General Yardmaster

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.
To meet those needs, Metra employs a diverse workforce in an environment that fosters creativity and drives innovation. We invite you to learn more about Metra and the many career opportunities we offer.

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.

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.

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 commuter service.

Transportation is responsible for providing safe, efficient, and dependable transportation to commuters on all Metra-operated lines:
Milwaukee North and West, Rock Island, Metra Electric, Southwest Service, North Central Service, Union Pacific, Heritage Corridor, and the line operating under a purchase-of-service agreement: BNSF. In addition to all employees directly involved in providing train service, the Transportation Department also oversees the Dispatching Office and theCrew Management Center.

Reporting to the Director, Suburban Operations Metra Electric District, the General Yardmaster will supervise assigned rail operations employees; direct, monitor, and coordinate the movement of railroad traffic in assigned yards according to consist requirements and operating plans; and ensure the safe, efficient, and on-time arrival and departure of commuter trains to ensure the needs of internal and external customers are met.

The primary duties include:
Supervise assigned rail operations employees, including contractors and switch crews, responsible for the safe and efficient movement and routing of commuter trains and equipment; and provide guidance and support on assigned duties including spotting and removal of bad cars, placement of repaired or substituted cars.

Oversee the makeup of outlying yards; ensure proper crew coverage for shifts; plan and coordinate work activities to ensure tasks are completed without impacting on time performance, efficiency, and safety; and ensure the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) operating and safety rules are followed.

Monitor conditions affecting movements such as weather or environmental conditions, train crew, engine, and equipment availability, track warrants and bulletins, general orders, timetables, and track and speed restrictions. Oversee the assembly of train components; collaborate with other departments on equipment repairs and mandatory inspections; and maintain open and regular communications with foremen to keep apprised of needs, activity progress., and identification of issues that might impact on-time performance.

Attend daily meetings with foremen to determine if planned activities can be accomplished without departure delays; and offer alternative plans when necessary.

Approve time off, coordinate staff schedules, fill vacancies as necessary, and ensure compliance with…