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Positive Train Control Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Metra

Sr Configuration Management Specialist

Chicago, IL · On-site

$117K/yr

... positive train control (PTC). Develop and implement processes and workflows; establish and maintain functional and allocated system baselines for hardware and software; and generate operational and ...

Mosquito Hunters

Mosquito Control Technician

Glen Ellyn, IL · On-site

$20 - $30/hr

... positive review) - Monthly bonus to tech with highest reviews - Referral Bonus (per technician ... Must Pass licensing test (all multiple choice - we train & pay for this) Perks of being a Mosquito ...

Mosquito Hunters

Pest Control Technician

Glen Ellyn, IL · On-site

$20 - $30/hr

... positive review) - Monthly bonus to tech with highest reviews - Referral Bonus (per technician ... Must Pass licensing test (all multiple choice - we train & pay for this) Perks of being a Mosquito ...

PROENERGY

Quality Control Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$100 - $125/hr

Our Philosophy We take care of our people and strive to make a positive difference for the world ... Train and mentor quality inspectors and technicians. * Foster a culture of accountability ...

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Positive Train Control information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$13

$25

$40

How much do positive train control jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for positive train control in Chicago, IL is $25.17, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.56 and $31.44 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is Positive Train Control (PTC)?

Positive Train Control (PTC) is an advanced system designed to automatically stop or slow down trains to prevent accidents, such as train-to-train collisions, derailments caused by excessive speed, and unauthorized train movements. It uses GPS, wireless radio, and computers to monitor train positions and enforce safety rules. PTC is mandated by federal law for certain rail lines in the United States to enhance rail safety and reduce human error. Implementation of PTC requires significant investment in technology and infrastructure but is considered a major improvement in rail safety. Railroads work closely with government agencies to ensure PTC systems are properly installed and maintained.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a Positive Train Control (PTC) specialist?

A Positive Train Control (PTC) Specialist is responsible for monitoring, maintaining, and troubleshooting PTC systems to ensure safe and efficient train operations. Daily tasks often include conducting system diagnostics, updating software, coordinating with train operators and dispatchers, and responding to system alerts or failures. PTC Specialists also collaborate with engineering and IT teams to implement upgrades or modifications and provide training to operational staff. This role requires attention to detail and strong communication skills to ensure compliance with safety regulations and minimize disruptions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Positive Train Control (PTC) specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Positive Train Control (PTC) Specialist, you need a background in electrical engineering, computer science, or a related field, combined with strong knowledge of railway signaling systems and safety protocols. Familiarity with PTC software platforms, railroad communication networks, and relevant certifications such as FRA PTC training are typically required. Analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and strong communication are valuable soft skills for diagnosing system issues and coordinating with cross-functional teams. These competencies are crucial to ensure the safety, reliability, and regulatory compliance of train control systems.

What is the difference between Positive Train Control vs Signal Maintainer?

AspectPositive Train ControlSignal Maintainer
Required credentialsRailroad safety certifications, technical trainingElectrical or electronic certifications, technical training
Work environmentRailroads, control centers, on-track systemsRailroad tracks, signal systems, electrical infrastructure
Employer & industry usageRailroads, transit agenciesRailroads, transit agencies
Common search intentUnderstanding safety systems in rail industryMaintaining and repairing signals in rail systems

Positive Train Control (PTC) is a safety system designed to prevent train accidents through automated control, while Signal Maintainers focus on installing, inspecting, and repairing railway signals. Both roles require technical skills and work within the rail industry, but PTC is a safety technology system, whereas Signal Maintainers handle physical signal infrastructure.

What are popular job titles related to Positive Train Control jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Positive Train Control jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Positive Train Control jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Positive Train Control jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Positive Train Control jobs near you
Infographic showing various Positive Train Control job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $52,358 per year, or $25.2 per hour.

Manager, Mechanical Performance Centre

Homewood, IL • On-site

Canadian National Railway Company
Rail Transportation • 10K+ employees
Learn more about Canadian National Railway Companyexternal

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago

Canadian National Railway rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 49 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

137th of 365 rated logistics

Job description

At CN, everyday brings new and exciting challenges. You can expect an interesting environment where you're part of making sure our business is running optimally and safely-helping keep the economy on track. We provide the kind of paid training and opportunities that long-term careers are built on and we recognize hard workers who strive to make a difference. You will be able to thrive in our close-knit, safety-focused culture working together as ONE TEAM. The careers we offer are meaningful because the work we do matters. Join us!
Job Summary

The Manager, Mechanical Performance Centre is responsible for leading a group of Mechanical Remote Health Service Advisor and Rail Traffic Control (RTC) Mechanics desks that are under the Mechanical function. The role oversees a fleet of locomotives and cars which include online monitoring, exception management and any resulting maintenance events, furthermore, maintains production schedules and consistently follows up with Shop Leaders to ensure successful execution of the production plan. The role is also accountable for the safe movement of the railcars across the CN network including the alignment of a detection strategy that consolidates safety, efficiency, and technology.

Main ResponsibilitiesMechanical Excellence

       Use and execute production control system

       Execute production plan to reduce dwell and increase availability

       Execute the daily production plan to ensure plan objectives reduce dwell

       Follow standardized guidelines and policies on maintenance, car related exceptions with detectors, proactive and robust platforms and identify defect modes on all rolling assets on the network

       Meet priorities on Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) with the stakeholders on safety, assets dwells, and reliability

Tactical Operation

       Execute desk directives including linking maintenance planning, motive power distribution plan, transportation needs in the yard and mainline, shop production and network operations

       Drive mechanical requirements when dealing with the director-level decision-making in Network Operations Center (NOC) in regard to train service prioritization (bulk and intermodal), exceptions (weather related, and derailments)

       Execute the overall progress of CN's maintenance programs on the car and locomotive front and ensure the plan is being followed

       Run and document exception plans

       Execute fleet-based programs outlined by the planning and reliability team

       Rebalance and prioritize workload to meet program targets such as Positive Train Control (PTC), Winterization, Summarization, Wheel production, and other locomotive and car-specific programs

Team Development

       Run an effective team that is engaged in the day-to-day exercise of driving efficiencies and utilization of mechanical resources thereby improving locomotive availability and reliability

       Execute mechanical vision on key requirements to train and build the team

Working Conditions

The role has standard working conditions in an office environment with a rotating work week. The role requires being available on-call 24/7 to respond to critical incidences. The role requires occasional travel (15%) within Canada and the United States (U.S.).

RequirementsExperience

Railway Environment 

       Minimum 5 years of railway environment experience

o   Experience working in a transportation control centre environment*

o   Experience in logistics*

Education/Certification/Designation

       High School Diploma or General Educational Development (GED)

       Valid Driver's Licence

       Bachelor's Degree in Logistics, Supply Chain, or Business Administration*

*Any experience for these above would be considered as an asset

Competencies

       Demonstrates agility and drives change

       Knows the business and stays current on industry needs

       Delegates and empowers others to create accountability

       Collaborates with others and shares information

       Sets direction and inspires others

       Communicates with impact

       Identifies needs and finds solutions to create value for all stakeholders

Technical Skills/Knowledge

       Knowledge of railroad and mechanical operations

       Strong awareness on Systems, Applications and Products (SAP), Real-Time Business Intelligence (RTBI), car repair billing and Software Requirements Specification (SRS)

       Knowledge of call management systems

       Knowledge of regulatory requirements with regards to Locomotive and Car Maintenance

       Knowledge of Microsoft Office (Project and Tableau)

This position is posted as a grade 7.

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