Transit Power Distribution Specialist (MetroLink)

Bi-State Development; St. Louis (MO); On-site; USD 85,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Bi-State Development seeks a Transit Power Distribution Specialist to safeguard the electrification backbone of MetroLink. You will diagnose, isolate, and restore traction power, lead energization/de-energization, and assist on signaling during emergencies.

This role requires deep rail/high-voltage experience, CDL eligibility, and a strong safety mindset. You will operate rail and roadway assets to keep service reliable and safe for riders in the St. Louis region.

Qualifications

• Deep experience as a fully qualified electrician in rail/transit traction power (substations and catenary) or equivalent high-voltage systems.
• Ability to interpret plans and schematics and troubleshoot complex systems.
• Completion and annual requalification on operating rules and safety protocols.

Responsibilities

• Diagnose, isolate, and restore traction power quickly during outages.
• Lead energization/de-energization of traction power and assist during emergencies.
• Respond to electrical emergencies at any hour to stabilize incidents and restore service.
• Operate vehicles and rail equipment to access and maintain assets.
• Support signaling and train control during emergencies and disruptions.
• Maintain clearances around high-voltage conductors and substations.

Skills

Rail/Transit electrical experience

High-voltage systems knowledge

Plans/schematics interpretation

Safety-focused mindset

Education

Class A CDL

DOT physical eligibility

Tools

N/A

Job description

Keep the rails alive—be the spark behind MetroLink

When a thunderstorm knocks out a feeder or a surge trips protection equipment, riders count on someone who can diagnose, isolate, and restore power swiftly. As a Transit Power Distribution Specialist, you’ll safeguard the electrification backbone that moves our region.

Your impact

• Ensure safe, reliable operation of the traction power generation and distribution system—substations, return circuits, and the full catenary network (poles, foundations, arms, messenger/contact wire, insulators, disconnects/switching gear, surge devices, and switch heater feeds).
• Conduct proactive inspections, precision repairs, and in-depth diagnostics to prevent failures and minimize downtime.
• Lead safe energization/de-energization of traction power; provide critical assistance on other electrical systems during emergencies and service disruptions.
• Respond at any hour to electrical emergencies, stabilizing incidents and restoring service.
• Operate roadway vehicles and rail-based equipment to access and maintain system assets.
• During emergencies, assist with wayside signaling and train control, including highway grade crossing warning systems.
• Support station power, lighting, and control systems during disruptions along the MetroLink alignment.
• Maintain safe clearances by trimming trees, bushes, and shrubs near high-voltage conductors and substations on Metro property.

What sets you up for success

• Deep experience as a fully qualified electrician in rail/transit traction power (substations and catenary) or equivalent high-voltage systems.
• Successful completion—prior to interviews—of mechanical, high-voltage electrical, and electronics aptitude testing that demonstrates your ability to interpret plans/schematics, reference manuals, and troubleshoot complex systems.
• Ability to work independently with a strong safety mindset, following all operating rules, procedures, and work instructions.
• Completion and annual requalification on MetroLink Operating Rules for MOW employees and associated safety rules within the defined qualification period.
• Eligibility to obtain CPR, First Aid, and other safety certifications; Metro provides and pays for required training during normal work hours.

Credentials & fitness

• Active Class A CDL issued by Missouri or Illinois with all necessary endorsements.
• Ability to meet job-related physical demands and pass a DOT Physical.

Our safety commitments

• Severe weather (torrential rain, hail, lightning) will not require work on energized equipment or circuits at 600V or higher, except during true emergencies and only after proper training. The Agency supplies training and required PPE.
• For energized high-voltage work (600V+), a minimum of two qualified employees will be assigned when safety requires it. Metro provides the necessary PPE.
• Completion of the designated training program and the subsequent qualification period is required for your job class.

Grow your craft, power a region

From mastering substation diagnostics to perfecting catenary maintenance, you’ll build expertise that keeps trains running and communities connected.