Rail Supervisor - Trainee

Join Metro Link Light Rail Operations Team – A Career That Takes You Places

King County Metro is seeking motivated individuals to join our Link Light Rail team through the Rail Supervisor‑in‑Training (RSIT) program. This recruitment will fill multiple Rail Supervisor vacancies and create a list of eligible candidates that will remain in effect until exhausted.

This paid, one‑year (12 month) training program combines classroom learning with on‑the‑job instruction throughout Rail Operations. RSITs will develop the skills necessary to supervise and ensure safe, reliable, and equitable transit operations for thousands of riders each day.

RSITs will be subject to a one‑year probationary period. All RSITs must obtain or maintain a valid Rail Operator Card. Successful applicants who do not currently possess a valid Rail Operator Card will complete Light Rail Operator (LRO) training at the beginning of their probationary year.

During their probationary year, RSITs will be trained and must qualify in four key areas:

• Field Supervision:
  Overseeing rail operations in the field, interfacing with Rail Operators, responding to incidents, and ensuring safe and on‑time delivery of service.
• Communications Specialist:
  Managing communications and flow of information through the Link Control Center (LCC), monitoring emergency telephones and station cameras, and ensuring accurate train positioning and passenger information.
• Base Planning & Dispatching:
  Managing Rail Operator assignments, work schedules, and service coverage.
• Yard Supervision:
  Overseeing and authorizing all work and movements with the yard.

RSITs who fail to qualify in any of these four areas or obtain a Rail Operator Card will be terminated from the RSIT program. RSITs who successfully complete their probationary year will be promoted to Rail Supervisors.

Rail Supervisors work in a seniority‑based pick system that provides opportunities to change shifts in the spring and fall of each year. Once qualified, RSITs may participate in these picks. Rail Supervisors are staffed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, including all weekends and holidays. They work 4/40 and 5/40 schedules with consecutive days off and must be able to work non‑standard work hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.

These positions are non‑exempt from the FLSA regulations and are therefore eligible for overtime pay.

• RSITs earn $49.96 per hour for the first six months, then $52.90 per hour for the second six months.
• Upon successful completion of the one‑year probationary period, RSITs are promoted to Rail Supervisors, starting at $52.90 and moving in four steps to a top wage of $58.78 over two additional years.

• Free transportation pass (valid on most regional transit systems).
• Competitive medical, dental, vision, and state‑registered domestic partner coverage.
• Competitive sick leave and vacation plan; participation in the State’s Public Employees Retirement Plan (PERS); optional 457 deferred compensation plan.

Rail Supervisors can instruct new RSITs, fill acting roles in various managerial functions, enroll in Link Control Center training, qualify as Operations Controllers, and support major event service and new rail expansions.

Rail Supervisors‑in‑Training perform a variety of duties that involve classroom instruction and on‑the‑job training. During the 12‑month probationary period, each RSIT must qualify as a Light Rail Operator (if not already qualified), a Field Supervisor, a Communications Specialist, and a Base Dispatcher/Planner. Upon advancement, they may move between three assignment areas:

• Monitor service and facilities, perform LRV troubleshooting on the mainline.
• Coordinate with other agencies and implement solutions to service‑related problems.
• Respond to emergencies on rail vehicles and platforms, coordinate required activities with emergency response personnel, investigate rail accidents, derailments, industrial injuries.
• Provide accurate and timely documentation of incidents on right‑of‑way, platforms, and rail yard.
• Deliver on‑scene customer service and…