Who We Are

The Regional Transit Authority of Southeast Michigan (RTA) is a public agency with the mission to create new and better ways to move and connect people. The RTA partners with transit providers, communities, companies and citizens to create a vision for public transit – what it can be, what it can do, what we can achieve with it – and to bring that vision to life. By exploring new strategies for improving transit coverage and service, securing and overseeing funding, and increasing accessibility to transit offerings, the RTA plays a crucial role in unleashing our region’s boundless potential.

Our 10-member board is appointed for three-year terms by the Macomb, Oakland and Wayne county executives, the chair of the Washtenaw County Board of Commissioners, the Mayor of Detroit, and the Governor of Michigan. The Governor's appointee serves as a non-voting chair. The RTA was established by state Public Act 387 in 2012.

The RTA oversees operation of the QLINE streetcar system in Detroit. along with implementation of the Regional Transit Master Plan (RTMP) and its Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility (IDEA) Roadmap.

Our Mission : Creating new and better ways to move and connect people.

Our Vision : A Southeast Michigan where advances in transit create greater prosperity for all.

RTA Values

Creativity – bringing innovative thinking to enhance the transit experience.

Empathy – understanding how we can help improve lives across the region.

Opportunity – leading the way to the future of transit in Southeast Michigan.

Learn more at www.rtamichigan.org. We’re The RTA. Get On Board.

Join Our Passionate Team of Professionals

You’ll join a growing public transportation organization with a unique structure – one that plans, funds, coordinates, and accelerates transit services and programs in Southeast Michigan, while operating a 3-mile streetcar in Downtown Detroit. RTA is responsible for planning regional transit, deploying new services, allocating federal and state funding to transit service providers, and securing new regional funding sources for transit.

We’re a team that works diligently and cares deeply about creating opportunities to improve the quality of life for our residents. We live what we lead, coming in to work on all modes of transportation. RTA’s goals — from safer streets to enhanced mobility — energize and motivate us to do what we do best in delivering transit throughout our region.

About This Role

The Maintenance Technician performs mechanical inspections, service, diagnosis, and repairs and maintenance on rail transit Streetcars, Overhead Catenary System, Traction Power Substations, facilities, and tracks. This includes removing, repairing, and replacing parts and components as necessary, while using tools and equipment in a safe and professional manner. Provides support to the Operations Department. The Maintenance Technician may be required to operate the streetcar in non‐revenue service.

Primary Responsibilities

• Conduct tests and assessments of new systems and repairs to ensure quality.
• Trouble shoot complex mechanical systems.
• Develop and maintain a working knowledge of test equipment.
• Respond quickly to all service requests and efficiently troubleshoot and repair mechanical systems.
• Clearly communicate estimated repair timelines to all impacted departments.
• Perform preventative maintenance on a regular schedule.
• Log all services and report progress to management.
• Work with streetcar manufacturer field personnel to support preventative maintenance, warranty work, and administration.
• Move streetcars into and out of the shop for inspections and servicing.
• Move streetcars with emergency equipment in shop, yard, and on the alignment.
• Adhere to all safety, security, and organizational rules, policies, and procedures.
• Utilize and store all equipment safely and properly.
• Input accurate information into RTA software.
• Complete all other job‐related duties as assigned.
• Possess a High School diploma or equivalent.
• Associate degree in mechanical engineering/technology is preferred.
• Possess a valid Michigan driver’s license.
• Meet the qualifications for a Michigan Commercial Driver’s License (CDL A).

Other physical requirements:

• Able to lift 50 pounds.
• Able to work outside in all weather conditions.
• 20/20 or corrected to 20/20 vision.
• Able to distinguish colors on warning lights, traffic, train signals, peripheral vision, and depth perception.
• Able to hear normal conversations, warning sounds, emergency vehicle sirens, and radio transmissions.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Minimum 2 years of experience working as a mechanical technician.
• Extensive knowledge of mechanical systems and all necessary equipment.
• Able to read blueprints, wiring diagrams, and technical drawings/manuals.
• Proficient with manual and power tools.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office applications.
• Able to pass all DOT physical requirements skills

Minimum Education and Experience

• Possess a High School diploma or equivalent.
• Associate degree in mechanical engineering/technology is preferred.
• Possess a valid Michigan driver’s license.
• Meet the qualifications for a Michigan Commercial Driver’s License (CDL A).

Benefits

• Paid-time off and holidays
• Retirement
• Health Insurance, including telehealth care support
• UNUM Dental and Vision Coverage
• Short-Term Disability
• Optional Long-Term Disability Coverage
• Optional Life Insurance Coverage
• Optional Critical Insurance Coverage
• Optional Pet and Legal Insurance Coverage
• Transit passes and main office parking
• Professional development

Application Deadline

Submit your application to www.rtamichigan.org by August 15, 2025.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The RTA provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, amnesty, or status as a covered veteran in accordance with applicable federal, state and local laws. The RTA complies with applicable state and local laws governing non-discrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including, but not limited to, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

At Will Employer

Employment with the RTA is voluntary and is subject to termination by management at will, with or without cause, and with or without notice, at any time. Nothing in this notice shall be interpreted to be in conflict with or to eliminate or modify in any way the employment-at-will status of RTA employees. The only exception to this policy is a written employment agreement approved at the discretion of the RTA Board of Directors.

Immigration Laws

For purposes of federal immigration laws, you will be required to provide documentary evidence of your identity and eligibility for employment in the United States. Such documentation must be provided on your first day of employment, or your employment relationship with the RTA may be terminated.