Transit Systems Administrator

The Role

Administers computerized transit systems (Intelligent Transportation Systems), with the support of corporate IT, including troubleshooting, resolving issues, and implementing upgrades/enhancements.  
 

Current Assignment: 

As an integral member of our Transit Technology Maintenance Team, you will be part of a dynamic and innovative group dedicated to ensuring the seamless operation of our transit vehicle systems. You will collaborate closely with Truck & Coach Technicians, the ITS department, and other stakeholders to support critical computer software and hardware used in Transit Maintenance. Your role will involve advising on new equipment purchases, managing mobile modem communications and configurations, and resolving on-vehicle network issues. Additionally, you will assist Transit Technologists with the configuration and maintenance of CAD/AVL systems, Variable Message Signs, and Digital Video Recording systems, ensuring that our transit technology infrastructure remains robust and efficient. Your contributions will be vital in maintaining a high standard of service and reliability for our transit operations.

Duties/Responsibilities

• Administers transit systems, including electronic fare management, dispatch, scheduling, automatic vehicle location, automatic passenger counting, traveler information systems, and performance management/data analytics systems.  
• Provides support to the Electronic Technician in the maintenance and operation of transit devices/equipment interfacing with transit systems. Troubleshoots software issues and assists with the installation, testing, repair, and decommissioning of equipment/devices. 
• Troubleshoots and resolves transit system issues. Notifies management and system users of same.  
• Consults with management and system users to determine requirements for system upgrades/enhancements. Analyzes current operations; evaluates new software and hardware applications; and liaises with corporate IT/vendors to develop and modify existing applications related to transit systems, as appropriate.  
• Coordinates the implementation of new system application projects and upgrades, with corporate IT support as appropriate. Works with vendors and corporate IT regarding system installation, configuration, testing, troubleshooting, validation, end-user training, and rollout. Provides input into project plans. Installs/upgrades software per license agreements.
• Assists management to evaluate vendor proposals for hardware, software, and maintenance contracts, in conjunction with Purchasing and IT. 
• Provides user support to staff.
• Liaises with vendors to obtain price quotes and resolve minor/daily operations system issues. Initiates, tracks, and ensures resolution of issues. 
• Supports corporate IT by testing and troubleshooting major upgrades/changes to corporate IT managed systems and applications (e.g., security, network, backup).    
• Keeps up to date on current transit systems technologies.
• Performs related duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of information technology system implementation and administration, business process analysis, and data analysis acquired through a 3-year diploma/degree in a related field, plus 2 years of related experience.
• Knowledge of Intelligent Transportation System architecture and its application in a transit environment.
• Knowledge and ability to follow corporate policies and procedures and vendor system agreements. 
• Mechanical aptitude, analytical, and technical skills to analyze, diagnose, troubleshoot, and resolve software and hardware issues in transit system applications. 
• Communication skills to respond to technical inquiries; advise, instruct, and train staff in specific work methods/procedures; interact with vendors regarding maintenance contracts; and participate as an effective team member.
• Ability to read technical manuals, updates, bulletins, system implementation and testing plans, and system specifications. Ability to write/develop user guides, test plans, and system communications to staff. 
• May be required to alter working hours for systems testing. Is requested to work evenings and weekend hours to meet deadlines.
• Ability to travel to locations within Waterloo Region.
• Ability to support and demonstrate the Region’s values