Track Maintainer Job in Minnesota, USA at Metropolitan Council

The Metropolitan Council is recruiting Track Maintainers for Metro Transit in Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA. The position offers an initial hourly wage of $39.69, with scheduled increases to $41.90 after the first year and $44.10 after the second year, subject to applicable contract changes.

The role involves railway track inspection, maintenance, repair, and replacement activities. Employees will work the third shift, generally between 10 PM and 6 AM, and may receive additional shift differentials.

The employer is also offering a $4,000 hiring bonus, paid in two instalments, alongside a range of employee benefits, including retirement, medical, dental, and vision coverage.

Job Overview

• Job Title: Track Maintainer
• Employer: Metropolitan Council
• Department: Metro Transit
• Location: Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Starting Salary: $39.69 per hour
• Salary After One Year: $41.90 per hour
• Salary After Two Years: $44.10 per hour, subject to contract changes
• Hiring Bonus: $4,000
• Work Schedule: Third shift, generally 10 PM–6 AM
• Shift Pattern: Consecutive scheduled days, usually including one weekend day
• Union: Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU), Grade 70
• Safety Classification: Safety-sensitive position

About the Employer

The Metropolitan Council is the regional government serving the seven-county Twin Cities metropolitan area.

The organization is responsible for regional transportation, wastewater, and housing services. Through Metro Transit, a division of the Metropolitan Council, it operates bus and rail transportation services across the metropolitan region.

Metro Transit also supports alternative commuting options, including carpooling, van pooling, and bicycle commuting.

Job Description

The Track Maintainer will support the maintenance and inspection of railway infrastructure to ensure that tracks and related systems meet established safety requirements.

The position involves inspecting track structures, identifying maintenance needs, carrying out repairs, and replacing damaged components. Employees will also operate maintenance vehicles and equipment, update maintenance records, and assist with other railway maintenance activities.

The work is physically demanding and takes place in different outdoor weather conditions. Employees must follow Metro Transit procedures and applicable United States Department of Transportation railway safety requirements.

Key Responsibilities

• Maintain and repair railway tracks and related infrastructure.
• Inspect tracks, turnouts, and rail joints.
• Record inspection findings and maintenance activities.
• Replace damaged track components and fastenings.
• Assist with track surfacing, alignment, and gauging operations.
• Maintain railway crossings and related mechanical systems.
• Operate approved track maintenance vehicles and equipment.
• Assist during emergency maintenance situations.
• Participate in safety and training meetings.
• Maintain spare-parts inventory for maintenance operations.
• Update maintenance reporting systems and records.
• Carry out snow removal and related seasonal maintenance activities.
• Perform vegetation control and remove graffiti and debris.
• Keep vehicles, tools, equipment, and storage areas clean and organized.
• Perform other related maintenance duties as assigned.

Qualifications and Requirements

Applicants must meet the employer’s minimum education and experience requirements.

Required qualifications include:

• High school diploma, GED, or higher.
• At least two years of experience working as a railroad maintenance-of-way worker.
• Experience operating hi-rail equipment.
• Valid driver’s licence with an acceptable driving record.

Additional licensing requirements include:

• Obtain the required Commercial Driver’s Licence permits before hiring, covering General Knowledge, Air Brake, Combination Vehicle, and Tanker Endorsement.
• Obtain a Class A CDL within 90 days of employment.
• Meet ongoing Department of Transportation physical requirements.

Candidates must also be able to pass the required physical examinations, Rail Operations Rule Book examination, and physical agility examinations. Successful completion of the Rail Operator Training Program for Maintenance Personnel is required.

The position also requires the ability to obtain and maintain Train Operator Certification for Maintenance Personnel.

Other relevant knowledge and skills include:

• Knowledge of railway track maintenance, inspection, and repair practices.
• Mechanical skills and the ability to use hand and power tools.
• Basic computer skills and the ability to prepare maintenance reports.
• Ability to communicate using radio and telephone systems.
• Understanding of applicable railway safety standards.
• Ability to read instructions and prepare basic written correspondence.
• Ability to perform basic mathematical calculations and measurements.
• Ability to work cooperatively with colleagues and members of the public.

Salary and Benefits

The Metropolitan Council has provided the following compensation structure:

• Starting hourly rate: $39.69.
• After one year: $41.90 per hour.
• After two years: $44.10 per hour, subject to contract changes.

The position also includes a $4,000 hiring bonus. Employees receive $2,000 after 30 days of employment and another $2,000 after successfully completing probation.

Additional compensation includes shift differentials:

• 5% for qualifying shifts scheduled to end between 8 PM and 11:59 PM.
• 7% for qualifying shifts scheduled to end between midnight and 7 AM and/or scheduled to start between 10 PM and 3 AM.

The advertised employee benefits include:

• Minnesota State Retirement System pension.
• Voluntary deferred compensation retirement savings plan.
• Medical insurance options with employer contributions toward premiums.
• Dental insurance.
• Vision insurance.
• Life insurance.
• Employee Assistance Program.
• Free access to the Well@Work clinic.
• Bus and rail passes valued at over $1,200 annually.
• Parking at many work locations.
• Fitness centres at many work locations.
• Health and wellness programmes.
• Tuition reimbursement and on-site training opportunities.

Who Should Apply?

This opportunity is suitable for experienced railway maintenance workers with the required track maintenance background and hi-rail equipment experience.

Candidates should have the necessary driving qualifications, mechanical abilities, and willingness to work overnight shifts. Applicants must also be prepared for physically demanding outdoor work and the required safety training and certification procedures.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Where are the Track Maintainer jobs located?

The positions are based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA.

2. Which organization is recruiting?

The Metropolitan Council is recruiting for its Metro Transit division.

3. How much does a Track Maintainer earn?

The starting hourly rate is $39.69, increasing to $41.90 after one year and $44.10 after two years, subject to contract changes.

4. Is there a hiring bonus?

Yes. The employer offers a $4,000 hiring bonus, paid as two instalments of $2,000.

5. What experience is required?

Applicants need at least two years of railroad maintenance-of-way experience, including experience operating hi-rail equipment.

6. Is a CDL required?

Candidates must obtain the specified CDL permits before hiring and a Class A CDL within 90 days of employment.

7. What are the working hours?

The position generally operates on the third shift, between 10 PM and 6 AM. Scheduled working days are consecutive and usually include one weekend day.

8. What benefits does the employer provide?

The benefits include retirement plans, medical, dental and vision insurance, life insurance, employee assistance, transportation passes, parking at many locations, and tuition reimbursement.