The Metra Careers has many exciting opportunities for an individual who is in search of stable and rewarding employment in one of the largest commuter rail systems in the U.S., covering the Chicago metropolitan area. Metra offers an array of jobs, including train operations and maintenance, administration, and customer services. The employees are provided with good salaries, full benefits, and well-supported unions.
Metra believes in the development of its employees, and it provides training, apprenticeship, and internal promotional opportunities. No matter what your career goal is or long-term career growth, Metra Careers offers an opportunity to make a difference in a critical position in the public service, influencing thousands of daily commuters. Metra is a good place to have a meaningful career, with an emphasis on safety, community, and professional growth. Find the vacancies and fill in the applications to become part of the team.
Metra Careers
| Department | Typical Job Titles | Minimum Qualifications | Career Growth Opportunities |
|---|---|---|---|
| Operations | - Train Conductor - Locomotive Engineer | - High school diploma - Conductor certification | → Senior Conductor → Operations Supervisor |
| Mechanical & Maintenance | - Diesel Mechanic - Electrician - Technician | Trade school or apprenticeship - Relevant certifications | → Lead Technician → Maintenance Manager |
| Engineering | - Civil Engineer - Signal Engineer | - Bachelor’s degree in Engineering - PE license (for some roles) | → Senior Engineer → Project Manager |
| Customer Service | - Ticket Agent - Customer Service Rep | - High school diploma - Strong communication skills | → Supervisor → Customer Service Manager |
| Administration | - HR Specialist - Finance Analyst - IT Support | - Bachelor’s degree in related field | → Department Lead → Director-level roles |
| Safety & Security | - Safety Inspector - Security Officer | - Safety certification - Law enforcement or related experience | → Safety Manager → Compliance Director |
| Internships & Entry-Level | - Intern - Administrative Assistant | - Enrolled in college or recent graduate | → Full-time roles → Department transfer |
1. Operations Jobs In Metra
Operations provide safe and reliable train services to thousands of daily commuters. These functions include train motion, passenger timetabling, and safety.
Common Job Titles & Roles
- Train Conductor: Oversees the train, attends to passengers, and implements safety.
- Locomotive Engineer: Drives the trains and takes care of them.
- Dispatcher: Times in which trains may pass on the tracks.
- Yardmaster: Supervises the positioning of cars in a yard.
Salary & Compensation
- Entry-level Conductors will earn between $25-35/hour; experienced engineers can earn up to $70,000 and above yearly. Incorporates all overtime, shift differentials, and union-negotiated benefits.
Requirements & Qualifications
- Must have earned your HSD/GED.
- Should have full FRA qualifications.
- Full physical inspection, drug tests, and background checks as per the DOT.
- Skills: Good concentration, alertness, and care.
Training & Certification
- Extensive on-the-job training and apprenticeships are provided. Conductors and engineers must complete certification programs. Ongoing safety and compliance training is mandatory.
Benefits & Perks
- Extensive health insurance, dental insurance, and vision insurance. Retirement plans, 401(k), and pension plans of employees. Vacations, sick leave, holidays. Strong union protections.
Career Growth Opportunities
- Potential to go to a senior conductor position, operations supervisor, or management Roles.Leadership development course and cross-department Transfers.
2. Mechanical & Maintenance Jobs at Metra
Mechanical & Maintenance Driven by safety and reliability, Metra goes to great lengths every day to inspect trains and maintain a state of good repair on each piece of infrastructure. Such functions are vital to ensure that persons in Marawi can access sufficient food and security.
Common Job Titles & Roles
- Diesel Mechanic: Diagnoses and/or repairs diesel engines and related systems.
- Electrician: Installs and maintains electrical systems for trains and buildings.
- Technologist: Performs preventive maintenance and troubleshooting tasks on rail equipment.
- Track Maintenance Worker: Examines and fixes the tracks and associated facilities.
Salary & Compensation
- Salaries typically range from $30k-$70k+\ per year based on experience and specialization. Overtime pay and benefits negotiated by unions are typical.
Requirements & Qualifications
- A High School diploma or its equivalent is required.
- Trade school, vocational training, or apprenticeship completion preferred.
- (ASE) and/or a state vehicle inspector license may be preferred (not required).
- Heavy mechanical aptitude, an in-shape person, and safety-minded are required.
- A High School diploma or its equivalent is required.
- Trade school, vocational training, or apprenticeship completion preferred.
- (ASE) and/or a state vehicle inspector license may be preferred (not required).
- Heavy mechanical aptitude, an in-shape person, and safety-minded are required.
Training & Certification
- On-the-job training and formal apprenticeship programs are made available. Ongoing training on technology and safety. Certifications supported by the employer.
Benefits & Perks
- Health, dental, and vision insurance, Pension and 401(k) plans, paid leave and holidays, so the union makes sure they’re paid a fair wage and work in a safe environment.
Career Growth Opportunities
- Advancement to lead technician, maintenance supervisor, or management roles. Possibility to specialize in electrical, mechanical, or track maintenance. Training programs to support career development.
3. Engineering Jobs at Metra
At Metra, engineering positions work on the design, maintenance, or improvement of the rail system and its facilities to ensure safe commuter travel throughout the Chicago town.
Common Job Titles & Roles
- Civil Engineer: Plans and supervises track, bridges, tunnels, and structural projects.
- Signal Engineer: Plans and maintains signal and communication systems.
- Project Engineer: Responsible for the construction as well as the upgrade projects.
- Systems Engineer: Provides system and controls technology integration.
Salary & Compensation
- Salaries can be in the $60,000-$100,000-plus range; that includes various levels of experience and specialization. Comes with benefits and the potential for bonuses or incentives.
Requirements & Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Civil, Electrical, or equivalent Engineering required.
- Potential P.E. (professional engineering) license preferred or required for senior positions.
- Strong analytical, critical thinking, and project management skills required.
Training & Certification
- Ongoing professional development encouraged. Funding for further education, certifications, and licensure renewal. Participates in required safety and compliance training.
Benefits & Perks
- Excellent benefit plan, including health coverage and retirement plan. Paid time off and holidays. Education and development support. Union or management benefits depending upon position.
Career Growth Opportunities
- Career path to senior engineer, project manager, department head, or executive. Chances to drive Fortune 500-class projects and effect system-level improvements. Cross-disciplinary mobility within transportation engineering.
4. Customer Service Jobs at Metra
Customer Service positions at Metra play a key role in our mission by providing an exemplary customer experience in the selling of tickets, inquiries, and station assistance to our train riders.
Common Job Titles & Roles
- Ticket Agent: Sells tickets and explains fares.
- Station Attendant: Helps passengers at stations and controls the crowd.
- Call Center Agent: Manages customers’ questions and complaints.
- Customer Service Supervisor: Manages the front-line team and the escalation process.
Salary & Compensation
- salaries between $30,000 and $50,000 a year, based on the position and experience. Offers benefits and potential for OT or shift differentials.
Requirements & Qualifications
- A High School Diploma or equivalent is required.
- Must have strong communication and interpersonal skills.
- Must have basic knowledge of computers and understand how to handle cash transactions.
- Customer is the focus, and problem-solving skills are critical.
Training & Certification
- On-the-job training provided. Staff must be trained in customer service and safety protocols. Continuing In-service training provided and opportunity for skill development.
Benefits & Perks
- Health, dental, and vision insurance. Pension and 401(k) retirement plans. Paid time off and holidays. Union representation and EAPs are offered.
Career Growth Opportunities
- Opportunity for promotion to supervisor and management. Transfers to other functions, e.g., operations or administration, are possible. Involvement in classes for leadership and customer service.
5. Administration Jobs at Metra
Metra administrative positions help to facilitate critical business functions such as HR, finance, legal, IT, purchasing, planning, and compliance. These are the functions that make sure that your ‘corporate’ and your ‘operational’ wings of your organization function effectively.
Common Job Titles & Roles
- HR Specialist: Employee relations, recruiting, benefits.
- Finance Analyst: Manages budget, payroll, and financial reporting.
- IT Support Specialist: Technical and systems support.
- Purchasing Coordinator: Oversees vendor contracts and ordering.
- Legal Assistant / Compliance Officer: Maintains all legal work and regulatory compliance.
Salary & Compensation
- Compensation varies based on position and experience: Entry-level: $40,000–$60,000/year Mid-senior level: $65,000–$100,000+/year Comes with perks, bonuses (in some roles), and retirement contributions.
Requirements & Qualifications
- Most positions require a college degree in a related field (i.e., HR, finance, business, IT).
- Proven ability to create trust with clients across all megade industries and at Pega. Certifications are strongly preferred, such as CPA, SHRM, and ITIL, and are required for senior roles.
- Strong organizational, analytical, and communication abilities are a must.
Training & Certification
- Basic training for Metra systems and operating rules. Continued training in software, compliance, and professional development. Assistance with certification programs (HR, finance, IT)
Benefits & Perks
- Full benefits including health, dental + vision. Retirement plans (pension & 401(k)). Paid time off, vacations, and tuition assistance. Good job security at stable public-sector employment.
Career Growth Opportunities
- Career path to management, supervisory, or director opportunities. Internal promotion and movement across other departments are encouraged. Leadership and project management courses are offered.
6. Safety & Security Jobs at Metra
Metra’s Safety & Security positions are essential to the safety of Metra passengers, employees, and assets/infrastructure. These positions work to ensure compliance, investigate incidents, and drive a safety culture throughout the railway.
Common Job Titles & Roles
- Safety Inspector: Inspects and audits safety, adheres to regulatory guidelines, etc.
- Security Officer: Policy stations, trains, and properties to prevent and respond to security-related situations.
- Emergency Management Coordinator: Create and execute plans of action in a good manner.
- Risk Analyst: Evaluates threats and vulnerabilities to mitigate operational risk.
- Regulatory & Compliance Specialist: Responsible for compliance with Federal (FRA, TSA) and State regulations.
Salary & Compensation
- Entry-level: $40,000–$60,000/year. Experienced/technical roles: $65,000–$100,000+/year. Includes hazard pay (in some positions), overtime, and strong benefits.
Requirements & Qualifications
- High school diploma or GED required; some roles need a bachelor’s degree (e.g., emergency management, public safety).
- Law enforcement or military background is a plus.
- Certifications like OSHA, CPR, First Aid, or security licenses may be required.
- Strong observational, communication, and decision-making skills are essential.
Training & Certification
- Extensive initial training on Metra safety procedures and emergency response. Ongoing certification updates (e.g., OSHA, HAZMAT, first responder training). Annual drills and compliance retraining are required.
Benefits & Perks
- Full health, dental, and vision insurance. Pension and 401(k) retirement plans. Paid time off, sick time, and holidays. Equipment and uniform allowance for security personnel. Solid union support in most jobs.
Career Growth Opportunities
- Career tracks to become a senior safety officer, lead your emergency management organization, or manage a department. Specialization opportunities in compliance regulation, training, and risk analysis.
7. Internships & Entry-Level Jobs at Metra
Metra internships and entry-level jobs provide real-world experience and an entry into careers in transportation, engineering, planning, police, and many other opportunities. These roles help to train skills while also benefiting the city of Chicago as a commuter rail system.
Common Job Titles & Roles
- Summer Intern: Provide support to a variety of departments, including engineering, operations, customer service, and administration.
- Level 1 Technician: Assists with maintenance and repair activities, as directed.
- Administrative Assistant: Performs clerical work in offices.
- Operations Trainee: Receives training to perform as a conductor or engineer.
Salary & Compensation
- Some internships are paid within their courses, and others are not. Entry-level positions usually pay anywhere from $25,000 to $40,000 a year. Benefits depend on the position and the status.
Requirements & Qualifications
- Interns are generally required to be in college or have recently graduated. Applicants should have a high school diploma or the equivalent, with no experience required. Strong desire to learn, effective communication, and basic technical skills are critical. Background checks and drug screening may be required.
Training & Certification
- Both internships and mentorships offer job-specific training. Fratemeat positions quickly progress through on-the-job training and training classes (eg, conductor certification). Focus on safety training and workplace policies.
Benefits & Perks
- Paid internships may include some benefits. Entry-level employees receive health insurance, retirement plans, and paid leave. Opportunity to gain valuable experience and professional networking.
Career Growth Opportunities
- A lot of interns move into full-time jobs for the next year. Entry-level positions lead to specializations or supervisory roles. Metra supports higher learning and promotes from within.
Why Choose Metra Careers
If you choose a career at Metra, there’s no limit to where you can go: the opportunity is here for the taking. You can help us keep Chicago moving. Metra is one of the largest and most complex commuter rail systems in North America, serving Cook, DuPage, Will, Lake, Kane, and McHenry counties; Metra provides service to downtown Chicago with 241 stations over 11 routes totaling nearly 500 route miles. Metra offers numerous long-term career opportunities in a variety of disciplines, such as train operations, engineering, mechanical, IT, finance/accounting, and other professional positions. A lot of workers embark on decades-long careers here, as the internal rotation and advancement potential allow for continued education and job stability. One of the main benefits of working for Metra is that there’s a fairly strong union presence.
And it’s not just personally rewarding to work at Metra, but also an opportunity to help your community. Every position plays a part in how thousands of riders reach their destination each day – safely and on time. Whether you are looking for purpose and career growth or simply want to work for a company you can truly believe in, Metra offers an opportunity that is second to none.
Requirements & Qualifications for Metra Careers
There are thousands of opportunities for both men and women in every field. For a majority of these entry-level jobs, you will need to have a high-school diploma or GED as well as effective communication and functional computer skills. Trade occupations like electrician, mechanic, and engineer generally demand a trade certificate or several years of apprenticeship followed by a bachelor’s degree in some subfield of engineering.
The candidate may be required to pass:
- A Department of Transportation (DOT) physical,
- drug screening, and a
- Criminal Background Check.
Conductors, operators, and other staff must comply with safety and certification training requirements as mandated by the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA). Other administrative positions may not require a college degree. Excellent attention to detail, teamwork, and a strong focus on safety are essential in all departments. Metra is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer that encourages candidates from diverse backgrounds to apply.
Benefits of Working at Metra
Benefits of working at Metra Employment at Metra comes with a variety of important benefits, which are detailed here to assist in supporting both your professional and personal life. The salary is competitive and rewards the value of our employees’ work; they also have the opportunity for a pay increase and career growth in their function based on seniority and performance. Health, Dental, and Vision insurance for you and your family! In addition to health care plans, we offer a variety of other benefits, including a refundable/stable contribution pension plan and a 401(k) company match retirement savings plan that provides access to the best-known investment managers such as Morgan Stanley and Fidelity.
Competitive paid time off (PTO), sick leave, and holiday schedule contribute to our work/life balance, while education assistance and advanced training programs offer our professionals the resources they need to be at the top of their game. In addition to being publicly funded and union-supported, Metra is also a stable employer, thus providing even more job security for those looking for stability in their careers. Whether you are just beginning or looking to call it your career home, Metra is a place for you.
Career Growth & Training Programs in Metra
At Metra, building your skills is a top priority. It’s a major funder of on-the-job training and apprenticeship programs, especially in technical and skilled trade careers. These are hands-on experiences that allow employees to thrive in their respective positions. Metra also has a great culture of internal promotion, so they tend to promote from within for the upper-level positions. If they perform well, workers are urged to take new jobs after a year or so on their original ones, allowing them to see ahead in their careers.
Metra offers assistance for certification programs, continuing education, and job-related training to help you grow professionally. That includes help with tuition and a partnership with trade schools and universities. Staff members are given opportunities to shape their future careers with development programs structured for both growth and consistency. If you are beginning your career or bring the experience of a long journey, whether joining an entry-level position opening or as a highly experienced professional, Metra wants to hear from you.
How to Apply for Metra Careers
- You can filter your search results on the company’s careers page by category, location, or keyword to enable you to locate positions that match your skills and interests. In every job advertisement, the description of the job, qualifications, responsibilities, and deadline of application are outlined.
- To apply, you will be required to develop an online profile, post your resume, and complete the application. Ensure that you go through the job description, and in your cover letter, explain how your experience fits the job description.
- Interviews or other assessments, including skills assessment or background check(s), will be scheduled, as necessary, based on the position.
- Metra is an Equal Employer/Affirmative Action Company, and it highly encourages all qualified applicants to join. Metra offers full payment to employees in the hiring process, and upon hiring new employees, full payment is given after a duration of 30 days from the hire date. The only thing between you and your new job is a few clicks – Browse our jobs & apply!
Q. What are the minimum requirements to work at Metra?
- Most jobs require a high school diploma or equivalent; certain specialized positions necessitate certifications or college degrees.
Q. Is Metra a good place for training and advancement?
- Yes, Metra has on-the-job training and apprenticeships that will allow employees to grow.”
Q. What are the perks of working for Metra?
- Workers have competitive pay, health insurance, pension plans, paid time off, and union protections.
Q. What kind of jobs does Metra have?
- Metra provides jobs in operations, maintenance of way, engineering, customer service, administrative support, and internships.
Q. How do I apply for a job with Metra?
- For more information, visit Metra’s official careers page at metraumpyet. com/careers to browse positions and apply online.