Vice President Rail Operations

**Requisition Number**:
5367

**Pay Rate**:
82.09

**Location**:
Houston, TX, US

**Category**:
Transportation

**Description**:
Basic Function
Under the direction of the EVP/Chief Operating Officer is responsible for decisions regarding maintaining operational policies and procedures consistent with the Board’s requirements and Metro’s internal policies and management and operation of the physical assets and staff of the light rail system. Ensures the physical assets of the light rail system are operated in conformance with METRO’s objective of providing safe, clean, efficient and cost-effective quality public transit services. Works closely with Capital Projects providing operational and technical guidance during the design and construction phases. Performs integrative testing, commissioning, start-up and pre-revenue testing for METRO’s Rail Expansion. Performs duties in a safe, efficient manner and in compliance with all applicable rules and safety procedures.
Responsibilities and Specific Duties

Provides primary managerial direction and performs personnel administrative functions of direct report staff (e.g., training, supervising, work assignments, timesheets, performance evaluations, etc.) for the purpose of maintaining necessary staffing, enhancing productivity of staff, and ensuring necessary department outcomes.

Directs and oversees all functions (Rail Transportation, Rail Control, Rail Transportation Training, Rail Maintenance Training, LRV Maintenance, Traction Power, Signals, Communications and Track Maintenance) related to the on-going operations and maintenance of the rail operating system.

Develops the annual operating budget, operating and maintenance cost estimates and life cycle calculations.

Develops and establishes operating policies and procedures.

Oversees all functions related to systems and vehicle management and enhancement activities and Vehicle and Systems Capital Improvement Programs (CIP).

Establishes productivity and quality control standards, system safety, cleanliness, reliability, etc.

Works closely with all departments within METRO ensuring operations and maintenance activities are supported as required.

Provides operational and technical guidance to Capital Programs staff for METRO’s Rail Expansion Projects.

Provides technical guidance in the development of central and/or zone control criteria and performance specifications.

Provides direction in the planning of yard and shop locations and layouts and development of functional plans and requirements for maintenance equipment and vehicles.

Responsible for the development of track and structure criteria in terms of operability and maintainability.

Directs and oversees development of facility and vehicle design and performance criteria in terms of operability and maintainability.

Provides technical guidance in the development of signaling and communications systems criteria and specifications in terms of operability and maintainability.

Provides technical guidance in the development of transportation and maintenance operations plans and vehicle requirements.

Provides operational and technical guidance in the areas of testing and start-up facilities, vehicles, structures, and other rail system components.

Provides excellent customer service to METRO internal and external customers.

Promotes safety awareness and other safety procedures in efforts to reduce or eliminate accidents.

Performs other job-duties as assigned.

Education Requirement
Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Transportation, Business Administration, or related degree preferred.

Years & Experience Required
Minimum fifteen (15) years of increasingly responsible management experience encompassing all functional aspects associated with the building and on-going operations and maintenance of a state-of-the-art light rail system. Previous experience in establishing a light rail system is highly desirable.
Knowledge & Skills Required
Ability to integrate effective/efficient operational principals into the design and development of a light rail system through close interaction with METRO staff, external consultants and regulatory agencies. Strong (verbal and written) communication skills are essential.
Additional Information

Further, employees who perform safety-sensitive functions will submit to drug and/or alcohol testing in accordance to the Department of Transportation (DOT) and the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) regulatory requirements.

We provide equal opportunity to all qualified individuals regardless of race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, veteran status, genetic information or disability.

**Nearest Major Market**: Houston