Train Attendant - SPRINTER

Overview

DEFINITION:
Under the direction of the Director of Rail Operations, the SPRINTER Train Attendant is responsible for providing safe, efficient and customer-friendly passenger transportation by ensuring the safe movement of trains in accordance with applicable regulations and operating rules/practices. This is a bargained position represented by the International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail, and Transportation workers (SMART) Union.
Salary rate for this position per the Agreement with the SMART Union is $24.04/hour (based on FY2026 rate).
Hiring Bonus
: $2,000 bonus is paid in two increments. First $1,000 is paid after passing a 6-month probation. Remaining $1,000 bonus is paid after being with NCTD for 9 months. Distinguishing Characteristics:
This position is distinguished by its responsibility for the provision of passenger transportation by ensuring the safe movement of trains. This position is required to obtain and maintain qualification as a Train Operator (if hired on/after June 9, 2017). This position is designated as Safety-Sensitive in accordance with Federal Transit Administration (FTA) and Department of Transportation (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below). and will participate in a random testing pool under those guidelines.

Supervision Received and Exercised:
This position reports to the Director of Operations-Rail but will also take direction from the SPRINTER Supervisor personnel. S/he has no direct supervisory responsibility. Further, this position is expected to participate in the sharing of expert knowledge and as a vital member of various project teams that may be instituted.

Working Conditions:

Normal working conditions for this position are in an operational field setting, including the SPRINTER Operations & Maintenance Facility, onboard the SPRINTER trains, at rail stations, and anywhere along the SPRINTER railroad right of way. Individuals in this position must be able to work safely to prevent on-the-job accidents and injuries, wear protective equipment including hearing protection, safety-toe boots, safety glasses and other Personal Protective Equipment items as assigned by NCTD.

Business travel may be required periodically between District sites, governmental agencies, consultants’ facilities, and other locations as required.

Duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Fulfills the District’s mission to provide safe, reliable, and user-friendly public transit services for the SPRINTER rail mode. Emphasis is on providing high-quality, customer-friendly services, that reflect unified operations throughout the District.
• Ensure compliance with all train orders, signals, railroad operating rules and regulations for safety, operations, and compliance with all DOT and CPUC rules and regulations.
• Assist with the safe boarding and de-boarding of passengers, including passengers with disabilities or any passenger needing assistance.
• Review instructions from dispatchers and discuss with Train Operator and any other train crew members to ensure comprehension and compliance.
• Inspect all equipment on cars prior to departures and document on pre-trip inspection checklists.
• Clear passengers from trains at the end of each run and help ensure train cleanliness by picking up light trash, spills, etc.
• Assist in response to passenger medical emergencies on board trains.
• Assist and instruct train crews to couple and uncouple cars, operate switches, and make minor repairs to railcars, including replacing heavy couplings or air brake hoses.
• Diagnose minor malfunctions and perform minor maintenance and troubleshooting to ensure ongoing safe and efficient operations.
• Report to Operations Control Center by radio to give or receive information and instructions concerning stops, delays, or service changes.
• Ensure passenger safety and situational awareness during any delays or disruptions to service due to emergencies, mechanical issues, etc., in accordance with applicable NCTD Standard Operating Procedures.
• Promote compliance with NCTD Rider Guide Rules of Riding, Ordinances, and any other applicable NCTD Policies and Procedures.
• Complete applicable reports and any other required documentation as needed based on the specific nature of any incident or issue that occurs while on duty.
• Perform fare checks and issue citations for violations of the regional fare policy.
• Perform duties as Train Operator which include but are not limited to:
  Inspect train for operational readiness by making Federal Transit Administration and District required checks and tests;
  Operate a passenger train consist in a safe and proficient manner, understanding air brake and train handling principles (if required to maintain dual qualification under Union Agreement).
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

• High school diploma or equivalent GED.
• Minimum two years prior work experience in a service-focused position.
• Basic mechanical skills to perform simple procedures and repairs.

A combination of…