Metra is one of the largest and most complex commuter rail systems in North America, serving Cook, DuPage, Will, Lake, Kane, and McHenry Counties. The agency is linking communities in Northeastern Illinois by providing safe, reliable, and efficient commuter service.

The Operations Training Department is responsible for designing, developing, and delivering training services for the Mechanical and Engineering Divisions. Training is delivered to comply with Federal Railroad Administration and OSHA regulations. The Mechanical Division audience includes Carmen, Electricians, Sheet Metal Workers, and Machinists. The Engineering Division audience includes the workforce employed by the Track, Signal, Capital Construction, Communications, Electrical Maintenance and Building/Bridges departments.

Reporting to the Manager, Technical Training, the Operations Technical Trainer will support the development and delivery of training programs to address policies and procedures governed by Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) regulations and other regulatory agencies including the: U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), American Public Transportation Administration (APTA), Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), and National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB).

The primary duties include: Follow instructor guide, installation guidance, and other training documentation in the delivery of training in the traditional classroom and in the field, using a variety of techniques including lecture, guided discussions, hands-on demonstrations/practice exercises, group exercises, scenarios, simulations, mock-ups, videos, presentations, and other visual aids. Deliver initial, refresher, and qualifications training to Metra's Mechanical or Engineering apprentice and journeymen workforce in compliance with department standards and procedures. Administer written and practical exams and make performance observations to qualify and re-qualify Metra's workforce. Will work collaboratively with training team to review and evaluate the work of crews responsible for repairing and maintaining heavy work equipment and ensure assignments are completed safely and according to established quality standards. Update training documentation based on procedural, regulatory, and equipment changes including delivery method, course guides, job and training aids, participant guides, and exams. Analyze and evaluate course assets (guides, assessments, practice exercises, job/training aids, and learner surveys) and provide recommendations to improve the effectiveness of training programs. Responsible for the safety objectives, goals, and program of the organization ensuring compliance with applicable safety rules and regulations. Work under both inside and outside environmental conditions under prevailing conditions of heat, cold, rain, and snow. Perform other related duties as assigned to meet the ongoing needs of the organization.

Final salary will be determined in part by the qualifications of the selected candidate.

Metra is a railroad employer subject to the provisions of the Railroad Retirement Tax Act, not the Social Security Administration.

1. Bachelor's degree in Training and Development, Journeyman certification, or in lieu of specified degree, any combination of education and experience may be substituted for the required degree that equals four years in the development or delivery of informal and formal classroom training. Heavy equipment repair and maintenance experience is preferred.
2. In addition to #1, must have four years of experience either as an instructor or journeyman in a railroad, technical, or manufacturing environment.
3. Knowledge of adult learning theories and teaching techniques.
4. Knowledge of on-track equipment, hydraulic and electrical systems, welding and fabrication, diesel engines, small gas engine repair, air systems, or heavy drive train repair materials.
5. Knowledge of safety standards.
6. Good verbal and written communication skills.
7. Good organizational skills.
8. Good interpersonal skills to creatively engage and motivate learners.
9. Proficient in using Microsoft Office Suite (Word, PowerPoint, Excel).
10. Ability to assess learning styles and prescribe appropriate instruction methods
11. Ability to present training in a logical, understandable fashion.
12. Ability to use a variety of training aids and presentation tools.
13. Ability to manage multiple tasks, training timetables and deadlines.
14. Ability to work independently and effectively prioritize a large workload.
15. Must be qualified in Federal Railroad Administration 49 CFR - Parts: 214 Subpart C Roadway Worker Protection or able to obtain within sixty (60) days of hire.
16. Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license. Class A CDL preferred.
17. Ability to stand, walk, and/or sit, for extended periods of time.
18. Hearing/Visual acuity, far/near, depth perception, field of vision, color vision.
19. Must be able to operate a vehicle.
20. Must be willing to travel within Metra's 6-county region.
21. Must be available to work flexible hours in the early morning, late afternoon, evenings, or weekends.

Please note: Regardless of any state laws that legalize marijuana, Metra prohibits applicants and employees' use or possession of marijuana (or marijuana paraphernalia), or having detectable amounts of marijuana in their bodies, including synthetic and/or non-synthetic substances such as THC for any reason for pre-employment screening purposes, while on duty, subject to duty, on Metra property, or in Metra work equipment and vehicles.

Metra is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. It is our policy to fill vacant positions with qualified candidates without regard to race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age, gender identity, disability, or any protected categories, assuming an individual can perform the essential functions of the job with or without accommodation.