King County
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* This position is open to all King County employees and the general public. *
King County Metro Transit’s Rail Division has an exciting opportunity for a Rail Signal and Communications Technician Lead In this role, you will be responsible for performing Journey level repairs, maintenance and troubleshooting as well as providing lead direction, assigning and coordinating the work of other classifications within the Rail Signals & Communications workgroup.
The ideal candidate for this position will be able to communicate effectively with a diverse employee work group, proactively solve problems that impact service delivery, and encourage a safety culture while inspiring high standards of customer service excellence, as well as the ability to motivate employees through building respect and trust.
About Metro Transit's Expanding Rail Division King County Metro Transit's Rail Division manages and maintains Sound Transit's Link light rail service and City of Seattle’s streetcar system. Link light rail currently spans a 50-mile route from Federal Way to Lynnwood and a 6.6-mile route from Redmond to South Bellevue. By the end of 2026, light rail is projected to expand to nearly 60 route miles, adding seven new stations. Additional expansions to the Link system will be coming online for years to come.
Seattle Streetcar includes the 1.3 mile South Lake Union line and the 2.5 mile First Hill line, proudly serving the diverse and vibrant communities around Seattle’s downtown core. These rail services complement Metro's extensive fixed-route bus system and mobility services. Puget Sound transit agencies are collaborating to create an integrated transit network that enables people to travel farther, faster, and more easily.
This recruitment may immediately fill multiple Career Service positions and may also be used to establish an eligibility list for future Career Service vacancies, valid up to 12 months or until the pool is exhausted, and at the discretion of the hiring authority.
Interviews are anticipated to occur during the week of January 19 through January 23, 2026 but are subject to change.
Who May Apply This position is open to King County employees and the general public.
To Apply
An online King County application, updated with accurate contact information, and relevant work history going back at least 10 years (or more, if necessary), with all job duties.
Copies of documents showing completion of Journey Level Signal Training Program (FRA or Transit equivalent).
Completed supplemental questions.
Current Hourly Rates Day Shift: $65.90 | Swing Shift: $69.20 | Graveyard Shift: $70.84
Want to make sure your application materials are as competitive as possible? We highly recommend visiting the Workforce Development Services website for tips and examples on how to make your application materials most effective: Workforce Development - King County, Washington
As the Rail Signal and Communications Technician Lead, you will:
Perform the full range of responsibilities of the Rail Signal & Communications Technician Classification.
Take responsibility for coordinating the work of and providing technical assistance to technicians performing a wide variety of signal & communications maintenance duties; assign work in accordance with work operating requirements and workload demands; control and monitor workflow.
Respond to questions and provide technical advice on project requirements, specifications and material requirements.
Assist in the training of other Signal & Communications classifications in required maintenance operations, standard operating procedures, safety procedures and job functions and tasks.
Provide feedback to the chief/superintendent on employee and team work performance issues.
Monitor work assignments to ensure work has been completed in a quality manner and within established timeframes; ensure adherence to all maintenance schedules; ensure equipment is maintained and in proper working order.
Advise crew members when their work is deficient or in violation of established regulations and procedures.
Maintain varied records including work performed, time spent, materials used, operating logs and related information; enter and extract data using automated systems; maintain manual records as required.
Participate in the development and implementation of a comprehensive preventative maintenance program for signals & communications and associated features of the high‑rail system; prepare records and document maintenance and diagnostic data.
Respond to emergency situations. Prioritize and determine work priorities for emergency maintenance tasks in the absence of on‑site supervision.
Perform snow/ice removal during inclement weather to maintain the system.
Perform other duties as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications
Two years of full‑time journey‑level experience performing railway signaling and communications work and documented completion of a Journey Level Signal Training Program (FRA or Transit equivalent) is required.
Ability to plan, assign, balance and check work.
Skill in training and providing technical assistance.
Ability to use automated maintenance management information systems in order to process work orders and assignments.
Basic computer skills in standard software applications including MS Word, MS Excel and MS Outlook, with the ability to enter and extract information from automated systems.
Knowledge of traffic safety techniques and procedures for establishing maintenance and repair work sites.
Advanced skill in reading and interpreting blueprints, schematics and drawings.
Skill in oral and written communication including reading, writing and following instructions.
Skill in preparing written reports, inspection forms for documenting defects and repairs of work orders in designated computer programs; skill in preparing time and material cost estimates; ability to keep accurate records.
Skill in working with a diverse group of individuals in a tactful and diplomatic manner.
Willingness and ability to apply King County's core values around inclusion, equity and social justice as a team member and representative of King County to the public.
Skill in problem‑solving and analyzing data to solve common and complex problems. Knowledge of the fundamentals of railway signaling and communications.
Knowledge in analyzing and evaluating malfunctions in electrical and electronic railway equipment and determining repair requirements; skill in performing electronic fabrication and assembly tasks, such as soldering and wire harnessing; skill in problem‑solving, analyzing, diagnosing and evaluating equipment problems.
Knowledge of and skill in industrial safety techniques, principles and procedures including working from elevated platforms and equipment and working at railway crossings with train and automobile traffic.
Knowledge of and skill in maintaining and troubleshooting mechanical and hydraulic equipment.
Skill in the application of customer service techniques and principles when dealing with customers in a tactful and diplomatic manner.
Please Note: Internal King County Rail Signal candidates will be able to provide internal training documentation to meet training requirements.
Necessary Special Requirements
Class B CDL with airbrake endorsement or ability to obtain one (we train).
Ability to obtain boom truck, forklift, Hi‑Rail, overhead and mobile crane as well as various other specialty certifications within the work group.
A valid Driver’s License and an acceptable driving record. If you possess an out‑of‑state driver’s license, you must obtain a WA state license within 30 days of hire.
Application & Selection Process Applications will be screened to determine whether candidates meet minimum qualifications, and for clarity, completeness, and responsiveness to the application instructions above. Highly competitive applicants may be asked to interview. Formal offers will be finalized after candidates have successfully completed any necessary pre‑employment processes, such as reference checks or internal record reviews.
Work Schedule This position will be full time, assigned 40 hours per week. Employees must be able to work any of the three shifts (day, swing, or graveyard). This position is part of a workgroup that provides 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year support. Work schedules are based on a Seniority pick system 2× per year. Work schedule may include non‑standard work hours including evenings, weekends and holidays as needed. This position is non‑exempt from the provisions of the Fair Labor Standards Act and is therefore overtime eligible, with prior supervisory approval.
SAFETY SENSITIVE These positions are considered safety‑sensitive. Applicants for positions defined as safety‑sensitive are required to undergo drug testing prior to employment and, subsequent to the commencement of employment, will be subject to random, post‑accident, reasonable suspicion, return to duty and follow‑up drug and alcohol testing in compliance with Federal DOT alcohol and controlled substances testing program protocols.
Union Membership This position is represented by Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU), Local 587.
Work Location
Operations & Maintenance Facility (OMF) Central at 3407 Airport Way S., Seattle, WA.
Operations & Maintenance Facility (OMF) East at 1925 120th Ave NE, Bellevue, WA.
Maintenance of Way North (MOWN) 920 N 137th St Seattle, WA
Federal Way Field Office (MOWS) 2505 S 320th St, Federal Way, WA
And any future Sound Transit Link facilities.
CLASS CODE / PAY GRADE: 8311250 / 211
For more information regarding this recruitment, please contact: Ebony Ware, Human Resource Analyst, at eware@kingcounty.gov.
KING COUNTY IS AN EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY (EEO) EMPLOYER:
No person is unlawfully excluded from employment opportunities based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex (including gender identity, sexual orientation, and pregnancy), age, genetic information, disability, veteran status, or other protected class. Our EEO policy applies to all employment actions, including but not limited to recruitment, hiring, selection for training, promotion, transfer, demotion, layoff, termination, rates of pay or other forms of compensation.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
King County Metro Transit’s Rail Division has an exciting opportunity for a Rail Signal and Communications Technician Lead In this role, you will be responsible for performing Journey level repairs, maintenance and troubleshooting as well as providing lead direction, assigning and coordinating the work of other classifications within the Rail Signals & Communications workgroup.
The ideal candidate for this position will be able to communicate effectively with a diverse employee work group, proactively solve problems that impact service delivery, and encourage a safety culture while inspiring high standards of customer service excellence, as well as the ability to motivate employees through building respect and trust.
About Metro Transit's Expanding Rail Division King County Metro Transit's Rail Division manages and maintains Sound Transit's Link light rail service and City of Seattle’s streetcar system. Link light rail currently spans a 50-mile route from Federal Way to Lynnwood and a 6.6-mile route from Redmond to South Bellevue. By the end of 2026, light rail is projected to expand to nearly 60 route miles, adding seven new stations. Additional expansions to the Link system will be coming online for years to come.
Seattle Streetcar includes the 1.3 mile South Lake Union line and the 2.5 mile First Hill line, proudly serving the diverse and vibrant communities around Seattle’s downtown core. These rail services complement Metro's extensive fixed-route bus system and mobility services. Puget Sound transit agencies are collaborating to create an integrated transit network that enables people to travel farther, faster, and more easily.
This recruitment may immediately fill multiple Career Service positions and may also be used to establish an eligibility list for future Career Service vacancies, valid up to 12 months or until the pool is exhausted, and at the discretion of the hiring authority.
Interviews are anticipated to occur during the week of January 19 through January 23, 2026 but are subject to change.
Who May Apply This position is open to King County employees and the general public.
To Apply
An online King County application, updated with accurate contact information, and relevant work history going back at least 10 years (or more, if necessary), with all job duties.
Copies of documents showing completion of Journey Level Signal Training Program (FRA or Transit equivalent).
Completed supplemental questions.
Current Hourly Rates Day Shift: $65.90 | Swing Shift: $69.20 | Graveyard Shift: $70.84
Want to make sure your application materials are as competitive as possible? We highly recommend visiting the Workforce Development Services website for tips and examples on how to make your application materials most effective: Workforce Development - King County, Washington
As the Rail Signal and Communications Technician Lead, you will:
Perform the full range of responsibilities of the Rail Signal & Communications Technician Classification.
Take responsibility for coordinating the work of and providing technical assistance to technicians performing a wide variety of signal & communications maintenance duties; assign work in accordance with work operating requirements and workload demands; control and monitor workflow.
Respond to questions and provide technical advice on project requirements, specifications and material requirements.
Assist in the training of other Signal & Communications classifications in required maintenance operations, standard operating procedures, safety procedures and job functions and tasks.
Provide feedback to the chief/superintendent on employee and team work performance issues.
Monitor work assignments to ensure work has been completed in a quality manner and within established timeframes; ensure adherence to all maintenance schedules; ensure equipment is maintained and in proper working order.
Advise crew members when their work is deficient or in violation of established regulations and procedures.
Maintain varied records including work performed, time spent, materials used, operating logs and related information; enter and extract data using automated systems; maintain manual records as required.
Participate in the development and implementation of a comprehensive preventative maintenance program for signals & communications and associated features of the high‑rail system; prepare records and document maintenance and diagnostic data.
Respond to emergency situations. Prioritize and determine work priorities for emergency maintenance tasks in the absence of on‑site supervision.
Perform snow/ice removal during inclement weather to maintain the system.
Perform other duties as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications
Two years of full‑time journey‑level experience performing railway signaling and communications work and documented completion of a Journey Level Signal Training Program (FRA or Transit equivalent) is required.
Ability to plan, assign, balance and check work.
Skill in training and providing technical assistance.
Ability to use automated maintenance management information systems in order to process work orders and assignments.
Basic computer skills in standard software applications including MS Word, MS Excel and MS Outlook, with the ability to enter and extract information from automated systems.
Knowledge of traffic safety techniques and procedures for establishing maintenance and repair work sites.
Advanced skill in reading and interpreting blueprints, schematics and drawings.
Skill in oral and written communication including reading, writing and following instructions.
Skill in preparing written reports, inspection forms for documenting defects and repairs of work orders in designated computer programs; skill in preparing time and material cost estimates; ability to keep accurate records.
Skill in working with a diverse group of individuals in a tactful and diplomatic manner.
Willingness and ability to apply King County's core values around inclusion, equity and social justice as a team member and representative of King County to the public.
Skill in problem‑solving and analyzing data to solve common and complex problems. Knowledge of the fundamentals of railway signaling and communications.
Knowledge in analyzing and evaluating malfunctions in electrical and electronic railway equipment and determining repair requirements; skill in performing electronic fabrication and assembly tasks, such as soldering and wire harnessing; skill in problem‑solving, analyzing, diagnosing and evaluating equipment problems.
Knowledge of and skill in industrial safety techniques, principles and procedures including working from elevated platforms and equipment and working at railway crossings with train and automobile traffic.
Knowledge of and skill in maintaining and troubleshooting mechanical and hydraulic equipment.
Skill in the application of customer service techniques and principles when dealing with customers in a tactful and diplomatic manner.
Please Note: Internal King County Rail Signal candidates will be able to provide internal training documentation to meet training requirements.
Necessary Special Requirements
Class B CDL with airbrake endorsement or ability to obtain one (we train).
Ability to obtain boom truck, forklift, Hi‑Rail, overhead and mobile crane as well as various other specialty certifications within the work group.
A valid Driver’s License and an acceptable driving record. If you possess an out‑of‑state driver’s license, you must obtain a WA state license within 30 days of hire.
Application & Selection Process Applications will be screened to determine whether candidates meet minimum qualifications, and for clarity, completeness, and responsiveness to the application instructions above. Highly competitive applicants may be asked to interview. Formal offers will be finalized after candidates have successfully completed any necessary pre‑employment processes, such as reference checks or internal record reviews.
Work Schedule This position will be full time, assigned 40 hours per week. Employees must be able to work any of the three shifts (day, swing, or graveyard). This position is part of a workgroup that provides 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year support. Work schedules are based on a Seniority pick system 2× per year. Work schedule may include non‑standard work hours including evenings, weekends and holidays as needed. This position is non‑exempt from the provisions of the Fair Labor Standards Act and is therefore overtime eligible, with prior supervisory approval.
SAFETY SENSITIVE These positions are considered safety‑sensitive. Applicants for positions defined as safety‑sensitive are required to undergo drug testing prior to employment and, subsequent to the commencement of employment, will be subject to random, post‑accident, reasonable suspicion, return to duty and follow‑up drug and alcohol testing in compliance with Federal DOT alcohol and controlled substances testing program protocols.
Union Membership This position is represented by Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU), Local 587.
Work Location
Operations & Maintenance Facility (OMF) Central at 3407 Airport Way S., Seattle, WA.
Operations & Maintenance Facility (OMF) East at 1925 120th Ave NE, Bellevue, WA.
Maintenance of Way North (MOWN) 920 N 137th St Seattle, WA
Federal Way Field Office (MOWS) 2505 S 320th St, Federal Way, WA
And any future Sound Transit Link facilities.
CLASS CODE / PAY GRADE: 8311250 / 211
For more information regarding this recruitment, please contact: Ebony Ware, Human Resource Analyst, at eware@kingcounty.gov.
KING COUNTY IS AN EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY (EEO) EMPLOYER:
No person is unlawfully excluded from employment opportunities based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex (including gender identity, sexual orientation, and pregnancy), age, genetic information, disability, veteran status, or other protected class. Our EEO policy applies to all employment actions, including but not limited to recruitment, hiring, selection for training, promotion, transfer, demotion, layoff, termination, rates of pay or other forms of compensation.
#J-18808-Ljbffr