System Operator Trainee Jobs in Clifton, NJ (NOW HIRING)

Job Title: Block Operator Trainee

Department: Transportation

MTA Agency: LIRR

Primary Location(s): Various

100% Hourly Rate of Pay: $49.75* (See Wage Progression Chart)

Regulated/ Safety Sensitive: Safety Sensitive

Union Affiliation: TCU

Closing Date (if applicable): 8/20/2026

Shift (if applicable): Various

Note: If you already applied to this position within the last 12 months, there is no need to re-apply as your application is already under review.

About your agency:

Chartered in 1834, the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) is the largest, busiest, and oldest continuously operating commuter railroad in the United States. In 2024, this 24/7/365 operation served 75.5 million riders on a system that stretches nearly 120 miles – from Penn Station and Grand Central Madison in Manhattan to Montauk on the eastern tip of Long Island.

JOB SUMMARY:

This position is responsible for the safe and efficient movement of trains in accordance with the Operating Rules and Special Instruction.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Responsibilities may include but are not limited to: 

• Responsible for the care and operation of block and interlocking stations, towers and supplies.
• Responsible for the safe and efficient movement of trains and for the delivery of train orders and other forms in accordance with the Operating Rules and Special Instructions.
• Must promptly record and report train movements either verbally or by computer.
• Must operate power control boards and movable bridges when the controls for these are in the tower.
• Operate switches, signals and bridges that regulate traffic.
• Arrange for the use of blocks, tracks, interlocking switches and signals for the prompt movement of trains in a safe and efficient manner.
• Required to wear minimum Level D-type protective clothing (as prescribed by OSHA regulations) which includes, but is not limited to, safety shoes and full-length pants. 

** For an inside look at the Block Operator position, please click the link:

https://youtu.be/HkPg4_6J1c0 

REQUIRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

• A four-year high school diploma or its educational equivalent (GED or TASC) approved by a State's Department of Education or recognized accredited organization.
• Must possess a valid driver's license from the state of your legal residence.
• Must be able to clearly convey (in both oral and written form) shift transfer information that is pertinent to the relieving shift.
• Must have ability to demonstrate effective verbal communication skills.
• Must have ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Must have ability to read manuals of operating rules.
• Must be capable of writing train orders and reports.
• Must have ability to report for assignments promptly.
• Must have ability to receive and issue orders and/or instructions quickly and accurately.
• Must be even-tempered, diligent, detail oriented and able to maintain composure during stressful situations.
• Must pass mandatory Transportation Signal & Definitions exam.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Some college credits.
• Excellent memory and cognitive recall skills.
• Familiarization with the operation of the Transportation Services Department.

Training Program: 

• 1-week Basic Skills Training 
• Approximately 5 weeks training on the Book of Rules, with weekly exams, and the requirement to pass the Book of Rules exam given by the Company Rules Examiner. 
• One Hundred Forty-Two (142) day Field Training Program, which includes various posting (training) and qualifying periods at different towers on different tours based on Agreement. 
• Candidates will be extensively screened and evaluated prior to and during the entire training period.
• The trainees will be continuously evaluated to determine their progress, their adaptability to job requirements, their ability to function well under pressure and in emergency situations, and their attitude toward their job responsibilities and Company's goals. 
• Upon completion of the training program, the employee will be assigned to the extra list and assignments will be given daily. There must be a 15-hour break, between assignments by federal law. 

Wage Progression: For Employees hired on or before September 24, 2014: 

Step 1 - 80%    -   $39.80 

Step 2 - 85%    -   $42.29 

Step 3 - 90%    -   $44.77 

Step 4 - 95%    -   $47.29 

Step 5 - 100%  -   $49.75 

New Wage Progression: For Employees hired after September 24, 2014: 

Step 1 - 80%    -  $39.80

Step 2 - 80%    -  $39.80

Step 3 - 85%    -  $42.29 

Step 4 - 90%    -  $44.77 

Step 5 - 90%    -  $44.77

Step 6 - 95%    -  $47.26 

Step 7 - 100%  -  $49.75 

BENEFITS: 

• Commuting Assistance – based on operating MTA agency (complimentary transportation pass within the MTA’s jurisdiction and tax-advantaged accounts)
• Low Premium – High Quality Health Insurance Plans (lifetime coverage for eligible retirees and their dependents)
• Pension plans and retirement savings accounts for eligible employees
• Generous Paid Time Off and Holidays provided.
• Tuition Reimbursement for eligible employees
• Employee Assistance Programs
• MTA Exclusive Employee Discount Programs
• Work Life Services team and Office of the Chaplains unit
• Employee Resource Groups
• Layout 1 (mta.info) 

OTHER INFORMATION:

• Pursuant to the New York State Public Officers Law & the MTA Code of Ethics, all employees who hold a policymaking position must file an Annual Statement of Financial Disclosure (FDS) with the NYS Commission on Ethics and Lobbying in Government (the “Commission”). 
• Actual salary offers may vary based on individual work experience. The annual salary range is subject to change and may be modified at the company’s discretion.
• Employees driving company vehicles must complete defensive driver training once every three years for current MTA drivers; or within 180 days of hire or transfer for an employee entering an authorized driving position.
• Current employees must be in their current position for the 12 months immediately preceding the close date of this posting and must possess a satisfactory work history, including attendance and discipline record.
• Candidates selected for this position may be placed in a competitive or non-competitive class position based on their qualifications. Qualified candidates who are placed in a competitive class position are eligible for the 55-a Program.  Please indicate in your cover letter and in the upper right corner of your resume that you would like to be considered for the position under the 55-a Program.  For detailed information regarding the 55-a Program, please visit the following link https://www1.nyc.gov/site/dcas/employment/55-a-program.page  
• LIRR:  
• In addition to meeting the minimum requirements of the position, the selection process may include but is not limited to, a pre-screening assessment (i.e., physical, written, and/ or practical evaluation) and interview. Candidates forfeit further consideration in the process if they fail to participate in any step of the process when scheduled. Make-up dates/times will not be given. In addition, LIRR employee applicants must be in their current position for the 12 months immediately preceding the close date of this posting and must possess a satisfactory work history, including attendance and discipline record. A record of more than ten sick days without medical documentation in two of the last three years is considered unsatisfactory attendance.  Not all qualified applicants are guaranteed an interview due to the competitive selection process. A medical examination and safety-sensitive drug/alcohol test may also be required. 

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EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY/ADA DISCLAIMER:

MTA and its subsidiary and affiliated agencies are Equal Opportunity Employers, including those concerning veteran status and individuals with disabilities. 

The MTA encourages qualified applicants from diverse backgrounds, experiences, and abilities, including military service members, to apply. 

If you require reasonable accommodation for a medical condition or disability to participate in the job application or interview process, please notify your MTA representative once you have been contacted regarding the role.