Launch Your Career as a Program Analyst at the Federal Railroad Administration
Are you a detail-oriented analyst with a passion for public safety and data-driven results? The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) is looking for a dedicated professional to join its Signal and Train Control Division. As a Program Analyst (Positive Train Control), you will play a pivotal role in monitoring the systems that keep America’s railways safe.
About the Federal Railroad Administration
As part of the U.S. Department of Transportation, the FRA is committed to excellence in safety and infrastructure. The agency is currently ushering in a "Golden Age of Transportation," focusing on innovation and modernization. Working here means joining a mission-driven team dedicated to the safety of workers, travelers, and the businesses that rely on our rail network.
Job Responsibilities
In this position, you will be at the intersection of technology and regulation. Your duties will include:
- Performing analytical studies on Positive Train Control (PTC) performance.
- Managing databases to track system reliability metrics.
- Developing technical reports for leadership and congressional stakeholders.
- Supporting compliance audits to ensure adherence to federal safety regulations.
- Collaborating with cross-functional teams to resolve operational anomalies.
Comparison of Grade Levels
| Feature | GS-12 | GS-13 |
|---|---|---|
| Experience Requirement | 1 Year at GS-11 | 1 Year at GS-12 |
| Core Data Analysis | Standard performance metrics | Data mining and cleansing |
| Compliance Role | Assist in performance reporting | Lead compliance audit support |
| Stakeholder Engagement | Internal report presentation | Complex mitigation and resolution |
Qualifications and Requirements
To be eligible for this position, you must possess specialized experience that demonstrates your ability to analyze data, maintain databases, and write comprehensive technical reports. All candidates must be U.S. citizens, register for the Selective Service if applicable, and pass a rigorous background security investigation. Federal employees must also satisfy 52-week time-in-grade requirements.
Benefits of Working at the FRA
Joining the Department of Transportation offers significant professional and personal rewards:
- Comprehensive Federal health and insurance plans.
- A robust retirement package including the Thrift Savings Plan.
- Flexible work-life balance through telework opportunities.
- Career growth in a stable, mission-critical environment.
Application Tips for Success
- Tailor Your Resume: Remember the two-page limit. Focus on results and specific data-driven outcomes.
- Documentation is Key: If you are a current federal employee, ensure your SF-50 forms clearly prove your 52-week tenure at the required grade level.
- Follow Format Guidelines: Use paragraph format as requested to describe your experience. Avoid bulleted lists inside your narrative experience descriptions.
The Federal Railroad Administration offers a unique environment where your analytical skills translate directly into tangible safety improvements for the nation. If you are ready to contribute to this critical mission, ensure your application is complete and submitted by the deadline.
Apply today to help us shape the future of railroad safety!
Why This Program Analyst (Positive Train Control) - Internal To Fra Job Matters
Join the Federal Railroad Administration to shape the future of rail safety by managing the data driving the nation's Positive Train Control systems.
Program Analyst (Positive Train Control) - Internal To Fra Job Overview
The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) is seeking a skilled Program Analyst for the Office of Railroad Safety, Signal and Train Control Division. In this critical role, you will analyze complex operational data and PTC performance metrics to support safety compliance and strategic oversight. You will serve as a key technical resource, developing reports for leadership and managing databases that ensure the reliability of train control systems across the nation. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to a safer, more modern American transportation infrastructure.
Requirements for Program Analyst (Positive Train Control) - Internal To Fra
- Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Must have one year of specialized experience at the next lower grade level.
- Must complete a one-year probationary period.
- Males born after 12/31/1959 must be registered for the Selective Service.
- Must be able to obtain and maintain a favorable background security investigation.
- Must adhere to restrictions regarding the ownership of railroad stock.
- Must submit all required documents, including SF-50s for federal employees, by the closing date.
Preferred Qualifications for Program Analyst (Positive Train Control) - Internal To Fra
- Demonstrated experience in data mining and data cleansing techniques.
- Proven ability to identify operational risks and performance trends.
- Strong background in supporting federal compliance audits.
- Excellent oral and written communication skills for technical and non-technical stakeholders.
- Proficiency in managing complex data life-cycles and performance metrics.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal health, dental, and vision insurance
- ✓Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS)
- ✓Thrift Savings Plan (401k-style investment)
- ✓Paid annual and sick leave
- ✓Flexible work arrangements, including telework eligibility
- ✓Professional development and training opportunities
💡 How to Apply Program Analyst (Positive Train Control) - Internal To Fra Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Program Analyst (Positive Train Control) - Internal To Fra Job
- Prepare a concise, maximum two-page resume detailing your specific duties, dates, and hours worked.
- Review the job announcement and gather required supporting documentation (SF-50, performance appraisals).
- Register and apply through the official online portal.
- Complete the mandatory assessment questionnaire accurately.
- Verify all documents have successfully attached to the portal prior to the deadline.
- Submit your application before 11:59 PM EST on the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume strictly to two pages; any additional content will not be reviewed.
- Clearly define your experience in paragraph format, including position titles and specific outcomes.
- Federal employees: Ensure your SF-50 clearly shows your 52-week time-in-grade history.
- Avoid using generalities; provide specific examples of data tools and methodologies you have utilized.
- Check your application status regularly through the online dashboard.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this position remote?
No, this position is based in Washington, DC, and is not remote, though it is telework-eligible.
What is the policy on holding railroad stocks?
FRA employees and their immediate family are prohibited from holding individual railroad stock to avoid conflicts of interest. Divestiture is required within 90 days of hire.
How does the two-page resume limit affect my application?
The hiring committee will only review the first two pages of your submitted resume. It is essential to ensure these pages contain the most relevant experience and required information.
Can I hold shares in a railroad company?
No. As an FRA employee, you are prohibited from holding individual railroad stocks due to conflict-of-interest regulations.
What if I have issues applying online?
If you encounter technical difficulties, please contact the DOT Automated Staffing Office at [email protected] for assistance.