Rail Operator Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Salary Range: $35.10 - $39.90

Benefit Package: PLTO offers an excellent compensation and benefits package (Medical, Dental, 401(k) retirement, vacation, holiday and sick pay, etc.

General Description:

Under the direction of the Deputy Director of Operations, the Rail Dispatcher ensures the safe, reliable, and efficient movement of Light Rail Vehicles (LRVs) across the system. This position monitors and directs rail activities from the Operations Control Center (OCC), coordinates communications among multiple departments, responds to operational issues and emergencies, and maintains compliance with established rules, procedures, and safety standards.

Responsibilities/Essential Functions:

• Act as the central communication liaison between PLTO Rail Operations and other departments involved in the safe and efficient movement of LRVs.
• Monitor, control, and maintain safe rail operations along the mainline, in yards, and on test tracks.
• Execute OCC functions in accordance with Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), rules, and directives.
• Perform SCADA functions related to train control, traction power, and facilities, ensuring accurate and safe system operations.
• Communicate effectively with Rail Operators, Supervisors, Maintenance, MOW, Contractors, Security, and Instructors to coordinate rail movement and service continuity.
• Initiate and implement service recovery procedures to mitigate operational disruptions.
• Establish routes, signals, power commands, and SCADA-based controls in accordance with rules, safety procedures, and Track Allocation directives.
• Dispatch and control movement in both operational and testing environments, including contractor access.
• Demonstrate proficiency in Central Control System (CCS) functions, software tools, and subsystem architecture.
• Receive, interpret, and respond to system alarms and alerts from fare collection, traction power, security devices, networks, and facility hardware.
• Monitor and use CCTV, radio systems, and communications tools to support operations and emergency responses.
• Maintain accurate incident reporting, including delays, work orders, defects, and exceptions.
• Calculate train arrival times and make required announcements.
• Safely manage traction power de-energization and restoration using approved methods.
• Verify authorization and PPE compliance for personnel entering the right-of-way.
• Coordinate emergency response activities, including acting as liaison with Incident Command and first responders.
• Provide on-the-job training to PLTO personnel and assist with recordkeeping of train movements and exceptions.
• Respond professionally to inquiries from employees, contractors, customers, and agencies.
• Comply with PLTO policies, including EEO, Anti-Discrimination, Anti-Harassment, and Anti-Retaliation requirements.
• Work assigned shifts, including nights, weekends, holidays, and multiple locations as required.
• Cooperatively and efficiently performs related tasks and duties as required.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Thorough understanding of rail operations, dispatching practices, and control center functions.
• Ability to interpret safety rules, operating procedures, technical instructions, diagrams, schematics, and system architectures.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to prepare reports, convey instructions, and brief personnel.
• Proficiency in mathematical computations including fractions, percentages, ratios, measurements, and data interpretation.
• Skilled in the use of SCADA, CCS, CCTV, PA systems, radios, and related operational technologies.
• Ability to define problems, collect data, analyze information, and draw conclusions during normal and emergency situations.
• Ability to make rapid, sound decisions under pressure and during emergency incidents.
• Ability to remain professional, calm, and respectful during stressful situations or high-stakes communication.
• Willingness and ability to complete all required company training and maintain recertifications as assigned.

Emotional, Psychological and Physical Requirements:

Ability to:

• Work long or irregular hours in a high-stress and fast-paced environment.
• Prioritize and concentrate on complex tasks despite frequent interruptions.
• Make quick and effective decisions during emergency conditions.
• Interact with the public and other personnel professionally.
• Clearly disseminate information to others and communicate effectively with internal and external stakeholders.

Physically:

• Stand, sit, walk, bend, squat, climb stairs, and move throughout rail facilities and grounds.
• Lift and move up to 50 lbs. occasionally.
• Work in confined spaces and outdoors in varying weather conditions.
• Maintain visual, auditory, and physical capabilities necessary to operate dispatch equipment and monitor system activity for extended periods.
• Safely navigate environments with mechanical systems, noise, and other hazards where PPE is required.

Additional Requirements:

• Must pass and maintain an acceptable background check, drug and alcohol screenings, and driving record in accordance with PLTO policy.
• Must possess a valid state driver’s license and comply with any required certifications for the position.

Education and Experience:

• High school diploma or GED required; technical school training or certifications preferred.
• Minimum 2–3 years of experience in the rail, transportation, or related operational environment preferred.
• Bachelor’s degree preferred; may substitute for two (2) years of relevant work experience.
• Knowledge of Federal Transit Administration (FTA) programs and policies preferred.
• Comprehensive related experience may be considered in lieu of advanced education.
• Must successfully complete all PLTO-required training programs, including LRV operations and associated recertification requirements.