Rail Systems Engineer VIII - Engineering Director

RailPros•Jacksonville, FL

4d•Onsite

About The Position

The Engineering Director – Signals provides executive-level leadership for the organization’s railroad signal engineering practice. This role oversees the design, integration, testing, and commissioning of railroad signaling systems including wayside signals, interlockings, grade-crossing warning systems, and signal control systems. The Engineering Director – Signals establishes technical strategy, engineering standards, and operational priorities for signal engineering services while ensuring successful project delivery and alignment with organizational growth objectives. This role leads teams of engineers, signal specialists, and technical staff and serves as the primary authority on signal system engineering within the organization. This position may require travel. On occasion, travel to RailPros headquarters, field offices, client offices, work sites and other project-related locations may be required. Contribute to a positive, inclusive, and respectful workplace culture, free from behaviors that undermine morale, productivity, or organizational values. Uphold the organization’s standards of integrity, accountability, and respect in all duties and interactions. Adhere to all company policies, procedures, and applicable laws and regulation. Other duties as assigned or required to meet the business needs.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or a related engineering discipline
Minimum of 20 years of progressive experience in railroad and transit signal systems engineering, project management, and technical leadership
Demonstrated experience managing signal engineering and design operations, including wayside systems and railroad and transit system projects
Extensive experience leading complex rail projects, providing PMO oversight, managing contracts, and coordinating multidisciplinary technical teams
Proven ability to lead and develop signal engineering personnel, allocate resources, and oversee successful project execution
Strong client relationship, contract negotiation, business development, and executive communication skills
Experience supporting major freight, passenger rail, light rail, or transit signal programs
Proficiency with electronic communication including e-mail and text, as well as standard office applications (i.e., Microsoft Office Suite)
Exceptional oral and written communication skills
Ability to negotiate critical and controversial issues with top-level engineers and officers of other organizations and companies
Ability to conduct presentations and may participate in media interviews
Ability to represent his or her organization at important functions or conferences, including media interviews as required

Nice To Haves

Professional Engineer (PE)
Member of professional practice organization, recognized expert on national activity or spokesperson for the profession

Responsibilities

Direct the planning, development, and execution of railroad signal engineering services
Establish engineering standards, design methodologies, and system integration practices for signal systems
Oversee design and integration of wayside signaling systems, interlocking systems, and grade crossing warning systems
Provide technical oversight of signal system testing, commissioning, and operational acceptance
Lead project meetings and make presentations
Support major projects and programs by providing senior-level technical guidance
Review and approve complex engineering designs and system integration strategies
Assist project managers in resolving high-level technical challenges and risks
Manage signal engineering staff including senior engineers, project engineers, and technical specialists
Establish staffing plans and allocate engineering resources across projects
Lead recruitment, development, and performance management of signal engineering personnel
Support proposal preparation and project pursuits involving signal engineering services
Participate in client presentations and technical strategy discussions
Identify opportunities to expand signal engineering capabilities and services
Maintain strong relationships with rail agencies, regulatory bodies, and industry partners
Monitor industry developments in signal technology, standards, and regulatory requirements
Represent the organization in industry forums and technical working groups
Demonstrate leadership in railroad signal engineering and system integration
Maintain strong client relationships and industry credibility
Foster innovation, safety, and technical excellence within the signal engineering organization
Uphold company policies, safety standards, and regulatory compliance requirements

Benefits

Comprehensive Health Insurance: Includes medical, dental, and vision coverage.
Additional Coverage Plans: Accident plan, critical illness plan, and hospital indemnity with employee to family coverage.
Legal Shield, ID Shield, Pet Insurance: Added protection for you...and your pets.
Life & Disability Insurance: Employer provided coverage with additional voluntary options available.
Retirement Savings: 401(k) plan with employer match includes pre and post deduction options.
Paid Time Off (PTO): With carryover each year.
Paid Holidays: For full time employees.
Wellness Programs: Access to wellness initiatives and resources.
Discount Programs: Exclusive discounts on products and services.
Company Merchandise Allowance: Company funded allowance for our online store.
Health Savings Accounts (HSA): With employer match.
Health Reimbursement Arrangement (HRA): Employer funded.
Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA): For dependent care expenses.
Employee Assistance Programs (EAP): Support for personal and professional challenges.
Professional Development: Opportunities for training and career growth.
Balanced Work Environment: A culture that respects boundaries so employees can recharge and bring their best selves to work.
Tuition Reimbursement: Support for continued education or professional development.
Professional & Career Growth: Through mentorship, continuous training, career path partnerships, goal setting, and succession planning.
Culture & Recognition: Employee spotlights, annual Service Excellence Awards, alignment committee, philanthropy opportunities, company events, monthly new hire calls, monthly newsletters, feedback surveys, and quarterly town halls.