Chief of Operations

About the role

The Chief of Operations leads the commuter rail operations in the Greater Boston area. This executive leadership role is responsible for overseeing safe, reliable, and efficient day-to-day rail operations across a complex passenger rail network. The ideal candidate will bring deep commuter rail operating experience, strong regulatory knowledge, and proven leadership in large-scale passenger transportation systems.

Responsibilities

• Provide 24/7 executive oversight of rail operations and be available to respond to operational issues as needed
• Direct daily operations of all revenue and non-revenue train service, including crews, terminals, yards, and stations
• Lead transportation service planning and execution, rider and employee safety, security, and regulatory compliance to support safe and reliable service delivery
• Manage coordination and daily interaction with third-party railroads, contractors, consultants, and other stakeholders, including Positive Train Control partners
• Drive operational performance, on-time performance, and continuous improvement initiatives
• Collaborate cross-functionally with maintenance, engineering, customer experience, planning and supplemental work, and executive leadership teams
• Liaise with other modes of transportation within the Massachusetts Bay Area and with Transdev and Transport UK senior leaders on best practice sharing, lessons learned and proactive knowledge transfer.

Requirements

• 15+ years of progressive experience in rail operations
• Minimum 5 years of recent experience (within the last 10 years) as a senior operating officer in passenger railroad service
• Direct experience overseeing passenger train operations in compliance with FRA regulations
• Experience working with commuter rail systems of similar size and complexity to the Boston-area rail network
• Experience in a unionized rail operating environment
• Demonstrated experience with managing train crews and labor unions, rail safety, operating rules, service planning, and incident management
• Strong leadership, communication, and team management skills

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Transportation, Engineering, Business, or related field
• Advanced degree preferred
• Knowledge of American Public Transportation Association standards and recommended practices for passenger rail equipment
• Preferred experience with Positive Train Control systems

Skills

The ideal candidate is a high-performing strategic leader who drives results and inspires others through integrity, accountability, and strong communication. Combines business acumen and continuous improvement to achieve sustainable business outcomes and enhance customer experience. Builds trust through self-awareness and ethical leadership while empowering others to reach their full potential. Cultivates strong stakeholder relationships, high-performing teams, and creates organizational agility to successfully navigate change and deliver long-term success.

Benefits

Competitive compensation package of minimum $200,000 – maximum $280,000

Pay

Commensurate with experience

Schedule

Varies

Benefits

Varies

Application Instructions

Not specified