Rail Electro-Mechanic
King County Metro Transit is looking for dependable, detail-oriented Rail Electro-Mechanics to perform journey-level electrical and mechanical work on light rail vehicles and associated equipment. This position is primarily responsible for the maintenance and repair of light rail vehicles and their electronic equipment and systems, communication systems, surveillance equipment, and other related equipment.
About Metro Transit's Expanding Rail Division
King County Metro's Rail Division manages and maintains Sound Transit's Link Light Rail, a growing network spanning 60 miles and serving 38 stations across the Puget Sound region. Together with Metro's extensive fixed-route bus system and mobility services, the Link Light Rail system is the backbone of an integrated regional transit network that gives people real freedom of movement. As Puget Sound transit agencies work together to build a seamless, connected system, our light rail system plays a central role in expanding access, reducing barriers, and ensuring that everyone across our region can get where they need to go.
Joining Metro's Rail Division means joining an organization that is shaping the future of public transportation in the Pacific Northwest and setting the standard for modern rail operations nationwide. This is a division that values strategic thinking, collaborative leadership, and a deep commitment to the people we serve, both our riders and our teams. Whatever your role, your work here contributes to something that matters, a light rail system that thousands of people count on every day.
Who May Apply
This recruitment is open to all qualified applicants internal and external. Military veterans are encouraged to apply. Relevant Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) areas may include: Airforce: 2T3XI, Army: 915A, Coast Guard: MK, Marine Corps: 3524, Navy: ASE, CM.
This position is considered safety sensitive. Applicants for these positions are required to undergo drug testing prior to employment and subsequent to 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 substance testing program protocols.
Work Schedule
Employees will work a 40-hour per week schedule with a minimum of two consecutive days off. This position may involve working overtime, being called back on short notice, and working non-standard work hours such as nights, weekends, holidays, and/or 4/10 shifts. Applicants must be able and willing to work any day, and any shift (day, swing or graveyard) as assigned. Work schedules are based on a seniority "pick" system, which occurs two times per year. This position is non-exempt from the provisions of the Fair Labor Standards Act and is overtime eligible. Per the union contract, shift differentials are paid to those working second and third shifts. Shift pay is 5% for second shift and 7.5% for third shift, on top of hourly pay. The current hourly rates are:
- 1st-Shift (day): $38.82-$55.46
- 2nd-Shift (swing): $40.76-$58.23
- 3rd Shift (graveyard): $
Application Process
To apply for this position, you must meet the minimum requirements and complete the following:
- An online King County application, updated with all relevant work history going back 10 years (or more, if necessary), with all duties and reasons for leaving explained clearly.
- Answer the supplemental questions in their entirety.
Applications that are not complete, or do not include the required materials, may be rejected as incomplete, and not advanced in the process.
Testing Process
Applicants presenting evidence that they meet or exceed the qualifications listed on this job announcement may be invited to participate in an Electro-Mechanic Aptitude Test. This test consists of two parts: A written knowledge test and a hands-on test. Applicants must pass both tests with a cumulative score of at least 75%, earning a minimum of 70% on both the written and hands-on tests. Candidates who pass the tests will be invited to participate in a panel interview. If a candidate does not pass, there is a minimum 60-day waiting period before they are eligible to re-test for another attempt. Applicants may attempt the test a maximum of three times; after that, they will no longer be considered.
Outlined below are competencies that will be assessed in both the written and hands-on tests. It is recommended that you study or refresh your knowledge on the specified areas listed below.
Written test subjects:
- AC/DC Theory
- Digital and Analog electronics
- Mechanical Maintenance
- Schematics and Print reading
- Test Instruments
- Motors
- Hydraulic systems
- Pneumatic systems
- ASE style troubleshooting questions on Electrical and Mechanical systems
Hands-on test subjects:
- Hand tool basics
- Use of precision tools
- Reading schematics
- Electrical troubleshooting
Selection Process
Employment offers will be finalized only after candidates have successfully passed the Aptitude test, interview and completed our pre-employment checks. These checks may include physical examinations, drug and alcohol checks, reference checks, and reviews of driving records.
In addition, this recruitment's selection process may be used to establish an eligibility list or candidate pool to fill future career service positions in this classification and within this division over the next twelve (12) months and will be utilized at the discretion of the hiring authority.
If you have questions regarding this recruitment, please contact: Marwa Alansi, HR Analyst,
Applying equity and social justice principles is a daily responsibility and a foundational expectation for all King County employees. In this role you will apply equity and social justice principles that exemplify shared values, behaviors, and practices to all aspects of the work. You will:
- Diagnose, test, maintain, repair, and overhaul rail/streetcar vehicles' electrical, electronic and mechanical systems and equipment in accordance with schematics, drawings, wiring diagrams, operations manuals and manufacturer instructions.
- Conduct safety and preventive maintenance inspections on vehicles, systems and equipment; document defects, maintenance and repairs.
- Troubleshoot, repair, replace, or modify mechanical, electronic and electrical components, analog and solid-state electronic systems, and defective parts for a variety of equipment and systems controls.
- Operate and maintain shop equipment and tools.
- Prepare time and material cost estimates and maintain records; prepare various activity and status reports, document defects and repairs on inspection forms, work orders, or designated computer programs.
- Re-rail trains/streetcars and recover vehicles from accidents.
- Install special electronic testing systems and communication devices on cars; service and maintain microprocessor control systems; calibrate and repair test equipment.
- Inspect, test, maintain, repair, service, rebuild and overhaul electrical, mechanical and electronic subsystems on rail/streetcar vehicles.
- Maintain parts inventory and computer inventory records.
- Operate computers for testing and diagnosing fault log management and related data input and retrieval.
- Perform other related duties as assigned
We are looking for candidates who meet the following minimum qualifications:
- Two (2) or more years of journey-level experience in trade such as heavy rebuild, fleet, automotive, heavy equipment, or industrial mechanics which includes experience effectively performing electrical and mechanical maintenance.
- Must have a valid driver's license and an acceptable driving record. Applicants must also possess a Washington State Class B driver's license with an air brake endorsement or be able to obtain and maintain one within six (6) months of hire.
- Ability to obtain a Light Rail Vehicle or Streetcar "Yard Operator" Certification within six (6) months of hire (training will be provided).
Additional qualifications include:
- Skill in the application of electrical and mechanical principles, repair methods, standards and practices typically found in a journey level skilled trades position.
- Skill in developing and implementing safety inspection procedures.
- Skill in the application of testing and inspection methods including solid state circuitry diagnostic and repair techniques and procedures.
- Skill in the use of operating portable test equipment, bench type workstations, tools, parts and supply manuals needed in the repair, maintenance