Operations Technical Trainer (Engineering)

Reporting to the Manager, Technical Training, the Operations Technical Trainer (Engineering) is responsible for developing and delivering training programs that ensure compliance with policies and procedures governed by the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) and other regulatory agencies, including the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), American Public Transportation Association (APTA), Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), and National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB).

Primary Responsibilities:

• Deliver training in both classroom and field settings, utilizing a variety of instructional methods such as lectures, guided discussions, hands-on demonstrations, group exercises, simulations, mock-ups, videos, and presentations.
• Provide initial, refresher, and qualification training to Metra's Engineering workforce, ensuring compliance with department standards and procedures.
• Administer written and practical examinations, conduct performance observations, and oversee workforce qualification and requalification.
• Update training materials, including course guides, instructional aids, participant guides, and assessments, to reflect procedural, regulatory, and equipment changes.
• Assess and enhance training program effectiveness by evaluating course content, learner engagement, and instructional tools, providing recommendations for improvement.
• Promote and enforce safe work practices, fostering a safety-focused work environment and ensuring compliance with all applicable regulations.
• Work in both indoor and outdoor environments, adapting to various weather conditions such as heat, cold, rain, and snow.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support the organization's training and operational objectives.

The Operations Training Department is responsible for designing, developing, and delivering training programs for the Mechanical and Engineering Divisions in compliance with Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) and Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations.

• Engineering Division trainees include employees from Track, Signal, Capital Construction, Communications, Electrical Maintenance, and Building/Bridges departments.

Metra is one of the largest and most complex commuter rail systems in North America, serving Cook, DuPage, Will, Lake, Kane, and McHenry Counties. The agency is linking communities in Northeastern Illinois by providing safe, reliable, and efficient commuter service.

The final salary will depend on the candidate's qualifications. Those with 8 years or more of required experience can expect offers up to the midpoint of the salary range. Metra provides full pay ranges so candidates can consider their growth potential.

Click here to learn more about our benefits!

Metra is a railroad employer subject to the provisions of the Railroad Retirement Tax Act, not the Social Security Administration.

Education & Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in Training and Development or in lieu of a degree, a combination of education and experience equating to four years in classroom training development or delivery.
• An additional four years of experience as an instructor or journeyman in a railroad, technical, or manufacturing environment.
• Bridge and Building or Work Equipment experience or extensive knowledge of on-track equipment, materials, tools, and techniques used in the maintenance, repair, and modification of automotive, light, and heavy machinery preferred.

Technical & Instructional Skills:

• Strong understanding of adult learning theories and various teaching techniques.
• Knowledge of safety standards and regulatory compliance.
• Ability to assess learning styles and tailor instructional methods accordingly.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, PowerPoint, Excel).
• Capable of delivering clear, engaging, and effective training using various instructional tools.

Regulatory & Compliance Requirements:

• Engineering Trainers: Must be qualified in FRA 49 CFR Part 214 and Parts 218, General Code of Operating Rules, and Canadian Pacific On-Track Safety or obtain certification within 60 days of hire.

Other Requirements:

• Valid driver's license (Class A CDL preferred).
• Ability to lift and move up to 20 pounds.
• Sufficient hearing, vision (color, depth perception, field of view), and mobility to meet job demands.
• Must be able to operate vehicles and commercial trailers.
• Willingness to travel within and outside Metra's six-county region.
• Availability to work flexible hours, including early mornings, late afternoons, evenings, and weekends.

Metra employees in an active review period under the current discipline policy or who have documented attendance or performance issues will not be considered and/or selected for this position.

Please note: Regardless of any state laws that legalize marijuana, Metra prohibits applicants and employees' use or possession of marijuana (or marijuana paraphernalia), or having detectable amounts of marijuana in their bodies, including synthetic and/or non-synthetic substances such as THC for any reason for pre-employment screening purposes, while on duty, subject to duty, on Metra property, or in Metra work equipment and vehicles.

Metra is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. It is our policy to fill vacant positions with qualified candidates without regard to race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age, gender identity, disability, or any protected categories, assuming an individual can perform the essential functions of the job with or without accommodation.

Metra is committed to ensuring that our career website and recruiting process are accessible to all individuals. If you encounter difficulties or limitations in using or accessing our online application, or if you require reasonable accommodations to complete this application, participate in interviews, complete any pre-employment testing, or engage in any other aspect of the employee selection process, please direct your inquiries to RAC@Metrarr.com.