Metropolitan Transportation Authority Careers

Description

Title:                                         Assistant Signalman - Communications
Department:                            Engineering              
Post Date:                               10/31/2024         
Close Date:                             Open Until Filled
Hay Point Evaluation:             N/A
100% Hourly Rate of Pay:      $43.00* (See Wage Progression Chart)
Position Classification:           Safety Sensitive       
Location:                                Various Headquarters      
Reports To:                            Foreman  
Union Affiliation:                     Brotherhood of Railroad Signalman (BRS - Local 241)  

 Systems Maintenance 

Responsible for the installation and maintenance of underground cable systems, tunnel cable systems, wayside and office voice/data/video communications and cable systems, voice/data/video transport systems, IP systems, electronics and enclosures/huts/rooms, radio systems, security systems, customer information systems, optical systems, alarm systems.  All systems elements (hardware/software/interfaces, etc.) are included.  The individual will be responsible to demonstrate sufficient aptitude to learn this information and accept training.  The individual must perform all assigned tasks safely and responsibly. 

Systems Radio 

The individual is expected to work under the direction of other members of the Communications Department and learn the work generally recognized as communications work under the scope of the Brotherhood of Railroad Signalmen (BRS) agreement with the LIRR. Communications work includes, but is not limited to, the installation and maintenance of VHF radio systems, Positive Train Control (PTC) radio systems, data radio systems, point to point and Line of Sight (LoS) systems including ancillary equipment and  underground cable systems, tunnel cable systems, conduit, Distributed Antenna Systems (DAS), Radio Over IP (ROIP), Software Defined Radio (SDR), etc.  All systems elements (hardware/software/interfaces, etc.) are included. Knowledge of wired system interfaces and equipment (IP, T1, etc) is required.  The individual will be responsible to demonstrate sufficient aptitude to learn this information and accept training. The individual must perform all assigned tasks safely and responsibly. The Company provides a training program consisting of both classroom and field training. Failure to qualify as a Mechanic within the four (4) year training program will result in termination of employment. Qualification as a Mechanic (Radio Tech) requires the candidate pass a written oral and practical test, receive good reviews, demonstrate proficiency in tools and techniques used to install and troubleshoot equipment. 

Responsibilities may include but are not limited to: 

• Install and maintain underground cable systems, tunnel cable systems, wayside and office voice/data/video communications and cable systems, voice/data/video transport systems, IP systems, electronics and enclosures/huts/rooms, radio systems, security systems, customer information systems, optical systems and alarm systems.
• Excavate along right-of-way for installation of signal cables, and foundations for communications huts and outdoor equipment enclosures.
• Trim trees, cut brush, and paint various signal and communications equipment.
• Assist mechanics in the assembly, installation and testing of communication equipment/electronics.
• Provide protection for gangs in accordance with LIRR Rules and Roadway Worker Safety Rule, and all other duties normally considered as signal and communications work.
• Grind/drill/cut using power tools within confined area.
• Operate dust, grit or fume producing power tools or machinery.
• Operate sand, grit or shot blasting tools or machinery.
• Perform other work involving acids, toxic materials, gases, or fumes.
• Use of emergency generators.
• May be asked to serve as watch person for assigned work gang while on the right-of-way.

Qualifications:  

• A four-year high school diploma or its educational equivalent (GED or TASC) approved by a State's Department of Education or recognized accredited organization required.
• Must have a demonstrated aptitude for electronic/electrical work with the ability to use various hand tools.
• Must possess some electronics or electrical experience.
• Must possess a basic electronic background, either acquired through formal training and/or practical experience, including knowledge of OHM's law and series/parallel circuits. 
• Must have ability to perform heavy lifting tasks up to 100 lbs.
• Must possess demonstrated ability to work with others, demonstrating a professional attitude at all times.
• Must possess a valid driver's license.
• Must be skilled in the use of various hand tools. 
• Must qualify as a Mechanic within a four-year period.  Employees who fail to qualify within the four-year period are subject to termination of employment. 
• For promotion to Mechanic, must possess CDL B driver's license, and demonstrate his/her proficiency via oral/written and /or practical examinations.
• Must pass a written electrical test, panel interview, and practical exam to proceed through the selection process.
• Candidates hired into the position must complete a computer-based training program.

Preferred/Desirable Skills/Qualifications: 

• A two year technical degree from accredited school OR completion of any electronics training program.
• Field/office work on any of the following: Security intrusion detection systems and CCTV.  Telephone systems, Computers; Data Networking systems, Public Address Systems; General Electronic Equipment; Voice/Data/Video Transport Technologies, including optical transport systems. 
• FCC General Radio Operator License (GROL)
• Networking (CCENT, CCNA, etc.) certifications or related training.
• Prior knowledge of Communications, information systems, security systems.
• Military Electronics; Telephone Installation; Electronics Repair/Maintenance; Other Railroad/Transit Communications Departments; Prior construction helper or heavy lifting experience.
• Strong troubleshooting skills.
• Working knowledge of electronic systems including PBX, CCTV, Radio, Networking, intrusion detection/access control, etc.
• Use of various types of electronic test equipment (Multimeters, OTDRs, IFRs, etc.).

Other Information 

In addition to meeting the minimum requirements of the position, the selection process may include, but is not limited to, a pre-screening assessment (i.e., physical, written and/ or practical evaluation) and interview. Candidates forfeit further consideration in the process if they fail to participate in any step of the process when scheduled. Make up dates/times will not be given. In addition, LIRR employee applicants must be in their current position for the 12 months immediately preceding the close date of this posting and must possess a satisfactory work history, including attendance and discipline record.   A record of more than ten sick days without medical documentation in two of the last three years is considered unsatisfactory attendance.  Not all qualified applicants are guaranteed an interview due to the competitive selection process. A medical examination and safety sensitive drug/alcohol test may also be required. 

Job Information 

Equal Opportunity Employment