgeable with METRORail policies and procedures, Labor Agreement, Employee Performance Codes and Work Rules. Performs duties in a safe, efficient manner and in compliance with all applicable rules and safety procedures.

Responsibilities and Specific Duties

• Must pass all safety and training standards and obtain certification as an LRT Operator.
• Upon completion of training the new full-time LRT Operator will report to assigned rail operating facility (ROC or S&I) based upon staffing needs of the facilities at the time of graduation. 
• Full-Time LRT Operators will remain at the assigned facility for up to six (6) months unless there is a general sign-up, or whichever occurs first. Full-Time LRT Operators shifts vary and may work holidays or weekends.
• Operates LRV’s in accordance with METRORail policies, procedures and rulebook.
• Maintains METRORail schedules and running times.
• Operates vehicle in the storage yard and into and out of the maintenance building.
• Interacts with passengers in a professional manner, answers questions, provides information and addresses concerns of riders.
• Operates radio system in accordance with set radio protocols and FCC regulations, notifying Train Control Center of appropriate information regarding emergency situations and other operational situations.
• Troubleshoots mechanical and electrical failures of vehicle using on board diagnostic equipment. Utilizes circuit breakers, brake cutouts and bypass switches under the direction of Rail Supervisors and TCC as appropriate.
• Announces station stops in event of service interruption or failure of automated announcement equipment.
• Performs LRV safety checks and inspections in accordance with set procedures.
• Operates electric and manual track switches as required.
• Works flagging duties as assigned.
• Assists in the acceptance and commissioning of new light rail vehicles and test operations.
• Requires successful completion of Vehicle Familiarization Course for all light rail vehicles.
• Successfully completes vendor-training courses for vehicle and wayside equipment as required.
• Completes all accident/incident forms, logs and completes associated required paperwork.
• Maintains a safe clean work environment.
• Safely operates METRORail non-revenue vehicles.
• Provides excellent customer service to METRO internal and external customers.
• Promotes safety awareness and follows safety procedures to reduce or eliminate accidents.
• Performs other job-related duties as assigned.

Education Requirement

High school diploma or equivalent is required.

Years & Experience Required

INTERNAL APPLICANTS

Minimum six (6) months as part time or full time METRO Bus Operator or one (1) year as METRO employee. Acceptable work record to include but not limited to: No suspensions, no more than one (1) reprimand, three (3) misses or less and no preventable vehicular accidents within the preceding twelve (12) months of application. 

EXTERNAL APPLICANTS

Must have current driving record with no tickets or accidents within three (3) years of application. Transportation experience desirable. Must have a minimum of three (3) years of consistent work history. Customer service experience, working with the public; ability to work independently as well as part of a team; willing to work all shifts and split shifts, weekends and holiday. Must pass a pre-employment background investigation and a drug and alcohol screen. No job related felony/misdemeanors. Criminal convictions are reviewed on a case-by-case basis and the job relatedness is determined by METRO.

ALL APPLICANTS

Must be 21 years or older

Pass all pre-selection testing

Meet all physical requirements to include medical examinations and pre-selection physical assessment

Valid Texas drivers’ license required and must be able to maintain

Disqualifying Criteria: Two or more DUI or DWI convictions with no time limit; any DUI or DWI convictions within the preceding three (3) years; invalid, suspended, or revoked drivers’ license and no more than two (2) moving violations in the past 3 years.

Knowledge & Skills Required

• Valid Texas Driver’s License is required.
• Must obtain certification as an LRT Operator and maintain annual certification
• Ability to pass all safety and training courses.
• Must know or become knowledgeable of METRORail policies and procedures and the METRORail rulebook.
• Ability to communicate proficiently both verbally and written.
• Ability to accurately complete written reports, records and forms.
• Bilingual ability is a plus.

Additional Information

The Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County, Texas has a zero tolerance drug and alcohol policy for all employees. All internal and external applicants will be required to undergo drug testing before employment and will be subject to further drug and/or alcohol testing throughout their employment.

Further, employees who perform safety-sensitive functions will submit to drug and/or alcohol testing in accordance to the Department of Transportation (DOT) and the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) regulatory requirements.

We provide equal opportunity to all qualified individuals regardless of race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, veteran status, genetic information or disability.