Track Maintenance Technician

Valley Metro RPTA; Phoenix (AZ); On-site; USD 35,000 - 52,000; Full time

Job summary

Valley Metro RPTA is seeking a Track Maintenance Technician to ensure safety, reliability and efficiency of the light rail infrastructure. The starting hourly rate is $25.22 with a full pay range of $25.22–$37.83 per hour, reflecting responsibilities in inspections, repairs, and preventative maintenance.

The incumbent will perform manual labor, operate hi-rail vehicles and cranes, and maintain detailed maintenance records. DOT, drug testing, background checks, and CDL requirements apply.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED and 2 years' maintenance labor experience including repairs and inspections.
• Experience operating heavy duty equipment, power/non-power tools, and crane equipment.
• Ability to read safety labels and follow procedures precisely.

Responsibilities

• Perform track maintenance, repairs, inspections, and cleaning of rail components.
• Operate hi-rail vehicles, small cranes, and other maintenance equipment safely.
• Maintain records and prepare reports on work performed.
• Assist in track surfacing, alignment, and gauging operations; respond to emergencies.
• Attend safety training and participate in ongoing instruction.

Skills

Safety awareness

Attention to detail

Follow directions

Manual labor

Reading safety labels

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Equivalent education/experience

Tools

Heavy duty equipment

Power tools

Non-power hand tools

Crane equipment

Hi-rail vehicles

Job description

Purpose of Role:
The starting (hiring) hourly rate for the Track Maintenance Technician position is $25.22. The full pay range for the position is ($25.22) to ($37.83) per hour.

Summary
Purpose of Role
The starting (hiring) hourly rate for the Track Maintenance Technician position is $25.22. The full pay range for the position is ($25.22) to ($37.83) per hour.
The Track Maintainer ensures the safety, reliability, and efficiency of the light rail infrastructure by performing routine inspections, maintenance, and repairs on tracks and related components. This role is critical in preventing disruptions, minimizing risks, and maintaining optimal conditions for rail operations. The Track Maintainer's work directly contributes to the safe and timely transportation of passengers, supporting the overall functionality and sustainability of Valley Metro's light rail system.
This position is designated as safety-sensitive and is subject to the Valley Metro RPTA’s Drug and Alcohol Program.
Minimum Qualifications & Requirements
High School Diploma or G.E.D. equivalent, and two (2) years of experience as a maintenance laborer including experience performing repairs, inspections, operating heavy duty equipment, power and non-power hand tools, and crane equipment, OR, a n equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to successfully perform the essential duties as those listed below may be considered.
Human Resources reserves the right to call only the most qualified applicants to the selection process.
Medical Examination
Employment is contingent upon successfully passing a DOT physical examination.
Drug Testing
Employment is contingent upon successfully passing a pre-employment drug test. This safety-sensitive position is subject to the Valley Metro RPTA’s Drug and Alcohol Program, including drug and alcohol testing as required by program policy.
Background Investigation
Employment is contingent upon successfully passing a background investigation.
License
Valid Arizona Driver's License and the ability to maintain insurability under Valley Metro's Vehicle Insurance Policy.
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.
Examples Of Duties / Knowledge & Skills
The statements listed below describe the general nature and level of work only. They are not an exhaustive list of all required responsibilities, duties, and skills. Other duties may be added, or this description amended at any time.
Performs intensive manual labor involving all aspects of track maintenance. Repairs tracks, turnouts, and at-grade crossings; mechanical and hydraulic systems on rail inspection and recordings, replacement of concrete or timber ties, turnouts, and track fastenings. Makes necessary inspections, repairs, and cleans and lubricates any and all rail and rail appurtenances to include, but not limited to, switches and frogs. Paints and repairs curbing along the guide way. Performs daily walking inspections of track alignment to include uneven, irregular terrain as it pertains to ditches, hillsides, and embankments. Operates hi-rail vehicles, small cranes, and other vehicles used in track maintenance inspection and recording. Operates Valley Metro vehicles, tools, and equipment in a safe and proper manner. Performs cutting, drilling, grinding, and welding functions of rail and track components. Assists in ensuring that spare parts are available to carry out track maintenance. Assisting in track surfacing, alignment and gauging operations, and responds to emergency situations. Attends safety training and participates in on-going training related to the position. Maintains maintenance records and prepares reports. Performs other duties of similar nature and level as assigned.
Knowledge Of
General railway safety practices. Standards and practices for track maintenance, inspections, repairs, and associated hardware. Manuals, procedures, parts catalog and other pertinent documentation. Familiar with the special requirements of a signalized, electrified rail system. Proper use of personal protective equipment in rail maintenance as related to drilling, cutting, grinding and welding.
Skill In
Following directions with minimal supervision. Operating hand and power tools. Operating telephone communications system. Ability to pay close attention to detail, ensuring safety in work and rail operations. Ability to stay alert and aware of surrounding operating environment. Ability to read and understand safety labels and operating instructions. Ability to use prudent judgment and problem-solving skills to make reasonable and appropriate decisions and recommendations that ensures the safety of operations. Ability to complete all necessary reports and work orders in a legible and timely manner. Ability to establish and maintain good working relationships. Ability to efficiently manage time and workload, which includes planning, prioritizing, organizing, and following-through on a variety of tasks, assignments, projects, and reports. Ability to work a flexible schedule which can include days, evenings, nights, weekends, holidays, and on call. Ability to stand and sit for an extended length of time and walk long distances for long periods of time on uneven terrain to include railroad ballast
Physical Demands / Work Environment
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.
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
Work outdoors in all weather conditions. Incumbents may be subjected to moving mechanical parts, electrical currents, vibrations, extreme temperatures, inadequate lighting, workspace restrictions, intense noise levels.
Work extended shifts or be called back in emergency situations.
Valley Metro is a Drug-Free Workplace and an Equal Opportunity Employer.