Metropolitan Transportation Authority Careers

 

About LIRR:  

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.

 

  

This position is responsible for assisting with the Management of the day-to-day activities of the Operations Training sections: Maintenance of Equipment Training, Engineering-Signal Training, Transportation Training and Locomotive Engineer Training. Position will be responsible for overseeing and fulfilling CFR 243 which includes Lesson Plan Standardization and yearly updates for FRA audit inspection. In addition, the position is responsible for development of training plans for major operations projects such as signal and train control initiatives, new rolling stock and equipment, fare collection, and yard and rail expansion projects. Research and develop, state of the art technologies, strategic corporate initiatives and incorporating new technology into the Training Department’s activities and curriculums. Accountable to ensure training goals and objectives to support corporate strategic initiatives, as well as mandated State and Federal Regulations. Ensures standardization of new training programs, conducts detailed needs assessment analysis of current programs in support of the development of new technologies and methodologies for the Training department. Ensures adequate staffing levels based on mandated training, new initiatives and annual hiring plan projections. Attend conferences, open houses, class graduations and conduct interviews as a representative of the Training Department.

Provide direction to staff in the management of the day-to-day activities of the Operations Training functions including Maintenance of Equipment Training, Engineering-Signal Training, Transportation Training, and Locomotive Engineer Training.

Handles all daily issues that arise including scheduling, prioritizing work assignments, providing guidance on effective ways to resolve issues that arise to ensure the needs of the company are met. Ensure safe classroom environment, while maintaining up to date certifications for new and existing employees.

Direct the research of appropriate training programs in response to regulatory requirements and operational needs; including but not limited to needs resulting from federal and state mandates as well as forecasting future training needs of the company.

Coordination with Metro North, New Jersey Transit, Amtrak, Keolis and other Agencies to achieve common goals including CFR 246, WSY Training for Metro North and Amtrak Testing. Develop and implement plans to effectively incorporate these new initiatives into the existing training program curriculum.

Work closely with the Rules Office and Labor Unions for Article 5 Conductor Certification and continued Track Car Driver implementation. Monthly/Quarterly meetings with Safety Department, Rules Office and Operation Departments. Establish training assessment tools to ensure programs are effectively meeting the needs identified in the most cost-effective manner. Provide statistical analysis regarding the return on investment for current and proposed programs to measure cost effectiveness of initiatives.

Determine corporate future training needs regarding new territory, new technology, new fleet, etc. and develop a long-term strategic plan for the department to address these future needs.

Responsible for department vehicle maintenance, repair, and scheduling. Oversee East End and West End classroom scheduling, and responsible for maintenance and identifying potential new Training locations.

Select, manage, develop, evaluate and motivate staff. Support career development for subordinates, provide direction to employees and develop departmental/section goals. Provide staff assessment to ensure succession planning is addressed.

Ensure a professional work environment which respects and enables employees to contribute to their full potential. Ensure compliance with all Corporate Policies & Procedures and ensure a safe work environment for all employees.

Schedule monthly meetings with direct reports to discuss topical issues and new developments. Cross train instructors and cross-section support throughout the Training Department.

Work with Human Resources and Operating Department Managers to evaluate current craft position testing to ensure they are accurately measuring the necessary criteria and effectively predicting necessary skills. Assist with the review, analysis and identification of additional positions that would benefit from testing.

Attend open houses and conduct interviews for new and promotional employees.

Maintain training vehicle fleet and ensure state of good. Perform all other activities as assigned by Senior Director or Senior Staff.

KNOWLEDGE AND SKILL REQUIREMENTS: 

Bachelor’s degree in education, Organizational Development, Business Management, Operations Management, Transportation Management or related field of study. Demonstrated directly related experience and education may be considered in lieu of the degree requirement.

Minimum of 10 years’ experience which includes a combination of related operations experience and employee training in progressively responsible positions.

Curriculum development and training needs assessment analysis experience.

Valid driver’s license required.

Experience with forecasting LIRR hiring and training needs.

Thorough knowledge of railroad operations with respect to transportation operations, equipment and engineering.

Must possess ability to coordinate work and resources across management and department levels, and among agencies to build positive working relationships and accomplish shared goals.

Must possess strong ability to operate effectively in high pressure situations; must be flexible and able to adapt to change.

Demonstrated leadership skills with prior experience managing and developing staff.

Must possess demonstrated, effective analytical, decision-making, problem solving, as well as effective interpersonal and communication skills.

Familiarity with applicable collective bargaining agreements and application of rules.

Must have a broad understanding of the corporate strategic plan and vision with ability to forecast organizational training.

BENEFITS: 

 

 

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.

 

Equal Employment Opportunity: 

 

MTA and its subsidiary and affiliated agencies are Equal Opportunity Employers, including with respect to veteran status and individuals with disabilities. The MTA encourages qualified applicants from diverse backgrounds, experiences, and abilities, including military service members, to apply.