Manager, Signals & Communication

CFER•Fort Wayne, IN

About The Position

The Manager of Signals & Communications leads the safe, reliable, and compliant operation of signals, communication, and wayside detection systems across an assigned territory. The role oversees installation, maintenance, inspections, and quality control while supporting and developing the teams responsible for these systems. It combines technical expertise with leadership and strategic planning to support safe and efficient rail operations. The position is full-time, with 40 or more hours per week on a varying schedule in a 24/7 work environment. Work includes nights, holidays, weekends, and on-call duties, as well as outdoor work in all weather conditions. The employee must live within 50 miles of the assigned location or be willing to relocate; relocation assistance may be offered. Employment is subject to a pre-employment physical and hearing and vision review, possible federally mandated drug and alcohol testing including pre-employment screening, and background screening that includes criminal and motor vehicle driving history.

Requirements

Technical degree in electro-mechanics or a related field, or at least 5 years of railroad operating supervisory experience.
Technical and regulatory railroad knowledge.
Proficiency with CAD, Microsoft software, and specialized railroad-signal software, such as data event recorder, railway crossing controller, and wayside detector controller software.
Knowledge of wayside and crossing detection and control, and signal-related apparatuses such as ABS, CTC, Search Light and Color Light Signals, Hot Box Detectors, Interlockers and AEI Readers, GCP3000+, MS4000, XP4, PMD-3, and GCP4000/5000.
Knowledge of enterprise data systems including Microsoft Dynamics GP, RMI, and e-procurement.
Excellent oral and written communication skills in English.
Ability to collaborate across departments.
Situational awareness and decision-making abilities to respond effectively in a safety-sensitive environment.
Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions, walk on uneven surfaces, and climb ladders and equipment while maintaining three points of contact.
Ability to squat, bend, lift overhead, and remain kneeling or crouching for extended periods.
Ability to occasionally lift equipment and tools weighing up to 89 pounds.
Must live within 50 miles of the assigned location or be willing to relocate.
Must complete a pre-employment physical and hearing and vision medical review; may be subject to federally mandated drug and alcohol testing, including pre-employment screening; and must undergo background screening including criminal and motor vehicle driving history.

Nice To Haves

Prior experience in Class 1 railroad signal maintenance, installation, and signal design.
CROR and GCOR qualification.

Responsibilities

Oversee installation, maintenance, and inspection of railway crossing and signal systems, wayside detectors, and communication systems, ensuring proper function and regulatory compliance.
Perform regular quality control and functionality testing of signal systems within the assigned territory.
Develop, write, and enforce specifications and work procedures.
Collaborate with regulatory authorities and ensure compliance with regulatory recordkeeping requirements.
Support hiring employees to fill vacancies; train employees in operating practices according to federal regulations and company policies; and administer discipline as needed.
Identify maintenance and rehabilitation priority projects and seek local, state, and federal external funding for capital projects.
Perform profitability analysis, manage third-party financing, and develop plans and specifications for related projects.
Build and manage signal operating and capital budgets.
Prepare project cost estimates and determine internal and contractor labor assignments and costs.
Manage procurement for signal-system installation, maintenance, and inspection within the assigned territory.
Prepare reports and analysis for regional management.
Promote safe operations.
Manage projects and perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

Competitive pay
Comprehensive benefits package
Paid training
Medical insurance
Dental insurance
Vision insurance
Telehealth
Life insurance
Optional accident, critical illness, hospital, identity theft, and life insurance coverages
Flexible Spending and Health Savings account plans
Employee Assistance Program
401(k) retirement plan
On-the-job training
Paid time off
Tuition reimbursement
Relocation assistance may be offered