Operations Control System (OCS) Administrator at Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority – Boston, Massachusetts

As the OCS System Administrator, you will be responsible for the administration 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 Heavy-Rail (Red, Orange, Blue lines) and Light-Rail (Green line) train systems.

This role goes beyond traditional Linux system administration and requires a creative problem solver who thrives on variety while understanding the high stakes of real-time system operation. The OCS System Administrator will also support maintenance and enhancements 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. This role will report directly to the Deputy Director Operations Control System (OCS).

• Support, maintain, enhance, and prototype solutions for 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.
• Work closely with OCS team and stakeholders to improve the automated system monitoring and problem auto resolution systems.
• Monitor the functionality of installed equipment in order to detect hazards and the need for adjustments, reallocation, or replacement.
• Troubleshoot and document resolutions of failures with computer hardware, operating system, network, and control system.
• Design/implement new systems, hardware, and technologies into the Operations Control Center and remote field locations.
• Read, update, and create detailed documentation such as system schematics, hardware layout diagrams, operating system installation procedures, and maintenance procedures.
• Create, execute, and analyze database reports and ad-hoc queries.
• Create, review, and execute system test procedures.
• Utilize change control and version management procedures.
• MySQL database setup configuration and maintenance monitoring.
• Maintain system backups
• Apache Web Server setup configuration and maintenance monitoring.
• Configuration of network Firewall, Routers and Switches and maintenance monitoring.
• Coordinate with Schedules Department on train schedule loading.
• Perform field site visits to troubleshoot, repair, replace system equipment.
• General understanding or knowledge of cellular signals, electrical wiring, fiber, and Ethernet base networked devices.
• Field site visits for system integration testing.
• Ensure all system inventory, equipment, facilities, and materials are protected and maintained and stored in a safe operating condition.
• Purchasing of system equipment and develop a proficiency in the departmental ordering process.
• Perform all other duties and projects that may be assigned

• A Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field.
• Four (4) years system administration experience with Linux/Unix operating systems.
• Should have working knowledge of: Desktop/Server hardware configuration, real-time systems, general networking (router/switch/firewall configuration), redundant configuration setups, MySQL/MariaDB database and SQL query, Apache web server, RAID Disk array configuration, Experience with shell scripting (sh/bash/csh/Pearl or similar).
• Ability to access remote field sites in tunnels and along tracks.
• 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.

Preferred Experience and Skills

• Experience with: CentOS Linux, DRBD, NS, Gnome, X server, CUPS, docker/container (Debian chroot), Cisco and Moxa networking equipment, Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA), MySQL/MariaDB SOL query, Adobe ColdFusion.

• A High School Diploma or GED with an additional seven (7) years of directly related experience (Linux/Unix operating system) substitutes for the bachelor's degree requirement.
• An associate degree from an accredited institution an additional three (3) years of directly related experience substitutes for the bachelor's degree requirement.
• A master's degree in a related subject substitute for two (2) years of general experience.