Traction Power Systems Technician

Summary Purpose of Role

The role ensures the safe, reliable, and continuous operation of rail services by inspecting, maintaining, troubleshooting, and repairing traction power substations and overhead catenary systems. Perform high-voltage electrical maintenance, preventive and corrective repairs, and emergency response.

Responsibilities

• Inspect, test, maintain, troubleshoot, and repair overhead catenary systems, traction power substations, and related high-voltage electrical infrastructure.
• Perform preventive and corrective maintenance on AC and DC electrified rail systems to ensure safe and reliable power delivery.
• Work in high places using ladders and bucket trucks for access.
• Safely work in confined spaces, using all required specialty equipment and PPE.
• Aid in training less experienced Traction Power Systems Technicians.
• Diagnose and resolve electrical malfunctions using appropriate tools, test equipment, and established troubleshooting methods.
• Respond to routine and emergency work orders, operate specialty vehicles and equipment, and support field operations as required.
• Maintain accurate records, inspection logs, and inventory; participate in safety activities; assist team members and contractors; and complete special projects as assigned.

Requirements

• High School Diploma or GED and one (1) year of experience in: Electrical maintenance of traction power and catenary systems, Skilled trades involving high-voltage systems, Equipment and tool maintenance in electrified environments, Or an equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to successfully perform the essential duties of the job such as those listed.
• Valid Arizona Driver’s License and 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.

Knowledge & Skills

• Common overhead catenary system maintenance processes.
• Traction power substation equipment and operations.
• Electrical safety practices and procedures.
• Troubleshooting methods for electrified systems.
• Familiarity with inventory control and parts management procedures.
• Record-keeping and maintenance documentation requirements.
• Proper maintenance procedures for tools and equipment.
• Using a computer and related software.
• Inspecting and diagnosing issues with overhead and substation systems.
• Repairing and maintaining electrified power components safely.
• Operating high-rail vehicles, specialty tools and equipment proficiently.
• Responding promptly to emergency maintenance calls.
• Maintaining accurate logs and facilitating inventory efficiently.
• Assisting colleagues and contractors as needed.
• Performing routine cleaning and preventive maintenance tasks.
• Communication and interpersonal skills to exchange information and receive work direction.

Physical Demands / Work Environment

• Ability to perform heavy physical work, including lifting and carrying up to 50 pounds frequently and up to 100 pounds occasionally, with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Essential physical functions include the ability to sit, stand, walk, lift, carry, push, and pull; climb, kneel, bend, reach, twist, crouch, crawl, and balance; and use fine motor skills, visual acuity, hearing, and verbal communication.
• The work environment may include noise, distractions, time pressure, detailed or exacting tasks, frequent task changes, multitasking, emergency situations, irregular schedules, overtime, and working as part of a team.
• Periodic exposure may include fire hazards, communicable diseases, wet or humid conditions, chemical hazards, and explosives.