Lead Controller Supervisor

SUMMARY

The Lead Controller Supervisor is responsible for the planning, direction, and coordination of rail transportation activities. This position reports directly to the Manager of the Rail Operations Control Center. The role requires working various shifts, including evenings, weekends, holidays, inclement weather, and special events. As a safety‑sensitive position, the candidate enforces safety protocols and procedures to mitigate risk within the light rail system and reviews and revises policies as directed by the Manager.

Major Duties and Responsibilities

• Manage and lead a team of Rail Controllers in the Control Center to ensure the safe and efficient operation of the light rail system.
• Ensure operations personnel comply with safety regulations and protocols, including monitoring and responding to emergencies.
• Coordinate with the Planning Team to develop and maintain schedules for light rail services, considering peak hours, special events, and maintenance.
• Respond promptly to unforeseen events—delays, technical issues, or emergencies—to minimize disruptions, ensure service continuity, and maintain passenger and personnel safety.
• Coordinate with maintenance teams to schedule and manage regular maintenance and repairs to ensure reliability of the light rail system.
• Utilize control center data and reports to monitor performance, identify issues, and make data‑driven decisions for operational improvement.
• Collaborate and maintain effective communication with internal teams, external agencies, and stakeholders to ensure smooth operation and address concerns.
• Preside over weekly Track Allocation meetings for approval or disapproval of maintenance activities along the right of way.
• Prepare payroll and weekly scheduling to ensure adequate staffing.
• Conduct investigations, evaluate performance with personnel, and recommend appropriate commendations or corrective action.
• Enforce safety rules and recommend changes to improve operations and safety procedures.
• Review daily and other operations reports (accidents, violations, complaints, etc.) to ensure work is completed on time and within guidelines.
• Be on call 365–24/7 and respond to all emergencies as needed.
• Oversee/Manage the Everbridge Application as a universal notification application for systemwide emergencies.
• Monitor performance of all field supervisors in support of ROCC functions/duties and provide feedback to the Manager of Rail Transportation.
• Act as a Rail Controller as required when staffing issues arise.
• Manage staffing within the Rail Operations Control Center and approve shift assignments, weekly schedule, and time‑off requests.
• Report safety concerns and issues through the established CATS methods as part of the CATS Safety Culture.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Extensive supervisory capabilities.
• Minimum five years of transportation supervisory experience.
• Experience resolving operational issues related to scheduled services, equipment failures, or other service disruptions.
• Ability to exercise independent, sound judgment during stressful situations.
• Ability to multitask and remain calm in a high‑pressure environment.
• Knowledgeable of light rail policy and procedures.
• Knowledge of receiving and dispatching revenue service trains.
• Ability to manage daily operations and supervise various employee levels.
• Ability to manage emergency situations and effectively communicate with emergency responders.
• Knowledge of special event planning and coordination.
• Strong leadership skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to manage Right of Way (ROW) access and track work requirements.
• Ability to pass DOT pre‑employment physical and DMV report.
• Valid driver’s license.
• Ability to obtain and maintain City driving permit.

Preferred Qualifications

• Rail Control Center supervisory experience.
• Experience in SCADA operations.
• Bi‑lingual speaking in English and Spanish.

Minimum Qualifications

Associate degree with five (5) years of relevant work experience; or a bachelor’s degree with three (3) years of relevant work experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience that provides the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully perform the essential job duties.

Conditions of Employment

Background checks are required for all internal and external candidates and include reference checks, social security verification, education verification, criminal record check, credit history check, sex offender registry and motor vehicle records check. All checks must comply with federal and state statutes such as the Fair Credit Reporting Act and require written authorization. Final candidates must pass a pre‑employment drug‑screening test and physical examination. Candidates may be asked to take additional skills tests or assessments during the selection process.

EEO Statement

The City of Charlotte is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, national origin, marital status, age, disability, sexual orientation, political affiliation, or on the basis of actual or perceived gender as expressed through dress, appearance, or behavior.

Benefits

The City of Charlotte provides a comprehensive benefits package to eligible employees.

Click here to learn more about the City of Charlotte’s benefits.

The City of Charlotte is a drug and alcohol-free workplace.