Light Rail Helper

We are the Metropolitan Council, the regional government for the seven-county Twin Cities metropolitan area. We plan 30 years ahead for the future of the metropolitan area and provide regional transportation, wastewater, and housing services.

More information about us on our website.

Metro Transit, a division of the Metropolitan Council, is seeking Light Rail Transit Helpers!

Metro Transit, a division of the Metropolitan Council, is the largest provider of public transit service in the Minneapolis-St. Paul seven-county metropolitan area and one of the country's largest public transit systems. Metro Transit operates bus, light rail, and commuter rail service essential to the region's mobility, and provides resources for carpooling, vanpooling, and bike commuting. Metro Transit helps people get where they're going, helps reduce the region's motor vehicle congestion problem, and promotes a cleaner environment.

How your work would contribute to our organization and the Twin Cities region:

The Light Rail Transit (LRT) Helper meets the train operators, performs safety inspections, and performs cleaning and removal of graffiti and biohazard substances/materials. This position also removes vehicle protection film and replaces seats for light rail vehicles. Work shifts for new hires are typically third (3rd) shift.

Hourly Pay Range: For candidates newly hired into the Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) contract, starting wage is set by the ATU contract. Internal hires will follow Metropolitan Council's union wage guidelines. Hire: $23.88 hourly. After year one: $27.30 (based on ATU salary rates starting 8/1/2024). After year two: $30.71 (Subject to contract change, based on ATU salary rates starting 8/1/2024). After year three: $34.12 (Subject to contract change, based on ATU salary rates starting 8/1/2024).

*Shift differential of five percent (5%) for all hours worked in a shift scheduled to end between 8:00 PM and 11:59 PM, and seven percent (7%) for all hours worked in a shift scheduled to end between 12:00 AM and 7:00 AM and/or scheduled to start between the hours of 10:00 PM and 3:00 AM. We are committed to supporting a diverse workforce that reflects the communities we serve.

* This recruitment will establish a six (6) month Eligibility List for current and future vacancies.

• Cleans and pressure-washes light rail vehicle parts (e.g., bogies, couplers, EHUs) using equipment like automatic washers and hot tanks.
• Operates tools and machinery (e.g., pallet jack, forklift, electric carts, hoists, power scrubbers/sweepers).
• Performs interior and exterior cleaning of vehicles, including graffiti and biohazard removal.
• Operates light rail vehicles within designated areas and manages vehicle washing, sand reservoir filling, and washer fluid refilling.
• Inputs vehicle mileage into the computer system.
• Completes required safety training (e.g., CPR, AED, Lockout/Tagout, Blue Flag Protection) and performs related procedures.
• Helps support cab bonnet cleaning, light fixture cleaning, and trash disposal in shop areas.
• Sweeps, mops, and scrubs shop and storage areas; transfers used oil to waste drums; and maintains bulk hardware bins.
• Helps with parts ordering, gathering, and delivery.
• Conducts light rail vehicle services (e.g., seat replacement, decal/vandal guard work).
• Helps support other maintenance duties except vehicle inspections, repairs, or diagnostics.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Education/Experience:

• High School diploma/GED or higher
• One (1) year of full-time cleaning work experience

Desired Qualifications:

• Previous experience cleaning the interior and exterior of large passenger vehicles or trains is desired within the past 10 years.
• Previous experience working with biohazard substances/materials such as bodily fluids, urine, blood, vomit, etc.
• Previous experience working with industrial cleaning supplies.
• Experience with basic maintenance/mechanical or repair.
• Experience and ability to effectively work independently and in a diverse team environment.
• Demonstrated ability to maintain a high-performance level of dependability, reliability, and safety.

License Requirements:

• Valid driver's license with acceptable driving record.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Must be able to read, write, and communicate in English.
• Ability to lift up to fifty (50) pounds.
• Ability to pass physical examinations, Rail Operations Rule Book, and physical agility examinations.
• Ability to obtain and maintain Train Operator Certification for Maintenance Personnel.
• Ability to work with a diverse customer group in a positive, professional manner.

Union/Grade: ATU/ Grade 22
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Safety Sensitive: Yes. Subject to random DOT drug tests.

Work Environment:
Work is performed in a rail yard and garage setting. Exposure to diesel fumes. Must work in extreme warm and cold weather conditions. May work around moderate noise. Hand tools will be required to inspect and clean vehicles.

Physical Requirements:
May be working in wet, humid conditions (non-weather), work near…