Shana Peck says it ‘makes my day to make people happy,’ getting riders to their destination on MAX
***UPDATE (June 2025): Hiring bonuses for new operators have now closed.***
TriMet is hiring bus and MAX operators!
These positions come with a $7,500 hiring bonus! TriMet is also giving operators a raise and expanding benefits under our new Working and Wage Agreement with the Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) Local 757. The union represents most of our employees, including all operators. Under the new contract, the hourly wage for operators starts at $29.35 and increases to $42.75 within three years.
TriMet recently honored outstanding employees with our Employee Choice Awards. Our 2024 Rail Operator of the Year, Shana Peck, was excited to be recognized even though she’s only been with TriMet for a little over two years.
For Shana, joining TriMet was a great way to advance her career and serve her community. She says others should consider making the same leap.
Beginning a ‘real career’ with TriMet
Shana Peck officially joined TriMet in 2022. She had been working closely with the organization for nearly a decade, including six years as a supervisor for LIFT, TriMet’s paratransit service. LIFT operators and supervisors are contractors, but TriMet oversees operations.
“I just decided TriMet’s where I wanted to begin my real career,” Shana says.
Her dream was to run MAX trains. At the time Shana joined TriMet, only employees who had driven a TriMet bus were eligible to apply for MAX operator jobs. With her previous experience driving for LIFT, Shana took the wheel for TriMet before soon moving to MAX.
This year, TriMet has a new policy. We’re now accepting MAX operator applicants from outside TriMet. Applicants should have at least one year of experience in the transportation industry, one year of customer service experience and three years of driving experience. Find details at trimet.org/maxoperator.
“I think it’s fun operating the trains,” Shana says. “And I’m excited to see where I grow in my career here.”
Opportunities and possibilities
TriMet invests in our employees, helping them succeed, excel and thrive.
“There’s lots of room for growth,” Shana says, speaking from personal experience.
TriMet offers learning and development courses for employees, as well as financial support for employees who enroll in higher and continuing education courses outside of TriMet. The new Working and Wage Agreement increases that support, also offering a child care subsidy and more expanded benefits.
“You should apply here!” Shana says. Joining TriMet is a “great opportunity,” she adds, with family-wage jobs and excellent benefits. Having moved from bus to MAX, it makes Shana feel good to know TriMet supports employees in reaching their goals. TriMet often promotes from within the organization, so employees with leadership skills can further advance in their careers.
Applying with TriMet
TriMet has big plans to expand and improve service throughout our 533-square-mile service district, which covers parts of Clackamas, Multnomah and Washington counties. In August, we rolled out one of the biggest service updates in our 55-year history. We want to build on that momentum!
Right now, though, we need more operators to provide the level of service we envision. That includes more Frequent Service bus lines, better connections between neighborhoods and job centers, and extended service to growing communities in places like Beaverton, Happy Valley and Hillsboro.
TriMet was recently ranked by Forbes Magazine as the top Oregon-based employer in the state, as well as Oregon’s top “Transportation and Logistics” employer. Forbes’ ranking is based on a survey of employees in each state.
Honoring active and former military members with our Honored Citizen reduced fare
TriMet salutes our veterans this Veterans Day and reminds all past and present members of the armed forces that they qualify to ride TriMet with our Honored Citizen reduced fare. With half-price daily fare and unlimited rides for just $28 a month, it’s a small but lasting salute to their courage and sacrifice.
Further honoring those who have served our country, TriMet rolled out a special bus design in today’s annual Portland Veterans Day Parade, with TriMet employees who have served proudly joining as well. The bus design was created by TriMet Graphic Designer and Navy veteran Preston Covey.
Honoring our armed forces and veterans
One year ago, TriMet granted eligibility for our Honored Citizen reduced fare to active-duty, reservists and former members of the U.S. Armed Forces. With that, TriMet became the first large transit agency in the United States to offer reduced fare to both active-duty military and veterans. This policy recognizes the tremendous contributions and sacrifices made by those who serve our country in uniform.
Among other groups that qualify for TriMet’s reduced fare:
Adults age 65 and older.
People with disabilities.
People on Medicare.
People on Oregon Health Plan, SNAP or TANF.
People who qualify based on income.
Frequent riders can save up to 72% with Honored Citizen fare!
While the number of signups continues to grow, there are still tens of thousands of people living in our service area who are eligible — but may not realize they qualify — for reduced fare on TriMet.
We encourage more people who qualify to apply for Honored Citizen fare! This fare program is part of our commitment to equity, breaking down barriers to ridership and creating a welcoming, accessible transit system. Learn more at trimet.org/equity.
How it works
Visit trimet.org/reduced to find out if you’re eligible for reduced fare on TriMet. We have a simple online application process. In-person applicants are also accepted at various locations.
If you qualify for Honored Citizen reduced fare, we’ll issue you a personalized Hop Fastpass® card with your photo on it. Tap this fare card at the green Hop card reader whenever you ride. You can load money onto your card with several easy options — including online and on the Hop app, as well as in person at retail outlets that partner with TriMet or at the TriMet Customer Support Center in Pioneer Courthouse Square. Visit myhopcard.com/getacard to find the location nearest you!
Holders of an Honored Citizen fare card pay half the regular cost of an Adult 2½ Hour Fare or Day Pass. They also pay no more than $28 per calendar month on fare, earning a Month Pass after paying for the equivalent of 10 Honored Citizen Day Passes.
Because Honored Citizen fare is integrated with Hop Fastpass®, users can also ride C-TRAN and Portland Streetcar with their Honored Citizen fare card.
Increased bonus for many union maintenance positions and training opportunities aims to bolster TriMet’s ability to provide reliable transit service
***UPDATE (June 2025): Hiring bonuses for new operators have now closed.***
At TriMet, we are dedicated to providing safe and reliable transit service. The backbone to that is our amazing Maintenance team. To increase its ranks, we are increasing our hiring bonus for select maintenance positions to $7,500, up from $2,500. Eligible maintenance jobs include mechanic, technician and maintainer positions, along with apprentices and trainees for those positions.
The increased hiring bonus comes as pay increases go into effect for all TriMet union positions Dec. 1, 2024, as part of our new Working and Wage Agreement with the Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) Local 757. In addition to medical, dental, vision, disability and life insurance plans at low or no monthly cost, the new four-year contract brings new benefits and opportunities:
Increased employer contribution to union employees’ 401(a) retirement plans.
Tuition reimbursement of up to $5,250
Child care subsidy of up to $150 per month
TriMet also supports employees by offering pathways for career advancement. In-person and virtual learning classes are offered throughout the year, free of charge, to all employees. Mentoring opportunities are available for many employees. Certain jobs, like transportation supervisor, are 100% filled through internal promotions.
Building our workforce to keep region moving
Earning a $7,500 bonus is a fantastic way to start a career at TriMet. We continue to offer it to both bus and MAX operators. As we bring more operators on board, we must increase our staffing at maintenance positions that support bus, MAX, WES and Portland Streetcar operations too.
TriMet is committed to providing a transit system that meets the needs of our regions, both now and in the future. That’s why we are investing in a skilled workforce that supports bus and rail service throughout our service area. We plan to add more service in the coming months and years, even after extending the MAX Red Line and creating new bus lines in August — one of the biggest service expansions in TriMet’s history.
With well over 3,500 employees, TriMet isn’t just one of Oregon’s best-rated employers — we’re one of Oregon’s largest employers, too.
TriMet provides transit service throughout a 533-square-mile area, which includes parts of Clackamas, Multnomah and Washington counties. That service includes bus lines, five MAX light rail lines, the WES commuter rail line and LIFT paratransit service. We also provide employees and training for the Portland Streetcar, which is owned by the City of Portland and operated separately from TriMet.
Buses and trains don’t run by themselves! We count on our more than 2,800 union workers not only to operate our vehicles, but also to maintain them and keep our system ship-shape.
From bus mechanics to rail technicians and beyond, many of the jobs that keep TriMet and our community moving now offer a $7,500 hiring bonus. You can see a full list of open positions at trimet.org/careers.
As part of the hollywoodHUB development, a new permanent ramp structure leading to the MAX station opens
Improved connections have arrived near the Hollywood/NE 42nd Ave MAX Station, with the first phase of public investments completed for a new transit-oriented development project. With TriMet’s leadership and funding, a new and permanent ramp connecting the MAX station to a pathway leading to Northeast Halsey Street opened on Friday, Nov. 1, near the future home of BRIDGE Housing’s hollywoodHUB project.
The rendering shows the hollywoodHUB’s public plaza, looking south, with the ramp and stairs leading to the Hollywood/NE 42nd Ave MAX Station in the background.
The new ramp gives all riders access to the Hollywood/NE 42nd Ave MAX Station. It replaces the temporary structure that has been in place since fall of 2023, which TriMet installed to replace the previous concrete structure to make room for the construction of hollywoodHUB. The mixed-use development will bring 222 new affordable housing units to Portland.
In addition to the new ramp, TriMet’s public investments will include an updated substation to power MAX trains, along with stairs running alongside the ramp, which will open soon.
Making way for hollywoodHUB
hollywoodHUB is the latest project to come out of TriMet’s Transit-Oriented Development Program, which works to deliver high-density housing and community-centered uses of available properties near our transit services. The hollywoodHUB project is a partnership between TriMet, developer BRIDGE Housing and resident services provider Impact NW*, with major funding coming from the region’s affordable housing bonds. *Service provider updated
One hundred and fifty-one of the homes will be for residents with incomes at or below 60% of the Area Median Income (AMI) and 71 units for residents with incomes at or below 30% AMI. Fifty-five of the homes will have rental assistance vouchers ensuring residents only pay 30% of their income on rent and utilities. BRIDGE Housing will break ground on hollywoodHUB at the end of this year.
During construction, there will be a temporary 20-foot pathway providing access to TriMet’s new ramp, leading people to the I-84 pedestrian bridge and Hollywood/NE 42nd Ave MAX station. When construction of the complex is complete, the new ramp and stairs will offer safer crossings of Northeast Halsey Street by connecting to hollywoodHUB’s public plaza.
What is transit-oriented development?
Transit-oriented development is a concept as old as mass transportation itself: create new buildings and infrastructure around transit. Today, this typically means development that includes a mix of uses–as well as a mix of housing affordability. These projects maximize density while creating walkable neighborhoods near transit, relieving congestion by reducing car dependence and increasing the supply of affordable housing and community resources accessible by transit.
The Portland metro area has a history of developing successful transit-oriented development projects, particularly in the 1990s and early 2000s. In recent years, TriMet has reinvested in our Transit-Oriented Development program, recognizing there was untapped potential to build on or around the transit system and ease the region’s affordable housing crunch.
TriMet’s solution takes underutilized properties that can accommodate residential and mixed-use buildings. While not a developer, TriMet works with developers to envision and deliver these projects that benefit the community.
Transit-oriented development projects completed in the last five years have increased the region’s affordable housing supply by 477 units. They have also added another 241 market-rate units. Our Transit-Oriented Development program accelerates the amount of housing that is delivered. At the same time, it promotes economic and social opportunities through the development of new commercial or community developments.
Other recent examples include the new East County Library, under construction on the former site of TriMet’s Gresham City Hall Park & Ride, and the Fuller Station Apartments. Completed and opened for residents at the end of 2021, Fuller Station features 100 apartments for families and individuals who earn between 30% and 60% of the area median income.
hollywoodHUB: investing in the community
The Portland Housing Bureau and Metro pooled resources to provide $33 million of affordable housing bond funding for hollywoodHUB. All together, this is the largest funding award ever issued for an affordable housing project in Portland, reflecting the scale and impact of this project and the urgent need for affordable housing across the region. Voters approved Metro’s $652.7 million bond program in 2018, earmarking money for permanent affordable housing projects across Multnomah, Washington and Clackamas counties.
Of the contractors working for TriMet on the project, 20% are state-certified Small Business Enterprises. For construction of hollywoodHUB itself, BRIDGE Housing hired O’Neill-Walsh Community Builders, a general contractor that is 49% minority owned.
TriMet is proud to be working alongside regional partners to add more affordable housing and help more people reach work, recreation and opportunities within the larger Portland metro area. Transit-oriented developments like hollywoodHUB allow for more people and neighborhood businesses to thrive and prosper. For more information about TriMet’s Transit-Oriented Development program, visit trimet.org/tod.
A weekend disruption from Nov. 16-17 will help upgrade a 100-foot section of the original MAX system in Downtown Portland
This November, TriMet crews will make improvements to a 100-foot section of the MAX system in Southwest Portland. This will require a short disruption to the MAX Blue and Red lines near the Galleria/SW 10th Ave MAX Station, with work taking place on Southwest 11th Avenue and Morrison Street.
TriMet encourages riders to plan ahead Saturday, Nov. 16, through Sunday, Nov. 17, as construction will disrupt service between the Galleria/SW 10th Ave and Providence Park MAX stations. Trains will be disrupted for less than a half mile. Only the westbound platform of Providence Park will be closed. For westbound trips from Providence Park, riders will use the eastbound platform. Regular MAX Blue and Red Line service will resume on Monday, Nov. 18. MAX Green, Orange and Yellow Line trains are not affected by the project and will operate on their regular schedules.
While the SW 11th Ave & Morrison MAX Improvement Project will not completely close any MAX station, TriMet will provide shuttle buses to move riders around the construction zone. Riders may also choose to walk, bike or use a mobility device to travel a little over 0.40 miles, which takes around eight minutes.
A view of the MAX turnout. Left, the turnout is under construction in the 1980s, ahead of the opening of MAX. Right, how the turnout looks today. It sits between Southwest Morrison and Yamhill streets at 11th Avenue. The switch on Southwest Morrison Street, which moves trains off the mainline through the turnout, will be removed during the project.
During the project, crews will remove a rail switch, used by trains to move from one track to another. It was part of the original Downtown endpoint of the MAX Blue Line from 1986 to 1997, a period when trains regularly used the switch as a way of turning around to head back in the opposite direction. In 1998, the MAX Blue Line’s Westside Extension to Washington County was completed, creating what remains the longest uninterrupted MAX line in TriMet’s light rail system, stretching more than 30 miles between Gresham and Hillsboro. Nowadays, the switch and the original MAX turnout at Southwest 11th Avenue and Morrison Street is typically used by extra service trains serving Timbers and Thorns games or other special events.
The weekend disruption will allow crews to work around the clock to complete the work.
Shuttle buses will arrive about every five minutes to take riders between the Galleria/SW 10th Ave and Providence Park MAX stations. Riders can sign up for service alerts and receive reminders about this and other planned or unplanned service adjustments by going to trimet.org/alerts.
Plan ahead
While the scope of the project will be contained to a small area, we encourage riders traveling through Downtown on the MAX Blue and Red lines to plan an extra 15 minutes for their trips. There will also be minor impacts to auto traffic along Southwest Morrison Street between Southwest 10th and 12th Avenues while the project is underway. Construction flaggers and signs will direct motorists around the workzone.
We will have staff near the shuttle bus locations for most of the day to help riders make their connections. Signs will also direct riders to these stops.
Eastbound trains from Hillsboro
Trains heading from Hillsboro to Downtown Portland will stop and offload riders at Providence Park. To continue your MAX trip, board a shuttle bus on Southwest 18th Avenue near Southwest Morrison Street. It will take you to a stop at Southwest 10th Avenue. From there, go south to the Library/SW 9th Ave MAX Station to board a MAX Blue Line train to Gresham or MAX Red Line train to Portland International Airport.
Westbound trains to Hillsboro
MAX Blue and Red Line trains heading west to Hillsboro will stop and offload riders at the SW 10th Ave/Galleria MAX Station. To continue on MAX, board the shuttle bus at Southwest 10th Avenue and Morrison Street. It will take you to Southwest 18th Avenue, with the Providence Park MAX Station nearby. From the Providence Park eastbound platform, you can board a MAX Blue Line to Hatfield Government Center MAX Station or MAX Red Line to Hillsboro Airport/Fairgrounds MAX Station.
Fuller shuttle buses expected Nov. 17
The Portland Trail Blazers are playing a 3 p.m. game at the Moda Center on Sunday, Nov. 17, which will likely result in more riders near Providence Park and a greater demand for shuttle buses. Walking, biking or using a mobility device to go between Providence Park and the Library/SW 9th Ave MAX Station may be an option for some. The two stations are less than half a mile apart via Southwest Yamhill Street.
Improvements and reliability
By making improvements to the light rail system, TriMet is ensuring that MAX trains remain a consistent and reliable means of transportation for years to come. With roughly 60 miles of track connecting 97 stations spread across three counties, MAX is the third largest light rail system in the Western United States–and the second oldest.
Improvements help boost reliability and improve the customer experience with smoother rides. In recent years, that has meant adding track between the Gateway Transit Center and Portland International Airport, improving train movement through the Gateway area and extending the MAX Red Line to Hillsboro Airport/Fairgrounds, all part of our recently completed A Better Red MAX Improvements and Reliability Project.
Crews work hard to keep the system moving. We appreciate your understanding as they complete this work, and we thank you for your patience. For information on the project, go to trimet.org/improvements.
Graduation marks another recruitment milestone for TriMet’s ongoing hiring initiative
***UPDATE (June 2025): Hiring bonuses for new operators have now closed.***
It’s unheard of for every graduate of a TriMet training class to share one unique trait. But that’s what happened earlier this month when more than a dozen MAX trainees made the jump into the operator’s seat.
The graduates were part of the first rail training class dedicated entirely to MAX operators hired from outside of TriMet. Prior to this, MAX operators were required to spend time operating a bus first. The change came as part of TriMet’s hiring push, an ongoing initiative to fill open operator and maintenance positions.
The new operators will join TriMet at an exciting time, with the agency being ranked as one of the five best places in Oregon to work, based on a survey of current employees. With their title of MAX Operator now official, the new graduates say they’re excited to help riders reach their destinations. That’s the most fulfilling part of the job, according to Larry, who graduated from the training class.
“There are people who will go out of the way to thank you,” Larry said. “And it makes you happy that you went through all the steps to help people get from point A to point B.”
Zoe, another recent graduate, said new operators feel prepared to operate a 100,000-pound train.
“Now that I’m at the end of all this experience and all this training, I feel like I’m ready,” Zoe said. “I feel lucky to have made it this far. It’s definitely a pretty unique experience.”
It’s also an experience that remains open to others throughout the community. TriMet has once again posted the job and is accepting applications from the general public. In addition to joining the ranks of a select number of well-trained MAX operators, new hires also receive a $7,500 hiring bonus!
Twelve weeks of rail training
When TriMet first began recruiting external candidates for MAX operator positions in spring 2024, it led to 851 applications, the single largest number of applications ever received over a two-month period. Of those who applied, 50 candidates received job offers.
But first, they had to go through training.
MAX light rail training is rigorous. Prior to training, candidates must have a Commercial Driver’s License permit, which is earned by passing a written test. Then they need to obtain a Commercial Driver’s License, a process for which TriMet provides the training. After that, rail training begins: 12 weeks of classroom instruction, weekly tests and lots of time spent behind the controls of every type of light rail vehicle in our fleet. Currently, TriMet has six types of light rail vehicles, covering four decades of train technology.
Those who don’t pass rail training are offered the opportunity to enter the bus training program, an eight-week course. They also receive the same $7,500 hiring bonus.
Whether they’re operating a bus or train, new operators join the more than 2,800 TriMet employees who are represented by the Amalgamated Transit Union Local 757, a critical partner to TriMet. In addition to operators, the ATU represents maintenance workers, mechanics, customer service employees and others across the agency. TriMet and the union recently came together to negotiate a four-year contract that expands benefits and gives union workers a raise.
Great pay, benefits and opportunities
The new union contract enhances employee benefits and secures a 13.64% pay increase for union employees over the coming four years, with the first raise effective December 1, 2024. This agreement aims to improve service reliability while supporting TriMet’s diverse workforce.This helps them build rewarding, long-lasting careers with competitive salaries and benefits that often surpass those of private employers.
TriMet’s commitment to career growth, with excellent pay and benefits, is one reason why Forbes Magazine recently named the agency one of the top five places in Oregon to work. TriMet even claimed the title of the top Oregon-based employer and the leading transportation and logistics employer in the state!
Benefits include low-cost medical, dental, and vision insurance, health spending accounts, paid leave and two retirement plans with employer contributions. Additionally, employees receive annual transit passes valued up to $1,200.
Everyone is valued–apply today!
At TriMet, diversity, equity, and inclusion are core values. We welcome and support employees from all backgrounds. To help foster an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive, TriMet offers nine Employee Resource Groups, each representing a community of employees with shared life experiences. These groups provide a space for employees to socialize, reflect, innovate, and grow, empowering them to contribute their unique perspectives to the company.
Larry and Zoe both say they are proud and excited to be joining a team that will value their contributions and help them grow as employees.
“I’ve always admired people who drove trains and buses–and the efficiency of TriMet,” Zoe said. “I always looked at operating a train as something I wanted to do someday.”
Larry said he is eager to see how far his career at TriMet will take him.
“Being a rail operator was my end goal,” Larry said. “But now being here, learning about TriMet’s opportunities, I’m definitely looking up ahead now–either a supervisor role, the control room or even a station agent. You have so many opportunities, honestly.”
With positions at TriMet suited for various skills and backgrounds, the right one might be waiting for you. To find out more about all of TriMet’s career opportunities, visit trimet.org/careers.
Como parte de los esfuerzos de TriMet para hacer que nuestros servicios estén disponibles para más personas, hemos realizado una importante actualización en nuestro sitio web, trimet.org. Ahora, las personas que hablan español, vietnamita, chino simplificado, ruso o coreano como su idioma materno pueden ver la aplicación web de nuestra página de inicio y las páginas de contenido de las rutas en su idioma materno. Estos son los primeros idiomas añadidos, además del inglés, y son los más hablados en nuestra comunidad. Esperamos añadir más idiomas en el futuro.
La ampliación de idiomas refleja la diversidad de nuestra comunidad y el compromiso de TriMet con la igualdad y la inclusión. Ahora, más usuarios pueden planificar viajes, conocer el recorrido de autobuses y trenes, aprender a viajar y mucho más. Al reducir las barreras lingüísticas, más personas pueden acceder a la información sobre nuestros servicios y recursos, lo que les facilita llegar a donde necesitan ir utilizando TriMet.
Un transporte más inclusivo
El idioma no debe ser una barrera para acceder a los servicios de TriMet. Nuestro sitio web actualizado ayuda a responder a las diversas necesidades de nuestra comunidad.
” Nosotros damos la bienvenida a todo el mundo en TriMet, ” dijo el Gerente General de TriMet Sam Desue Jr. “Ofrecer información en otros idiomas da a la gente más independencia y hace que sea más fácil aprender sobre TriMet, acceder a nuestros servicios y conectarse a puestos de trabajo, educación y otras oportunidades en toda el área metropolitana de Portland.”
Cómo acceder a la nueva función de selección de idiomas
Utilizar nuestro sitio web con la nueva función de idiomas traducidos es muy fácil. Visite trimet.org para ver un menú de navegación totalmente actualizado, con la notable colocación de un botón “Language” o “Idioma” en la parte superior derecha de la barra de navegación:
trimet.org en inglés……y en español.
Sólo tiene que hacer clic en el botón “Language” o “Idioma” y obtendrá una lista de los idiomas disponibles. A continuación, seleccione su idioma preferido. La aplicación de nuestra página de inicio cambia todo el contenido a tu idioma preferido, lo que facilita la planificación de un viaje, la consulta de rutas y el seguimiento de tu viaje. También podrás navegar a otra información que te ayudará a moverte:
Cómo viajar en autobús, MAX y WES.
Cómo comprar la tarifa.
Mapas y horarios.
Los programas para tarifas reducidas.
Información y elegibilidad para el programa LIFT.
Viajar en bicicleta y mucho más.
Otras mejoras
Además de la nueva función de selección de idioma, trimet.org presenta otras ventajas para el usuario, que facilitan el uso de lectores de pantalla, control por voz y navegación con teclado. También hemos colocado los botones “Seguridad” y “Alertas” en un lugar más visible, junto al botón “Idioma”, en la parte superior derecha de la página de inicio. Tenemos planeado añadir más funciones en el futuro para adaptarnos a las necesidades de nuestros usuarios.
¿Listo para intentarlo? Visite trimet.org para planificar su próximo viaje, consultar horarios y mucho más.
As part of TriMet’s efforts to make our services available to more people, we have made a major improvement to our website, trimet.org. Now people whose first language is Spanish, Vietnamese, Simplified Chinese, Russian or Korean can view the web app on our homepage and rider content pages in their native language. These are the first languages added in addition to English and are the most commonly spoken languages in our community. We hope to add additional languages in the future.
The expansion of languages reflects the diversity of our community and TriMet’s commitment to equity and inclusion. Now, more riders can plan trips, track buses and trains, learn how to ride and more. By reducing language barriers, more people can access information on our services and resources, making it easier for them to get where they need to go using TriMet.
Making transit more inclusive
Language should not be a barrier to accessing TriMet services. Our upgraded website helps accommodate the diverse needs of our community.
“We welcome everybody on TriMet,” said TriMet General Manager Sam Desue Jr. “Offering information in other languages gives people more independence and makes it easier to learn about TriMet, access our services and connect to jobs, education and other opportunities throughout the greater Portland metro area.”
How to access the new language selector feature
Using our website with the new translated language function is easy. Visit trimet.org to see a fully updated navigation menu, with prominent placement of a “Language” button in the top right of the navigation bar:
trimet.org in English……and in Spanish.
Just click on the “Language” button and you’ll get a list of the languages available. Then, select your preferred language. The app on our homepage switches all content to your preferred language, making it easier to plan a trip, check out routes and track your ride. You’ll also be able to navigate to other information to help you get moving:
How to ride bus, MAX and WES.
How to purchase fare.
Maps and schedules.
Access Transit programs for reduced fares.
LIFT information and eligibility.
Riding with bicycles and much more.
Other improvements
In addition to the new language selection feature, trimet.org features other user improvements, making it easier for people using screen readers, voice control and keyboard navigation. We also placed the “Security” and “Alerts” buttons in a more prominent spot–next to the “Language” button on the top-right side of the homepage. We plan to add more features in the future to accommodate our riders’ needs.
Ready to try it out? Visit trimet.org to plan your next trip, check schedules and more.
Improvements now allow TriMet dispatchers to watch over the system and deploy safety and security staff 24 hours a day
Behind a pair of chrome and glass sliding doors sits the new nerve center for TriMet’s security operations: the Security Operations Center. Now, in a first for TriMet, the center pulls together the agency’s security resources under one roof–including the security hotline, first established last year. Operating 24 hours a day, seven days a week, it anchors TriMet’s ongoing safety and security efforts.
Inside the center, an array of screens cycle through more than 3,000 closed-circuit camera views, providing live broadcasts from across our system. Dispatchers are stationed in front of computers with software that helps them send TriMet’s safety and security staff and contractors to where they’re needed. Members of the public can reach security dispatchers to report incidents or security concerns by calling or texting the Security Operations Center at 503-238-7433 (RIDE), using a blue-light security phone or by visiting trimet.org and clicking the security icon in the shape of a badge in the upper right-hand corner of the screen.
More resources than ever before
Over the past two and a half years, TriMet has more than doubled the number of safety and security personnel we have on the system, improved lighting at stations and parking lots and upgraded closed-circuit security camera views. Those improvements come in addition to TriMet’s recent efforts to enhance station and vehicle cleaning, as well as boost enforcement of our rules. The Security Operations Center combines all of these investments into one centralized location.
Two years in the making, the Security Operations Center fully opened this September. TriMet now has seven dispatchers that have received specialized training. The dispatchers monitor the system and respond to rider and employee concerns in real-time. The center aims to improve security response and address other concerns on the system. With anyone and everyone able to report incidents, acting as the eyes and ears for the system, the aim is to deter and reduce the number of incidents that occur.
“This is really just the beginning,” TriMet’s Executive Director of Safety & Security Andrew Wilson said. “We continue to build out our emergency response capabilities at TriMet. We’ve heard it from our riders, and we’ve heard it from our employees—that we need to be able to react to the needs that are out there with the tools that we have developed.”
Have a concern? TriMet wants to know
Calls and texts to 503-238-7433 (RIDE) go directly to our Security Operations Center staff. Here are the steps for making a report:
If you see something concerning, out of the ordinary or illegal–even vandalized or broken equipment–call 503-238-7433 (RIDE) and press option 9.
If you are texting, provide basic details. This may be the name of a MAX station, transit center, your vehicle number (located inside all buses and trains) and line/direction of travel or stop ID.
You will receive a response saying that your concern has been routed to TriMet’s security team.
You may be asked to provide further details, including a description. If it’s safe to do so, you can also attach a photo.
Security dispatchers triage the calls and send personnel or contact the appropriate work group.
TriMet continues to roll out new tools to deter unsafe, illegal or inappropriate behavior around the transit system. In early October 2024, TriMet began installing the first of our blue-light security phones, which give the public a direct line of communication to dispatchers in our Security Operations Center at the touch of a button.
A total of 14 of the security phones will be installed on platforms between the Rose Quarter and the Gateway Transit Center. The phones are distinctive and designed to stand out, some with red towers and the word “security” written down the side and topped with a blue light, visible day or night. They are similar to what college campuses have used for more than 30 years, which have been shown to help deter criminal behavior on the campuses.
In an emergency, always call or text 911 first.
Streamlining security responses
TriMet has invested in more safety and security resources than ever before, including frontline employees and contractors.
The Security Operations Center comes as TriMet has added more safety and security resources than ever before. Most visibly, TriMet now has around 475 field staff and contractors dedicated to the safety and well-being of riders and employees. They are spread across various teams, including Transit Security Officers, Customer Safety Supervisors, Customer Safety Officers, and Safety Response Team– all of whom can be dispatched through the Security Operations Center. They do everything from enforcing our rules for riding, including checking fares, to performing welfare checks and connecting people to social services. Their main goal is to provide a presence that reduces bad behavior. They are all trained in de-escalation techniques.
TriMet also has On-Street Customer Service. While not security, they do provide an extra presence on the system. They will also report suspicious or inappropriate behavior. But mostly they’re there to help in any way they can. Whether they’re answering rider questions or supporting special events and service disruptions, their mission is to ease barriers to riding
Our transit system is woven throughout the community. And the complex challenges that the region faces can, at times, extend onto it. That’s why we’ve been so committed to developing a diverse approach to security, using specialized teams to make the system as safe and welcoming as possible, while engaging state and regional leaders to address the challenges facing society.
Behavior on or near the transit system has improved with changes in criminal law and community initiatives as well as the addition of more TriMet safety and security resources. Our Safety Response Team, which performs welfare checks on and around our transit system, assisted more than 4,000 people and connected another 6,000 to social services in 2023 alone. The Transit Police Division, overseen by the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office, now has more time to conduct safety and security operations–patrols and missions– which led to a reduction in calls for police service by more than 50% between 2021 and 2023.
More safety and security investments coming
A blue-light security phone is installed at the Rose Quarter MAX Station.
Further investments in safety and security are coming! TriMet continues to hire security officers, with the hope of bringing them directly onboard more trains. Even more changes will kick off next year.
Beginning Jan. 1, 2025, a new drug law will be implemented statewide, making the use of illicit drugs on public transit vehicles the most serious misdemeanor, punishable by up to 364 days in jail. It allows those convicted to access to state-funded treatment in many instances. TriMet advocated for the law’s passage through the Oregon Legislature, believing that it provides a framework for more enforcement with stronger repercussions, while at the same time providing opportunities for treatment and the expungement of criminal records.
Remember, if you see something, say something. We’ve made it even easier. Just call or text 503-238-7433 (RIDE), press the button on a blue-light security phone or submit a security report online at trimet.org. For more information, visit trimet.org/security.
Join the agency that keeps the greater Portland metro region moving!
***UPDATE (June 2025): Hiring bonuses for new operators have now closed.***
Take it from our employees: TriMet is one of the best places to work in Oregon!
Forbes Magazine recently ranked TriMet as one of the top five places to work in Oregon. In that listing, TriMet is the number one Oregon-based employer in the state, as well as the top “Transportation and Logistics” employer in the state. The Forbes listing of the America’s Best-In-State Employers for 2024 comes from a survey of employees in each state.
“This honor reflects TriMet’s dedication to our employees and our community,” said TriMet General Manager Sam Desue Jr. “Our employees are the heart and soul of TriMet. We could not provide the transit service so many people rely on without their hard work and determination. And, as we work to support our employees in all aspects of their work, we know they in turn help connect our riders to opportunities throughout our region.”
TriMet employs more than 3,500 people. Our diverse workforce reflects the community and people we serve. We’re continuing to hire and add to our growing team, which includes bus and rail operators, mechanics, safety and security personnel, maintenance service workers, dispatchers, planners and schedulers, and more.
TriMet keeps our region on the move
TriMet has been serving the Portland metro region since 1969. That’s nearly 55 years of getting people where they need to go!
We operate bus, MAX light rail, WES commuter rail and LIFT paratransit service across TriMet’s 533-square-mile service area, which includes parts of Clackamas, Multnomah and Washington counties.
TriMet plays a central role in the daily life, transportation and economy of our region. In September 2024, we provided about 1.3 million rides a week. The Portland metro area enjoys the 13th-largest transit ridership in the country, even though it is only the 23rd-largest metro area in the country.
Many of our riders rely on TriMet to get to work, school, health care and other services. Others choose TriMet because it’s an accessible, affordable and sustainable way to travel throughout the Portland metro region. And, our employees come to TriMet for rewarding work, financial stability and opportunities for growth.
Why employees rank TriMet as the best Oregon-based employer: Wages & benefits
TriMet’s top Forbes rating comes from a survey of employees, and it reflects why TriMet is a great place to work. Whether it’s stepping into a great family-wage job, providing a public service to the community, exploring opportunities for advancement, charting a new career path, improving job skills, continuing education or saving for retirement, you can do it at TriMet. We offer benefits and programs to meet our employees’ needs and help turn their dreams into reality.
We offer competitive salaries and have excellent benefits that can save employees tens or hundreds of dollars every month over most private employers. Among the benefits:
Medical, dental, vision, disability and life insurance plans at low or no monthly cost
Optional health care coverage for spouses, domestic partners and dependents
Health and dependent care spending accounts
Two retirement plans, including a 401(a) plan with employer contribution of up to 8-10%
Paid vacation and sick leave
Annual transit pass (valued up to $1,200) for employee and eligible family members
More than 2,800 TriMet employees are represented by the Amalgamated Transit Union Local 757, a valued partner to TriMet. Working together, TriMet and the union recently negotiated a four-year contract that expands benefits and gives union workers a 13.64% pay increase. This new Working and Wage Agreement takes effect Dec. 1, 2024. The agreement isn’t just good for TriMet employees — it also supports the work we’re doing to make our transit system cleaner and more reliable, so riders will benefit as well.
Why employees rank TriMet as the best Oregon-based employer: Supportive & welcoming work environment
TriMet’s commitment to our employees stretches from support across many avenues to development that extends far beyond traditional training.
TriMet employees have access to financial coaching, estate planning, counseling and more through TriMet’s Employee Assistance Program. This program provides individualized and confidential support that is available to every TriMet employee. Also, peer-to-peer support is available to employees through our Critical Incident Stress Management Team. Team members undergo intensive training on mental health and coping resources to help coworkers through stressful or traumatic incidents, supporting our employees’ well-being.
Employees can take advantage of another TriMet benefit to stay physically fit. For a low monthly fee, we offer 24-hour access to five fitness centers for TriMet employees and their families. These fitness centers are conveniently located at facilities where many of our employees work, so they can hit the gym or even take an exercise class before or after their shift.
TriMet also offers learning and leadership courses that are open to all employees. Our Engage, Empower and Expand (E3) Learning Program is designed to help employees thrive by offering a wide range of classes, with topics such as project management, effective communication and creating inclusive environments. We partner with Portland Community College to bring in industry-leading instructors, giving employees access to high-quality, college-level learning experiences — at no cost to employees. On average, we see about 1,500 enrollments per year.
Diversity, equity and inclusion are core values at TriMet. We welcome and support employees of all backgrounds. Any employee can choose to participate in one or more of TriMet’s Employee Resource Groups. We have nine of these resource groups, and counting — each a community of employees with shared life experiences, offering them an inclusive space to socialize, reflect, innovate and grow.
Why employees rank TriMet as the best Oregon-based employer: Room for advancement & longevity
Our employees have opportunities to advance in their careers at TriMet. We promote from within for many management positions. Certain jobs — like our transportation supervisors, who help keep our system running every day — are only open to internal applicants.
We’re expanding mentorship opportunities for employees, helping them improve their job skills and develop new ones. We pair up employees as mentors and mentees for nine months, fostering meaningful professional relationships and sharing knowledge across TriMet.
We have dozens of employees who have been with TriMet for decades. More than 70 current employees have at least 30 years of service at TriMet. We recognize long-tenured employees with service awards, celebrating their many years of helping move our region forward. Just this past summer, one of our dedicated bus operators received an award for 40 years of service, a remarkable milestone — although still not the longest tenure for an active employee!
For some of our employees, TriMet is a family affair. Fathers, mothers, sons, daughters, brothers, sisters, husbands and wives have all worked alongside each other at TriMet, Forbes’ top Oregon-based employer. In one family, three generations of women have taken the wheel for TriMet over the decades, serving our region through times of growth and change.
TriMet is hiring and offering bonuses for some positions
Learn what our employees know! Join Team TriMet. We’re hiring bus and MAX operators, maintenance service workers, mechanics and technicians, and others. New hires at certain positions are eligible for hiring bonuses, including a $7,500 bonus for new operators and a $2,500 for select maintenance positions! Check out our complete list of open positions at trimet.org/careers.
About Forbes’ list of America’s Best-In-State Employers
TriMet is honored to be recognized on the Forbes list of America’s Best-In-State Employers for 2024. According to Forbes and its partner Statista Inc., the list is based on “an independent survey from a vast sample of over 160,000 employees working for companies employing at least 500 people within the U.S. The ranking is open to companies from all industry sectors. Around 4.4 million employer evaluations were considered. The consideration of data from 3 years allowed a robust differentiation between organizations that consistently perform well from those that may only have had a single good year.”
According to Statista Inc., an employer’s final score is based upon two types of employee evaluations:
1. Personal Evaluations: Employees’ willingness to recommend their own employers to friends and family
2. Public Evaluations: Recommendations from friends and family members of employees, or members of the public who work in the same industry- also known as indirect evaluations
About Statista Inc.
From Statista: “Statista publishes hundreds of worldwide industry rankings and company listings with high-profile media partners. This research and analysis service is based on the success of statista.com, the leading data and business intelligence portal that provides statistics, relevant business data, and various market and consumer studies and surveys.”
