Apprentice Program Administrator

The final salary will depend on the candidate's qualifications. Those with 8 years or more of required experience can expect offers up to the midpoint of the salary range. Metra provides full pay ranges so candidates can consider their growth potential.

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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.

Mechanical coordinates and oversees the repair, inspection, cleaning, rebuilding, replacing and maintenance of 1,180 pieces of rolling stock used in commuter service. The department's goal is to provide safe, clean and reliable service while maintaining the fleet to the standards of the Federal Railroad Administration, Association of American Railroads, American Public Transit Association and the original equipment manufacturers.

Reporting to the Senior Director, Mechanical Operations the position administers the department's Apprentice program.

The primary duties include: Coordinate with Human Resources in scheduling applicant interviews, participate in interviews to select program participants, and complete interview selection paperwork recommending hires. Participate in New Employee Orientation to explain program goals and expectations, offer encourage and assistance, and build participant confidence to complete the program. Coordinate and schedule certification and safety training classes with the Operations Training and Safety Departments; track completion of assignments and work locations; maintain training data; and prepare apprentice progress, attendance, and training book status reports. Work with managers to identify apprentice training needs, place apprentices with department mentors for on-the-job training, assess individual skills and competencies, and address proficiency issues to equip apprentices with the knowledge and skills needed to successfully complete the program. Conduct regular check-ins with mentors and apprentices to ensure training objectives are being met, address any issues or concerns that arise, mediate conflicts, and reschedule training and mentor assignments as needed to address gaps or skill deficiencies. Promote safe work practices and maintain and foster a safe work environment. Works under both inside and outside environmental conditions under prevailing conditions of heat, cold, rain, and snow. Perform other related duties as assigned to meet the ongoing needs of the organization.

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

1. Bachelor's degree or journeyman certification OR in lieu of degree or certification, a combination of education and experience that equals four in a technical, training, or program administration role.
2. In addition to #1 above, must have a minimum of four years of technical, training, or program administration experience.
3. Good knowledge of program administration principles.
4. Knowledge of different training methodologies including hands-on training, e-learning, and classroom-based instruction.
5. Good knowledge of data analysis, report preparation, and spreadsheets.
6. Knowledge of technical training or apprenticeship training programs is preferred.
7. Good verbal and written communication skills to clearly convey information to apprentices, trainers, and management.
8. Good organizational, record keeping, and analytical skills.
9. Good interpersonal skills to interact with participants and collaborate with training departments.
10. Proficient in Microsoft Office 365, specifically in Excel, Outlook, and Word.
11. Ability to guide, encourage, and motivate program participants.
12. Ability to give constructive feedback, evaluating performance, and ensure apprentice meet standards for progression.
13. Ability to address challenges that apprentices might face in their training and find solutions to overcome obstacles.
14. Time Management skills to set clear goals and deadlines and keep the program on track.
15. Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license.
16. Must be able to operate a vehicle.
17. Must be willing to travel within Metra's 6-county region.
18. Must be available to work flexible hours in the early morning, late afternoon, evenings, or weekends.

Preferred:

1. Experience administering an apprenticeship program.

Metra employees in an active review period under the current discipline policy or who have documented attendance or performance issues will not be considered and/or selected for this position.

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 committed to ensuring that our career website and recruiting process are accessible to all individuals. If you encounter difficulties or limitations in using or accessing our online application, or if you require reasonable accommodations to complete this application, participate in interviews, complete any pre-employment testing, or engage in any other aspect of the employee selection process, please direct your inquiries to RAC@Metrarr.com.

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.