Rail Director - Rail

LJA•Houston, TX

About The Position

LJA is offering an exciting opportunity that will allow you to reach your full career potential. The structure of our organization is designed to amplify your capabilities while gaining the benefits of being an employee-owner. What truly sets this opportunity apart is the chance to collaborate every day with dedicated, skilled, and supportive leaders. Whether you are in the office, in the field, or behind the scenes, working at LJA gives you the chance to grow through hands-on experience and exposure to a broad range of clients and services. At LJA, our employee-owners take pride in their work and their workplace. We’re guided by leaders who foster a culture of respect, collaboration and a shared vision of success. Our difference is evident in the experiences and opportunities we provide: Employee-owned. Client-focused Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) Consistently ranked as a Top Workplace Internal recruitment team, in-house training, and a marketing department specific to our industry We celebrate flexibility, allowing every team and office to lead with their proven approach Our culture champions continuous learning and personal growth We believe success comes through constant evolution and communication We are passionate about having fun and making money, all while creating impact POSITION OVERVIEW: As a Rail Director at LJA Rail, The Rail Director will lead the development, growth, and management of the Signal Engineering and Design division while supporting strategic railroad infrastructure and systems initiatives across freight, industrial, and transit markets. This role is responsible for building a high-performing signal engineering team, expanding client services, driving business development opportunities, and ensuring technical excellence in signal and systems operations. The ideal candidate will bring extensive railroad signal engineering experience, strong industry relationships, leadership capabilities, and a proven background in Class I railroad coordination, FRA compliance, and rail systems integration.

Requirements

Minimum 10+ years of railroad signal engineering, systems integration, or rail infrastructure experience.
Proven leadership experience managing engineering or technical teams.
Strong understanding of:
Experience supporting industrial rail, short line, transit, or Class I railroad operations.

Nice To Haves

Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.) highly preferred
Education preferred, but relevant experience will be considered
Established relationships within the railroad industry preferred.

Responsibilities

Guide project planning, support of contracting processes, design management, construction, and commissioning of industry and public assets.
Support Industrial Project Program (IPP) initiatives through signal and systems engineering expertise.
Expand railroad signal and systems services for industrial and public-sector customers.
Support clients pursuing Section 130 funding for railroad crossing upgrades and safety improvements.
Lead new business initiatives focused on FRA maintenance compliance services for industrial rail and short line customers.
Target and develop opportunities with organizations.
Support the expansion of additional systems-related services.

Benefits

PTO, paid holidays, and a full office closure between Christmas and New Year’s.
Multiple plan options for health, dental, and pets.
Mental health support.
Paid maternity and parental leave.
Tuition reimbursement and in-house courses provided by our Learning and Development team.
Referral Bonuses.
Company-sponsored volunteer days and philanthropic initiatives.
Memberships to industry organizations to keep you connected and growing.
Great internal mobility opportunities to advance your career.
LJA social events, employee sports teams, bring your kid to work day, etc.