Assistant Manager, Rail Operations

Assistant Manager, Rail Operations

Supports operational efficiency for our light rail system, design, and related operational technical elements. Owns and champions best‑in‑class rail transit activations, start‑up operations, and integrated testing to ensure a safe and efficient rail system. Coordinates and monitors work activities cross‑functionally with Valley Metro staff, contractors, city partners and jurisdictions, and other impacted outside agencies to establish best practices, policies, and procedures.

• High school diploma or G.E.D.
• Five (5) years increasingly responsible light rail operations experience
• Two (2) years of supervisory experience
• Valid Arizona Driver’s License
• Background investigation required; employment contingent upon successful completion.

• Supervise and coordinate the work and work product of the transportation services contractor to ensure optimum performance.
• Conduct audits to ensure compliance with safety practices and standard operating procedures (SOPs); coordinate and monitor rule change implementation; coordinate special event planning with contractors.
• Apply methods and practices concerning operating strategies during unexpected circumstances.
• Monitor transportation services contractor to ensure proper staffing and appropriate service levels are maintained.
• Collaborate with Maintenance of Way, LRV Maintenance, and Facilities Maintenance Departments to coordinate and resolve operational and maintenance issues.
• Support the preparation and implementation of the Rail Activation Plan including integrated system testing, pre-revenue operations and system safety.
• Oversee testing activities; participate in safety certification process, involving vital controls with valid checks and balances.
• Participate in planning of new extensions and projects, conveying operational, safety and customer service needs related to each project.
• Provide support in design and review meetings, construction meetings and partnering meetings.
• Serve as liaison for Light Rail and Streetcar Activation Plan and operations with other departments, outside agencies and stakeholders, under direction of the Manager, Rail Operations.
• Support the development and review of plans including the Agency Safety Plan, Operating and Maintenance Plan, and Rail Activation Plan.
• Strive to improve light rail operations and system safety by developing and recommending best practices for rail operations and system safety to mitigate hazards; participate in accident/incident review process and safety-related committees.
• Act as on‑call resource to support a 24/7 operation; available for varying shifts including nights and weekends.
• Perform other duties of similar nature and level as assigned.

• Light rail operations
• Train control signals, traction power substations (TPSS), overhead power, supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) systems and operations control center.
• Rail operations related to dispatch, training and field supervision.
• Safe transportation operating procedures and guidelines.
• Methods, practices and procedures involved in the light rail system.

• Managing projects
• Monitoring and evaluating transportation contractors’ work
• Ensuring safety processes are followed
• Prioritizing and coordinating work
• Troubleshooting and solving a wide range of transportation and operational issues
• Networking and maintaining close working relationships with member agencies
• Using computers and related software applications
• Demonstrating prudent judgment
• Solving operational problems
• Multi‑tasking and meeting various strict deadlines
• Communicating effectively with coworkers, supervisor and the general public.

Positions in this class typically require climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, reaching, standing, walking, pushing, pulling, lifting, feeling, talking, hearing, seeing and repetitive motions. Incumbents may be subjected to moving mechanical parts, electrical currents, vibrations, extreme temperatures, inadequate lighting, workspace restrictions, intense noises and travel. Some shop and/or field work may be required. Exerting up to 20 pounds of force occasionally and/or up to 10 pounds of force frequently, and/or negligible amount of force constantly to move objects.

The job is rated for Light Work if arm or leg controls require greater exertion than for sedentary work and the worker sits most of the time.