LRT Helper

Overview

We are the Metropolitan Council, the regional government for the seven-county Twin Cities metropolitan area. We plan 30 years ahead for the future of the metropolitan area and provide regional transportation, wastewater, and housing services. Metro Transit, a division of the Metropolitan Council, is the largest provider of public transit service in the Minneapolis-St. Paul seven-county metropolitan area and one of the country’s largest public transit systems.

Metro Transit operates bus, light rail and commuter rail service to support mobility, reduce congestion, and promote a cleaner environment. The Light Rail Transit (LRT) Helper role meets train operators, performs safety inspections, and handles cleaning and removal of graffiti and biohazard substances/materials. The position also removes vehicle protection film and replaces seats for light rail vehicles. Work shifts for new hires are typically third (3rd) shift.

Hourly Pay Range: for candidates newly hired into the ATU contract, starting wage is set by the ATU contract. Internal hires follow Metropolitan Council union wage guidelines. Starting pay is $24.63/hour; after year one, $28.15/hour; after year two, $31.67/hour; after year three, $35.19/hour (subject to contract changes). Shift differential provides 5% for hours ending between 8:00 PM and 11:59 PM, and 7% for hours ending between 12:00 AM and 7:00 AM or starting between 10:00 PM and 3:00 AM.

The organization is committed to a diverse workforce that reflects the communities served. This recruitment will establish a six (6) month Eligibility List for current and future vacancies.

• Cleans and pressure-washes light rail vehicle parts (e.g., bogies, couplers, EHUs) using equipment like automatic washers and hot tanks.
• Operates tools and machinery (e.g., pallet jack, forklift, electric carts, hoists, power scrubbers/sweepers).
• Performs interior and exterior cleaning of vehicles, including graffiti and biohazard removal.
• Operates light rail vehicles within designated areas and manages vehicle washing, sand reservoir filling, and washer fluid refilling.
• Inputs vehicle mileage into the computer system.
• Completes required safety training (e.g., CPR, AED, Lockout/Tagout, Blue Flag Protection) and performs related procedures.
• Helps support cab bonnet cleaning, light fixture cleaning, and trash disposal in shop areas.
• Sweeps, mops, and scrubs shop and storage areas; transfers used oil to waste drums; and maintains bulk hardware bins.
• Helps with parts ordering, gathering, and delivery.
• Conducts light rail vehicle services (e.g., seat replacement, decal/vandal guard work).
• Supports other maintenance duties except vehicle inspections, repairs, or diagnostics.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

• High School diploma/GED or higher AND one (1) year of full-time cleaning work experience

Desired qualifications:

• Previous experience cleaning the interior and exterior of large passenger vehicles or trains (within past 10 years).
• Experience cleaning biohazard substances/materials such as bodily fluids, urine, blood, vomit, etc.
• Experience cleaning with industrial cleaning supplies.
• Experience with basic maintenance/mechanical or repair.
• Ability to work independently and in a diverse team environment.
• Demonstrated dependability, reliability, and safety.

License requirements:

• Valid driver’s license with acceptable driving record.

Knowledge, skills, and abilities:

• Must be able to read, write, and communicate in English.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to pass physical examinations, Rail Operations Rule Book, and physical agility tests.
• Ability to obtain and maintain Train Operator Certification for Maintenance Personnel.
• Ability to work with a diverse customer group in a positive, professional manner.

• Union/Grade: ATU/ Grade 22
• FLSA Status:
  Non-Exempt
• Safety Sensitive:
  Yes. Subject to random DOT drug tests.
• Work Environment:
  Rail yard and garage setting. Exposure to diesel fumes. Extreme weather conditions. May work around moderate noise. Hand tools required for inspection and cleaning.
• Physical Requirements:
  
  May work in…