Block Operator-Trainee

Job Information

Title:                                            Block Operator Trainee              
Department:                                 Transportation Services       
Post date:                                     4/4/2024
Close Date:                                  5/4/2024  
Hay Point Evaluation:                  N/A
100% Hourly Rate of Pay:           $43.35 *(See Wage Progression Chart)
Position Classification:                Safety Sensitive     
Location:                                      Various        
Reports To:                                   Superintendent & Supervisor - Train Movement
Union Affiliation:                         Transportation Communications Union (TCU)

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.

Summary

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

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

 
Qualifications

-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/Desirable Skills/Qualifications:
-Some college credits.
-Excellent memory and cognitive recall skills.
-Familiarization with the operation of the Transportation Services Department.

Training Program Consists of the Following:

-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 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

80%    -   $34.68

85%    -   $36.85

90%    -   $39.01

95%    -   $41.18

100%   -  $43.35

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

80%   -   $34.68

80%   -   $34.68

85%   -   $36.85

90%   -   $39.01

90%   -   $39.10

95%   -   $41.18

100% -   $43.35

For Internal Transfers to Block Operator Program Only:

Wage Progression:

80% -  $34.68    (1st 4 Weeks of Program)

90% -   $39.01   (Next 142 Days -Field Training)

100% - $43.35   (Upon Completion of Program)

Other Information

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.

Equal Employment Opportunity

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

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