Senior Rules Specialist

ABOUT THE AGENCY

MTA Metro-North Railroad is a dynamic organization, operating out of the jewel of New York City, Grand Central Terminal. We provide service to over 86.5 million customers, traveling in and out of New York and Connecticut. A subsidiary of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority, Metro-North Railroad is one of the busiest commuter railroads in the nation. MTA Metro-North Railroad strives to provide a safe and reliable commute, excellent customer service, and rewarding opportunities for its employees.

Metro-North Railroad reserves the right to remove this posting before the Application Deadline.

JOB SUMMARY

This position is responsible for leading and supervising the Operating Rules Department to ensure employee and public safety. Key responsibilities include overseeing instruction and examinations for MTA Metro-North Rules Examiners and Supervisors, ensuring the proper application and interpretation of the Operating Rules, Employee Special Instructions, and the Roadway Worker Safety Manual. The role manages the annual Operating Rules qualification schedule for Metro North Transportation, Maintenance of Way, Training Officers, Supervisors, and tenant carrier employees. It also includes managing the instruction pertinent to performing operational tests and inspections in accordance with 49 CFR Part 217.9 and the Metro-North Operational Testing Plan. Additional duties include supporting the Director of Operating Rules in developing Operating Rules and procedures for Positive Train Control (PTC), serving as liaison to the Operations Control Center (OCC), and collaborating with Capital Trainmasters and Engineering to identify operational impacts from Capital and M of W projects to develop Operating Rules that maintain a safe and efficient operation.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Administer and manage qualification and examinations and annual requalification examinations covering applicable rules, special instructions and operating practices for Transportation, Engineering, Mechanical and tenant railroad employees. Ensures the integrity and professionalism of the examination process. Develop and update instructional materials, and examination materials for initial operating rules qualification and annual requalification. Coordinate employee qualification schedules with crew management and line and staff officers. Maintain accurate records of employee qualifications and examinations.
• Manage the Department’s responsibilities and interaction with the Operations Control Center. Support the Metro-North Capital Trainmasters and Maintenance of Way department for compliance to the Federal regulation governing Roadway Worker safety for special projects and maintenance work.
• Conduct on-train and field operational testing and monitoring.  Assist in the preparation, revision and maintenance of 49 CFR Part 217program related materials.
• Perform various administrative duties including but not limited to:
  1. Maintain Operating Rules, Employee Special Instructions, Electrical Instructions for Operating Employees, Roadway Worker Protection, Emergency Instructions, and Hazardous Materials to meet Metro-North requirements, industry practices, and Federal Regulations.
  2. Develop and update instructional materials and examination materials for initial Operating Rules qualification and required re-qualification.  Ensure updates are timely and effective to remain compliant with Federal regulations and address the needs of the organization.  Assist in the implementation of policies and criteria for the minimum passing score and procedures for retesting employees who do not pass required examinations.
  3. Coordinate distribution of all Operating Rules Department documents and materials.  Ensure all tenant carriers receive the required updates in changes to Operating Rules, Employee Special Instructions, Employee train schedules.
  4. Compile and issue operating instructions, write complex operational documents such as Bulletin Orders, General Notice, Operations Notices.
  5. Attend industry conferences to maintain relationships and ensure Metro-North remains current with industry standards and practices.
  6. Attend daily and weekly operational meetings to support the operation.
  7. Manage and assist other MNR departments with comply 365.
• Select, develop, and motivate staff and provide career development for team members. Provide effective coaching and counseling.  Manage team and individual performance.  Create a professional environment that respects individual differences and enables staff to develop and contribute to their full potential.
• Performs other duties as assigned
• Complies with all policies and standards
• May be required to work hours outside regular work hours, as applicable
• Observes the work performed by contractors, as applicable
• Reviews invoices and approves them if the work has contractual standards, as applicable
• Addresses performance issues with the contractor when possible, as applicable
• Escalates issues to other parties when needed, as applicable
  

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

Required:

• Qualified on and possess an in-depth knowledge of the Operating Rules and Employee Special Instructions, Emergency Instructions, Electrical Instructions for Operating Employees, Equipment Operating Instructions, and Roadway Worker Protection.
• Must be proficient in creating and delivering PowerPoint presentations on Operating Rules instruction in a classroom and field setting. Ability to effectively evaluate and interpret operationally critical documents and generate concise reports.
• Must be able to communicate effectively and have excellent presentation, written and verbal communication skills.
• Must have the ability to interact and communicate effectively with people at all levels of the organization and outside agencies.
• Must have proficient time management, planning, analytical and organizational skills.
• Exhibits strong leadership skills to support and guide others while promoting and fostering teamwork.
• Ability to remain current on rules and regulations as required.
• Must be available to work various days and hours, including nights and weekends.
• Must be available to work along Metro-North Railroad territory.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Microsoft Teams, SharePoint)

The following is/are preferred:

• Familiarity with foreign/tenant railroad’s operating rules (GCOR, NORAC, Long Island Railroad, etc.)
• Familiarity with 49 CFR parts 214, 217, 218 and 236; subpart I, Positive Train Control.
• Proficient in Microsoft Power BI.

REQUIRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

1. Bachelor’s Degree in Arts/Sciences (BA/BS) in Business Administration or related field. Demonstrated equivalent experience, education and/or technical credentials to include four (4) additional years of related experience may be considered in lieu of degree.
2. Minimum 7 yearsof experience as a Rules Examiner or in an Operating Rules qualified Supervisory position.
3. Minimum 5 yearsof experience managing professional staff, diverse workforce and/or projects.

The following is/are preferred:None

LICENSES AND CERTIFICATIONS

Required:

• Valid Driver’s License
• Must be qualified on the Metro-North Railroad or another railroad’s Operating Rules, Employee Special Instructions. Roadway Worker Safety Rules and Air within 60 Days of hire.
• Brake and Train Handling instructions (or equivalent qualifications, if from another railroad). Successful candidates from external railroads must meet Metro-North qualifications within two (2) months from date of hire.

BENEFITS - Managerial Benefits

Transportation & Financial Benefits

• Commuting Made Easy – Enjoy a complimentary MTA transportation pass, plus access to tax-advantaged commuter benefits to maximize your savings.
• Premium Health Coverage at Low Cost – Access high-quality individual, family and domestic partner healthcare, dental, vision and life insurance plans.
• Secure Your Future – Build long-term financial security through pension plans and retirement savings accounts designed for eligible employees.

Time Off & Work-Life Balance

• Generous Time Away – Recharge with substantial paid time off and comprehensive holiday schedules that support your personal and family commitments.
• Holistic Support Services – Access our dedicated Work Life Services team and Office of the Chaplains unit for personal guidance and support when you need it most.

Professional Growth & Development

• Learning & Development Program – Advance your career through structured professional development opportunities, skills training, and leadership programs tailored to support your growth within the organization.
• Educational Investment – Pursue your career goals with in-house training and professional development, tuition reimbursement support, and partnerships with educational institutions.

Employee Experience & Community

• Employee Assistance Programs – Comprehensive support services to help you navigate life's challenges with confidence and resources.
• Discounts & Perks – Take advantage of MTA employee discount programs offering savings on products and services.
• Connect & Belong – Join our vibrant Employee Resource Groups to build meaningful connections, share experiences, and contribute to an inclusive workplace culture.

OTHER INFORMATION

• Pursuant to the New York State Public Officers Law & the MTA Code of Ethics, all employees who hold a policymaking position must file an Annual Statement of Financial Disclosure (FDS) with the NYS Commission on Ethics and Lobbying in Government (the “Commission”).
• Final salary is determined experience, skillset, and alignment with compensation practices. The posted range reflects expected compensation and may be updated as market or business needs evolve.
• Employees driving company vehicleswill be subject to License Monitoring andmust complete defensive driver training once every three years for current MTA drivers; or within 180 days of hire or transfer for an employee entering an authorized driving position.
• To be eligible for consideration for a new role, current MTA employees must complete at least one year of service in their current role prior to applying. Additionally, eligibility to interview is contingent upon maintaining a satisfactory record of job performance, attendance, and disciplinary conduct.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY/ADA DISCLAIMER

MTA and its subsidiary and affiliated agencies are Equal Opportunity Employers and encourage qualified applicants from diverse backgrounds, experiences, and abilities, including military service members, to apply.

If you seek a reasonable accommodation for a medical condition or disability, or for a religious practice or observance, to participate in the job application or interview process, please notify your MTA representative once you have been contacted regarding the role.

HOW TO APPLY:

For Internal Applicants: Log in to the My MTA Portal, click on the My Job Search tile, select the Careers link, search for the desired position, click Apply, and follow the on-screen instructions.

For External Applicants: Visit www.mta.info, click the “Careers” link located in the footer under the "The MTA" section, then click on “See All Open MTA Positions”. Search for the desired position, click Apply, and follow the instructions.