Rail Operations Controller

Basic Function

Responsible for overseeing safe, efficient and reliable rail operation along the METRORail system by controlling, monitoring and overseeing LRT Operators, Supervisors, maintenance personnel, contractors, schedule revenue service, special train movements and special events. This is a professional traffic management position of a difficult nature which requires extensive supervisory skills and the ability to exercise sound judgment during high pressure situations. Performs duties in a safe, efficient manner and in compliance with all applicable rules and safety procedures.

Responsibilities and Specific Duties

• Maintains two-way radio communications with LRT Operators, Field Supervisors, maintenance and other personnel in accordance with FCC regulations during revenue service operations.
• Monitors train movement on the mainline including revenue trains, test trains, student training and special event trains.
• Adjusts service levels and headways as dictated by operating conditions and passenger loads.
• Informs maintenance personnel and public utility entities of equipment defects or structural problems and coordinate efforts to repair.
• Creates and updates Train Orders daily; distribute to LRT Operators and other rail operations personnel each day.
• Develops and implements delay management strategies such as single-track operations, turning trains, shuttle service and other service recovery techniques as required during service disruptions.
• Disseminates information to METRO management, Operations personnel, MPD, Supervisors, LRT Operators and customers via radio, telephone or station public address system concerning disruption and changes in service.
• Controls interlocking, traction power and other system elements.
• Directs Field Supervisors, LRT Operators and Maintenance-of-Way (MOW) and Vehicle Maintainers in service recovery and troubleshooting vehicle or system failures.
• Coordinates the replacement of defective trains with yard operations and Vehicle Maintenance.
• Manages track access, coordinates and maintains work permits and red tags for METRO personnel and contractors working on or about the right of way.
• Coordinates maintenance, contractor and utility activities along the right of way.
• Coordinates the movement of service support vehicles on the mainline.
• Notifies emergency response agencies of crisis situations along the right of way.
• Participates in accident / incident investigations to implement strategies or procedures to eliminate risk or to minimize / reduce risk to an acceptable level.
• Maintains a daily summary of train operations, associated reports and record events that affect operations along the right of way (documented in TCC Log, Daily Track Access Log, Kermit database, HyperAlert notification system, or any other current database being utilized).
• Enforces operating rules and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
• Acts as Chief Rail Operations Controller in his / her absence.
• Work as a Rail Field Supervisor (perform all functions / duties / responsibilities) and operate LRV's as needed.
• Promotes safety awareness and follows safety procedures in an effort to reduce or eliminate accidents.
• Performs other job-related duties as assigned.

Education Requirement

High school diploma or equivalent is required. Associates degree in Transportation, Business or related field is preferred.

Years & Experience Required

Minimum of three (3) years rail control / dispatch experience, rail street running operations experience as a Rail Operator / Rail Supervisor or as an Air Traffic Controller. Experience should include two (2) years supervisory experience.

Knowledge & Skills Required

A valid Texas Driver's License is required for the job and must meet METRO's requirements regarding motor vehicle records. Must obtain and maintain LRT Train Operator and Train Control Center certifications. Working knowledge of transit operations and Rail Operations, to include street running operations. Thorough knowledge and proficiency in Supervisory Control and Date Acquisition (SCADA) system. Proficiency in sectionalizing the traction electrification system. General understanding of Maintenance-of-Way (MOW) systems and activities, including Signals and Communications, Track and Traction Power. Must have working knowledge of PC's and Microsoft office suite. Good communications (verbal / written) skills. Must be able to make sound decisions quickly.

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.