City and County of San Francisco

Under direction of the Transportation Operations Specialist, the Transportation Controller monitors bus, trolley, surface light rail and subway transit operations using console equipment and field devices which control, monitor, evaluate performance, provide public information, and related functions in the transportation network for the Transportation Management Center (TMC). Includes real-time system operations in fields such as train control, bus dispatching, parking enforcement, emergency response/management. Processes and synthesizes the integration of measurable traffic and transportation evaluation data (e.g. traffic volume, queue lengths, average delay, headway’s, weather, etc.) gathered from multiple data collections systems.

This job code is distinguished from the 9160 Transportation Operations Specialist in that the latter trains and supervises Transportation Management Center (TMC) staff, and may enforce, recommend, and modify policies and procedures as necessary.

None.

According to Civil Service Commission Rule 409, the duties specified below are representative of the range of duties assigned to this job code/class and are not intended to be an inclusive list.

1. Monitors bus, trolley, surface light rail, and subway transit system operations using system devices and equipment to proactively assess information on operations activities and external conditions affecting operations. Monitors, controls, tracks, reports and dispatches personnel and vehicles as part of normal duties and to respond to incidents or natural catastrophes/disasters. Uses logs and shift transfer procedures, follows incident management, dispatching, contacting and reporting processes.

2. Operates automated equipment systems in real time on computer workstations using complex software systems displayed on multiple monitors/systems.   Uses tools such as Computer Aided Dispatch / Automated Vehicle Location (CAD/AVL), traffic signal control for bus rapid transit, control street level closed circuit TV cameras, posts messages to public information systems, coordinates with parking management systems, and the new digital radio system. This includes navigating between multiple open applications to optimize overall systems velocity and on-time performance objectives.

3. Communicates visual or graphic information from the TMC display wall. Listens to and verbally interprets multiple-information sources. This includes verbally conveying all information clearly and succinctly in person, via telephone, radio, and through computer system applications.

4. Analyzes operational information and understands applications of road and service maps, video image displays, graphical text data, icons, and transportation modes and symbols in written/digital formats. Comprehends visual or graphic information from display wall, matches video orientation with static images.

5. Determines if real-time transportation data is abnormal, anomalous, or within applicable thresholds. Makes operational decisions, action plans, and recommendations as necessary.

6. Coordinates with relevant personnel to resolve breakdowns, safety issues, disruptions, and computer failures. Coordinates with other partners in transportation management (law enforcement, fire protection, parking control, etc.) functions and responsibilities. 

7. Prepares reports and correspondence, including incident reports, notifications, research regarding incidents and complaints. Maintains reports and records to ensure compliance with all federal, state, local and departmental policies and procedures.

8.  Issues violations consistent with both Rail and Bus Rule Book on safe operating procedures.

9. Performs related duties and responsibilities as assigned.

Knowledge of: an understanding of the major functions of the Transportation Management Center (TMC) and Field Operations including federal, state and local regulations related to the transportation operations of the Agency;  computerized transportation systems control including Automatic Train Control System (ATCS) and/or Centralized Train Control (CTC) systems and radio communications protocol; techniques and strategies of transportation management; incident/congestion management, assess the severity of the transportation operation activities/situations and develop appropriate action plans to resolve/restore on a temporary basis and/or to normal operations; identifying source(s) of the problem, dispatching appropriate resources and managing resulting congestion utilizing automated communications networks and systems; techniques and strategies of transportation management and radio communications; safety including, as trained, applicable federal and state safety rules related to bus, trolley, surface light rail, and subway transit systems, principles and practices of safe transit operations including times of emergency and transit vehicle passenger safety to maintain a safe work environment.

Ability to: read maps/schematics, and character text information, including visual, audio and emergency graphic icons; analyze operational information; make real-time decisions and choose appropriate solutions by exercising sound judgment in making recommendations within guidelines; exercise human relations/interpersonal skills to deal courteously and effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds; establish and maintain effective working relationships with supervisors, managers, and co-workers; speak clearly and effectively in order to give instructions, answer questions, respond to daily operational incidents, articulate recommendations and supportive facts, elicit feedback and to listen attentively to others, verbally persuade others and summarize information;  prepare and maintain instructions, reports, memos, correspondence, documents, and records in a clear, concise, and accurate manner; read and comprehend written materials; operate computer terminal, keyboard, two-way radio and telephone equipment as tools to accomplish assigned responsibilities and tasks, sometimes, under immense pressure.

Successful completion of all modules of the class 9152 Transportation Controller Trainee Program.

Automatic Train Control System (ATCS) certification.

The nature of work requires working in a confined and, at times, highly stressful environment; sitting for extended periods of time; constantly viewing display monitors; and working rotating shifts, weekends, and holidays.  In addition, employees may be required to wear headsets.

Amended: 12/21/2016

All City and County of San Francisco employees are designated Disaster Service Workers through state and local law (California Government Code Section 3100-3109). Employment with the City requires the affirmation of a loyalty oath to this effect. Employees are required to complete all Disaster Service Worker-related training as assigned, and to return to work as ordered in the event of an emergency.