Track Maintainer

This job will be posted continuously and can close at any time without further notice.

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.
More information about us on our website.

We are committed to supporting a diverse workforce that reflects the communities we serve.

Metro Transit, a division of the Metropolitan Council is the largest provider of transit service in the seven-county metropolitan area and one of the country's largest transit systems. The agency also operates bus and rail service essential to the region's mobility, and also provides resources for carpooling, van pooling and bike commuting. Metro Transit helps people get to where they're going, reduces regional traffic congestion and promotes a cleaner environment.

How your work would contribute to our organization and the Twin Cities region:

Metro Transit is seeking Track Maintainers to provide track maintenance and inspection activities that comply with the safety requirements prescribed in the US Department of Transportation (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below). Metro Transit rules and practices. Duties include inspection, repair and replacement of tracks.

This position will work third shift between the hours of 10 p.m. – 6 a.m.; scheduled days will be consecutive (usually including one weekend day) and based off seniority during shift picks. Schedule details will be discussed during the interview process.

Hiring bonus of $4,000: you'll receive $2,000 after 30 days of employment and another $2,000 after the successful completion of probation.

Starting hourly wage rate is $29.72 per hour ($61,817.60 annually). After one year of employment, the hourly wage rate will increase to $31.46 per hour ($65,436.80 annually). There will be annual wage increases in the first 4 years of employment per the negotiated union contract.

• Maintains and repairs tracks, turnouts, at-grade crossings, rail lubrication machines and other mechanical systems on track structure.
• Conducts and records track, turnout, and joint inspections.
• Replaces areas of concrete or timber ties, turnouts, and track fastenings.
• Operates small tools and equipment (rail saw, rail drill and spiking equipment).
• Assists with track surfacing, alignment, and gauging operations.
• Assists in emergency situations.
• Attends safety and training meetings.
• Operates hi-rail vehicles, and other vehicles used with track maintenance, inspection and recording, wheel/skid steer loaders, vacuum trucks, rail grinders, track tamper and ballast regulators.
• Assists with inventory of spare parts to ensure parts are available to carry out track maintenance.
• Updates maintenance reporting system and maintains maintenance records as required by Metro Transit.
• Performs snow removal; operates snow removal equipment (self-propelled and hand-held removal equipment); assists other agencies with removal as required.
• Performs vegetation control, graffiti /debris removal.
• Assures that vehicles, tools, equipment, and storage areas are kept in good repair, clean, organized, and secure.
• Performs other related duties.

High school diploma/GED or higher AND 2-years or more of experience as railroad maintenance-of-way worker including experience operating hi-rail equipment.

Licensure Requirement:

• Valid driver's license with acceptable driving record.
• Must Obtain Commercial Driver's License (CDL) Permits prior to being hired, to include:
  General Knowledge, Air Brake, Combination Vehicle, and Tanker Endorsement.
• Ability to obtain a Class A CDL Driver's License within 90-days of employment and ability to meet ongoing DOT physical requirements.
• Ability to pass physical examinations, Rail Operations Rule Book and physical agility examinations and successfully complete Rail Operator Training Program for Maintenance Personnel.
• Ability to obtain and maintain Train Operator Certification for Maintenance Personnel.

What knowledge, skills and abilities you should have within the first six months on the job:

• Knowledge of rail industry standards and practices for track maintenance, inspections, and repairs.
• Ability to operate the district's radio and telephone communication system in compliance with regulations and procedures.
• Demonstrated mechanical skills including ability to properly use hand and power tools.
• Must meet ongoing educational and training requirements and may be required to maintain OTE Certification and complete basic and advanced principle classes of track maintenance certification.
• Knowledge of US Department of Transportation  Rail Authority (FRA).
• Knowledge of Track Safety Standards Part 213 Subparts A-F.
• Basic computer skills. May prepare reports and documentation.
• Ability to read and comprehend simple instructions.
• Ability to write basic correspondence.
• Ability to effectively work with diverse groups of customers or clients.
• Requires the skill to provide basic client services to the…