RAIL - ELECTRICAL SPECIALIST

Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority; Buffalo (NY); On-site; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A transportation authority in Buffalo is seeking a skilled electrical maintenance technician to manage complex power distribution systems. Responsibilities include troubleshooting, repairing high-voltage systems, conducting safety inspections, and performing emergency repairs. The ideal candidate will demonstrate proficiency with electrical diagrams and test equipment and maintain effective working relationships within the team. This full-time position offers a dynamic work environment with significant outdoor exposure.

Qualifications

• High level of skill in reading cable diagrams, wiring diagrams, and schematics.
• Satisfactory prior work record.
• Willingness to wear and utilize required Personal Protective Equipment.

Responsibilities

• Identify defective and unserviceable conditions in power systems.
• Perform both scheduled maintenance and emergency repairs.
• Test and troubleshoot complex power systems and components.

Skills

Reading cable diagrams and schematics

Effective oral and written communication

Ability to maintain working relationships

Proficiency with test equipment

Tools

Ammeters

Voltmeters

Ohmmeters

Job description

WORK OBJECTIVE:

This job involves all manner of preparation and performance and completion of any type of assigned work done at any location connected with Company’s rail system. Applicant must be able to read and interpret instruction sheets, blueprints and wiring diagrams; analyzing defects in substations, load centers, motor control center, batteries and charging systems, rectifiers and transformers and determine the extent of required repairs; setting up and conducting tests; making repairs, replacements and adjustments with a minimum of direct supervision; observing and reporting of unsafe conditions; fully understand the principles of and the safety precautions regarding work on 23,000 volts and 480 volt A.C. and 650 volt D.C. power systems; understand and be proficient in use of test equipment, including but not limited to ammeters, voltmeters and preventative maintenance on substation and other electrical equipment; to be able to make emergency repairs.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Identify defective, unserviceable or deteriorating conditions in track, tunnel or building structures, mechanisms or parts. Diagnose the cause of such conditions; and determine the extent of required adjustments, repairs and/or replacements.
• Fully understand the principles of 23,000-volt alternating and 650-volt direct current power conversion and distribution, and safety precautions regarding work on power systems.
• Understand and be proficient in the use of complex electrical monitoring and test equipment, including but not limited to ammeters, ohmmeters, and voltmeters.
• Test, repair and replace power distribution systems or components, included but not limited to high-voltage solid state rectifiers, transformers, circuit breakers, insulators, and switchgear; remotely located power control equipment; constant and variable tension catenary suspension systems; feeder cable; and substation batteries and charging systems.
• Test, troubleshoot and repair defects in complex power distribution wiring and cabling systems.
• Perform periodic inspections and preventive maintenance on power distribution systems and components, and properly maintain records of the same.
• Be able to make emergency repairs to substations, transmission circuits, and catenary equipment in order to maintain service to the public with a minimum of delay and inconvenience.
• Perform all of the work assigned as duties for any job in the subordinate or comparable classifications, and perform all duties with a speed and accuracy satisfactory to Company management.
• Accept instructions and work assignments required to qualify for other classifications.
• Develop a knowledge of Company policies pertaining to the work involved.
• Perform additional duties and tasks as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS and ABILITIES:

Must be able to demonstrate a high level of skill in reading cable diagrams, wiring diagrams, and schematics. Must be able to express ideas effective, both orally and in writing. Must have a satisfactory prior work record. Must be able to maintain an effective working relationship with supervisors and other employees. Must be able to wear and utilize all required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Participation in the Bloodborne Pathogen Program is required.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Tasks involve the intermittent performance of physically demanding work, typically involving some combination of bending, squatting, reaching, kneeling, twisting, rotating, climbing ladders, elevated platforms, boom & scissors lifts, entering and/or crawling in confined spaces. May also involve lifting (10-50+ pounds), carrying (10-50 pounds), pushing and/or pulling (5-50 pounds) materials and/or equipment. Job involves standing 3 hour at a time for four hours per day, sitting for one hour per day and walking one hour at a time for two hours per day.

ENVIRONMENTAL REQUIREMENTS:

60% of time is spent inside, 40% of time is spent outside, exposing employee to natural environmental conditions. Work exposes employees to fumes, dust, gases, odors and mist. Employee is also exposed to noise, vibration, hazards (slip and fall, chemicals) and motorized vehicles.

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:

To apply, send NFTA employment application, resume and cover letter specifying the job number to: NFTA Human Resources 181 Ellicott Street Buffalo, NY 14203 Or email to: [e-mail]

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER:

The Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All people with disabilities are encouraged to apply.