Location
Washington, DC DC
Job Type
Full-Time Regular

INSTALLATION TECHNICIAN

WMATA Farebox Post-Acceptance Modification Project

Work Schedule: Graveyard shift 7:00 PM - 4:00 AM, Monday-Friday with occasional weekend work as needed

Project Duration: Approximately 5 months

Position Overview

We are seeking experienced Installation Technicians to perform post-acceptance modifications on WMATA farebox systems. This specialized transit installation project involves upgrading existing farebox units with new DCU (Driver Control Unit) upgrade kits, requiring precision installation and technical expertise.

Primary Job Duties

  • Farebox System Disassembly: Remove cashboxes, interface cables, RAM arms, Havis cradles, tablets, and tethers from existing farebox units
  • Power System Modifications: Remove and reinstall Lind Power Supply assemblies with inverted mounting configurations
  • Cable Management: Install new CA-WMATA-DC PWR/COMMS cables (10080860) with proper cord grip installation and strain relief
  • Hardware Installation: Mount vibration damping foam, metal cable tie downs, and secure all wiring with service loops
  • Base Replacement: Remove farebox units from bus floor mounts, replace base hardware with provided components using anti-seize compound
  • Precision Assembly: Reinstall complete farebox systems with proper torque specifications (165 in-lbs / 13.8 ft-lbs)
  • Cable Routing: Secure DCU cables to RAM arms maintaining proper slack loops for full movement range
  • System Testing: Perform functional tests to verify tablet-to-farebox communications and cashbox door operation
  • Quality Control: Ensure all installations meet WMATA specifications and safety standards

Required Skills & Experience

  • 3+ years experience with low voltage electronic equipment installation
  • Transit or transportation industry experience preferred
  • Mechanical aptitude for component removal/installation using hand tools only (electric/pneumatic tools prohibited for certain hardware)
  • Cable management expertise including routing, securing, and creating service loops
  • Electrical termination skills for 12V and 24V power sources, connectors, and grounding systems
  • Precision work capability including torque specifications and anti-seize application
  • Experience with:
    • Electronic component identification and handling
    • Electrical connectors and terminations
    • Hand tools and precision instruments
    • Cable routing in confined spaces
    • Vibration damping and strain relief installation

Physical Requirements

  • Ability to work in bus environments with limited space
  • Prolonged standing, bending, and crouching positions
  • Manual dexterity for detailed connector work
  • Ability to lift and maneuver farebox components
  • Visual acuity for small component identification
  • Note that Fareboxes weight 80 pounds. You must be able to lift off the base to perform modifications.

Work Environment & Requirements

  • Overnight shift work in transit maintenance facilities
  • Must provide own basic hand tools (specific tool list will be provided)
  • Reliable attendance essential for project timeline
  • Ability to follow detailed technical procedures precisely
  • Team collaboration for complex installations
  • Clean work practices in sensitive electronic environments

Additional Requirements

  • Must commit to entire 12-18 month project duration
  • Random drug and alcohol screening will be conducted
  • Background check required for transit facility access
  • Reliable transportation for graveyard shift schedule

Compensation

Posted starting salary range applies to skilled technicians. We are willing to work with entry-level candidates who demonstrate the right attitude and mechanical aptitude.

This is a specialized technical position requiring attention to detail and precision. Successful candidates will be working on critical transit infrastructure that serves thousands of daily passengers.