JOBSEARCHER

Light Rail Operator

TrimetPortland, MIApril 14th, 2026
Job Overview Have you ever dreamt of being behind the controls of a 100,000-pound train? Do you also thrive in an environment demanding constant awareness of your surroundings? Can you stay calm and communicative in critical situations? Above all, are you passionate about serving the community and committed to safety? If this sounds like you, we encourage you to consider a career as a Light Rail Vehicle Operator. TriMet is the public transportation agency of the Portland metro area. As a Light Rail Vehicle Operator, your primary duty is the smooth operation of trains on our iconic MAX Light Rail system. Every day you get people to where they want to go and help keep our region moving. If you’re looking for a fun, exciting and rewarding career that enhances the culture and livability of our region, join us and help lead the way! Duties Operate Light Rail Vehicle (LRV) safely, governed by the Operations Command Center (OCC) and line supervision in accordance with TriMet Rail Operations Procedures. Provide safe and exceptional customer service to TriMet's riders. Report all safety and reliability concerns to the OCC upon identification. 1. Operate Light Rail Vehicle (LRV) safely, governed by the Operations Command Center (OCC) and Line Supervision subject to TriMet Rail Operations Procedures, Rules, Bulletins, Train Orders, Schedules, Wayside Signal, Interlocking and Radio telephone communications. 2. Maintain complete up-to-date Rail Operations Rule Book and knowledge of all Safety Operating Procedures. 3. Inspect LRV equipment according to procedures and instruction, reporting defects observed while inspecting or during operations to the OCC. 4. Follow necessary steps to restore service by manipulating various LRV components to enable defective train to move, or manually align switches to change or reverse direction of route. 5. Adhere to operating schedule as closely as possible, reporting any change of two minutes or more to the OCC. 6. Comply with Rail Operations Procedures pertaining to Wayside Signals and Interlockings; report all red signal over-run or interlocking rule violations and any observed or suspected wayside signal or interlocking equipment malfunction to the OCC. 7. Take temporary charge during an emergency situation, report the condition to the OCC, protect and calm passengers, use emergency equipment as necessary. 8. Prepare required reporting paperwork and perform all related duties as required by the Rail Transportation Department. 9. Other duties as assigned by Rail Transportation Department and/or a member of management. Selection Criteria:1. Demonstrated ability to learn and operate the LRV and all related equipment in a safe manner and satisfactorily complete TriMet's Rail Operator Training Program for Certification. 2. Ability to learn and comply with Rail Operation Procedures, Schedules, Wayside Signals, Interlockings and communication equipment. 3. Ability to concentrate, anticipate and react one-hundred percent of the time while operating a light rail vehicle, in accordance with established Rail Best Practices. 4. Ability to convey information orally in a clear manner, and to understand oral and written instructions. Read, write and communicate in English. 5. Ability to obtain a CDL permit post-conditional offer of employment and prior to start date, and ability to obtain CDL upon completion of training. 6. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees, management and the general public, including those from culturally diverse backgrounds, the elderly, persons with disabilities and/or other vulnerable populations. 7. Ability to maintain reliable and predictable attendance, report regularly to work and on time. 8. Willingness and ability to work various hours, including early morning and late night shifts, split shifts, weekends, holidays and split days off. 9. Ability to pass the required post-offer, job-related physical and drug screen for the position, and meet ongoing requirements. Type of Position /Grade/FLSA Union, Non-Exempt, Regular, Full-Time. Starting wage: $29.18 per hour. Wage will be in accordance with the current Working and Wage Agreement. Selection Process Candidates will be selected based at a minimum on the result of: Application Review Driving Record Review - Upon submitting your application, you are required to submit a DMV report from every state (except Oregon) where you have held a driver's license in the past ten (10) years. Refer to online instructions to download and attach documents to your application or email documents to lightrailjobs@trimet.org. Verification of High School diploma or GED Job Orientation / Supplemental Tests Panel Interview Criminal Background Check / Reference Check DOT Medical Examinations & Drug Screening CDL Class "A or B" Permit or License Job Type: Full-time Pay: From $29.18 per hour Work Location: In person