Manager, Technical Training

The final salary will depend on the candidate's qualifications. Those with 8 years or more of required experience can expect offers up to the midpoint of the salary range. Metra provides full pay ranges so candidates can consider their growth potential.

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Qualified veterans who meet the minimum requirements will receive outreach during the recruitment process in accordance with Federal and State laws, including the Illinois Veterans Preference Act. Meeting the minimum qualifications does not guarantee an interview or job offer. The most qualified candidate will be selected.

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 Transportation, 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 Senior Manager, Technical Training, the Manager Technical Training is responsible for managing the implementation, delivery, and evaluation of Operations technical training programs; will collaborate with various stakeholders and subject matter experts to identify training needs; and ensure training plans reflect existing and new procedures, equipment, and technologies and are in compliance with the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) and other regulatory agencies.

The primary duties include: Manage and provide guidance to the teams responsible for the development and delivery of training for Operations' apprentices, journeymen, and management employees; coordinate training assignments and department schedules; monitor and evaluate the performance of trainers; identify and manage inventory of technical tools, aids, and equipment; and report on department activities and productivity. Monitor and analyze training data to support plan and program development and implementation; ensure plans and programs align with organizational goals, meet agency and industry standards, and are in compliance with FRA regulations. Manage training related projects; develop and track timelines, deliverables, and milestones; and plan and allocate resources to ensure timely completion. Monitor training trends; stay abreast of regulatory changes that impact workforce training; and identify opportunities to leverage technology and data to improve training program delivery and effectiveness. Manage field observations, the administration of written and practical exams, and complete performance reports. Approve time off, coordinate staff schedules, fill vacancies as necessary, and ensure compliance with departmental and company policies and objectives. Decide/implement staffing decisions, performance evaluations, and performance improvement, disciplinary, and/or termination procedures. Make recommendations regarding hiring, performance evaluations, disciplinary and/or termination procedures. Promote safe work practices and maintain and foster a safe work environment. Works under both inside and outside environmental conditions under prevailing conditions of heat, cold, rain, and snow. This position is subject to random drug and/or alcohol testing. Perform other related duties as assigned to meet the ongoing needs of the organization.

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 & Development OR in lieu of specified degree, any combination of education and experience may be substituted for the required degree that equals four (4) years as a journeyman, trainer, or instructor delivering informal or formal classroom training.
2. In addition to #1, have six (6) years of experience as a trainer or instructor preferably as a journeyman in a railroad, manufacturing, or technical environment.
3. Three (3) years of team lead or supervisory experience that includes three (3) of the following: day-to-day employee management, assigning tasks, providing guidance and training, monitoring performance, conflict management, budgeting, hiring and administering discipline.
4. Comprehensive knowledge of principles and practices of adult learning and education, instructional design, and training methodologies.
5. Comprehensive knowledge of project management, frameworks, and tools.
6. Knowledge of government requirements related to training (e.g. the FRA's 49 CFR Part 243: Training, Qualification, and Oversight for Safety-Related Railroad Employees).
7. Comprehensive knowledge of data collection, monitoring, and analysis to support training program development.
8. Proficient in Microsoft 365 (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Power BI).
9. Strong written and verbal communication and interpersonal skills to creatively engage and motivate learners and interface with various stakeholders.
10. Strong organizational and analytical skills with keen attention to detail to ensure accuracy in training materials and compliance with regulations.
11. Ability to coordinate and manage multiple training-related projects, training timetables, tasks, and deadlines for competing projects effectively and efficiently.
12. Ability to work independently or collaboratively with various stakeholders, including management, subject matter experts, and vendors.
13. Ability to analyze training data and metrics to evaluate program effectiveness and make data-driven decisions.
14. Must be qualified for General Code of Operating Rules (GCOR) or become qualified within 90 days of hire date.
15. Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license.
16. Must be able to operate a vehicle.
17. Must be willing to travel within Metra's 6-county region.
18. Must be available to work flexible hours in the early morning, late afternoon, evenings, or weekends.

Metra employees in an active review period under the current discipline policy or who have documented attendance or performance issues will not be considered and/or selected for this position.

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 preemployment screening purposes, while on duty, subject to duty, on Metra property, or in Metra work equipment and vehicles.

Metra is committed to ensuring that our career website and recruiting process are accessible to all individuals. If you encounter difficulties or limitations in using or accessing our online application, or if you require reasonable accommodations to complete this application, participate in interviews, complete any pre-employment testing, or engage in any other aspect of the employee selection process, please direct your inquiries to RAC@Metrarr.com.

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.