Job Description

Posting number: 26-20319

Department: MBTA - Railroad Ops (Commuter Rail)

Division: 783-Commuter Rail Supervision

Job classification: Deputy Director Mechanical

Posting type: Open/External Only

Categories: Engineering

Summary

The Deputy Director of Mechanical will assist the Director of Mechanical in planning and supervising the day-to-day and long-range functions of the commuter rail and water service contractors and will supervise a small professional staff to ensure contractor compliance with contract requirements. This position focuses on mechanical services and operations, including revenue and non-revenue rolling stock.

Examples of duties

• Execute duties and responsibilities in a multidisciplinary management role, including Capital, Operating, and Force Account project initiation and budget management.
• Initiate and manage multi-million-dollar Project Initiative (PI) via the Commuter Rail Operating contractor and local railroad.
• Develop, award, and manage multi-million-dollar Capital and Operating budgets in support of implementing extensive facility/yard expansions, upgrades, and SGR improvements concurrently.
• Ensure budgetary goals are met, and all work is performed in a timely, cost-effective manner.
• Develop, implement, and manage programs, procedures, and standards for Commuter Mechanical Department employees.
• Supervise contractors and vendors to ensure work meets contract specifications, MBTA standards, and established deadlines; take corrective action when necessary.
• Interface with agency staff, contractors, vendors, and federal and state agencies regarding rolling stock maintenance activities, including requirements of 49 CFR 200–299, MBTA Railroad Operations Standards, Operating Agreements, OEM life cycle manuals, and industry best practices, while supporting service demands.
• Interface with the commuter rail contractor, agency staff, and others in all phases of fleet planning and service delivery, including maintenance scheduling/production, alternative service plans, defect mitigation, and service delivery improvements.
• Collaborate daily with MBTA officials and internal Railroad Operations departments on prioritizing daily work activities and long-term planning that may affect commuter rail passenger movement.
• Define, uphold, and direct maintenance standards, ensuring adherence to FTA, FRA, NORAC, DTE, NTSB, and all other applicable policies and regulations.
• Direct and assist employees performing inspections of passenger trains, facilities, and other transportation assets to ensure effective and safe performance and compliance with operating rules, orders, recommendations, and requirements.
• Direct investigations of mechanical failures/issues and implement solutions that comply with applicable regulations, best practices, and the best interests of the Authority.
• Perform analysis, make recommendations, and decisions on vendors and mechanical parts purchasing through the RRO Mechanical Parts Program.
• Assist with departmental community relations activities and coordination of special events, such as special train operations.
• Respond to and direct available personnel during emergencies, extreme weather, or any abnormal conditions affecting service or safety, on a 24/7 basis.
• Drive a company or personal vehicle to visit work sites and assist during emergencies and/or events as needed.
• Respond to inquiries from customers, vendors, and co-workers in a courteous and professional manner.
• Work any assigned shifts and/or locations as directed.
• Uphold the rights and interests of the Authority while building and maintaining effective relationships with employees.
• Assist in managing the workforce by ensuring fair, consistent application and strict adherence to Authority rules, regulations, collective bargaining agreements (if applicable), and policies, including EEO, Anti-Discrimination, Anti-Harassment, and Anti-Retaliation policies.
• Perform all other duties and projects that may be assigned.

Additional responsibilities may include a focus on one or more departments or locations. See applicable addendum for department or location-specific functions.

Supervision

• Commuter rail contractors and administrative staff.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Transportation, Engineering, Business, or a related field from an accredited institution.
• Five (5) years of experience in railroad transportation operations, maintenance, and/or operations management.
• Two (2) years of leadership experience managing staff and/or large-scale projects.
• Experience with FRA operations compliance.
• A valid driver's license in accordance with MBTA policy.
• Effective organizational and analytical skills.
• Ability to handle sensitive information appropriately.
• Working knowledge of Word, Excel, and PowerPoint applications.
• Ability to communicate effectively with customers, employees, and vendors.
• Excellent customer service and conflict resolution skills.
• Ability to provide internal and external customers with a courteous and professional experience.
• Ability to supervise and work effectively with a diverse workforce.
• Capacity to work effectively independently and as part of a team.
• Successful applicants must have the English language skills required for the effective performance of the position.

Substitutions

• A High School Diploma or GED with an additional seven (7) years of directly related experience substitutes for the bachelor’s degree requirement.
• An associate degree from an accredited institution an additional three (3) years of directly related experience substitutes for the bachelor’s degree requirement.
• A master’s degree in a related subject substitute for two (2) years of general experience.
• A nationally recognized certification, or statewide/professional certification in a related field substitutes for one year of experience.

Supplemental information

• Experience with contract/vendor management in a passenger railroad environment.
• Experience with passenger train railroad operations and/or maintenance.
• Familiarity with FTA, FRA, NORAC, DPU, and NTSB policies and procedures.