Job Description

Metra is one of the largest and most complex commuter rail systems in North America, serving Cook, DuPage, Will, Lake, Kane, and McHenry Counties. The agency is linking communities in Northeastern Illinois by providing safe, reliable, and efficient commuter service.

The Operations Training Department is responsible for designing, developing, and delivering training services for the Transportation, Mechanical and Engineering Divisions. Training is delivered to comply with Federal Railroad Administration and OSHA regulations. The Mechanical Division audience includes Carmen, Electricians, Sheet Metal Workers, and Machinists. The Engineering Division audience includes the workforce employed by the Track, Signal, Capital Construction, Communications, Electrical Maintenance and Building/Bridges departments.

Reporting directly to the Senior Division Director, Operations Learning & Development, the Ops Technical Trainer-Dev (Instructional Design) will design and develop technical training programs tailored to the unique needs of Metra's Operations workforce. Develop entry-level through advanced-level courses that increase job knowledge, develop skills and influence behavior. Work closely with subject matter experts to identify and document key content and learning outcomes for both in-person and on-line modules. Document key work processes into the agency’s standard operating procedures. Determine course needs and appropriate delivery methods. Evaluate and enhance the quality of training programs. Perform other duties that support the training of Metra's Operations workforce.

The primary duties include: Design, develop, maintain, edit, and update instructional materials using adult learning theory that appeals to various learning styles. Define learning objectives, develop project standards, identify appropriate instructional strategies, and implement industry and corporate standards into document design. Facilitate train-the-trainer events to prepare trainers to deliver training that complies with Operations Training - Delivery Standards. Apply solid instructional design skills, effective learning principles, and creativity to course design to engage participants in the learning process. Identify, design, and develop innovative, creative training materials using methodologies that ensure learner engagement. Define client requirements, build client relationships, and work with clients to ensure materials meet project requirements. Incumbents work under both inside and outside environmental conditions under prevailing conditions of heat, cold, rain, and snow. Perform other related duties as assigned to meet the ongoing needs of the organization.

Final salary will be determined in part by the qualifications of the selected candidate.Metra is a railroad employer subject to the provisions of the Railroad Retirement Tax Act, not the Social Security Administration.

Job Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Training and Development, Journeyman certification, or in lieu of specified degree, any combination of education and experience may be substituted for the required degree that equals four years in the development or delivery of informal and formal classroom training.
• In addition to #1, must have four years of experience either as an instructor or journeyman in a railroad, technical, or manufacturing environment.
• Knowledge of adult learning theories.
• Knowledge of how to facilitate using a variety of teaching techniques.
• Knowledge of Microsoft 365 (Word, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Excel).
• Comprehensive knowledge of current instructional theories and principles applicable to formal, informal, blended, and online learning.
• Knowledge of traditional instructional design models, including information mapping.
• Working knowledge of multi-media and eLearning design tools including video editing.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills to communicate effectively with all levels of staff, external groups, customers, and organizations.
• Strong interpersonal skills to successfully engage SMEs in the development process.
• Strong project management and time management skills.
• Able to listen and analyze information.
• Able to interpret client needs.
• Able to produce instructional materials.
• Able to meet deadlines.
• Able to work with minimal supervision.
• Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license.
• Ability to stand, walk, and/or, for extended periods of time.
• Hearing/Visual acuity, far/near, depth perception, field of vision, color vision.
• Ability to lift and move up to 50 pounds.
• Must be able to operate a vehicle.
• Must be willing to travel within Metra’s 6-county region.

Please note: Regardless of any state laws that legalize marijuana, Metra prohibits applicants and employees’ use or possession of marijuana (or marijuana paraphernalia), or having detectable amounts of marijuana in their bodies, including synthetic and/or non-synthetic substances such as THC for any reason for pre-employment screening purposes, while on duty, subject to duty, on Metra property, or in Metra work equipment and vehicles.

Metra is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. It is our policy to fill vacant positions with qualified candidates without regard to race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age, gender identity, disability, or any protected categories, assuming an individual can perform the essential functions of the job with or without accommodation.