Purple Line Infrastructure Operations Center; IOC Operator; BOC Specialist

Responsibilities

The Purple Line Infrastructure Operations Center (IOC) Operator is responsible for monitoring, controlling, and operating critical transit infrastructure systems in support of final commissioning, integrated testing, and the transition to full Operations & Maintenance (O&M) of the Purple Line Light Rail Transit (LRT) system.

IOC Operators monitor automation systems, alarm and notification platforms, SCADA systems, and CCTV systems to ensure safe, reliable, and compliant operation of the Purple Line infrastructure. This role requires close coordination with construction teams, commissioning agents, systems integration teams, and track testing personnel to support dynamic testing activities while maintaining safety for the general public.

This position is based at the Glenridge Operations and Maintenance Facility (OMF) or the Backup OMF and requires the ability to work rotating shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays, as dictated by commissioning and operational needs.

• Monitor real-time status of Purple Line infrastructure systems, including:
  • Traction power systems
  • SCADA systems and Remote Terminal Units (RTUs)
  • Trackside power and signaling interfaces
  • Communications systems
  • CCTV and security monitoring platforms
  • Alarm, notification, and event management systems
• Identify, acknowledge, and triage alarms, faults, and abnormal system conditions.
• Perform system checks and operational readiness verifications prior to testing windows.
• Maintain continuous situational awareness of system health and operational status.

• Perform electrical switching operations via SCADA to:
  • Enable track testing and commissioning activities
  • Isolate or energize traction power sections
  • Support safe work zones and lockout/tagout boundaries
• Verify system state before, during, and after switching operations.
• Ensure all switching activities comply with approved procedures, safety rules, and operational directives.
• Coordinate switching activities with authorized personnel and document all actions taken.

• Support system integration testing (SIT), dynamic testing, and trial operations.
• Coordinate closely with:
  • Construction teams
  • Commissioning agents
  • Track testing crews
  • Traction power, signaling, and communications teams
• Execute operational steps required to support test scripts and test plans.
• Monitor system behavior during testing and immediately report anomalies, failures, or unsafe conditions.
• Assist in troubleshooting system issues by providing logs, event data, and operational insights.

• Ensure infrastructure operations prioritize public safety, worker safety, and system integrity.
• Monitor public-accessible areas to detect unsafe conditions or unauthorized access.
• Support implementation of safety controls during testing, including power isolation and controlled energization.
• Escalate safety concerns immediately in accordance with established incident response protocols.

• Support the transition from commissioning to revenue service operations.
• Assist in the development and refinement of:
  • IOC Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
  • Alarm response procedures
  • Shift handover protocols
  • Operational checklists
• Participate in lessons learned, system readiness reviews, and operational drills.
• Provide input to help shape the future Purple Line O&M program and IOC staffing model.

• Serve as a central coordination point between field teams and control center operations.
• Maintain clear, concise, and accurate communication with:
  • Field supervisors
  • Testing and commissioning leads
  • Operations leadership
• Escalate issues appropriately using sound judgment and established escalation paths.
• Maintain accurate logs of system events, switching actions, incidents, and communications.

• Perform all duties in accordance with contract requirements, safety rules, and company standards.
• Meet required response times and support mission-critical testing schedules.
• Maintain accurate documentation, logs, and reports.
• Continuously improve operational practices through feedback and procedural updates.

• High school diploma or GED required. Vocational school or associate degree in a technical trade preferred.
• 6+ years of experience in one or more of the following:
  • Infrastructure operations centers
  • Transit operations
  • SCADA or control room operations
  • Electrical power systems operations
  • Critical infrastructure monitoring

• Ability to work rotating shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays. Strong understanding of operational safety principles and procedural compliance.
• Good customer communication skills.

• Ability to operate Windows-based computer systems and multi-monitor control room interfaces.
• Ability to read and interpret:
  • Electrical one-lines
  • Operating procedures
  • Test plans and switching instructions
  • Understanding of electrical power distribution…