Operations Trainer-ASLE

Metra is America’s fourth busiest commuter rail system, serving over 9.4 million residents in Northern Illinois. We employ a diverse workforce that fosters creativity and drives innovation to meet the growing transportation needs of commuters and businesses.

The final salary will depend on the candidate’s qualifications. Those with 8 years or more of required experience can expect offers up to the midpoint of the salary range. Metra provides full pay ranges so candidates can consider their growth potential.

Click here to learn more about our benefits! ‑‑ this text is informational and is not required for the core role description.

Qualified veterans who meet the minimum requirements will receive outreach during the recruitment process in accordance with Federal and State laws, including the Illinois Veterans Preference Act. Meeting the minimum qualifications does not guarantee an interview or job offer. The most qualified candidate will be selected.

Training and Certification is responsible for training locomotive engineers, conductors, assistant conductors, and other functions within the Transportation Division. The department conducts and oversees training programs that enable employees to meet regulatory mandates and develop necessary job skills.

Reporting directly to the Supervisor, Locomotive Engineers, the Operations Trainer‑ASLE will train and supervise locomotive engineer candidates to ensure compliance with Metra schedules and standards as established by the Training and Certification Department, as well as Safety Rules and 49 CFR 240 and 242 regulations governing the certification of locomotive engineers.

• Monitor, critique, and evaluate candidates’ performance through the use of the Locomotive Simulator in a control setting.
• Monitor the continuing FRA‑mandated education of currently certified locomotive engineers by providing classroom instruction and on‑job training.
• Conduct safety meetings to reinforce Metra and FRA safety rules.
• Assist in monitoring the performance of training engineers responsible for candidate engineers.
• Participate in corporate testing functions and initiatives.
• Coordinate the team’s day‑to‑day activities, assign tasks/projects, and monitor performance, providing guidance and training (but is not a supervisor).
• Promote safe work practices and maintain a safe work environment.
• Ensure compliance with applicable safety rules and regulations.
• Perform other related duties as assigned to meet the ongoing needs of the organization.
• Work under both indoor and outdoor environmental conditions, including heat, cold, rain, and snow.
• Subject to random drug and/or alcohol testing.

• Minimum of four years of locomotive engineering experience.
• Good knowledge of FRA 49 CFR 240 and 242 regulations regarding engineer dual certification.
• Working knowledge of General Code of Operating Rules (GCOR) and Metra’s safety rules.
• General knowledge of adult learning.
• Good verbal and written communication skills.
• Good organizational skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word.
• Ability to listen and analyze information.
• Ability to produce instructional materials.
• Ability to evaluate training effectiveness.
• Current Locomotive Engineer certification, free of decertification for at least four years.
• Valid driver’s license.
• Physical ability to stand, walk, and/or sit for extended periods of time.
• Vision (hearing/visual acuity, color vision, etc.) sufficient for safe operation.
• Ability to work under varying environmental conditions.
• Performance in active investigation or discipline will result in ineligibility.

• Supervisory experience.
• Some college classes in adult education.
• Experience developing and facilitating training.

Metra employees in an active review period under the current discipline policy or who have documented attendance or performance issues will not be considered and/or selected for this position.

Metra prohibits applicants and employees from using or possessing marijuana—including synthetic or non‑synthetic substances such as THC—for pre‑employment screening, on duty, or within company property, vehicles, or equipment.

Metra is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. We fill vacant positions with qualified candidates regardless of race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age, gender identity, disability, or any protected category, assuming the individual can perform the essential functions of the job with or without accommodation.