9153-Transportation Controller

Job description

CITY AND COUNTY OF SAN FRANCISCO

DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN RESOURCES

Title: Transportation Controller

Job Code: 9153

DEFINITION

Under direction of the Transportation Operations Specialist, the Transportation Controller monitors bus, trolley, surface light rail and subway transit operations using console equipment and field devices which control, monitor, evaluate performance, provide public information, and related functions in the transportation network for the Transportation Management Center (TMC). Includes real-time system operations in fields such as train control, bus dispatching, parking enforcement, emergency response/management. Processes and synthesizes the integration of measurable traffic and transportation evaluation data (e.g. traffic volume, queue lengths, average delay, headways, weather, etc.) gathered from multiple data collections systems.

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES

This job code is distinguished from the 9160 Transportation Operations Specialist in that the latter trains and supervises Transportation Management Center (TMC) staff, and may enforce, recommend, and modify policies and procedures as necessary.

SUPERVISION EXERCISED

None.

EXAMPLES OF IMPORTANT AND ESSENTIAL DUTIES

According to Civil Service Commission Rule 409, the duties specified below are representative of the range of duties assigned to this job code and are not intended to be an inclusive list.

1. Monitors bus, trolley, surface light rail, and subway transit system operations using system devices and equipment to proactively assess information on operations activities and external conditions affecting operations. Monitors, controls, tracks, reports and dispatches personnel and vehicles as part of normal duties and to respond to incidents or natural catastrophes/disasters. Uses logs and shift transfer procedures, follows incident management, dispatching, contacting and reporting processes.

2. Operates automated equipment systems in real time on computer workstations using complex software systems displayed on multiple monitors/systems. Uses tools such as Computer Aided Dispatch / Automated Vehicle Location (CAD/AVL), traffic signal control for bus rapid transit, control street level closed circuit TV cameras, posts messages to public information systems, coordinates with parking management systems, and the new digital radio system. This includes navigating between multiple open applications to optimize overall systems velocity and on-time performance objectives.

3. Communicates visual or graphic information from the TMC display wall. Listens to and verbally interprets multiple-information sources. This includes verbally conveying all information clearly and succinctly in person, via telephone, radio, and through computer system applications.

4. Analyzes operational information and understands applications of road and service maps, video image displays, graphical text data, icons, and transportation modes and symbols in written/digital formats. Comprehends visual or graphic information from display wall, matches video orientation with static images.

5. Determines if real-time transportation data is abnormal, anomalous, or within applicable thresholds. Makes operational decisions, action plans, and recommendations as necessary.

6. Coordinates with relevant personnel to resolve breakdowns, safety issues, disruptions, and computer failures. Coordinates with other partners in transportation management (law enforcement, fire protection, parking control, etc.) functions and responsibilities.

7. Prepares reports and correspondence, including incident reports, notifications, research regarding incidents and complaints. Maintains reports and records to ensure compliance with all federal, state, local and departmental policies and procedures.

8. Issues violations consistent with both Rail and Bus Rule Book on safe operating procedures.

9. Performs related duties and responsibilities as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

Knowledge of: an understanding of the major functions of the Transportation Management Center (TMC) and Field Operations including federal, state and local regulations related to the transportation operations of the Agency; computerized transportation systems control including Automatic Train Control System (ATCS) and/or Centralized Train Control (CTC) systems and radio communications protocol; techniques and strategies of transportation management; incident/congestion management, assess the severity of the transportation operation activities/situations and develop appropriate action plans to resolve/restore on a temporary basis and/or to normal operations; identifying source(s) of the problem, dispatching appropriate resources and managing resulting congestion utilizing automated communications networks and systems; techniques and strategies of transportation management and radio communications; safety including, as trained, applicable federal and state safety rules related to bus, trolley, surface light rail, and subway transit systems, principles and practices of safe transit operations including times of emergency and transit vehicle passenger safety to maintain a safe work environment.

Ability or Skill to: read maps/schematics, and character text information, including visual, audio and emergency graphic icons; analyze operational information; make real-time decisions and choose appropriate solutions by exercising sound judgment in making recommendations within guidelines; exercise human relations/interpersonal skills to deal courteously and effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds; establish and maintain effective working relationships with supervisors, managers, and co-workers; speak clearly and effectively in order to give instructions, answer questions, respond to daily operational incidents, articulate recommendations and supportive facts, elicit feedback and to listen attentively to others, verbally persuade others and summarize information; prepare and maintain instructions, reports, memos, correspondence, documents, and records in a clear, concise, and accurate manner; read and comprehend written materials; operate computer terminal, keyboard, two-way radio and telephone equipment as tools to accomplish assigned responsibilities and tasks, sometimes, under immense pressure.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

These minimum qualifications establish the education, training, experience, special skills and/or license(s) which are required for employment in the classification. Please note, additional qualifications (i.e., special conditions) may apply to a particular position and will be stated on the exam/job announcement.

The following are required to be possessed as of the filing deadline for applications:

1. Successful completion of all modules of the Transportation Controller Trainee Program with the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency (SFMTA).

Substitution:

Completion of equivalent training programs from other public transit agencies will be considered upon receipt of detailed training curriculum and may be accepted only if candidates can demonstrate the technical competency required to complete the SFMTA training program.

The following must be possessed as of the date that a position is certified to the eligible list and maintained through the date of appointment. These minimum qualifications ensure that hires will possess necessary standards of delivering safe and quality service.

1. No accidents where applicant contributed to the cause (i.e., preventable) in the previous thirty-six (36) months; AND

2. No preventable non-collision safety incidents in the previous twelve (12) months; AND

3. No suspensions in the previous twelve (12) months; AND

4. No Performance Appraisals within the previous twelve (12) months with an overall determination of unsatisfactory performance.

The following will be assessed during the probationary period:

1. Ability to utilize software applications related to the work of the assigned unit.

LICENSE AND CERTIFICATION

SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION

The nature of work requires working in a confined and, at times, highly stressful environment; sitting for extended periods of time; constantly viewing display monitors; and working rotating shifts, weekends, and holidays. In addition, employees may be required to wear headsets.

PROMOTIVE LINES

To: 9160 Transportation Operations Specialist

From: 9152 Transportation Controller Trainee

ORIGINATION DATE: 10/02/15

AMENDED DATE: 12/21/16, 09/25/24

REASON FOR AMENDMENT To accurately reflect the current tasks, knowledge, skills & abilities, and minimum qualifications.

BUSINESS UNIT(S): SFMTA

Standard information

Disaster service work

All City and County of San Francisco employees are designated Disaster Service Workers through state and local law (California Government Code Section 3100-3109). Employment with the City requires the affirmation of a loyalty oath to this effect. Employees are required to complete all Disaster Service Worker-related training as assigned, and to return to work as ordered in the event of an emergency.

Historic and future compensation