Supervisor - Train Movement

Transportation Operations Jamaica, NY


Description

Position at Long Island Rail Road

Job Title: Supervisor Train Movement
 
Department: Transportation
 
MTA Agency: LIRR
 
Primary Location(s): Various
 
Salary Range/Additional Compensation Details: $112,085 - $165,345.34
 
Regulated/ Safety Sensitive: Safety Sensitive
 
Union Affiliation: N/A
 
Closing Date (if applicable): 3/27/2026
 
Shift (if applicable):
 
Other:
 
About your agency:
Chartered in 1834, the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) is the largest, busiest, and oldest continuously operating commuter railroad in the United States. In 2024, this 24/7/365 operation served 75.5 million riders on a system that stretches nearly 120 miles – from Penn Station and Grand Central Madison in Manhattan to Montauk on the eastern tip of Long Island.
 
 
JOB SUMMARY:
Supervise the daily operations of all train movement, including passenger trains, freight/work trains and on-track equipment. Dispatch and direct Transportation Managers, Road Foreman of Engines, and other Transportation Supervisors as well as coordinate Maintenance of Equipment and Engineering Departments in response to service disruptions. Handle investigations, trials, statements of facts and assess discipline with authority to settle cases within the respective department. Provide direction and guidance in the development of subordinates. Provide the most efficient safe and reliable on-time performance to LIRR customers under all operating conditions.
 
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Direct and oversee the daily operations of the Movement Bureau. Monitor commission hour operations to coordinate with field supervisors for mechanical or Infrastructure breakdowns. Monitor communications flow to employees and customers. Direct assigned staff and manage the day-to-day operations and activities of assigned areas. Make spontaneous decisions that have a direct impact concerning safety and On Time Performance including responsibility to transfer and assign employees to support operational requirements on a daily basis, which may result in employees receiving overtime and/or penalty payments.
  • Order various materials as necessary to maintain operations through the winter, season, in compliance with WSOP (Winter Storm Operation Procedures).
  • Conduct proficiency tests and issue licenses to Conductors upon completion of initial or refresher training. Monitor and conduct 217/218/239 checks (field observations) bi-annually, provide remediation and re-instruction, provide feedback, revoke license, Documents findings of observations, plans for remediation in confidential employee filing systems. Apply 49 CFR Part 242 regulation requirements in all policies, procedures and training_ programs.
  • Direct and oversee operations during disruptions in service. Provide for the diversion of trains, adding stops, adding connections, manipulation of crews/equipment, all general train movements and the flow of information to crews and customers. 
  • Assume the role of primary management authority during operational incidents with complete autonomy and authority to direct the investigation and orchestrate recovery which can include the ordering of emergency buses, relieving crew members and covering assignments. 
  • Supervise personnel in the performance of their duties. Perform employee operational and safety efficiency checks (SAFERS). Conduct employee training classes and workshops. Conduct investigations, statements of facts and trials, when necessary.
  • Has authority and discretion to determine whether or not discipline should be assessed for employees in situations of run failure and AWOL. Review performance of staff. Create a professional environment that respects individual differences and enables all employees to develop and contribute to their full potential.
  • Evaluate, analyze and provide feedback regarding employees' performance with complete autonomy to remove employees from service and send home without pay. Identify specific professional development/future needs of the Department; develop and manage specific programs tailored to meet needs.
  • Review, analyze and investigate operational problems. Maintain records of train movements, daily logs and train performance reports. Coordinate Information with other departments relative to inadequacies or Inefficiencies in operations, manipulations or schedules.
  • Define and maintain operating standards and procedures. Assist In preparation of General Orders and prepare General Notices when warranted. Prepare Train Movement Notices for Movement Bureau and tower personnel. Prepare various government reports.
  • Develop policies for Senior Department management.
  • Select, develop and motivate personnel within the department. Provide career development for subordinates. Provide prompt and effective coaching and counseling. Responsible for discipline/termination of employees when necessary. Review direct reports and approve performance appraisals. Promote safe work practices and provide safe working conditions. Create a professional environment that respects individual differences and enables all employees to develop and contribute to their full potential.
  • Ensure a safe working environment and adherence to guidelines of company safety policies and procedures. Lead by example.
  • Perform other assignments as requested by Senior Management.
 
REQUIRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:
  • Must have 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.
  • Train Dispatcher qualification with a minimum of three years of train movement experience.
 
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
  • Must have a thorough understanding of the equipment manipulation books, employee crew assignment books, standard operating procedures, engineering and third rail prints, interlocking and troubleshooting methods.
  • Must be able to demonstrate effective communication, leadership abilities and problem-solving skills, and have the ability to effectively manage and make appropriate decisions in stressful situations.
  • Must possess strong overall knowledge of LIRR operations.
  • Must have strong interpersonal and writing skills.
  • Must have proven ability to plan, develop, and implement extensive track outages with minimal impact to customers and on-time performance.
  • Must be able to effectively represent the LIRR in meetings with consultants, architects, engineers and senior managers from other operating departments.
  • Must be able to interpret simulations and operational plans.
  • Fully qualified on the Rules of the Operating Department and physical characteristics of the LIRR at the Train Dispatcher level or must fully qualify on the Rules of the Operating Department at the Train Dispatcher level and the physical characteristics of the LIRR within 12 months of appointment in order to remain in the Supervisor Train Movement position.
  • Zone A or successfully qualify within six months of promotion.
  • Must qualify on the Physical Characteristics for Zone A within six months of appointment or when class availability permits.
  • Qualification as a Chief Train Dispatcher is preferred.
  • Must be willing to work various hours and relief days.
  • Must be qualified on the physical characteristics of the Joint Control Territory and have successfully completed the Amtrak Train Dispatcher course of instruction.
  • Must qualify on the Rules of the Operating Department at the Train Dispatcher level and the physical characteristics of the LIRR within 12 months of appointment to remain in position.
  • Must be willing to work various hours and relief days.
  • Must qualify on the Rules of the Operating at Train Dispatcher level and the physical characteristics of the LIRR within 12 months of appointment to remain in position.
  • Must be willing to work various hours and relief days as well as reporting to various work locations.
  • Must have the ability to interpret engineering and design documents on a working level as it pertains to rail operations.
  • Ability to understand and interpret complex architectural, engineering and design documents on a working level.
 
  • Requirements specific to Supervisor Train Movement are assigned to the unique locations the Manager can be assigned:
  • Supervisor Train Movement (Movement Bureau) - must qualify on the Rules of the Operating Department at the Train Dispatcher level and they physical characteristics of the LIRR within 12 months of appointment to remain in the Supervisor Train Movement Position.  Must qualify on the Physical Characteristics for Zone A within 6 months of appointment or when class availability permits.  Qualification as a Chief Train Dispatcher is preferred.  Must be willing to work various hours and relief days.
  • Supervisor Train Movement (PSCC) - Must be qualified on the physical characteristics of the Joint Control Territory and have successfully completed the Amtrak Train Dispatcher course of instruction.  Must qualify on the Rules of the Operating Department at the Train Dispatcher level and the physical characteristics of the LIRR within 12 months of appointment to remain in position.  Must be willing to work various hours and relief days. 
  • Supervisor Train Movement (Capital Projects/Flaggin) - Must qualify on the Rules of the Operating Department at the Train Dispatcher level and the physical characteristics of the LIRR within 12 months of appointment to remain in the Supervisor Train Movement position.  Must be willing to work various hours and relief days as well as reporting to various work locations.  Must have the ability to interpret engineering and design documents on a working level as it pertains to rail operations.
 
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Bachelor’s Degree in Arts/Sciences (BA/BS) in Business, Transportation or related field. Demonstrated, directly related, equivalent experience and education may be considered. In lieu of Bachelor's Degree, a candidate may be considered with a minimum of seven years demonstrated transportation operations experience.
  • Train Dispatcher qualification with three years or more of train movement experience.
  • Minimum 3 years progressively responsible experience in railroad transportation operations (e.g. Chief Train Dispatcher, Train Dispatcher, Assistant to the Chief Train Dispatcher, Customer Communications Coordinator, Train Director, Block Operator) or prior Train Movement employee experience with successful completion of the Transportation Supervisor Training Program/Transportation Manager Training Program. 
  • Minimum 1 year prior supervisory experience. 
  • Minimum 1 year prior experience managing large capital projects.  
 
BENEFITS: 
  • Commuting Assistance – based on operating MTA agency (complimentary transportation pass within the MTA’s jurisdiction and tax-advantaged accounts)
  • Low Premium – High Quality Health Insurance Plans (lifetime coverage for eligible retirees and their dependents)
  • Pension plans and retirement savings accounts for eligible employees
  • Generous Paid Time Off and Holidays provided.
  • Tuition Reimbursement for eligible employees
  • Employee Assistance Programs
  • MTA Exclusive Employee Discount Programs
  • Work Life Services team and Office of the Chaplains unit
  • Employee Resource Groups
  • Layout 1 (mta.info) 
 
 
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”). 
  • Actual salary offers may vary based on individual work experience. The annual salary range is subject to change and may be modified at the company’s discretion.
  • Employees driving company vehicles 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.
  • Current employees 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.
  • Candidates selected for this position may be placed in a competitive or non-competitive class position based on their qualifications. Qualified candidates who are placed in a competitive class position are eligible for the 55-a Program.  Please indicate in your cover letter and in the upper right corner of your resume that you would like to be considered for the position under the 55-a Program.  For detailed information regarding the 55-a Program, please visit the following link https://www1.nyc.gov/site/dcas/employment/55-a-program.page  
  • LIRR:  
    • 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. 
 
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EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY/ADA DISCLAIMER:
MTA and its subsidiary and affiliated agencies are Equal Opportunity Employers, including those concerning veteran status and individuals with disabilities. 
 
The MTA encourages qualified applicants from diverse backgrounds, experiences, and abilities, including military service members, to apply. 
 
If you require reasonable accommodation for a medical condition or disability to participate in the job application or interview process, please notify your MTA representative once you have been contacted regarding the role.