Metropolitan Transportation Authority Careers

JOB SUMMARY

Third Rail Electricians inspect, install, maintain and repair all portions of the 3rd rail system, snow melter system, shop Direct Current (DC) systems, and Alternating Current (AC) cable and conduit plant, to ensure the safe delivery of electrical DC power for distribution and train use.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Include but are not limited to:

• Install, maintain and replace third rail and associated components (e.g., brackets, insulators, protective covers, etc.) using gas powered, electric, battery-operated and hand tools to ensure proper functionality
• Inspect and maintain third rail systems including but not limited to snow-melters, shop bug systems, signal power systems and power distribution panels
• Excavate trenches under and around the right of way to install conduit and power cables
• Perform electrical connections using various methods (e.g., power bonding, exothermic welding, etc.)
• Install and connect cables for DC power to the third rail, AC feeders and negative circuits
• Participate in Power Department safety program and demonstrate an understanding of Power Department procedures
• Attend mandatory trainings (e.g., Roadway Worker Safety, etc.) to obtain/maintain all required qualifications to safely perform job duties
• Perform electrical work including switching, testing and repairs on live line electrical systems up to 1000-volt range
• Perform work on the third rail negative system to ensure safe and proper cab signal functionality by installing and maintaining negative return cables between signal boxes and running rails
• Perform roadway worker duties (e.g., remove track from service, perform Look-Out, etc.) to ensure the safety of the work group
• Recognize the hazards of electricity and the appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) required to perform electrical work safely
• Operate heavy equipment such as cranes, flatbed trucks, excavators and utility vehicles
• Assess situations to identify possible hazards and take appropriate safety precautions (e.g., PPE usage, etc.)
• Obtain electrical clearances and provide electrical Lock out Tag out protection
• Operate and pilot on-track high rail equipment
• Perform other duties as assigned

REQUIRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• High School Diploma or equivalent and
• Valid NYS Driver’s License or equivalent and
• Experience using electrical and mechanical tools/meters and
• Training or experience operating small equipment (e.g., fork trucks, aerial work platforms, boom trucks, mini excavators, cable pullers, conduit benders, etc.) and
• Two years of verifiable experience performing electrical work or
• Current electrical apprentice, trainee, technician or helper with two years of verifiable construction/labor experience

The following is/are preferred: 

• Four years of experience in the electrical industry
• Formal education or training in the electrical field
• Knowledge of related OSHA regulations
• Experience working with up to 1000 volts
• Experience with electrical clearance and Lock out Tag out procedures
• Training or experience operating heavy equipment (e.g., backhoe, etc.)
• Class A or B Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

Reading comprehension ability; interpersonal skills; communication skills; ability to follow instructions; knowledge of tools and meters and their appropriate usage; skilled in using electrical and mechanical tools (e.g., wrenches, power drills, ratchets, testers, etc.); ability to work with others; basic troubleshooting skills; memorization ability; electrical knowledge; ability and willingness to learn; must be safety conscious; ability to work safely with the hazards of electricity; ability to perform physically demanding work tasks; ability and willingness to learn new information and participate in job related trainings.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

• Must use/wear all safety-related equipment (PPE) in the performance of their duties
• Must become and maintain roadway worker qualification

RATE OF PAY

The starting rate for this position is $29.68/hour (70% of the full rate). 

The annual wage progression scale is as follows Year 1=65% > Year 2=70% > Year 3=75% > Year 4=80% > Year 5=92% > Year 6=100%. The full rate of pay is $45.67/hour.     

This rate has been established by the collective bargaining unit and is non-negotiable.

An exception may be granted for a journeyman rate to anyone who has one of the following:

New Hire candidates who meet one (1) or more of the criterion as enumerated below will qualify for the expedited wage progression for Journeymen:

• Four (4) years of full-time experience as an Electrical Worker; which includes the following job titles and industries:
• Electrical, Electronics, or Communications Worker in the Armed Forces
• Electrician, Electrical Worker which includes industrial, railroad, commercial, residential and low voltage electrical work
• Utility or Power Plant Electrical Worker
• Electronics, Communications or Computer Technician/Engineer
• Electrical Apprentice or Electrical Helper
• Automotive Electronic Technician, with ASE certification
• HVAC experience consistent with the type of HVAC work performed by Metro North Electrical Workers, with Refrigerant Recovery Certification
• Possession or completion of the following educational degrees, apprenticeships or trade program certifications. Where applicable, with required practical work experience accompanied thereto for a total of four (4) years: A four (4) year Bachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering, Electrical Technology or associated Electrical field from an accredited college or university
• A two (2) year Associate Degree in Electrical Engineering, Electrical Technology or associated Electrical field from an accredited college, plus two (2) years of full-time experience performing electrical work
• An accredited Trade (Vocational) School Certificate in Electrical Technology or associated electrical field, of which completion requires at least one (1) year of classroom training, plus three (3) years of full-time experience as an Electrical Worker. If additional time is spent in formal classroom training within the accredited Vocational School curriculum, then the combination of classroom and full-time experience as an Electrical Worker must equal at least four (4) years total
• Completion of at least four (4) years of an Electrical Apprenticeship Program
• Completion of at least two (2) years of a full-time Electrical Apprenticeship Program, plus two (2) years of full-time experience as an Electrical Worker
• Possession of a valid and current FCC License

For those approved for a journeyman rate, the wage progression scale is as follows: Year 1=80%>Year 2=85%>Year 3=100% of the full rate of pay. 

SENIORITY

New employees will establish seniority in the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Union (IBEW), the union representing Signal Trainee, in accordance with the union's current collective bargaining agreement.

Members of the IBEW are subject to an initiation fee and monthly union dues.

DETAILS OF PHYSICAL ACTIVITIES:    

• Push, pull, carry, and lift tools and materials up to 50 lbs. regularly and occasionally up to 70 lbs. Examples include but are not limited to: steel bracket, steel channel, generators, and cable
• Carry work equipment such as third rail brackets and channels while navigating the tracks and uneven surfaces.
• Typical shifts consist of prolonged standing, bending, and crouching while performing job tasks and responsibilities on railroad tracks.
• Significant amounts of walking while navigating the tracks and uneven surfaces
• Certain shifts may require extended periods of driving which consists of prolonged sitting and operation of a motor-vehicle.

DETAILS OF WORKING CONDITIONS:    

• Works in all areas of third rail territory including tunnels, bridges, and manholes.
• Works in close proximity and exposed to 700 Volts DC of live electricity while on or near tracks.
• Must be able to work various days, shifts, and locations.
• Climbs ladders up to 15 feet in height to access certain railroad tracks.
• Works outdoors exposed to various types of weather conditions.
• Works in close proximity to moving railroad equipment and/or track machinery.
• Works in areas with low lighting such as tunnels, manholes, and splicing chambers
   

BENEFITS

• Commuter 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
• Employee Resource Groups

OTHER INFORMATION

Selection Criteria

Due to the competitive nature of the selection process, not all qualified candidates who meet the minimum requirements for the position are guaranteed an interview. To be selected for a position, one must meet the following criteria: (1) satisfy the minimum requirements listed in the job posting, (2) if applicable, successfully pass a written and practical exam, (3) satisfy a background investigation (including but not limited to, employment, education, and criminal history), and (4) pass a verbal interview. Metro-North may also require the applicant to undergo a physical ability test, and, if the Company extends a conditional offer, may require him or her to undergo a medical examination, which may include toxicological testing. Failure to pass any step within the hiring process will result in the disqualification of your application.

This is a safety sensitive position and subject to toxicology testing.

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”). 

Employees driving company vehicles must complete defensive driver training once every three years for current MNR drivers; or within 180 days of hire or transfer for an employee entering an authorized driving position.

Additional Criteria for Current Employees:

• Current Metro-North employees must be in active service to be eligible for consideration.
• Agreement Employees applying for a position outside of their present craft are required to have worked in your current union for at least one (1) year preceding the Application Deadline to be eligible to apply for a posted position and have completed the agreed upon formal training commitment, including on-the-job training or lock-in requirement, if applicable (for example Signal Trainee, Foreman-In-Training, etc.). If you are transferring to another craft, you may be required to forfeit your seniority in your present union.
• Non-agreement employees must have worked in their current position for a minimum of one (1) year preceding the Application Deadline. Along with a background investigation (including but not limited to, employment, education, and criminal history), employees are also subject to an internal investigation, which includes an evaluation not limited to discipline records and performance assessments.

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.