Train Engineer & Maintenance Worker

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Metro!Metro is dedicated to shaping a better future for the greater Portland region. The work the people of Metro do every day benefits the lives of the people who live here, today, and tomorrow.

The Oregon Zoo Railroad is looking for a Train Engineer & Maintenance VHE to join our Zoo Railroad team and help maintain and operate one of the Zoo’s most distinctive attractions. This role is responsible for designing, fabricating, maintaining, and coordinating the complex mechanical, electrical, and operational systems that support our diesel and steam railroad operations. Working across multiple trades, you will take part in the operation of locomotives and other rolling stock, and the support and service of track infrastructure, control systems, shops, general equipment, and emergency response functions.

This is an exciting opportunity for a skilled, hands‑on professional who enjoys solving problems, preserving railroad equipment, and creating a safe, memorable experience for Zoo guests.

• Operate gas, diesel and steam powered locomotives and other heavy equipment.
• Perform and coordinate repairs and major overhauls on steam or diesel locomotives or other equipment, systems, or facilities. Also arrange for contractor services as needed.
• Operate complex machines and/or electrical testing tools such as lathes, extended boom lifts, milling machines, drill presses which may include precision machining to fabricate parts such as wheels, axels, or bearing boxes. Also evaluate, make, or modify parts or components for other Zoo departments.
• Provide support to station attendant staff and guest services; this may include, selling, and taking train tickets, loading, and unloading train passengers, inspecting passenger cars to ensure that all doors are properly secured, and observe all safety protocols.
• Communicate with train passengers and/or other Zoo guests while in route regarding sites, history, activities, events, and project plans. Perform other guest service functions such as emergency services or helping to tend to lost children.
• Perform ongoing railroad and complex equipment inspections such as brake systems and passenger car inspections. Ensure all components are in proper working order.
• Build, maintain, and repair tracks, control systems, buildings, sheds, and other structures. Keep tools in good operating condition.
• Fabricate metal parts by cutting and welding to build or repair train engines and coaches, fences, gates, and various fixtures.
• Operate a variety of tools and equipment such as power saws, routers, drills, jack hammers, paint spraying equipment, plumbing wrenches and automotive repair tools and equipment.
• Compile data for reports as needed. Develop documentation to support railroad training and general railroad operations.

• Safety Leadership – Demonstrates an unwavering commitment to passenger, employee, and equipment safety by following procedures, identifying hazards, and promoting a safety-first culture.
  Related
  
  Experience:
  
  Railroad operations, construction, military service.
• Mechanical Aptitude – Understands complex mechanical systems and effectively diagnoses, repairs, and maintains locomotives, equipment, and infrastructure.
  Related
  
  Experience:
  
  Diesel mechanic, heavy equipment mechanic, industrial maintenance technician.
• Technical Problem Solving – Quickly evaluates equipment issues, determines root causes, and develops practical solutions to maintain reliable operations.
  Related
  
  Experience:
  
  Manufacturing, facilities maintenance, equipment repair.
• Skilled Trades Proficiency – Applies expertise in welding, fabrication, machining, and construction-related tasks to support railroad and facility operations.
  Related
  
  Exper…