- The Communications Trainee is an entry level position within the Engineering Department – Communications at New Jersey Transit Rail Operations.
- Employees of the Communications Department are responsible for the installation, testing, and maintenance of all equipment associated with railroad signaling (including but not limited to highway grade crossings, electrical/mechanical switches, and railway traffic control signals).
- Excavate railroad right-of-ways for cable/conduit installations.
- Cutting tree limbs and brush overgrowth interfering with signal systems.
- Climbing stairwells and ladders (with fall prevention equipment) to perform work.
- Walking over and working on top on fixed overhead fixed and movable railroad bridges.
- Cleaning and painting of exterior/interior signal equipment housing.
- Transport employees, supplies, and equipment to various locations throughout New Jersey with company vehicles.
- Working outdoors in all types of weather conditions, including in confined spaces and at various heights.
- Assist fellow Signal Department employees in all manners of work involving the installation, testing, and maintenance of all forms of signal apparatus and functions.
- A High School diploma or its educational equivalent (GED) approved by the State’s Department of Education or recognized accredited organization.
- Electrical and/or electronic experience either through prior work experience, military, or through completion of a technical or trade school.
- Knowledge and understanding of basic electricity: series and parallel circuits, Ohm’s Law, resistance, etc.
- Knowledge and understanding of basic electronics: diodes, capacitors, rectifiers, circuit boards, etc.
- Must possess the physical aptitude to perform electrical and electronic work.
- Must possess the ability to be able to learn and use various types of electrical measuring instruments.
- Must possess a physical ability to use various types of hand and power tools.
- Must possess a valid driver’s license.
- Must be able to work various shifts, holidays, and weekends.
- Must be able to apply pushing and pulling force of (60) sixty pounds pressure during manual cranking operation of railroad switches.
- Mechanical knowledge and work experience, i.e. auto mechanic, airline mechanic preferred.
- Military experience will be taken into consideration.
- Prior railroad experience as a Signal Department will be taken into consideration.
- Perform heavy lifting and carrying tasks with the weight of up to (50) fifty pounds.
- Advancement Opportunities and Wage Progression
- Comprehensive Family Health Insurance - Medical, Dental, Prescription, Vision
- Flexible Spending Account
- Paid Leave and Paid Time Off (personal, sick, and vacation days)
- Life Insurance
- 401(a) Retirement Plan - up to 5% match and 457-Deferred Savings Plan
- U.S. Railroad Retirement Benefits (RRB)
This position is deemed safety sensitive per the Department of Transportation (DOT) Drug and Alcohol Testing Regulations.