Operations Technical Trainer (Mechanical)

Are you ready to take your expertise to the next level? As an Operations Technical Trainer (Mechanical), you'll be part of a highly skilled team dedicated to developing and delivering top-tier training for locomotive and gallery car systems. Through hands-on experience and comprehensive instruction, your knowledge will grow exponentially.

As an Operations Technical Trainer (Mechanical) at Metra, you'll play a pivotal role in shaping the future of our workforce by leading the development and delivery of training programs that adhere to critical regulations and best practices. You'll ensure that our employees meet the rigorous standards set by regulatory bodies such as the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA), U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), American Public Transportation Administration (APTA), OSHA, and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB).

In this dynamic role, you will use a variety of engaging and effective training methods, including classroom instruction, hands-on exercises, guided discussions, demonstrations, online modules, group activities, scenarios, videos, and visual aids. These diverse approaches will help deliver high-quality training that is not only informative but also practical and impactful.

Your efforts will directly support the training needs of Metra's Mechanical Department, where you'll deliver initial, refresher, and qualification training for both apprentices and journeyman employees. You'll be instrumental in maintaining and elevating the standards of our workforce while ensuring compliance with all necessary regulations and safety protocols. This role provides an exciting opportunity to have a tangible impact on the future of Metra's operations and the safety of our employees.

The Operations Training Department is seeking a dynamic Operations Technical Trainer (Mechanical) to join our passionate team. This department is responsible for creating, developing, and delivering comprehensive training programs for Metra's Mechanical and Engineering Divisions. These programs ensure compliance with Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) and OSHA regulations, helping us maintain the highest standards of safety and performance across our workforce.

What You'll Do:

• Lead Engaging Training Sessions: Deliver training in classrooms and in the field using a variety of dynamic techniques such as lectures, guided discussions, hands-on demonstrations, group exercises, scenarios, simulations, and mock-ups.
• Impact Metra's Workforce: Provide initial, refresher, and qualification training to Metra's apprentice and journeyman workforce in the Mechanical and Engineering divisions.
• Evaluate Performance: Administer written and practical exams, observe performance, and provide insights for qualification and requalification.
• Update Training Content: Stay ahead of industry changes by revising and improving training materials, including course guides, job aids, assessments, and participant guides.
• Promote Safety: Ensure that all training programs promote safe work practices and comply with safety regulations, fostering a culture of safety in everything we do.
• Adapt to Any Environment: Be ready to work both indoors and outdoors, braving the elements (rain, snow, heat, and cold) while delivering impactful training in all conditions.
• Contribute to Continuous Improvement: Analyze training feedback, from learner surveys to practice exercises, and provide recommendations to improve the effectiveness and engagement of training programs.

What We're Looking For:

• A passion for training and helping others grow.
• Experience in mechanical systems and rail operations.
• Familiarity with FRA, DOT, APTA, OSHA, and NTSB regulations.
• Strong communication and instructional delivery skills.
• Ability to work effectively in variable weather conditions.
• A commitment to safety and continuous improvement.

Our Mechanical Division trains skilled professionals such as Carmen, Electricians, Sheet Metal Workers, Machinists, Foreman and Supervisors while our Engineering Division serves employees from departments including Track, Signal, Capital Construction, Communications, Electrical Maintenance, and Building/Bridges.

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 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.

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, Journeyman certification, or equivalent combination of education and experience totaling four years in training development or delivery (formal and informal classroom).
  • Minimum of four years' experience as an instructor or journeyman in a railroad, technical, or manufacturing environment.
• Skills & Knowledge:
  • Strong knowledge of adult learning theories and a variety of teaching techniques.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, PowerPoint, Excel).
  • Solid understanding of safety standards in training.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Effective organizational and interpersonal skills, with the ability to creatively engage and motivate learners.
  • Ability to assess learning styles and apply appropriate instructional methods.
  • Capable of presenting training in a logical, clear fashion and using a variety of training tools and aids.
  • Strong multi-tasking, time management, and prioritization skills.
  • Ability to work independently and manage training schedules and deadlines effectively.
• Regulatory Certifications & Qualifications:
  • Qualified in Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) 49 CFR Parts 218 (Railroad Operating Practices), 238 (Passenger Equipment Safety Standards) for Mechanical, or able to obtain within 60 days of hire.
  • Qualified in FRA 49 CFR Parts 214 (Roadway Worker Protection), General Code of Operating Rules, and Canadian Pacific On Track Safety regulations for Engineering, or able to obtain within 60 days of hire.
• Physical & Travel Requirements:
  • Ability to lift and move up to 20 pounds.
  • Valid driver's license; Class A CDL required for Engineering.
  • Ability to operate a vehicle and commercial vehicle with trailers for Engineering.
  • Willingness to travel within and outside Metra's 6-county region.
  • Ability to work flexible hours, including early mornings, late afternoons, evenings, and weekends.

This role requires a well-rounded mix of teaching expertise, technical knowledge, and strong interpersonal skills to effectively train Metra's workforce and ensure safety and regulatory compliance.

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.