Job Description

OPEN UNTIL FILLED

Metra is one of the largest and most complex commuter rail systems in North America, serving Cook, DuPage, Will, Lake, Kane, and McHenry Counties. The agency is linking communities in Northeastern Illinois by providing safe, reliable, and efficient commuter service.

The Operations Training Department is responsible for designing, developing, and delivering training services for the Mechanical and Engineering Divisions. Training is delivered to comply with Federal Railroad Administration and OSHA regulations. The Mechanical Division audience includes Carmen, Electricians, Sheet Metal Workers, and Machinists. The Engineering Division audience includes the workforce employed by the Track, Signal, Capital Construction, Communications, Electrical Maintenance and Building/Bridges departments.

Reporting to the Deputy Executive Director - Operations, the Sr. Division Director, Operations Learning and Development Programs provides leadership, strategy, and directs the design/development of operations programs and related policies/processes, ensures agency-wide compliance with the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) Training Oversight regulations; and develops, interprets, and monitors the proper application of all assessments, operational testing, and examination programs. This role is responsible for the development, launch, delivery, and evaluation of programs, tools, and processes to build and sustain required technical and operational capability. This role collaborates with Operations leadership and Employee program development leadership.

The primary duties include: Oversees assigned staff, teams, and activities, including technical training, testing, and rules; establish departmental policies, practices, and procedures; and ensures activities and training plans are in compliance with organizational standards and relevant FRA regulations. Directs, leads and executes Operations training, development, and evaluation strategies, programs, curriculum, and learning systems. Collaborates with Operations Management and Human Resources in the development and implementation of learning initiatives and ensures consistent and effective implementation of training standards across the organization. Assesses employee development needs that meet new or supplement existing job-related skills; develops improved operating practices; and ensures revisions to existing rules, timetables, special instructions, training materials and ancillary documentation comply with established standards; and adult learning principles, methodologies, and best practices are utilized. Oversees evolution and maintenance of existing programs. Updates and maintains the training action plans to ensure continued compliance with the all governing bodies' training regulations; establishes internal partnerships to define training priorities in order to enhance technical skills and job knowledge. Partners with operational leaders to assess, design, deploy, measure and evaluate training/performance solutions and interventions. Ensures training needs are met in the most cost effective manner based on currently available training technology and resources. Supervises the development or acquisition of new programs. Explores various delivery methods to ensure successful learning. Approve time off, coordinate staff schedules, fill vacancies as necessary, and ensure compliance with departmental and company policies and objectives. Decide/implement staffing decisions, performance evaluations, and performance improvement, disciplinary, and/or termination procedures. Make recommendations regarding hiring, performance evaluations, disciplinary and/or termination procedures. Promote safe work practices and maintain and foster a safe work environment. Perform other related duties as assigned to meet the ongoing needs of the organization.

Candidates can expect salary offers that range from the minimum to the mid-point of the salary range. Metra provides full pay ranges so candidate can consider their growth potential.

Metra is a railroad employer subject to the provisions of the Railroad Retirement Tax Act, not the Social Security Administration.

Job Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Adult Education, Organizational Psychology, Transportation, or a related field OR in lieu of a specified degree, a combination of education and experience may be substituted for the required degree that equals four years in curriculum design, adult education, or e-learning.
• In addition to #1, must have ten years of experience developing, delivering, and managing training programs, preferably in an operational, technical, or adult learning environment.
• Must have eight years of direct supervisory experience that includes: day-to-day employee management, assigning tasks, providing guidance and training, monitoring performance, conflict management, budgeting, hiring, disciplinary and/or termination.
• Must have five years senior level management experience
• Comprehensive knowledge of training and development principles, methodologies, best practices, evaluation models, and adult learning.
• Experience with change management, organizational development.
• Considerable organizational, analytical and critical thinking skills.
• Strong verbal and written communications skills.
• Strong management skills.
• Experience in diagnosing organizational challenges, then planning and carrying out appropriate interventions.
• Must be a persuasive communicator with strong leadership presence, and interpersonal and team-building skills.
• The ability to lead in a highly dynamic environment.
• A demonstrated commitment to superior customer service and operational excellence.
• Strong interpersonal and leadership skills to foster collaboration and employee engagement; and establish and maintain professional relationships and networks to advocate for, and support, training functions.
• An understanding of the business benefits of various organizational structures and processes and the ability to build and articulate linkages to improved operating performance.
• Skilled in building culture and enhancing employees' experiences; passionate about fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace.
• Driven to create and sustain a positive, engaging learning and development culture.
• Understanding of government regulations,especially those related to the FRA, OSHA, DOT, STB, DOL, etc.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office.
• General Code of Operating Rules or Maintenance of Way Rules qualified within 90 days of hire date.
• Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license.
• Must be willing to travel within and outside of Metra's 6-county region.

Preferred:

• Master's degree in Organizational Development, Training and Development, or Adult Education.

On May 11, 2023, both the state of IL and the federal government will put an end to the COVID-19 emergency measures. Effective May 11, 2023, Metra's COVID vaccine requirements will be suspended until further notice.

Please note: Regardless of any state laws that legalize marijuana, Metra prohibits applicants and employees’ use or possession of marijuana (or marijuana paraphernalia), or having detectable amounts of marijuana in their bodies, including synthetic and/or non-synthetic substances such as THC for any reason for preemployment screening purposes, while on duty, subject to duty, on Metra property, or in Metra work equipment and vehicles.

Metra is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. It is our policy to fill vacant positions with qualified candidates without regard to race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age, gender identity, disability, or any protected categories, assuming an individual can perform the essential functions of the job with or without accommodation.