Metropolitan Transportation Authority Careers

ABOUT THE AGENCY

MTA Metro-North Railroad is a dynamic organization, operating out of the jewel of New York City, Grand Central Terminal. We provide service to over 86.5 million customers, traveling in and out of New York and Connecticut. A subsidiary of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority, Metro-North Railroad is one of the busiest commuter railroads in the nation. MTA Metro-North Railroad strives to provide a safe and reliable commute, excellent customer service, and rewarding opportunities for its employees.

Metro-North Railroad reserves the right to remove this posting before the Application Deadline.

JOB SUMMARY

The Senior Director, Operations Compliance and Performance reports to the Senior Vice President, Operations and is responsible for directing the team that reviews inspection and performance programs across Metro-North Operations. The position ensures that Federal Railway Agency (FRA) mandated inspections, required tests, and operating performance records are accurate, timely, and properly documented. The Senior Director oversees audits and reviews to confirm results are reliable, deficiencies are identified, and corrective actions are carried out to completion. The role also evaluates performance measures to verify accuracy of reporting and highlight areas requiring attention. This position provides the Senior Vice President, Operations with independent assessments of inspection and performance activities, ensuring Metro-North is prepared for FRA audits and meets regulatory and internal standards.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Develop, lead and manage the operational compliance program for the Maintenance of Way department (M of W), ensuring adherence to all relevant policies and procedures to ensure compliance with FRA regulations. Ensure deficiencies are identified, corrective actions are developed, and follow-up is tracked to completion. Recommend operational or procedural changes to improve reliability, accountability, and regulatory alignment. Direct short- and long-term regulatory oversight, planning, and compliance management strategies for the organization.
• Collaborate with department leaders to establish strategy, direction, methodology, policies, and guidelines for FRA compliance. Develop and implement management and administrative procedures to ensure adherence to all applicable regulations. Provide oversight and approval of regulatory interactions and ensure proper documentation and communication with governing agencies.
• Oversee all FRA-mandated inspections, testing programs, and reporting process to confirm compliance and the integrity of the data submitted. Leverage data analytics to monitor performance, identify compliance issues, create reports for senior management, and support data-driven decision making. Prepare executive-level reports and analyses that highlight risks, trends, and areas requiring attention.
• Confirm that required inspections and records are completed correctly, submitted on time, and retained in accordance with federal and internal standards. Oversee the scheduling, execution of railroad inspections and operating performance checks. Create a dashboard to document these inspections and checks to evaluate compliance and any trends.
• Represent Metro-North Operations during audits, inspections, and reviews conducted by the MTA, FRA, and other regulatory bodies. Support audit readiness and lead preparations for external FRA or third-party reviews based on FRA regulations and railroad standards.
• Provide the Senior Vice President, Operations with independent assessments of compliance and performance. Support special projects and assignments at the direction of the Senior Vice President of Operations. Carry out additional responsibilities in support of Metro-North’s commitment to safe, reliable, and efficient railroad operations.
• Select, develop, and motivate staff and provide career development for team members. Provide effective coaching and counseling. Manage team and individual performance. Create a professional environment that respects individual differences and enables staff to develop and contribute to their full potential.
• Performs other duties as assigned
• Complies with all policies and standards
• May be required to work hours outside regular work hours, as applicable
• Observes the work performed by contractors, as applicable
• Reviews invoices and approves them if the work has contractual standards, as applicable
• Addresses performance issues with the contractor when possible, as applicable
• Escalates issues to other parties when needed, as applicable
   

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Ability to effectively interpret, explain, and apply complex policies, regulations and procedures to various stakeholders and staff.
• Excellent organizational skills and time management skills with the ability to meet critical deadlines.
• Ability to exercise sound independent judgement within established policies and guidelines.
• Excellent familiarity with federal, state, local regulations, codes and ordinances and industry standards pertaining to rail-transit operations.
• Demonstrated leadership skills with the ability to foster effective teamwork, motivate and develop staff.
• Ability to exercise a high level of independent judgment and decision making in a changing environment.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to work effectively with various Operating and Non-Operating Departments.
• Excellent organization, planning, management, and coordination skills to plan, direct, control and implement programs that are required to ensure that Metro-North is in compliance with applicable federal, state, and local regulations, codes, and ordinances.
• Must be able to work in a high-profile/high-pressure environment.
• Excellent verbal, written and communication skills.
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office and/or comparable applications.
• Must be able to respond on a 24/7 basis and work varying hours as needed.
• Must have a valid driver’s license.
• Metro-North Railroad (MNR) Operating Rules and Physical Characteristics qualified
• Comprehensive knowledge of FRA regulations, including 49 CFR Parts 213, 234, 236, and 246.
• Familiarity with Roadway Worker Protection Program requirements

The following is/are preferred:

• Professional Certification (e.g., Certified Quality Auditor, Associate Safety Professional (ASP) or Certified Safety Professional (CSP)

REQUIRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

1. Bachelor’s Degree in Arts/Sciences (BA/BS) in Transportation, Business, Public Administration, Risk Management, Safety or related field. Demonstrated equivalent experience and/or education may be considered in lieu of a degree to include an additional four (4) years of experience.
2. Minimum 12 years of progressively responsible experience in a transportation industry or related field with responsibility in compliance, risk management or operational oversight.
3. Minimum 7 years of management experience and/or supervision of a diverse workforce.

The following is/are preferred: None

LICENSES AND CERTIFICATIONS

Required:

• Valid Driver’s License

Preferred:

• Professional Certification (e.g., Certified Quality Auditor, Associate Safety Professional (ASP) or Certified Safety Professional (CSP)

BENEFITS - Managerial Benefits

Transportation & Financial Benefits

• Commuting Made Easy – Enjoy a complimentary MTA transportation pass, plus access to tax-advantaged commuter benefits to maximize your savings.
• Premium Health Coverage at Low Cost – Access high-quality individual, family and domestic partner healthcare, dental, vision and life insurance plans.
• Secure Your Future – Build long-term financial security through pension plans and retirement savings accounts designed for eligible employees.

Time Off & Work-Life Balance

• Generous Time Away – Recharge with substantial paid time off and comprehensive holiday schedules that support your personal and family commitments.
• Holistic Support Services – Access our dedicated Work Life Services team and Office of the Chaplains unit for personal guidance and support when you need it most.

Professional Growth & Development

• Learning & Development Program – Advance your career through structured professional development opportunities, skills training, and leadership programs tailored to support your growth within the organization.
• Educational Investment – Pursue your career goals with in-house training and professional development, tuition reimbursement support, and partnerships with educational institutions.

Employee Experience & Community

• Employee Assistance Programs – Comprehensive support services to help you navigate life's challenges with confidence and resources.
• Discounts & Perks – Take advantage of MTA employee discount programs offering savings on products and services.
• Connect & Belong – Join our vibrant Employee Resource Groups to build meaningful connections, share experiences, and contribute to an inclusive workplace culture.

OTHER INFORMATION

• Pursuant to the New York State Public Officers Law & the MTA Code of Ethics, all employees who hold a policymaking position must file an Annual Statement of Financial Disclosure (FDS) with the NYS Commission on Ethics and Lobbying in Government (the “Commission”).
• Final salary is determined experience, skillset, and alignment with compensation practices. The posted range reflects expected compensation and may be updated as market or business needs evolve.
• Employees driving company vehicles will be subject to License Monitoring and must complete defensive driver training once every three years for current MTA drivers; or within 180 days of hire or transfer for an employee entering an authorized driving position.
• To be eligible for consideration for a new role, current MTA employees must complete at least one year of service in their current role prior to applying. Additionally, eligibility to interview is contingent upon maintaining a satisfactory record of job performance, attendance, and disciplinary conduct.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY/ADA DISCLAIMER

MTA and its subsidiary and affiliated agencies are Equal Opportunity Employers and encourage qualified applicants from diverse backgrounds, experiences, and abilities, including military service members, to apply.

If you seek a reasonable accommodation for a medical condition or disability, or for a religious practice or observance, to participate in the job application or interview process, please notify your MTA representative once you have been contacted regarding the role.

HOW TO APPLY:

For Internal Applicants: Log in to the My MTA Portal, click on the My Job Search tile, select the Careers link, search for the desired position, click Apply, and follow the on-screen instructions.

For External Applicants: Visit www.mta.info, click the “Careers” link located in the footer under the "The MTA" section, then click on “See All Open MTA Positions”. Search for the desired position, click Apply, and follow the instructions.