Signal Systems Technician

Summary Purpose of Role

The Signal Systems Technician ensures the safety, reliability, and efficiency of the rail transportation network by installing, maintaining, and repairing signal systems and related equipment. This role is critical in minimizing disruptions, preventing accidents, and optimizing train operations through precise technical work and adherence to regulatory standards. The technician is dedicated to upholding the highest standards of safety and performance, contributing to the seamless functioning of the rail system and enhancing passenger transport services. The Maintenance of Way team consists of staff responsible for maintaining, repairing, and replacing Valley Metro's light rail track, rail signal, SCADA and communications systems, overhead catenary (OCS), and traction power substations.

Pay

The full pay range for the position is $32.66 to $48.99 per hour with an anticipated starting rate between entry ($32.66) and midpoint ($40.82) of the range. The actual hourly rate offered will be determined based on several factors, including skills, qualifications, experience, education, certifications, training and internal equity considerations.

Schedule

Must be available to work a variety of shifts including days, evenings, nights, weekends, holidays, overtime and odd and unusual hours; may be called in on day-off to respond to emergencies. Must be available to work weekends, holidays, odd and unusual hours. Work extended shifts or be called back in emergency situations.

Minimum Qualifications

• High School Diploma or G.E.D.
• Two (2) years of experience with electromechanical or electronic systems including Ohms Law
• Directly related experience may substitute for education on a year-for-year basis
• Valid Arizona Driver's License and the ability to maintain insurability under Valley Metro's Vehicle Insurance Policy
• Position requires the incumbent to successfully qualify to operate light rail vehicles
• Incumbent is required to obtain a Class B CDL permit within 90 days of attending New Employee Orientation and obtain a full Class B CDL with air brake endorsement within 6 months of hire

Desired Qualifications

• Associate's Degree in electrical/electronic engineering technology from a two (2) year Technical College or Institute
• Railroad signaling school or transit experience

Knowledge

• Safety practices as they pertain to electronic systems
• AC/DC electrical systems, principles of analog and digital electronics, electronic control circuitry and associated mechanical, pneumatic, hydraulic systems, testing and inspection methods/tools
• Analog and digital electronics, and electronic control circuits
• Railway signaling equipment maintenance and repair

Skills

• Safely using and maintaining hand and power tools and test equipment related to the work
• Maintaining accurate records of work performed
• Ability to read schematics and blueprints for electrical and electronic controls
• Analyzing malfunctions in electrical, electronic and electromechanical system and repair
• Ability to perform maintenance repair, troubleshooting, rebuild and overhaul of rail wayside equipment and subsystems
• Using initiative and independent judgment within established procedural guidelines
• Establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with those encountered in the course of the work

Responsibilities

• Repairs electrical, electronic, mechanical and hydraulic systems of LRT wayside signaling and fare collection systems equipment
• Tests and troubleshoots electronic components and systems, repairs or orders and replaces components, rewires systems, and tests equipment prior to placing back into service
• Responds to service emergencies providing online troubleshooting and repair of all electronic, electro-mechanical equipment located in wayside facilities, and passenger stations and fare collection equipment
• Maintains parts inventory and computer inventory records
• Compiles reports of inspections, repairs made, and equipment requiring replacement
• Performs preventative maintenance on all signaling and fare collection equipment
• Investigates and locates problems or failures and takes the proper corrective action
• Ensures that proper safety precautions are followed particularly around energized circuits
• Attends safety and training meetings; participates in emergency preparedness systems
• Maintains and repairs LRT wayside signaling and system equipment
• Performs other duties of similar nature and level as assigned

Physical Demands

Positions in this class typically require: climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, reaching, standing, walking, pushing, pulling, lifting, feeling, talking, hearing, seeing and repetitive motions. Valley Metro complies with ADA/EEOC requirements with respect to reasonable accommodation for people with disabilities. Incumbent must perform heavy manual labor, frequently lifting up to 50 pounds and occasionally up to 100 pounds with the assistance of applicable equipment or other employees.

Work Environment

May work from lift trucks, ladders, and other elevating devices. Works outdoors in all weather conditions. Incumbents may be subjected to risk of electrical shock, toxic or caustic chemicals, moving mechanical parts, electrical currents, vibrations, extreme temperatures, inadequate lighting, workspace restrictions, and intense noise levels.