Robert Bazalar
Hyde Park
Summary
Rail traffic control professional with extensive experience in managing rail operations and ensuring safety standards. Known for strong focus on teamwork and achieving results, adaptable to changing needs, and reliable in high-pressure situations. Possesses critical thinking and decision-making skills essential for maintaining smooth rail traffic flow.
Overview
26
26
years of professional experience
Work History
Chief Rail Traffic Controller
MTA Metro North Commuter Railroad
03.2018 - Current
- Oversee a team of Rail Traffic Controllers (RTCs) to ensure strict compliance with all operating rules and procedures. Supervise the use of Centralized Traffic Control (CTC) consoles to control train routing and movement.
- Direct and monitor the movement of all revenue and non-revenue trains from the Operations Control Center. Continuously analyze and supervise the status of main line rail operations.
- Serve as a primary point of contact during emergencies, service disruptions, and special operating conditions. Implement emergency procedures, communicate with field personnel and leadership, and ensure safety is the top priority.
- Anticipate and resolve conflicts between train movements to maintain safety and minimize delays. Oversee logistical planning to coordinate train arrivals, departures, and track assignments.
- Maintain continuous communication with RTCs, train and engine crews, maintenance-of-way supervisors, police, and other railroad personnel. Accurately and clearly relay important information and operational changes.
- Supervise and train less experienced RTCs, ensuring they are fully proficient in their duties and company policies.
- Ensure all required paperwork and reports regarding train movements, incidents, and track assignments are accurately completed and submitted.
- Stay educated on all relevant policies, rules, and procedures enforcing compliance and holding staff accountable.
Assistant Chief Rail Traffic Controller
MTA Metro North Commuter Railroad
12.2013 - 03.2018
- Supported the on-duty Assistant Deputy Chief and Chief with all managerial functions, including oversight of daily train movements, service delivery, and strict adherence to safety procedures for staff, passengers, and external agency personnel.
- Communicated equipment changes, infrastructure failures, and service delays to multiple railroad departments, while actively working to mitigate operational disruptions.
- Acted as a liaison between the Operations Control Center and external departments during scheduled track outages, emergency repairs, and first responder coordination.
- Provided clarification and operational solutions to Rail Traffic Controllers on procedural questions, including interpretation of the operating guidelines and Book of Rules.
- Oversaw outgoing communications from RTC Assistants, including email notifications, Chief’s logs, and incident reports submitted to appropriate authorities.
- Collaborated with department heads in real-time to coordinate seamless customer and equipment recovery during service disruptions.
- Maintained in-depth knowledge of equipment consists, locomotive types, track layouts, and signal system configurations across all lines, branches, and terminals.
- Consistently reviewed and remained current on General Notices, Bulletin Orders, safety stand-downs, and mandatory online training modules.
Rail Traffic Controller
MTA Metro North Commuter Railroad
06.2007 - 12.2013
- Adhered to all safety rules and federal regulations, including Book of Rules compliance and thorough knowledge of physical characteristics across all assigned territories.
- Collaborated with Conductors, Flagmen, and departments including Track, Signal, and Structures to ensure safe operations and coordinate track car movements.
- Maintained and submitted daily documentation required by the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA), ensuring accuracy and timely compliance.
- Provided on-site assistance to crew members during train disablements and medical emergencies.
- Supported Operations Managers in the field, assisting with coordination and execution of day-to-day operational needs.
Delay Operator
MTA Metro North Railroad
01.2003 - 06.2007
- Recorded, classified, and reported train performance data based on information provided by Rail Traffic Controllers for all trains operating on Metro-North Railroad territory.
- Utilized the Late Train System, Microsoft Office Suite, and database software to accurately manage and analyze operational data.
- Entered and maintained real-time information on Amtrak trains within the Late Train System.
- Prepared and distributed timely operational reports to internal stakeholders.
- Processed Supervisor’s Injury Reports and ensured proper documentation in compliance with reporting standards.
- Provided direct support to Chief Rail Traffic Controllers during service disruptions, assisting with coordination and communication.
- Performed various administrative and clerical tasks as needed to support overall operational efficiency.
Ticket Receiver/Cashier
MTA Metro North Commuter Railroad
01.2002 - 01.2003
- Handled cash management duties, including distributing change to crew members and bartenders.
- Collected daily remittances and prepared accurate financial reports and bank deposit statements.
Foreman - Station Services
MTA Metro North Commuter Railroad
06.2001 - 01.2002
- Reported directly to the Stations Manager, supporting daily operational and managerial tasks across multiple station sites.
- Managed inventory control for all products in the storage warehouse, ensuring accurate tracking and timely restocking.
- Conducted daily inspections of public address (P/A) systems to maintain operational standards and safety compliance.
- Assisted with waste management and garbage removal at station locations to ensure cleanliness and adherence to health regulations.
- Administered payroll processing and coordinated staff scheduling including vacation and time-off requests.
Ticket Agent
MTA Metro North Commuter Railroad
12.2000 - 06.2001
- Sold tickets, monthly commutation, and weekly passes at various transit stations in accordance with all rules, regulations, and procedures outlined in the Ticket Seller Manual.
- Prepared and reconciled daily financial reports, balancing cash and ticket stock accurately.
- Delivered prompt and courteous customer service, addressing inquiries and resolving issues to ensure positive passenger experience.
- Maintained a secure and safe work environment for passengers and staff by following established safety protocols.
Assistant Train Conductor
MTA Metro North Commuter Railroad
03.2000 - 12.2000
- Ensured the safety of passengers and fellow crew members by adhering to established safety protocols.
- Delivered exceptional customer service in a fast-paced environment, addressing passenger needs and concerns effectively.
- Collected onboard revenue, including fares and fees, while maintaining accuracy and accountability.
- Prepared and inspected equipment at yard locations and turnaround points to ensure operational readiness.
- Accurately recorded and submitted mandatory Hours of Service documentation in compliance with regulations.
- Remitted collected funds and processed tickets promptly and in accordance with company procedures.
Assistant Ticket Office Supervisor
MTA Metro North Commuter Railroad
07.1999 - 03.2000
- Ensured compliance with all rules, regulations, and policies outlined in the Ticket Seller Manual.
- Supervised front-line staff and supported management in executing daily operational and managerial tasks.
- Provided coverage during monthly commutation periods by selling tickets and performing standard ticket seller duties.
- Facilitated employee meal breaks by rotating into active ticket windows as needed.
- Delivered high-quality customer service and served as the first point of contact for resolving customer complaints.
Education
High School Equivalency Diploma -
Boy’s Harbor Incorporated
Harlem, N.Y.Automotive Technology
Apex Technical School
New York, N.Y.Skills
- Strong Organizational and Detail Oriented Skills, Good Written and Oral Communications, Types 70 WPM, Capable of Using Microsoft Office Suite, and Punctual
- Knowledge of Operating Rules, Territory, Physical Characteristics, Federal Rules Regarding The Operation of Trains and Track Equipment
- Ability to Communicate with All Levels of Management
- Knowledge of Signal, Power and Track Structures and their Influence on Operations and Train Movement
- Teamwork and Collaboration, Leadership Skills with the Ability to Foster Teamwork
- Develop and motivate employees at all levels, great customer service, and problem-solving skills
- Can Effectively Determine and Resolve Service Delivery Problems
- Local Chairman for ACRE Local 113 for 3 Years
Languages
Spanish
Native or Bilingual
Timeline
Chief Rail Traffic Controller
MTA Metro North Commuter Railroad
03.2018 - Current
Assistant Chief Rail Traffic Controller
MTA Metro North Commuter Railroad
12.2013 - 03.2018
Rail Traffic Controller
MTA Metro North Commuter Railroad
06.2007 - 12.2013
Delay Operator
MTA Metro North Railroad
01.2003 - 06.2007
Ticket Receiver/Cashier
MTA Metro North Commuter Railroad
01.2002 - 01.2003
Foreman - Station Services
MTA Metro North Commuter Railroad
06.2001 - 01.2002
Ticket Agent
MTA Metro North Commuter Railroad
12.2000 - 06.2001
Assistant Train Conductor
MTA Metro North Commuter Railroad
03.2000 - 12.2000
Assistant Ticket Office Supervisor
MTA Metro North Commuter Railroad
07.1999 - 03.2000
Automotive Technology
Apex Technical School
High School Equivalency Diploma -
Boy’s Harbor Incorporated
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