About the position
The Traction Power Engineer supports the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of the agency's traction power systems, including substations and overhead catenary systems (OCS). This role is responsible for providing technical expertise in the inspection, maintenance, troubleshooting, and performance analysis of traction power equipment and systems. The Traction Power Engineer works closely with maintenance teams to develop preventive maintenance programs, address system faults, and ensure compliance with safety standards and regulatory requirements. Additionally, the engineer contributes to system upgrades, capital improvement projects, and long-term asset management planning. This position plays a key role in maintaining system availability and minimizing service disruptions across the rail network. The Traction Power Engineer assures substations, catenary and support equipment remain compliant with Valley Metro quality standards, specifications, FTA and/or ADOT requirements, and all safety-related aspects. The Traction Power Engineer will assist the Manager, Maintenance of Way by serving as a technical Subject Matter Expert (SME) for all of Valley Metro's traction power substations.
Responsibilities
- Supports a 24 hour-7 days/week operation that includes prioritizing work assignments; provides technical guidance to traction power maintenance.
- Evaluates the functional feasibility, electrical and mechanical design, and system reliability of various electrical and mechanical systems, equipment, and hardware associated with future and existing maintenance of way (MOW) systems as they relate to Traction Power system maintenance and repair.
- Directs and participates in the design and development of Traction Power and catenary projects and programs; approves final project plans, specifications, and cost estimates.
- Assists in managing large capital programs including the procurement of new Traction Power equipment; reviews and provides comments for future projects.
- Performs technical tasks in support of all Traction Power equipment, or parts procurements, including specification development, prototyping, design review, first article inspections, systems integration, quality assurance and quality control, quality inspections, safety certification, testing, post-delivery acceptance, reliability test, and warranty support.
- Assists with administration of contracts relating to procurement, installation, testing, and start-up of various Traction Power systems, hardware, software, and related equipment.
- Develops a corresponding data reliability centered driven maintenance program, Standard Operating Procedures (SOP), and material support program for all Traction Power subsystems.
- Participates and assists in the development and administration of the division's annual budget including forecasting funds needed for staffing, equipment, materials, and supplies.
- Communicates understanding and support of organizational goals through actions and spoken and written records.
- Ensures compliance with all applicable policies, rules, regulations, and laws.
- Provides lead expert guidance to MOW Management, supervisors, consultants, systems engineers, and other support staff as required for specific assignments.
- Stays abreast of new trends and innovations within the electrical engineering field.
Requirements
- Bachelor of Science in Electrical, Mechanical, or Industrial Engineering, or a closely related field.
- Five (5) years engineering experience with Overhead Catenary System (OCS) and Substation Systems Design.
- Valid Arizona Driver's License and a safe driving record.
Nice-to-haves
- Experience in public transportation.
- Experience in project management.
- Light Rail substation maintenance experience.
- Experience with training and curriculum development.
- Developing specifications for traction power substations and associated equipment.
- Experience with all aspects of substation and catenary procurements.
- Licensed as a Professional Engineer (PE) is desired.
