Meet MAX Operator Jeff Flanagan

Jeff Flanagan has been operating MAX trains for more than four years. As all MAX operators must do, he started his career with TriMet behind the wheel of a bus. TriMet currently hires about 20 bus operators every three weeks. Over time (about a year), bus operators have the opportunity to move into other positions based on performance and seniority. Now a MAX operator, Jeff takes great pride in his specialized job, one that almost always draws a positive reaction when people learn about it.
“They say, oh that’s cool! You drive a MAX train? That’s something I’ve always wanted to do,” said Jeff.
Being able to serve the community is number one on the long list of things that make Jeff grateful to be a MAX operator. He also enjoys being out with the public and the changing scenery his rolling office provides him every day.
Jeff is one of around 200 skilled people that currently operate our MAX trains. All of them completed an 11-week course consisting of both class time and hands-on training. They learn railroad fundamentals, terminology, signal systems, rules, and troubleshooting with daily quizzes and weekly tests.
Unlike boarding a TriMet bus where riders come face-to-face with the operator, on MAX riders rarely meet the person at the controls of the train. Train operators are required to shut and lock their cab doors, for their protection, the protection of those on board and the safety of the public.
Inside his train cab, Jeff may be isolated, but he’s rarely alone. At full capacity, one MAX train with two cars can carry more than 300 people. That’s a great responsibility that he takes seriously.
“It feels more like I’m on a plane, I guess you would say,” Jeff said. “On a big airplane and the only difference is that you’re on the rails.”
MAX operators must always be alert and on the lookout for unsafe behavior around their trains - pedestrians and bicyclists that dash in front of them, cars making illegal turns or ignoring traffic signals, and people walking near the tracks while distracted.
“Part of the challenge is just making sure that you’re always safety conscious and that you’re not being complacent out there,” said Jeff. “It is a lot of responsibility.”

[@chasedful]

I work with Jeff and he is as good as they come.......glad he is on our team at Trimet

[@Kevin83184]

Are you a bus operator? If so, how do you know where to go to certain bus routes to pick up passengers? GPS on board? Also, is trimet paid weekly? I have a CDL A and work for Coca Cola in Wilsonville and thinking of something new.

[@Superfighterleo1]

Incredible Job, Jeff! I believe I was on one of your trains.

[@inactivefatimahgianna245]

Is Jeff still running the Yellow line? I’m on the yellow line frequently