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Description

About the Role

The Trainmaster and Assistant Trainmaster play a critical leadership role in ensuring the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of the PATH system while on duty. Serving as the central command and coordination authority within the Control Center, these roles are responsible for directing train operations, supervising personnel, managing service performance, and responding to routine, non-routine, and emergency situations. Through continuous system monitoring, clear and timely communication, and decisive operational oversight, the Trainmaster and Assistant Trainmaster ensure compliance with operating rules, maintain service continuity, and uphold the highest standards of safety and customer service. In collaboration with internal departments, PATH Police, and external agencies, they provide real-time operational leadership and ensure effective shift-to-shift continuity to support uninterrupted service delivery.

Responsibilities

Under direct supervision of a Trainmaster, the Assistant Trainmaster:

Mainline & Terminal Operations

Direct daily train movement to meet published schedules, service plans, and special operations while maintaining rules and safety compliance.

Monitor and adjust terminal turnback's, dwell times, equipment cycles, and crew deployment to protect throughput and headways.

Investigate deviations from schedule, orders, rules, and regulations; identify root causes; implement immediate corrective actions; and brief leadership on risks and remediation.

Yard, Interlocking, and Tower Coordination

Supervise yards and towers; ensure routes are lined and signals/switches are correctly set; issue clear direction during abnormal and emergency situations to restore service safely.

Collaborate with Tower Operators and Dispatchers to resolve routing conflicts, protect movements during work windows, and manage protective arrangements.

Train Crew Leadership & Development

Supervise and coach Train Dispatchers, Tower Operators, Engineers/Engineer-Switching, Conductors, and other Transportation personnel.

Service Recovery & Incident Management

Lead service recovery for incidents, equipment failures, and weather events; coordinate with Passenger Services and Customer Experience, Structure & Facilities, Track, Car Equipment, Power, Signals and Communications, PAPD and several internal and external stakeholders.

Ensure timely, accurate status communication to internal partners for rapid customer messaging and operational decisions.

Work Coordination & Construction Windows

Plan and protect maintenance/construction activities; issue operating restrictions; stage equipment/crews to minimize customer and operational impacts.

Reports, Records, and Analytics

Prepare and validate daily reports on schedule performance, delays, car equipment utilization, car washes, and special operations; track trends and recommend improvements.

Maintain accurate documentation that supports audits, post-incident reviews, and continuous improvement.

Other Duties

Perform related work as assigned to meet operational needs of a 24/7 railroad environment.

• Flexible Scheduling: This position requires flexibility to work various shifts on short notice.

• Weekly Hold-Down Assignments: A weekly hold-down schedule is distributed one week in advance to address coverage needs. Assignments may vary depending on scheduled absences. Preferred extra assignments are distributed based on shift preference, followed by seniority.

• Work Hours and Overtime: Standard Schedule: 40 hours per week

• Overtime: Available based on operational requirements

• Daily limits: ▪ Maximum hours worked: 9 hours

• Minimum scheduled hours: 8 hours

• Minimum rest period between shifts: 15 hours

• Work Environment: Primary work location is the PATH Control Center (PTCC)

• Work is performed in a seated position within a secure environment

• The role involves sustained focus in a fast-paced, high-stakes setting

• Technology and Tools: Use of multiple computer screens, including Automatic Train Supervision (ATS) workstations and standard networked computers

• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel and Outlook is required

• Must be comfortable navigating digital platforms and resolving basic technical issues

Minimum Qualifications

Education: High School or Equivalency Diploma is required.

Experience: Minimum of 7 years as PATH Passenger Train Conductor

OR

Minimum of 4 years as the Transportation Rail Scheduling Analyst or Planning Analyst

OR

Minimum of 4 years combined supervisory experience in any of the following titles at PATH: Operations Examiner, Dispatcher/Terminal Supervisor, Yard Supervisor, Tower Operator, Train Engineer.

OR

Minimum of 5 years as a PATH Department Supervisory Experience, at the level of foreman and above. Individuals who are not currently in the Transportation Division are required to take the written exam.

Desired Qualifications

Required Knowledge: Candidates must demonstrate working knowledge of the following: Book of Rules

Emergency Preparedness Plan

Power Sections

Decision-Making and Multi-Tasking: The ability to make quick, accurate, and safety-conscious decisions is essential. Strong multi-tasking skills are required to manage concurrent responsibilities effectively.

Exempt Status: Upon entering exempt status, vacation and/or personal time may be subject to adjustment.

Performance Management: Participation in the annual Reflektive goal-setting process is required. Employees will work with supervisors

Selection Process

The application process varies by position, but typically includes an initial phone interview for qualified candidates, followed by a more in-depth interview(s) and/or assessment(s). Selected candidates who are made a conditional job offer will be asked to undergo a background check.

Compensation, Benefits & On-Site Collaboration Requirements

The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey offers a competitive benefits package and a professional environment that supports development and recognizes achievement.​ Click here for more information about benefits, our culture, and career development opportunities.​

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The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey anticipates that the actual salary offered to a successful candidate will depend on aspects such as experience, knowledge, skills, abilities, and internal factors. The expected compensation range for this role is:​

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Minimum: $107,250 Midpoint: $139,430 Maximum: $171,600

In accordance with Port Authority policy, this position permits employees to work remotely a maximum of one day per week, subject to operational and business needs.

REQNUMBER: 63995