Job Description

Under direct supervision, coordinates the movement of trains through slow zones in construction or maintenance sites in order to protect workers, equipment, and structures.

Qualifications

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

Checks to see that Slow Zones are set up properly. Mounts the portable track trip according to SOP and prevailing conditions. Stands at track level next to portable track trip in full view of approaching trains. Sounds air horn to warn workers when a train approaches within 600 feet of the Slow Zone sign. Holds red flag across the track or a red signal lantern if it is dark or in the subway to signal train operator. Visually checks the track to verify track is cleared after foreman of work crew signals that workers and equipment have been removed. When work area is cleared, removes track trip staff and shows it to the operator. Removes red flag or red lantern from operator's view and signals to proceed. Takes emergency action if a train does not appear to be stopping. Uses air horn or a whistle to warn crew and leaves portable trip in the tripping position. Notifies Control Center regarding portable track trip malfunctions, violations of speed restrictions, and any failure to obey signals. Maintains awareness of location on track at all times in case it becomes necessary to notify the Control Center to turn the power off. Returns Slow Zone area to normal conditions if and when Slow Zone is terminated. Returns all equipment as directed. Works as required by capital and maintenance projects. Performs other duties related to capital and maintenance projects as required, including but not limited to completing documents such as time slips. Operates electronic wayside warning devices as required. Removes snow and ice from track, switches, walkways, and other locations as required. Responsible for performing Information Specialist work. Performs platform duties and responsibilities in accordance with the employees training and qualifications (i.e. public announcements, ensuring train in proper position, walk through of trains, etc.) Performs the duties and responsibilities of a Rapid Transit Operator upon completion of Rapid Transit Operator training. Performs related duties as assigned.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

All applicants must be at least 21 years of age. Must possess a valid driver's license and have an acceptable driving record. Required to submit a two (2) page "Court Purposes Driving Abstract" (Motor Vehicle Record) within last thirty (30) days. Required to submit to and pass drug and alcohol testing as mandated by the Federal Transportation Administration. Must qualify as a Rapid Transit Operator within twelve (12) months from date of hire.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Must meet and maintain physical requirements in order to safely perform all job duties and tasks. Must have the strength to stand for extended periods of time. Requires visual acumen and the ability to see in and distinguish colors. Must be able to hear verbal instructions, announcements, alarms, and horns. Required to remain attentive and alert at all times during work shift. Must be able to walk on elevated deck track and foot walk at heights up to 60 feet above the ground. Must be able to climb stairs and approved ladders and maintain balance. Must be able to carry equipment and tools weighing up to 40lbs over distances ranging up to 100 feet.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

Working knowledge of the safety rules, regulations, procedures, and conditions associated with working at track level. Working knowledge of appropriate flagging signals. Working knowledge of the proper set-up and operation of Slow Zones. Working knowledge of Rail Operations. Working knowledge of two-way radio codes and their use in transmitting transit information. Good oral communication skills.

WORKING CONDITIONS

Exposed to outside weather conditions including: extreme hot and cold, humidity and dampness, and noise and vibrations. Exposed to various mechanical, electrical, and atmospheric hazards. Subject to work near energized rail (600 volts DC) and moving trains. Must maintain Rapid Transit Operator qualifications and certification. Works on open deck elevated structures (up to 60 feet high), ground level track structures, and in cool, damp subways.

EQUIPMENT, TOOLS, AND MATERIALS UTILIZED

CTA cellular telephone, two-way radio, portable track trip, lantern, flag, electronic wayside warning device.

Additional Details

Employees and/or union members will be given priority consideration in the hiring process, per the applicable labor contracts.



Rate to be determined by applicant's entered service date and service date in union jurisdiction of this classification.



CTA IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER.



No employee or applicant for employment will be discriminated against because of race, color, creed, religion, sex, marital status, national origin, sexual orientation, ancestry, age, unfavorable military discharge, disability or any other status protected by federal, state, or local laws; except where a bona fide occupational qualification exists We are committed to providing an inclusive environment for our workforce and supporting the communities we serve. CTA will make reasonable accommodations for the known disabilities of otherwise qualified applicants for employment as well as its employees, unless undue hardship would result. If you require an accommodation in the application or hiring process, please contact arc@transitchicago.com prior to the submission of your application or upon notification of your actual test date. CTA will work with you to determine if an accommodation can be provided.



TO BE CONSIDERED APPLICATIONS MUST BE COMPLETED IN THEIR ENTIRETY INCLUDING:UPLOADED RESUME / WORK HISTORY QUALIFICATIONS JOB ASSESSMENT QUESTIONS

INFORMATION PROVIDED MUST BE ACCURATE AND TRUTHFUL.




Failure to respond to correspondences during the hiring process in a timely fashion may result in your application being closed out for non-responsiveness.



CTA Benefitshttps://www.transitchicago.com/hrbenefits/

Primary Location

:

USA-Illinois-Chicago

Job

:

Rail Operations

Job Posting

:

Dec 26, 2025, 12:00:00 AM

Position Type

:

Full-time Temporary (FTT)