Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority

Job Classification Specification

TRACK INSPECTOR
Pay Grade A32

Basic Function
Under moderate supervision, performs inspection work on rail transit systems, including preventive and corrective maintenance and construction of track work, busways, loading platforms, and aerial structures.

Classification Characteristics
Track Inspector is an Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) journey-level position. It differs from the Track Inspector Leader (ATU) in that a Track Inspector performs inspection work on rail transit systems, including preventive and corrective maintenance and construction of track work, busways, loading platforms, and aerial structures while a Track Inspector Leader oversees and coordinates the daily activities of a group of Track Inspectors and assigns tasks within a work crew. The Track Inspector Leader communicates and implements safety rules, policies, and procedures and maintains accountability for the safety of assigned employees. A Leader receives additional pay for each hour worked as stipulated by the appropriate collective bargaining agreement. Differs from Traction Power Inspector in that Track Inspector performs work on the track ballast and the rails on which the trains move, while Traction Power Inspector performs work on the power distribution system which moves the trains. Differs from Signal Inspector in that Track Inspector performs work on track ballast and rails, while Signal Inspector works on equipment and systems to control train movement.

Supervised by: Rail Track Supervisor

Supervises:

FLSA: Non-Exempt

Work Environment
In order to achieve Metro’s goals in support of its mission, potential candidates are required to commit and continuously practice and demonstrate the following work values:

Examples of Duties
  • Inspects and repairs track and switches in yards and on the mainline, including ties, ballast, direct fixation pads, appurtenant structures, and protective enclosures on rail transit right-of-way
  • Performs various field tests during track and structure inspections to identify faulty track or maintenance problems; notifies Rail Track Supervisor for corrective action
  • Oversees and monitors track construction or maintenance work performed by outside contractors using plans, prints, specifications, and track charts
  • Inspects rail track construction sites and work locations for compliance with Federal Railroad Administration track safety standards; contacts appropriate representatives in event of work modifications or rule violations
  • Assists in identifying requirements for the development of track maintenance program and management of maintenance-of-way shop procedures
  • Performs necessary day-to-day track repair, rail replacement, and maintenance; uses various drills, spiking, and tamping equipment to maintain track right-of way
  • Recommends preventive and corrective track maintenance schedules
  • Prepares written reports and maintains daily, weekly, monthly, and annual rail track inspection records
  • Contributes to ensuring that the EEO policies and programs of Metro are carried out

Essential Knowledge and Abilities

Knowledge of:

  • Methods, materials, equipment, and safety procedures of track construction, inspection, and repair, including procedures for entering and working on the mainline
  • Federal Railroad Administration track safety standards
  • Vehicle operation and safety

Ability to:
  • Follow oral and written instructions
  • Communicate effectively with others
  • Perform track construction, inspection, and repair
  • Maintain and repair mainline tack
  • Interpret plans, prints, specifications and track charts
  • Establish and maintain effective working relationships
  • Safely operate Metro vehicles
  • Safely operate a variety of tools and equipment
  • Maintain simple written records
  • Lift and move objects weighing up to 50 pounds
  • Tolerate exposure to noise, unpleasant odors, and outdoor work at night and in all types of weather
  • Read, write, speak, and understand English

Minimum Qualifications
Potential candidates interested in the TRACK INSPECTOR position MUST meet the following requirements:

  • 2 years' experience performing the inspection or construction of rail track work and related facilities OR 5 years’ experience working as a heavy construction laborer
  • Valid California Class C driver’s license

Special Conditions
  • Must be able to perform outdoor work at night and in all types of weather
  • Must be able to perform work in tunnels and on aerial structures for various durations in time
  • Must be able to respond to emergencies promptly
  • Must be able to work in an environment with energized overhead catenary or contact rail power distribution system, long-line freight and vehicular traffic
  • Must be able to work on any one of two shifts and weekends
  • Must comply with all California Occupational Safety and Health Administration (Cal/OSHA) regulations and utilize approved safety equipment and personal protective gear including, but not limited to, respirators, eye and hearing protective devices (HPD), if and when required
  • Must have normal color vision
  • Must possess a valid California Class A driver’s license upon completion of the probationary period
  • Positions in this job classification are considered safety-sensitive and subject to drug and alcohol testing, including random testing, under Federal Transit Administration (FTA) regulations
Positions in this classification are considered safety sensitive under Federal Transit Administration (FTA) drug and alcohol regulations.

Disclaimer
This job specification is not to be construed as an exhaustive list of duties, responsibilities, or requirements. Employees may be required to perform other related job duties.


Date Originally Created: 9/22/1992
Date Last Revised: 5/16/2018 11:50:31 AM
ATU: 0765C