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, and sustainability and 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.

As the OCS System Administrator, you will be responsible for the administration of the MBTA Operations Control System (OCS), a vital technological infrastructure that underpins the functionality of OCC's Train Control System. The Operations Control Center (OCC) is MBTA's nerve center where teams of dispatchers, supervisors, and vehicle operators work together to provide efficient, safe, and reliable public transit via Heavy-Rail (Red, Orange, Blue lines) and Light-Rail (Green line) train systems.
 
This role goes beyond traditional Linux system administration and requires a creative problem solver who thrives on variety while understanding the high stakes of real-time system operation. The OCS System Administrator will also support maintenance and enhancements of real-time data processing, field assets, and communication systems that empower the OCC to effectively oversee, control, and respond to the dynamic needs of the MBTA's transit network. This role will report directly to the Deputy Director Operations Control System (OCS).

• Support, maintain, enhance, and prototype solutions for the real-time distributed system used to manage the MBTA's Operations Control Center Train Control System.
• Respond to system emergencies (automated and end user identified) twenty-four (24) hours per day, seven (7) days per week.
• Work closely with OCS team and stakeholders to improve the automated system monitoring and problem auto resolution systems.
• Monitor the functionality of installed equipment in order to detect hazards and the need for adjustments, reallocation, or replacement.
• Troubleshoot and document resolutions of failures with computer hardware, operating system, network, and control system.
• Design/implement new systems, hardware, and technologies into the Operations Control Center and remote field locations.
• Read, update, and create detailed documentation such as system schematics, hardware layout diagrams, operating system installation procedures, and maintenance procedures.
• Create, execute, and analyze database reports and ad-hoc queries.
• Create, review, and execute system test procedures.
• Utilize change control and version management procedures.
• MySQL database setup configuration and maintenance monitoring.
• Maintain system backups
• Apache Web Server setup configuration and maintenance monitoring.
• Configuration of network Firewall, Routers and Switches and maintenance monitoring.
• Coordinate with Schedules Department on train schedule loading.
• Perform field site visits to troubleshoot, repair, replace system equipment.
• General understanding or knowledge of cellular signals, electrical wiring, fiber, and Ethernet base networked devices.
• Field site visits for system integration testing.
• Ensure all system inventory, equipment, facilities, and materials are protected and maintained and stored in a safe operating condition.
• Purchasing of system equipment and develop a proficiency in the departmental ordering process.
• Perform all other duties and projects that may be assigned

• A Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field.
• Four (4) years system administration experience with Linux/Unix operating systems.
• Should have working knowledge of: Desktop/Server hardware configuration, real-time systems, general networking (router/switch/firewall configuration), redundant configuration setups, MySQL/MariaDB database and SQL query, Apache web server, RAID Disk array configuration, Experience with shell scripting (sh/bash/csh/Pearl or similar).
• Ability to access remote field sites in tunnels and along tracks.
• Have excellent analytical, problem solving, organizational, planning, multi-tasking, time management, documentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Have 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.
• Ability to provide internal and external customers with a courteous and professional experience.
• Possess a valid driver's license.

• Experience with: CentOS Linux, DRBD, NS, Gnome, X server, CUPS, docker/container (Debian chroot), Cisco and Moxa networking equipment, Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA), MySQL/MariaDB SOL query, Adobe ColdFusion.

• A High School Diploma or GED with an additional seven (7) years of directly related experience (Linux/Unix operating system) substitutes for the bachelor's degree requirement.
• An associate degree from an accredited institution an additional three (3) years of directly related experience substitutes for the bachelor's degree requirement.
• A master's degree in a related subject substitute for two (2) years of general experience.

Job Conditions:

• Ability to effectively read, comprehend, communicate, and respond to instructions, orders, signs, notices, inquiries, etc. in English
• Ability to provide internal and external customers with courteous and professional experiences
• Ability to work effectively independently and as part of a 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 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 medical Clinic screening, potentially including a 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

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 Deadlines: Applicants should apply as soon as possible, as the MBTA may stop considering applicants after a sufficiently large applicant pool is established.
3. 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.
4. Work Eligibility: Although the MBTA is an Equal Opportunity Employer, all employees must be legally authorized to work in the United States for any employer and on an unrestricted basis (the MBTA does not sponsor non-US citizens). However, if you have an unrestricted work authorization, or sponsored by a separate entity, you are welcome to apply for open positions. International students taking part in CPT / STEM / OPT programs through a university are eligible for internships and co-ops with the MBTA. In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to complete a Form I-9 to verify their identity and eligibility to work in the U.S.
5. 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.
6. Safety Sensitive Positions: Employees working in this classification will be subject to periodic physical examinations plus random drug and alcohol testing.
7. 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.
8. 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.
9. 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 hradaaa@mbta.com.
10. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: The MBTA is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. 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 mbta.com/careers-app-definitions.