Lateral Police Officer

Metra is America’s fourth busiest commuter rail system, providing essential transportation services to a community of over 9.4 million residents. As an organization of over 2,600 professionals, we are committed to safely and efficiently meeting the growing and changing transportation needs of the commuters and businesses we serve. Metra is one of the largest and most complex commuter rail systems in North America, serving Cook, DuPage, Will, Lake, Kane, and McHenry Counties.

The agency is linking communities in Northeastern Illinois by providing safe, reliable, and efficient service.

Reporting to the Chief of Police, Metra Police Officers are sworn officers responsible for safeguarding the Metra rail system; specializing in the maintenance of order and balance throughout the transportation system; providing testimony and support for court proceedings; rendering first-aid; and taking appropriate action in the interest of public safety. Performing proactive policing, enforcing laws and ordinances, and apprehending criminals; protecting life and property, and preserving peace and order in public gatherings such as rallies, protests, and meetings on Metra properties.

Performing preliminary criminal and fatality investigations, and patrolling rail yards, stations and other locations driving police vehicles, riding trains or bicycles, or walking. Locating victims/witnesses, documenting and information, conducting interviews, and recording statements. Identifying, collecting, and preserving physical evidence, preparing reports, and testifying in court as an expert witness. Performing lifesaving procedures. Performing other related duties as required or assigned.

Incumbents work under both inside and outside environmental conditions under prevailing conditions of heat, cold, rain, and snow.

This position is subject to random drug and/or alcohol testing. This is a Union position. Starting pay rates may vary based on entry rates in the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA). Metra is a railroad employer subject to the provisions of the Railroad Retirement Tax Act, not the Social Security Administration.

• Must possess a High School diploma or its equivalent.
• Must be 21 years of age at time of appointment as a sworn officer.
• Illinois residents must have a valid Firearms Owners Identification card before the time of hire.
• Must submit to and successfully pass a comprehensive personal and professional background investigation including fingerprints.
• Physical and mental strength to carry out the daily activities of the position.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills; able to exude confidence and a calm demeanor.
• Must be able to analyze problems, evaluate alternatives, and develop appropriate and effective solutions and alternatives.
• Must be able to maintain a high level of confidentiality, as well as exhibit good judgment and reason.
• Qualified candidates are hired as Metra recruits and are required to attend and successfully complete an approved Basic Law Enforcement Training course as outlined in the Illinois Police Training Act, 50/ILCS, 705.
• The Basic Law Enforcement Training course is waived for individuals currently certified as a Police Officer in the State of Illinois or who have successfully completed an approved Basic Law Enforcement Training course as outlined in the Illinois Police Training Act, 50/ILCS, 705 or who are able to obtain a waiver from the Illinois Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board for out of state training prior to employment.
• Must be a United States citizen.
• Must possess a valid driver's license.
• Ability to stand, walk, and/or sit for extended periods of time.
• Hearing/Visual acuity, far/near, depth perception, field of vision, color vision.
• Ability to lift and move up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to climb aboard train locomotives, rail cars and related railroad equipment, as well as climb over obstacles while wearing uniformed police equipment.
• Must be willing to travel within Metra’s 6-county region.
• Must be available on-call 24-hours/day, 7 days/week, 365 days/year, including weekends and holidays.

Metra employees in an active review period under the current…