Lead Railcar Mechanical Engineer

WSP • Newark, NJ

48d

About The Position

We are seeking a full-time Lead Railcar Mechanical Engineer to join our National Rail Business Line in Pennsylvania & New Jersey. This role supports clients in the procurement, overhaul, maintenance, and operation of passenger locomotives. The ideal candidate will bring deep technical expertise in locomotive systems, including design, compliance, and operational performance. Experience working with transit authorities, developing technical specifications, and overseeing manufacturing or maintenance programs is highly desirable. This position also plays a key role in growing our national rail vehicle practice, including staff development and business development initiatives.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, or related Engineering discipline.
• 12+ years of experience in rail car engineering, operations, or maintenance.
• P.E. License preferred, or additional experience in lieu of degree.
• Strong knowledge of transit and rail engineering principles and infrastructure.
• Experience conducting inspections and applying regulatory standards.
• Excellent communication and leadership skills.
• Proficiency in technical writing and design tools (e.g., AutoCAD, MicroStation, Civil 3D).
• Demonstrated ability to manage complex deliverables and mentor teams.
• Commitment to safety and quality assurance.
• Flexibility to travel and adapt to dynamic project needs.
• Electric passenger railcars (FRA, commuter, heavy rail and light rail)
• Push-pull coach integration with head end power
• Proficient in all mechanical rail car systems operation and troubleshooting
• Deep understanding FRA rules and regulations associated with a railcar procurement
• State Safety Oversight experience in delivering a non-FRA vehicle to a state or local government agency
• Hands-on knowledge of vehicle drawings, electrical schematics and diagnostics tools
• Strong background in diesel engine maintenance, diagnostics, and full overhauls.
• Understanding of emissions after-treatment systems (e.g., SCR, and, DEF systems) in Tier 4 compliant locomotives.
• Expertise in mechanical subassemblies: compressors, HVAC, couplers, trucks, gearboxes, transformer tap changers and fuel systems.
• Familiar with industry-standard performance and reliability criteria for mechanical systems.
• Skilled in preventive maintenance procedures and reliability-centered maintenance (RCM).
• In-depth understanding of pneumatic and electro-pneumatic braking systems.
• Proficient in blended braking strategies involving dynamic and friction brakes.
• Knowledgeable in electronically controlled braking (ECB) and brake performance testing protocols.
• Familiar with PTC (Positive Train Control) and ATC (Automatic Train Control) integration and troubleshooting.
• Skilled in calibrating and testing brake sensors, control valves, and electronic brake control units.
• Working knowledge of FRA regulations including:
• 49 CFR Parts 229 (Locomotive Safety Standards)
• 49 CFR Parts 238 (Passenger Equipment Safety Standards)
• 49 CFR Parts 232 (Brake System Safety Standards)
• Experience with APTA/AREMA guidelines and OEM compliance documentation.
• Familiar with emissions standards under EPA regulations (e.g., Tier 0-4 compliance).
• Experience with duel mode locomotives and alternative fuels.
• Understanding of locomotive onboard control networks (e.g., MVB, Ethernet consist and vehicle Networks).
• Experience with event recorders, diagnostic systems, and fleet health monitoring.
• Knowledge of trainline control logic, train bus communication, and consist-level signal handling.
• Familiar with integrated PTC/cab signaling systems, onboard displays, sensor networks and wayside to vehicle communication.
• Ability to interpret complex electrical and mechanical schematics and wiring diagrams.
• Strong problem-solving and root cause analysis skills in both shop and field environments.
• Comfortable working cross-functionally with engineering, compliance, and operations teams.
• Willingness to travel and support field commissioning, testing, and warranty efforts.
• OSHA 10/30, Blue Flag, or other applicable railroad safety certifications.

Nice To Haves

• Master's degree in Engineering.
• PMP certification.
• Experience in rail transit vehicle design.

Responsibilities

• Provide expert consulting on passenger rail systems for transit and rail projects, including high-speed, regional, and urban rail systems.
• Lead the development of technical specifications and standards for rail vehicles.
• Oversee rail car and overhaul programs, ensuring quality, schedule, and budget adherence.
• Conduct engineering analyses and root cause investigations of system issues.
• Prepare technical reports and documentation for clients.
• Support business development through proposal writing and client presentations.
• Stay current with industry best practices and regulatory standards.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and stakeholders across federal, state, and local projects.
• Travel as needed to support project delivery.
• Uphold ethical standards and company policies in all work activities.

Benefits

• WSP provides a comprehensive suite of benefits focused on a providing health and financial stability throughout the employee's career. These benefits include coverage related to medical, dental, vision, disability, and life; retirement savings; paid sick leave; paid vacation (or other personal time); paid parental leave; and paid time off for purposes of bereavement, voting, and/or attendance at naturalization proceedings.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Industry: Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees