Rail Traffic Controller Trainee: Fast-Paced Dispatch Career

Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA); United States; On-site; USD 46,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) in New York is hiring a Rail Traffic Controller Trainee to oversee the movement of trains and equipment across designated tracks. You will direct operations remotely, protect crews on track, and maintain accurate movement records under pressure.

The role requires strong communication, quick decision making, and strict adherence to operating rules. Training progresses through wage steps within the ACRE framework, with multi-shift availability across

Qualifications

• Minimum of a High School Diploma, GED, or TASC.
• External Applicants must meet at least one of: one year as Air Traffic Controller; one year as railroad employee with comparable rules qualification; five years as logistics manager or similar high-pressure role; related transportation education such as an associate degree or higher in Air Traffic Control or Train Dispatch.
• Active Metro-North employees must meet specific operating division experience or rail experience requirements.
• Special: Must become qualified in rules of Operating Department per hours-of-service rules.

Responsibilities

• Direct movement of trains and equipment over tracks per timetable.
• Provide protection to employees on the right of way and manage track status and service restoration.
• Monitor radio, phone, and computer systems to track movements and conditions.
• Communicate routing, track conditions and special circumstances clearly per protocol.
• Maintain knowledge of train schedules and destinations.
• Coordinate track usage with Maintenance of Way department.
• Prepare reports on time performance and delays.
• Manage emergencies and unexpected events.

Skills

Multitasking

Written communication

Verbal communication

Decision making

Safety awareness

Education

High School diploma / GED / TASC

Transportation degree (associate or higher)

Job description

Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) in New York is hiring a Rail Traffic Controller Trainee to oversee the movement of trains and equipment across designated tracks. You will direct operations remotely, protect crews on track, and maintain accurate movement records under pressure.

The role requires strong communication, quick decision making, and strict adherence to operating rules. Training progresses through wage steps within the ACRE framework, with multi-shift availability across