At the Technology Innovation Department (TID), our goal is to use modern research, design, and technology practices to make the transit system simple and intuitive for every rider. Reliable and equitable public transportation is vital to the social, economic, and environmental well-being of Greater Boston.

The MBTA Technology Innovation team is dedicated to transforming the way people travel throughout the Boston region.

Our group is made up of designers, engineers, and product and content specialists who bring fresh ideas, modern standards, and a user-focused approach to technology at the T. As the MBTA works to reinvent itself, we have a unique chance to shape the future of transportation for Boston and communities across Eastern Massachusetts, while also leading innovation for transit agencies nationwide.

Are you interested in improving the daily travel experience for 4.7 million people in the Boston area? Ready to take on the challenge? Keep reading.

The MBTA’s vision is a thriving region supported by an outstanding transit system. Our mission is to serve the public by providing transportation that is safe, dependable, and accessible. Our core values—safety, service, equity, and sustainability—guide the work of every MBTA employee, which includes participating in local safety committee meetings when required.

Purpose and scope:
The OCS System Administrator oversees Linux administration for the MBTA Operations Control System (OCS). This role supports, maintains, and enhances the real-time distributed system that powers the Operations Control Center Train Control System. The position reports to the Deputy Director of the Operations Control System.

Duties and responsibilities:
• Support, maintain, and improve the real-time distributed system that manages the MBTA’s Train Control System.
• Respond to system emergencies around the clock.
• Monitor equipment and systems to identify hazards or the need for adjustments, reallocations, or replacements.
• Enhance automated monitoring and issue resolution tools.
• Troubleshoot and document solutions for hardware, operating system, network, and control system failures.
• Design, implement, and integrate new systems, hardware, and technologies into the Operations Control Center.
• Create, update, and maintain detailed documentation such as schematics, hardware layouts, installation procedures, and maintenance guides.
• Produce and analyze database reports and ad‑hoc queries.
• Develop, review, and run system test procedures.
• Use change control and version management processes.
• Configure, maintain, and monitor MySQL databases.
• Manage system backups.
• Configure, maintain, and monitor Apache Web Server.
• Configure and monitor network firewalls, routers, and switches.
• Work with the Schedules Department on train schedule uploads.
• Perform other assigned tasks and projects.
• Additional responsibilities may focus on specific departments or locations.

Physical demands and working conditions:
• The physical requirements and work environment described reflect typical conditions for this role. Reasonable accommodations may be provided.
• Must be available to work any assigned shift or location.
• Must be available 24/7 during severe weather, emergencies, or any situation affecting service or safety.
• Must be able to work any shift or location as required.

Minimum experience and required skills:
• At least four years of Linux/Unix system administration experience.
• Working knowledge of desktop/server hardware, real‑time systems, networking (routers, switches, firewalls), redundant systems, MySQL/MariaDB and SQL, Apache, RAID configurations, and shell scripting.
• Strong analytical, problem‑solving, organizational, planning, multitasking, time management, documentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work any shift or location and be available 24/7 as required.
• Ability to provide professional and courteous service to internal and external customers.

Preferred experience and skills:
• Experience with CentOS Linux, DRBD, NS, Gnome, X server, CUPS, Docker/containers (Debian chroot), Cisco and Moxa equipment, CCNA certification, and Adobe ColdFusion.

Substitutions:
• A high school diploma or GED plus seven years of directly related Linux/Unix experience may substitute for the bachelor’s degree requirement.

Job conditions:
• Follow all MBTA rules, regulations, collective bargaining agreements, and policies, including EEO and anti‑discrimination policies.
• Must pass a CORI check, background screening, and all MBTA medical requirements, including physical and drug/alcohol testing.
• Must have a satisfactory work record for the two years prior to the posting’s closing date.
• These statements describe the general nature and complexity of the work and are not a complete list of all duties.

Minimum education:
• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field.

Location:
This is a hybrid role, and the employee must be local to Massachusetts.

Compensation:
$111,862.40 annually.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion:
TID is committed to maintaining a diverse and inclusive workplace. To best serve MBTA departments and riders, our team must represent the broad range of people who use our services. We welcome individuals with diverse backgrounds, experiences, and strengths who are passionate about improving people’s lives. Our team values diversity, inclusion, and continuous learning and strives to create a workplace where everyone feels valued, supported, and able to bring their full selves to work.

TID is an equal opportunity employer. We make all employment decisions without regard to legally protected characteristics, including race, national origin, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, age, veteran status, and others.

Research shows that many women and people of color hesitate to apply unless they meet every qualification. We strongly encourage candidates from underrepresented groups to apply, even if you don’t believe you meet all listed requirements. We aim to build a diverse team and want to hear from anyone who is passionate about our mission and excited to contribute.