Assistant Manager, Rail Operations

Full job description

Summary

Please ensure your resume is attached upon submission

*This position will have an on-call element and must be available on-call to support a 24/7 operation; this position may be required to work varying shifts including nights and weekends.*

Valley Metro exists to Connect Communities and Enhance Lives. We do this by planning, building, operating, and maintaining a safe, regional, multi-modal transportation system to residents of metro Phoenix. From regional bus, streetcar, light rail and paratransit service to alternative commuter solutions, Valley Metro’s mission since 2002 is to develop and operate a network of transit services that now covers 513 square miles! We have been named 2023 Best Workplaces for Commuters, 2023 Metro Phoenix WTS Chapter Innovative Solutions Project of the Year, and a 2023 Arizona Forward Environmental Excellence Awards Finalist.

The Assistant Manager, Rail Operations supports operational efficiency for our light rail system, design, and related operational technical elements. The Assistant Manager, Rail Operations will own and champion best-in-class rail transit activations, start-up operations, and integrated testing to ensure a safe and efficient rail system. A key element of success day-to-day will involve coordinating and monitoring work activities cross-functionally with Valley Metro staff, contractors, city partners and jurisdictions, and other impacted outside agencies in establishing best practices, policies, and procedures.

Minimum Qualifications & Requirements

• High school diploma or G.E.D.
• Five (5) years increasingly responsible light rail operations experience
• Two (2) years of supervisory experience

BACKGROUND INVESTIGATION:
Employment is contingent upon the results of a background check.

LICENSES AND CERTIFICATIONS:
Valid Arizona Driver's License

Examples of Duties / Knowledge & Skills

The statements listed below describe the general nature and level of work only. They are not an exhaustive list of all required responsibilities, duties, and skills. Other duties may be added, or this description amended at any time.

• Supervises and coordinates the work and work product of the transportation services contractor ensuring optimum performance.
• Conducts audits to ensure compliance with safety practices and standard operating procedures (SOP's); coordinates and monitors rule change implementation; coordinates special event planning with contractors.
• Applies methods and practices concerning operating strategies during unexpected circumstances.
• Monitors transportation services contractor to ensure proper staffing and appropriate service levels are maintained.
• Collaborates with Maintenance of Way, LRV Maintenance, and Facilities Maintenance Departments to coordinate and resolve operational and maintenance issues.
• Supports the preparation and implementation of the Rail Activation Plan including integrated system testing, pre-revenue operations and system safety.
• Oversees testing activities. Participates in the safety certification process, which entails vital controls with valid checks and balances.
• Participates in planning of new extensions and projects, conveying operational, safety and customer service needs related to each project.
• Provides support in design and review meetings, construction meetings and partnering meetings.
• Under the direction of the Manager, Rail Operations, serves as liaison for Light Rail and Streetcar Activation Plan and operations with other departments, outside agencies and stakeholders.
• Supports the development and review of plans including the Agency Safety Plan, Operating and Maintenance Plan, and Rail Activation Plan.
• Strives to improve light rail operations and system safety by developing and recommending best practices for rail operations and system safety to mitigate hazards. Participates in accident/incident review process. Participates in safety-related committees such as the Safety and Security Committee.
• This position will have an on-call element and must be available on-call to support a 24/7 operation; this position may be required to work varying shifts including nights and weekends.
• Performs other duties of similar nature and level as assigned.

Knowledge of:

• Light rail operations;
• Train control signals, Traction Power Substations (TPSS), overhead power, Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems and Operations Control Center;
• Rail operations relating to dispatch, training and field supervision;
• Safe transportation operating procedures and guidelines;
• Methods, practices and procedures involved in the light rail system.

Skill in:

• Managing projects;
• Monitoring and evaluating transportation contractors' work;
• Ensuring safety processes are followed;
• Prioritizing and coordinating work;
• Troubleshooting and solving a wide range of transportation and operational
  issues;
• Networking and maintaining a close working relationship with member
  agencies;
• Using computers and related software applications;
• Demonstrating prudent judgment;
• Solving operational problems;
• Multi-tasking and meeting various strict deadlines;
• Communicating in order to interact with coworkers, supervisor and the
  general public at a level sufficient to exchange or convey information and to receive work direction.

Physical Demands / Work Environment

Physical Demands:
Positions in this class typically require: climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, reaching, standing, walking, pushing, pulling, lifting, feeling, talking, hearing, seeing and repetitive motions.

Incumbents may be subjected to moving mechanical parts, electrical currents, vibrations, extreme temperatures, inadequate lighting, workspace restrictions, intense noises and travel. Some shop and/or field work may be required.

Work Environment:
Exerting up to 20 pounds of force occasionally and/or up to 10 pounds of force frequently, and/or negligible amount of force constantly to move objects. If the use of arm and/or leg controls requires exertion of forces greater than that for Sedentary Work and the worker sits most of the time, the job is rated for Light Work.