Purple Line Transit Operators

Position Type: Temporary, Full Time, One Year Appointment

Compensation: $48 - $55 per hour, based on experience

This position is a one-year temporary appointment designed to support strategic training and workforce development initiatives. While this role is time limited, it provides the opportunity to build and implement high impact workforce programs within a dynamic operational environment. Compensation ranges from $48 to $55 per hour, depending on qualifications and experience.

General Description

Under the direction of the HR Manager, Training and Workforce Development Specialist is responsible for leading the design, development, implementation, and oversight of comprehensive training programs for the Purple Line Transit Operators’ light rail system. This position develops long range workforce training strategies to support operational excellence, regulatory compliance, and organizational performance. This role ensures all in-house and vendor provided training programs meet federal, state, and MDOT MTA standards while aligning with strategic workforce planning initiatives.

Responsibilities / Essential Functions

• Lead development and implementation of long-range training and workforce development strategies aligned with PLTO’s operational, safety and succession planning goals.
• Design, establish, update, standardize, and monitor training curricula for rail operations, maintenance, safety, and supervisory personnel to ensure consistency and instructional integrity.
• Oversee both in-house instructional programs and vendor provided training sessions to ensure quality, consistency, and regulatory compliance.
• Maintain auditable training records, certifications, and documentation in accordance with company policy.
• Develop training performance metrics and prepare reports for executive leadership.
• Conduct workforce needs assessments and identify skill gaps to support succession planning and operational readiness.
• Collaborate with training departmental leads from Operations, Maintenance, Safety, and Human Resources to align organizational training initiatives with Purple Line training program goals and objectives.
• Support emergency preparedness training, drills, and post incident corrective action plans related to training.
• Collaborate with training staff, establish instructor qualification standards, and evaluate instructional effectiveness.
• Train and coach managers, supervisors and others involved in employee development efforts.
• Assist HR Manager with training related contracts, budgets, and procurement processes.
• Ensure compliance with all FTA, DOT, MDOT MTA applicable regulatory requirements.

• Cooperatively and effectively performs related tasks and duties as required.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of rail transit operations, maintenance practices, and safety management systems.
• Knowledge of federal transit regulations and compliance requirements.
• Strong understanding of adult learning principles and instructional design methodologies.
• Ability to develop long-term strategic training plans.
• Ability to analyze performance data and translate findings into program improvements.
• Strong leadership and supervisory skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines in a fast-paced operational environment.
• Proficiency with learning management systems and training documentation platforms.

Emotional, Psychological, and Physical Requirements

• Ability to exercise sound judgment in high pressure operational environments.
• Ability to maintain composure and professionalism during emergencies and audits.
• Ability to work collaboratively with diverse teams, including union represented employees.
• Ability to sit for extended periods while performing administrative functions.
• Ability to stand, walk rail facilities, and access training sites including rail yards and maintenance facilities.
• Ability to occasionally lift training materials or equipment up to 25 pounds.
• Strong sense of responsibility, professionalism, and ethical conduct.
• Ability to adapt to changing operational conditions and schedules.
• Willingness to work non-traditional hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays.

• Safely work in field environments with exposure to weather, noise, and moving equipment while wearing required PPE.

Additional/Miscellaneous/Special Requirements:

• Must possess a valid Commercial Virginia, Maryland or District of Columbia Driver’s License and an acceptable driving record throughout employment.
• Successful completion of background check, pre-employment drug and alcohol screening, and ongoing compliance with PLTO’s Drug and Alcohol Policy.
• Participation in emergency response activities as required.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Transportation, Education, Organizational Development, Engineering from an accredited four-year college or university preferred.
• Minimum of Five (5) years of progressive experience in rail transit operations, maintenance, safety, or technical training strongly preferred.
• Equivalent combinations of education and experience may be considered.
• Experience developing and managing regulatory compliant training programs.

• Certified Professional in Learning and Performance (CPLP) credential preferred.
• SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) or SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP) credential preferred.