OCS Linux Perl Administrator in Boston, Massachusetts at Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority

The OCS Linux Perl Administrator is responsible for the office software of the MBTA Operations Control System (OCS), a vital technological infrastructure that underpins the functionality of OCC’s Train Control System. The Operations Control Center (OCC) is MBTA’s nerve center, where teams of dispatchers, supervisors, and vehicle operators work together to provide efficient, safe, and reliable public transit via the Heavy-Rail (Red, Orange, Blue lines) and Light-Rail (Green line) train systems.

While this role will primarily focus on the software, scripts, and automation of the OCS, it is essential that the candidate has experience and understanding of Linux systems, networking, and using the command line. This role blends the typical duties of a software developer with general Linux administration and requires a creative problem-solver who thrives on variety while understanding the high stakes of real-time system operations. The OCS Linux Perl Administrator will also support the maintenance and enhancement of real-time data processing, field assets, and communication systems that empower the OCC to effectively oversee, control, and respond to the dynamic needs of the MBTA's transit network. The OCS Linux Perl Administrator will report directly to the Deputy Director of Operations Control System (OCS).

• Responsible for supporting, maintaining, and enhancing the real-time distributed system used to manage the MBTA’s Operations Control Center Train Control System.
• Respond to system emergencies (automated and end user identified) twenty-four (24) hours per day, seven (7) days per week.
• Monitor the software systems to detect hazards and the need for adjustments, corrections, and improvements.
• Work closely with the OCS team and stakeholders to improve the automated system monitoring and problem auto-resolution systems.
• Troubleshoot and document resolutions of failures with the control system.
• Design/implement/integrate new software systems and technologies into the Operations Control Center.
• Read, update, and create detailed documentation such as software design, implementation, testing, cutover, and maintenance documents.
• Create, review, and execute system test procedures.

• Create, execute, and analyze database reports and ad-hoc queries.
• MySQL database setup, configuration, and maintenance monitoring.
• Utilize change control and version management procedures.
• Maintain system backups.
• Perform all other duties and projects that may be assigned.

Supervision

• None

• A Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field.
• Three (3) years of software engineering experience within Perl script programming and Linux/Unix operating systems. Working knowledge of:
• Web application development (PHP/JavaScript/HTML)
• C/C++ programming
• sh/bash/csh scripting
• SQL query
• Real-time systems programming
• Redundant systems programming
• Have excellent analytical, problem-solving, organizational, planning, multi-tasking, time management, documentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Have the ability to work any and all shifts and/or locations as assigned or directed; be available to work twenty-four (24) hours per day, seven (7) days per week.
• Ability to provide internal and external customers with a courteous and professional experience.
• Possess a valid driver’s license.
• Candidates will be asked to demonstrate their Perl and Linux command-line abilities by completing a Perl script programming assessment utilizing the Linux command line and a text editor.

• A High School Diploma or GED with an additional seven (7) years of directly related experience substitutes for the bachelor’s degree requirement.
• An associate degree from an accredited institution with an additional three (3) years of directly related experience substitutes for the bachelor’s degree requirement.
• A master’s degree in a related subject substitutes for two (2) years of general experience.
• A nationally recognized certification or statewide/professional certification in a related field substitutes for one year of experience.

Preferred Experience and Skills

• Familiarity with: CentOS Linux, and/or Rocky10 Linux