Rail Traffic Controller

PURPOSE OF POSITION

The Rail Traffic Controller will dispatch trains, other vehicles / equipment that travel on the rail, and protect individuals who work on or near the track. Dispatch is a 24 hour, 7 days a week, 365 days a year operation that can be fast paced and challenging at times. The scheduled hours of this position vary and will include days or nights any day of the week, including holidays.

The Dispatching Operations Division is covered under the United States Railroad Retirement Board (RRB). The RRB is an independent agency in the executive branch of the federal government. All dispatchers are covered under the Railroad Retirement Act (RRA) and the Railroad Unemployment Insurance Act. SCRRA Dispatchers, in addition to dispatching Metrolink trains, dispatch Amtrak's intercity trains, and BNSF and UP freight trains on SCRRA territories. The majority of the SCRRA network is Central Traffic Control (CTC) with some track warrant (TWC) territories. SCRRA also has implemented Positive Train Control on its CTC territories.

This is a classified position represented by Amalgamated Transit Union per the Collective Bargaining Agreement dated January 1, 2023 – June 30, 2026.

Hourly Rate Range : $39.8785 - $61.3515

WHAT TO EXPECT : Applications will be reviewed, and those most qualified will be forwarded to the hiring authority for consideration. The first review of applications begins on November 20, 2025. Interested applicants are encouraged to apply immediately.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS

This job description is not part of a job series

SUPERVISION EXERCISED AND RECEIVED

Receive general oversight from departmental supervisory roles.

No formal supervisory responsibilities.

The duties listed below are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed and are not to be interpreted as an exhaustive list of responsibilities.

Control and direct the movement of trains, authorizing occupancy of the main track and sidings for train operations, track inspection and maintenance personnel.

Keep all connecting regions, terminals, adjoining territories and stations informed of any movement for which they are concerned.

Communicate bulletins and warrants to train personnel and maintenance of way personnel.

Monitor radios and telephones, communicating with railroad personnel regarding train and track information.

Schedule the routing and movement of trains to provide for safe, timely meets.

Protect engineering forces for maintenance activities on controlled tracks.

Manage unplanned events to protect the safety of the public, railroad employees and railroad property.

Maintain records of train movements, track assignments, maintenance activities and other events.

Perform testing and data input for increased usage and placement of PTC.

Handle a variety of administrative tasks related to Hours-of-Service requirements, hazardous materials, rule violations and other reports.

The responsibilities outlined above are representative of the role but not exhaustive. Additional duties may be assigned as needed, and reasonable accommodations will be provided to qualified individuals with disabilities in accordance with applicable laws.

Education and ExperienceHigh school diploma or equivalent GED.

Two (2) years of work experience with Computer Aided Train Dispatching systems and radio control devices related to Railroad Operations preferred.

Prior work experience with railroad operations and an understanding of the railroad's operating rules, safety rules, General Code of Operating Rules (GCOR), and all applicable federal regulations is preferred.

Prior work experience with movement authority and protect authority, including procedures for blocking tracks, switches and signals preferred

Subject to and must comply with all FRA regulations for drug and alcohol testing.

A combination of training, education and or experience that provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities may be considered when determining minimum qualifications. Advanced relevant coursework may also substitute for a portion of required experience.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Knowledge of : Movement authority and protect authority, including procedures for blocking tracks, switches and signals.

Track bulletins, train dispatcher bulletins, special instructions and other forms of operational directives.

Recordkeeping and reporting duties.

The physical characteristics of the railroad.

Railroad operating rules (GCOR), Train Dispatcher (TDM) guidelines, Positive Train Control (PTC) procedures, Computer Aided Dispatching (CAD-TMDS) system procedures, and Federal regulations (CFR) concerning Train Sheets and Hours of service.

Skilled in : Microsoft Office, including Word and Excel.

Verbal and written communication.

Organization, prioritization and time management.

Ability to : Utilize procedures for an unplanned event or emergency.

Describe the characteristics of different types of equipment used on the railroad.

Able to read, write, and communicate (speak, hear and understand) English, as well as issue oral instructions clearly and accurately using a variety of communication devices.

Take initiative and process information that leads to solutions.

Must be detail oriented and able to multitask in a demanding work environment.

Able to maintain composure and customer focus during challenging situations.

Function calmly and exercise sound judgment during rapidly changing situations and crises in a fast-paced work environment.

Carry out assignments independent of immediate supervision.

Work on manual processes and / or computer-aided dispatching systems and personal computers.

Available to work a 40-hour work week subject to overtime, on-call, and alternate shifts that may include weeknights, weekends, and holidays.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTSTransition between a stationary position at a desk or work location and move about Metrolink facilities or other work site locations

Operate tools to perform the duties of the position, such as computers, office equipment and work-related machinery

Transport equipment or boxes up to 25lbs

Exchange ideas by means of communication

Visual acuity to detect, identify and observe employees or train movement and any barriers to movement when working on or near railroad tracks

Hear and perceive the nature of sounds when working on or near railroad tracks

Balance, ascend / descend, climb, kneel, stoop, bend, crouch or crawl within assigned working conditions and or locations

Working Conditions

Position requires work in a normal office environment with little exposure to excessive noise, dust, or temperature. Based on job duties, work may also be conducted in outdoor environments, at construction sites, railroad track and right-of-way environments, and warehouse environments, with possible exposure to individuals who are hostile or irate, moving mechanical parts, and loud noises (85+ decibels, such as trains, heavy trucks, construction, etc.). Telecommuting may not be available for this classification.

Selection Process :

Following a review of resumes and / or applications, the most highly qualified candidates will be invited to continue in the selection process. Eligible applicants will be notified of the exact time and place of assessments and interview. Candidates will be interviewed to determine their relative knowledge, skills and ability in job related areas. Offers of employment may be contingent upon successful completion of a reference check, including degree verification and criminal records check provided through SCRRA.

Internal Candidates : Employees with active discipline as defined in the HR Policy No. 5.3 Positive Discipline Program and / or with performance that does not meet the standard for "meets expectations" as defined in the Performance Planning and Appraisal Process may be precluded from consideration and placement in the position.

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the SCRRA will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.

The SCRRA is an Equal Opportunity Employer. EEO / ADA