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OaSIS 2025 Version 1.0
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73301.03 – Subway train and light rail transit operators

Subway train and light rail transit operators transport passengers on established routes.

Overview

Example job titles

  • Light rail transit operator
  • Subway train operator
  • Urban transit operator

Core competencies

  • Operation and Control to operate complex transit systems, using smooth acceleration, deceleration and braking adhering to schedules and safety protocols
  • Operation Monitoring of Machinery and Equipment to continuously and precisely monitor train systems and equipment, such as speed, braking pressure and signal indicators, quickly identifying and responding to any abnormal readings
  • Rate Control and Reaction Time to precisely adjust train speeds and react instantly to track signals, emergencies and sudden obstacles for smooth, safe and timely transit operations
  • Auditory Attention to detect and differentiate critical sounds, such as signaling alarms, track irregularities, or radio communication, amidst significant background noise
  • Stress Tolerance to face high-pressure situations daily, including managing schedules, navigating crowded stations and handling emergencies
  • Knowledge in Vehicle, Machinery and Equipment Operations to understand and possess expert-level proficiency in operating complex rail systems, including advanced control of train functions, real-time diagnostics and ensuring optimal performance under diverse conditions

Main duties

This group performs some or all of the following duties:

  • Operate subway or rail transit vehicles as part of two-person crew
  • Observe signals at crossings and arrival and departure points
  • Operate controls to open and close transit vehicle doors
  • Report delays, malfunctions and accidents to control unit
  • Ensure passenger safety and welfare in emergencies, and direct passengers during evacuation procedures.

Additional information

  • Progression to transit supervisory positions, inspector or training instructor positions is possible with experience.

Similar occupations classified elsewhere

Exclusions:

  • Supervisors, motor transport and other ground transit operators (72024)

NOC hierarchy breakdown

NOC version

NOC 2021 Version 1.0

Broad occupational category

7 – Trades, transport and equipment operators and related occupations

TEER

3 – Occupations usually require a college diploma or apprenticeship training of less than two years; or more than six months of on-the-job training

Major group

73 – General trades

Sub-major group

733 – Transportation occupations

Minor group

7330 – Transport truck and transit drivers

Unit group

73301 – Bus drivers, subway operators and other transit operators

Occupational profile

73301.03 – Subway train and light rail transit operators

O*NET in-it

This page includes information from the O*NET 27.2 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under the CC BY 4.0 license. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. Employment and Social Development Canada has modified all or some of this information. USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications.