Rail Vehicle Maintenance Technician

Salary: $40.52 Hourly
Location : Greater Boston Area
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 25-21286
Department: MBTA - Rail Maintenance
Area: 465-Rail Maintenance - Administration
Opening Date: 10/06/2025
Closing Date: 11/30/2025 2:51 PM Eastern
Max Number of Applicants: 450
Licenses / Certifications: A valid Driver's License is required.
Union Affiliation: L589 Carmen's Misc
Safety Sensitive: Yes; this is a Safety Sensitive position. Employees in this role will be subject to periodic physical examinations plus random drug and alcohol testing.
Essential Classification (Emergency Staff): Yes; this position is classified as essential. Employees in this role are required to report to work for their assigned work hours or as directed by supervisory personnel during declared States of Emergency.
On-Call or 24/7: Yes; this position is classified as on-call or 24/7. Employees in this role must be available to respond to page / text / call and report to work as directed by supervisory personnel.

At the MBTA, we envision a thriving region enabled by a best-in-class transit system. Our mission is to serve the public by providing safe, reliable, and accessible transportation. MBTA's Core Values are built around safety, service, equity, sustainability, and culture. Each employee that works for the MBTA performs their roles based on our vision, mission, and values. This includes attendance, participation, and contribution in local safety committee meetings as needed.
Job Summary

The Rail Vehicle Maintenance Technician is responsible for inspection, trouble-shooting, maintenance and repair of all electronic, electrical and mechanical equipment and systems on rail/electric trolley bus (ETB) Duel Mode Articulated (DMA) vehicles and for response to vehicle road failures.
Duties & Responsibilities

• Conduct time-based or mileage based inspections for major and minor repairs.
• Perform schedule overhaul and preventative maintenance; and correction of defects on such equipment as differentials, trucks, wheel bearings, axles, springs, shock absorbers, heating ventilation and air conditioning systems (HVAC), propeller shafts, universal joints, instruments and various auxiliary equipment.
• Use and operate various types of equipment including hand tools, power tools, complex testing instruments and railcar equipment.
• Remain current with the MBTA's Safety Plan as well as the position's outline responsibilities.
• Perform timely repairs in response to road failures and vehicle defects.
• Input daily work into computerized system.
• Use a variety of measuring and portable test equipment to maintain vehicle operating parameters and to troubleshoot system defects. Use various hand and power tools.
• Drive a company or personal vehicle to visit work sites, to inspect work and/or transport crews or equipment and assist at emergencies and/or as needed.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of electronic, electrical and mechanical principles applied to rail car/electric trolley bus (ETB)/Dual Mode Articulated (DMA) equipment; interpret technical publications, blueprints and wiring diagrams.
• Produce written equipment reports and records.
• Respond to each inquiry, whether from a customer, vendor or co-worker in a courteous and professional manner.
• Work any and all shifts and/or locations as assigned or directed.
• Respond or report to work as directed by supervisory personnel for emergencies, extreme weather conditions, or any other abnormal conditions that impair service or the safety of service, twenty-four (24) hours per day, seven (7) days per week.
• Adhere to the rules, regulations, collective bargaining agreements (if applicable) and policies of the Authority including the EEO, Anti-Discrimination, Anti-Harassment and Anti-Retaliation policies.
• Perform related duties and projects as assigned.

Minimum Requirements & Qualifications

• Three (3) years of experience in the repair of mechanical or electrical or HVAC components.
• A high school diploma or equivalent from an accredited institution with the ability to comprehend, communicate and respond to instructions, orders, signs, notices, inquiries, etc. in English.
• Must be at least eighteen (18) years of age.
• Ability to pass: the Rail Vehicle Maintenance Technician exam.
• Possession of a valid driver's license for at least three (3) years.
• A satisfactory driving record for at least three (3) years prior to the date of hire
• Effective multi-tasking and time management skills.
• The ability to pass: a Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) check; background screenings; and the MBTA's medical requirements, including a physical examination and drug and alcohol screening.
• Have excellent customer service skills.
• The ability to provide internal and external customers with a courteous and professional experience.
• Have a satisfactory work record including overall employment, job performance, discipline and safety records. (For internal candidates, the aforementioned applies to the two (2) years immediately prior to the closing date of the posting. Infractions and/or offenses occurring after the closing of the posting and before the filling of a vacancy may preclude a candidate from consideration.
• The ability to work any and all shifts and/or locations as assigned or directed.
• Be available to work twenty four (24) hours per day, seven (7) days per week.
• The ability to work effectively with a diverse workforce.
• Applicants must upload a copy of their most recent unattested driving record.

Substitutions Include

• Knowledge of mechanical, electrical and electronic theory and principles as acquired through a two (2) year, post-high school technical or vocational training program from an accredited institution, including but not limited to a college degree program with related internship or co-op experience, United States Armed Service training and/or documented employer training may be substituted for the required work experience.

PREFERENCES INCLUDE:

• Experience repairing high-tech vehicles or equipment currently used in rail, bus or aviation transportation.

LICENSES/CERTIFICATIONS:

• Possession of a valid driver's license.

Rail Vehicle Maintenance Technician Training Overview

Job Conditions:

• Ability to effectively read, comprehend, communicate, and respond to instructions, orders, signs, notices, inquiries, etc. in English.
• Be at least eighteen (18) years of age, except if participating in an approved high school internship / co-op program.
• Ability to commute to assigned work locations in the Boston, MA metro area, as required by the role.
• Ability to provide internal and external customers with courteous and professional experiences.
• Ability to work effectively, independently, and as part of a diverse workforce team (or supervise, if required).
• Ability to uphold the rights and interests of the MBTA while building and maintaining effective relationships with employees and co-workers.
• Ability to adhere to rules, regulations, collective bargaining agreements (if applicable), and policies of the MBTA, including the EEO, anti-discrimination, anti-harassment, and anti-retaliation policies.
• Have a satisfactory work record for the two (2) years immediately prior to the closing date of this posting (unless if current student or recent graduate), including overall employment, job performance, discipline, and safety records (infractions and/or offenses occurring after the closing of the posting and before the filling of a vacancy may preclude a candidate from consideration for selection).
• Ability to pass a Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) check, comprehensive background screening, and / or medical Clinic screening, potentially including physical examination and drug and alcohol screenings.
• Ability to work all shifts and / or locations assigned, directed, or necessary for this position, including (for some transit / operations roles) up to twenty-four (24) hours per day, seven (7) days per week as necessary to accommodate severe weather conditions, emergencies, or any other circumstances that may potentially impact service or the safety of service.
• Intern / co-op staff must be enrolled full or part-time in an accredited educational program and maintain a cumulative GPA of at least 2.5 for the entire duration of the internship / co-op. Additionally, interns / co-ops must have valid work authorization and U.S. Social Security Number prior to starting their positions and throughout the duration of their program.

Disclaimers and Definitions:

1. General Disclaimer: The statements contained in this job description are intended to describe a summary, general nature, and complexity of typical job functions and do not represent an exhaustive list of all duties, tasks, and responsibilities required of staff assigned to this position.
2. Application Completion: It is each applicant's responsibility to ensure application details are entered completely and correctly, including updated work and education histories (past and current). Incomplete applications may not be considered. Attachments do not substitute for application fields. The recruitment team does not have access to existing employee data / history.
3. Application Deadlines: Applicants should apply as soon as possible, as the MBTA may stop considering applicants after a sufficiently large applicant pool is established.
4. Work Environment: The physical demands and work environment characteristics described here-in are representative of those an employee may encounter while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations can be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions. See job description for role-specific requirements.
5. Work Eligibility: All employees must be legally authorized to work in the United States and on an unrestricted basis. The MBTA does not have an employer work sponsorship program. However, if you have unrestricted work authorization, or are sponsored by a separate entity, you are welcome to apply. Further, all persons hired will require a U.S. Social Security Number prior to starting the position and employees will be required to complete a Form I-9 to verify their identity and eligibility to work in the U.S.
6. Interviews: Candidates should ensure they arrive on time, are prepared, can remain for the duration, and if remote, are in a quiet place without distraction, for the interview. Candidates who do not attend their interview without advance authorization, including an email confirmation of a rescheduled time/date from Human Resources, will be considered a no-show and disqualified from consideration for the position. Related to rescheduling, on a one-time basis, and due to something emergent, you may be allowed to reschedule the interview. In addition, Human Resources may require documentation supporting the request. However, should you need to reschedule, you will need to contact your Recruiter directly by email.
7. Safety Sensitive Positions: Employees working in this classification will be subject to periodic physical examinations plus random drug and alcohol testing.
8. On-call or 24/7 Positions: Employees working in this classification must be available to respond to page / text / call and report to work as determined by assigned department or the Authority.
9. Essential / Emergency Staff: During declared "states of emergency," employees working in this classification are required to report to work for their assigned work hours or as directed by management.
10. ADA Accommodations: The MBTA makes reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities. If you require an accommodation during this process, please contact the MBTA's ADA Unit at 617-222-5751 or
11. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: The MBTA is an For terms, descriptions, and definitions related to diversity, equity, inclusion, veteran status, and immediate family members that you may find on the application form, please visit
12. Intern / Co-Op Benefits: Employees taking part in an internship or co-op at the MBTA are eligible to receive accrued paid sick leave as well as a monthly transportation pass, based on the city from which the intern / co-op commutes to work, at no cost. However, no additional benefits are currently offered for interns or co-ops.

Employment Benefits at the MBTA

Full-Time Employees:

The MBTA offers comprehensive benefits packages to full-time employees. Types of benefits offered at the MBTA are subject to the union affiliation / Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) of the position to which you apply. Benefits that may apply to your position include the following:

• Insurance: Health, Dental, Vision, Life (basic and supplemental), and Long-Term Disability
• Paid Time Off (PTO): Vacation, Personal Days, Sick Leave, and Holidays
• Retirement: Pension or deferred compensation 401(a), plus MBTA contributions
• Complimentary pass for travel on the MBTA transit system (bus, train, ferry, and Commuter Rail)
• Tuition Reimbursement (up to $10,000 per year)
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) for student loans
• Commuter Choice Parking Program: Pre-tax benefits for parking
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA): Pre-tax benefits for healthcare-related expenses
• Discounted tickets for concerts, movies, travel / vacation, etc. via TicketsAtWork.com
• Shopping discounts via GovX.com
• Verizon and AT&T service discounts
• And more...

Internships:

Internship positions are not eligible for most MBTA Benefits. However, paid sick time may be incurred. Each intern also receives a complimentary pass for travel on the MBTA transit system (bus, train, ferry, and Commuter Rail) to use throughout the duration of their internship. Please contact the assigned Recruiter directly or email internships@mbta.com for more information.

Disclaimer:

The above information is meant to be a general overview of the benefit programs offered by the MBTA, which may or may not apply to a specific position. This summary is not a contract andis not meant to change the provisions of union contracts or Authority policies and does not establish a binding practice. Please contact the assigned Recruiter directly or email hrstaffing@mbta.com for more information.

The MBTA is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer
01

What is the highest level of education you have completed?

• Did not attain a High School diploma or equivalent.
• A High School Diploma or equivalent.
• Two (2) year, post-high school technical or vocational training program from an accredited institution in mechanical, electrical or HVAC
• Associate's Degree
• Bachelor's Degree
• Master's Degree or higher

02

Please select the option that best describe your experience in the repair of mechanical or electrical or HVAC components.

• Three (3) years of experience in the repair of mechanical or electrical or HVAC components and I'm able to demonstrate my years of experience through my work history.
• Knowledge of mechanical, electrical and electronic theory and principles acquired through a two (2) year, post-high school technical or vocational training program from an accredited institution, including but not limited to a college degree program with related internship or co-op experience, United States Armed Service training and/or documented employer training
• Experience repairing high-tech vehicles or equipment currently used in rail, bus or aviation transportation.
• Three (3) years of experience in the repair of mechanical or electrical or HVAC components.
• Knowledge of mechanical, electrical and electronic theory and principles as acquired through a two (2) year, post-high school technical or vocational training program from an accredited institution, including but not limited to a college degree program with related internship or co-op experience, United States Armed Service training and/or documented employer training may be substituted for the required work experience.
• No, I do not have any Knowledge of mechanical, electrical and electronic theory or less than three (3) years of experience in the repair of mechanical or electrical or HVAC components

03

I understand that the MBTA will require verification of my work history and education to ensure they align with the job description, minimum requirements, and qualifications.

• Yes

04

The MBTA needs to review your driving record to process your application. Do you authorize the MBTA to obtain your driving records? If you have a Massachusetts license, you can have the MBTA pull your driving record on your behalf at no cost to you by responding "yes" to this question. If you do NOT have a Massachusetts license, or if you would prefer to provide your driving record to the MBTA, you should answer this question "no."

• Yes, I authorize the MBTA to access my driving records on my behalf. I understand that the MBTA is asking for my driver's license number on this application to make sure that it is accessing the correct driving records and that the MBTA will not use my driver's license number for any other purpose. Note: The MBTA only has access to Massachusetts driver's licenses. If your driver's license is issued by another state, please use the option below
• No, my driver's license is NOT issued by the state of Massachusetts. I will provide a recent copy of my driving record, covering from the date I first obtained my license up to no more than one month prior to my application date to HRStaffing@mbta.com.
• No, I do not authorize the MBTA to obtain my records. I will obtain and provide a copy of my current (within past two weeks) "Unattested Public Driving Record" from the MA RMV, which I will upload as part of my application or email to HRStaffing@mbta.com. I understand that my application is not complete until / unless I attach my driving record.
• No, I do not want my driving record reviewed and understand that I cannot be further considered for this role without that review.
• I do not have a valid U.S. Driver's License

05

Do you have a valid Class D driver's license (which allows you to legally operate a passenger vehicle, van, or small truck)?

• Yes
• No

06

If you answered "Yes" to question #5, please provide your Driver's License number below. Otherwise enter "n/a"
07

If you answered "Yes" to question #5, please enter your full name as it appears on your Driver's license below. Otherwise enter "n/a".
Required Question

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