Sr. Training Instructor (Bus)

Basic Function

Responsible for oversight of the Line Instructor Program. Delivers SOAR and Line Instructor training. Manages and schedules line checks for Bus Operators, and coordinates with Safety to identify improvements. Oversees and supports Training Instructors, assists with scheduling bus operator training, preparing required reports. Develops and delivers training programs for Bus Operator Trainees, Bus Operators and other designated METRO employees as requested. Promotes safe operations and standardized training to affect a better trained work force. Performs duties in a safe, efficient manner and in compliance with applicable rules and safety procedures.

Responsibilities and Specific Duties

• Manages the Line Instructor Program. Communicate with, assess and coach the line instructor teaching skills, recommends additions to, or removal of line instructors from the program.
• Manages, schedules, and deliver the training of SOAR Operators to become qualified to teach in the operations training department.
• Manages, schedules, and delivers Line Instructor training and ongoing communications.
• Manages and schedules line checks for Bus Operators. Prepares associated reports and recommend strategies for improvement.
• Coordinates with Safety and other departments to support bus operator training.
• Schedules student operator training.  Tracks training/safety records, special training; new equipment, bus fleet, passenger relations, and makes pay adjustments as required.
• Conducts classroom training in Bus operations, Defensive Driving, Passenger Relations, CDL and other related training skills and procedures that will ensure and support the safe delivery of service.
• Develops detailed technical training and testing materials and maintains training efficiency and effectiveness by implementing programs and strategies for curriculum design improvement.
• Observes, evaluates, monitors and coaches (on the bus and in the classroom) Training Instructor performance as it relates to mastering the necessary skills and techniques to function as a trainer.
• Trains department operating personnel and other employees in the application of Authority and departmental policies, procedures, rules using guidelines and requirements set forth by the Department of Public Safety (DPS) and Federal Transit Administration (FTA).
• Retrains personnel returning to work after a leave of absence or as a result of other agreed-upon work-related issues.
• Counsels Bus Operators and prepares written documents concerning Operators’ performance.  Cites Bus Operators for rule and standard operating procedure violations.
• Performs physical performance evaluations for new Bus Operator candidates for compatibility.
• Reviews new bus equipment.  Makes training recommendations and implements new procedures/programs/classes.
• Records pertinent data on incident reports detailing all reported crime activity, accidents, road hazards, mechanical malfunctions, and other miscellaneous operational problems and potential service disruptions.
• Develops and delivers subject matter training on various Transportation core functions (Starters Office, Service Supervision, Bus Control).
• Performs undercover surveillance when necessary to confirm customer complaints or other reports regarding Operators’ driving performance and/or behavior.
• Provides excellent customer service to METRO internal and external customers.
• Applies SMS (Safety Management System) methods and principles in daily routine and supports all aspects of the agency’s Public Transportation Agency Safety Plan (PTASP).
• Promotes safety awareness and follows safety procedures to reduce or eliminate accidents.
• Performs other job-related duties as assigned.
   

Education Requirement

High school diploma or equivalent is required. Additional college courses preferred.

Years & Experience Required

Minimum of five (5) years transit/transportation experience including experience as a Bus Operator. Also, a minimum of three (3) years’ experience as a Training Instructor is required.  

Knowledge & Skills Required

Extensive knowledge of the METRO bus operations training program. A valid Texas Commercial Driver’s License with a passenger endorsement is required. Must meet METRO’s requirements regarding motor vehicle records. Excellent communications (written/verbal) skills. Ability to communicate well with students and peers in a training environment. Strong interpersonal skills. Strong problem solving and critical thinking skills. Must be able to work independently with minimal supervision. Ability to make rapid decisions under pressure using sound judgment. Working knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite. Expert knowledge of Track-it.

Additional Information

The Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County, Texas has a zero tolerance drug and alcohol policy for all employees. All internal and external applicants will be required to undergo drug testing before employment and will be subject to further drug and/or alcohol testing throughout their employment.

Further, employees who perform safety-sensitive functions will submit to drug and/or alcohol testing in accordance to the Department of Transportation (DOT) and the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) regulatory requirements.

We provide equal opportunity to all qualified individuals regardless of race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, veteran status, genetic information or disability.