Job Specifications
POSITION: Supervisor, Passenger Equipment
REPORTS TO: Manager, Production
DEPARTMENT: Rail Mechanical
LOCATION: Cochrane
REFERENCE: 300-186-26
SALARY: $97,578 - $114,790
WHO WE ARE:
Ontario Northland Transportation Commission (ONTC) is an Agency of the Province of Ontario that provides efficient and vital transportation services. We are a modern, forward-thinking organization focused on providing safe and reliable transportation services. ONTC has a rich history of over 120 years and strong connections to the communities we serve. With over 1100 skilled professionals, we work together to enhance transportation services and ensure that they are sustainable for future generations. We offer a dynamic workplace culture, along with a competitive salary, excellent benefit package, a defined benefit pension plan, paid vacation, paid personal leave days and discounted transportation on our bus and passenger rail services.
Ontario Northland takes pride in leading the reinstatement of passenger rail services in Northeastern Ontario, a crucial initiative aimed at enhancing regional connectivity. As we progress on this important undertaking, we are actively seeking dedicated and skilled individuals to join our esteemed Northlander team. As a valued member of the Northlander team, you’ll have the opportunity to collaborate across various disciplines, contributing your expertise to shape the future of transportation in Ontario and foster vital connections within communities. Don’t miss an opportunity to contribute to the new era of the Northlander– apply now and embark on a rewarding career with Ontario Northland!
ACCOUNTABILITY STATEMENT:
The Supervisor, Passenger Equipment is responsible for overseeing the safe, efficient, and timely completion of truck work for locomotive, freight, and passenger customers, and ensures that production schedules are met, and work is completed in accordance with quality specifications and safety standards.
MAJOR DUTIES/ RESPONSIBILITIES:
Schedule and oversee daily, routine, and annual inspections and maintenance for passenger coaches, freight cars, locomotives, OCS equipment (IB/reefer cars), fleet vehicles, the 5‑ton truck, and fall‑arrest equipment
Plan and coordinate Northlander and coach maintenance schedules, including Northlander car training and meetings
Oversee building maintenance and ensure proper function of shop infrastructure such as the oil separator, fuel stand, and waste‑oil disposal systems
Oversee rip track/car repairs and coordinate special projects such as dining car modifications, rail‑hauling cars, and derailed equipment repair
Respond to derailments, rail emergencies, wheel change‑outs, and road repairs, supervising Hoesch crews and third‑party contractors as required
Dispatch employees for off‑site inspections and repairs and oversee scheduled duties at outlying points (Hearst, Rouyn, Englehart, Kidd Creek)
Order parts for coaches, freight cars, locomotives, and specialized project materials, ensuring proper storage of explosive or hazardous products
Ensure all work meets AAR, Transport Canada, and company standards and policies
Monitor and enforce PPE availability and compliance and complete health and safety observations and Intelex reporting
Maintain and update required training documents, ensure training is current, and forecast future training needs
Assign work evenly across shifts and coordinate daily operations, ensuring adequate staffing to minimize equipment downtime
Plan for employee time‑off requests in coordination with the Operations Support Manager
Schedule apprentice training and rotations with the apprenticeship committee
Supervise staff, promote a safe work environment, and ensure effective communication across the team
REQUIREMENTS:
Secondary School Diploma, GED or CAEC
Trade Certification in Railway Car Technician (268R) or Electrician – Construction & Maintenance (309A)
2–3 years of experience in a relevant trade
Previous supervisory experience, preferably in a unionized environment
Strong leadership abilities with proven experience managing teams in an operational setting
Knowledge of railway operations, railway equipment, diagnostics, and locations
Understanding of electrical systems and drawings for coaches, locomotives, and track equipment
Knowledge of locomotive and coach air brake systems
Familiarity with the Canada Labour Code Part II and collective agreements
Valid driver’s license
First Aid/CPR (including AED) preferred
WHMIS, TDG, overhead crane, and fall‑arrest training preferred
Excellent communication skills for working with internal and external stakeholders
Strong organizational, time‑management, critical‑thinking, and problem‑solving skills
Proficiency with computers, Microsoft Office, and cloud‑based platforms (Teams, SharePoint)
Commitment to company health and safety standards
BACKGROUND INVESTIGATION: The successful candidate will need to pass the following clearances: criminal record check, employment referen