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Catenary Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Monday-Friday (Weekends if available) Position Summary The Catenary Engineer will manage and coordinate all aspects of the catenary portion of construction projects-from execution and scheduling to ...

Catenary Engineer

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$150K - $200K/yr

Monday-Friday (Weekends if available) Position Summary The Catenary Engineer will manage and coordinate all aspects of the catenary portion of construction projects-from execution and scheduling to ...

AECOM is actively seeking a talented Rail Systems / Catenary Engineer for employment within the New England region. Here you will have the opportunity to work side by side with career rail ...

AECOM is actively seeking a talented Rail Systems / Catenary Engineer for employment within the New England region. Here you will have the opportunity to work side by side with career rail ...

Traction Power Electrician

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$24.25 - $33.25/hr

Installs, inspects, maintains, repairs and provides diagnostic analysis on the traction power substations and catenary systems including but not limited to: traction power substations, catenary poles ...

Senior OCS Engineer

Philadelphia, PA · On-site

$105K - $144K/yr

AECOM is seeking a talented SENIOR OCS ( Overhead Catenary Systems) Engineer to join our World Class Rail team in Philadelphia! The ideal candidate will be part of the Overhead Catenary Systems (OCS ...

Senior OCS Engineer

Philadelphia, PA · On-site

$105K - $144K/yr

AECOM is seeking a talented SENIOR OCS ( Overhead Catenary Systems) Engineer to join our World Class Rail team in Philadelphia! The ideal candidate will be part of the Overhead Catenary Systems (OCS ...

Traction Power Electrician

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$24.25 - $33.25/hr

Installs, inspects, maintains, repairs and provides diagnostic analysis on the traction power substations and catenary systems including but not limited to: traction power substations, catenary poles ...

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Catenary information

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How much do catenary jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for catenary in the United States is $26.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $30.77 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by catenary engineers in railway projects, and how can they be addressed?

Catenary engineers often face challenges such as ensuring the structural integrity and alignment of overhead lines, accommodating varying weather conditions, and minimizing service disruptions during installation or maintenance. Effective communication with civil engineers, project managers, and field technicians is crucial to coordinate schedules and resolve site-specific issues. Staying updated with the latest safety protocols and technological advancements can help mitigate these challenges and ensure project success.

What is a catenary in the context of railways and what do catenary workers do?

In the railway industry, a catenary refers to the overhead wire system that supplies electric power to trains. Catenary workers are responsible for installing, inspecting, maintaining, and repairing these overhead electrical lines to ensure safe and efficient train operation. Their job includes working at heights, handling specialized equipment, and responding to emergencies when catenary wires are damaged or malfunction. This role is crucial for the reliability of electric rail systems and requires strong technical skills as well as strict adherence to safety procedures.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Catenary Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Catenary Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical or mechanical engineering, knowledge of railway electrification systems, and often a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with CAD software, railway design standards, and project management tools is typically required, along with certifications like Professional Engineer (PE) licensure in some regions. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help professionals excel in multidisciplinary teams and ensure safety compliance. These skills and qualifications are vital for designing, maintaining, and troubleshooting overhead line systems that ensure reliable and safe rail operations.

What is the purpose of catenary wire?

A catenary wire in the context of electrical or railway work is used to support overhead power lines or trolley wires, maintaining proper tension and height for safe and reliable electrical transmission. It helps ensure continuous contact between the wire and the pantograph or trolley, facilitating efficient power delivery to trains or electrical systems.

Is catenary AC or DC?

A catenary in the context of electrical systems typically refers to the overhead wire used to supply power to electric trains or trams. These overhead wires are usually energized with either alternating current (AC) or direct current (DC), depending on the railway system. Most urban transit systems use DC, while high-speed and mainline railways often use AC for efficient long-distance power transmission.

What is the difference between Catenary vs Signal Technician?

AspectCatenarySignal Technician
Required CredentialsElectrical certifications, safety trainingElectrical certifications, safety training
Work EnvironmentOverhead electrical systems, outdoor/railwayRailway signaling systems, outdoor/indoor
Industry UsageRailway electrification, infrastructureRailway safety, signaling systems
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

While both Catenary and Signal Technicians work within the railway industry and require electrical certifications, Catenary technicians focus on overhead electrical lines used for train power supply, whereas Signal Technicians specialize in railway signaling systems that control train movements. Understanding these differences helps clarify their distinct roles in railway infrastructure maintenance and safety.

What is a catenary engineer?

A catenary engineer specializes in designing and analyzing the catenary curve, which is the shape formed by a flexible chain or cable suspended under its own weight. They often work on overhead power lines, bridges, and structural systems, using engineering principles and tools like CAD software to ensure safety and efficiency. This role requires knowledge of structural analysis, materials, and relevant industry standards.

How does catenary work?

A catenary in a job context typically refers to the shape formed by a flexible chain or cable hanging under its own weight between two supports. Understanding this shape is important for roles involving structural design, electrical wiring, or cable installation, where precise calculations ensure safety and stability. Skills in physics, engineering principles, and the use of modeling tools are essential for working with catenary systems.
More about Catenary jobs
What states have the most Catenary jobs? States with the most job openings for Catenary jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Catenary jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Catenary jobs are:
Infographic showing various Catenary job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, and 9% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $54,791 per year, or $26.3 per hour.
Catenary Engineer

$150K - $200K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Manage and coordinate all aspects of the catenary portion of construction projects, including execution, scheduling, supervision, and quality control.

  • Review design-unit packages and plans to determine timelines, staffing, and resource allocation across project phases.

  • Monitor subcontractor field installations and maintain documentation for quality and completion.


RailWorks rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Job ID: 19474 

Benefits Offering

Union Benefits - Local #3, IBEW


The medical benefits vest after 90 days of employment, with coverage applied retroactively to your start date upon successful completion of the introductory period 

As a union shop contractor, L.K. Comstock employees are members of Local Union #3 - IBEW and are eligible for comprehensive union benefits for themselves and immediate family members, including, but not limited to:

  • Local Union #3 Pension (after 5 years)
  • IBEW Pension (after 5 years)
  • NEBF (National Electrical Benefit Fund)
  • Medical, Dental, and Health Reimbursement coverage
  • Educational and Cultural Fund
  • Deferred salary and annuity fund plans
  • Social Security Payback
  • Paid sick leave, vacation, and bereavement (subject to contract negotiations)
Compensation

Salary: $150,000 - $200,000 annually, total compensation  
Work Schedule: Monday-Friday (Weekends if available)

Position Summary

The Catenary Engineer will manage and coordinate all aspects of the catenary portion of construction projects-from execution and scheduling to supervision and quality control. The role involves technical oversight, staff coordination, and ensuring adherence to project requirements and timelines.

Primary/Essential Responsibilities and Duties
  • Review design-unit packages and plans to determine timelines, staffing, and resource allocation across project phases.
  • Ensure compliance with all transit agency specifications and regulatory requirements.
  • Coordinate field conditions with design drawings; flag constructability issues and ensure alignment across project with involved parties.
  • Monitor subcontractor field installations and maintain documentation for quality and completion.
  • Lead and participate in meetings to communicate project requirements and progress.
  • Supervise project activities to maintain design schedules and budgets, taking corrective actions when needed.
  • Support on-site activities and provide daily directions to administrative (ADM) and technical staff.
  • Maintain quality control and productivity standards on-site.
  • Provide technical guidance to team members and subcontractors; recommend solutions when challenges arise.
  • Prepare and contribute to internal and external project reports.
  • Supervise CAD staff and oversee the creation of construction drawings based on design plans and field data.
  • Review technical calculations related to catenary systems.
  • Be available for both day and night shifts to support field installations and survey crews.
  • Manage material submittals, providing technical review and compliance feedback to designers and installers.
Required Skills and Qualifications
  • Bachelor's Degree in Civil or Electrical Engineering
    (or equivalent experience/education)
  • 5+ years of experience in catenary systems
  • Familiar with MTA, Amtrak, and LIRR catenary work
    (experience working on or retired from Amtrak's catenary department preferred)
  • Strong understanding of catenary materials and systems across transit properties
  • Knowledge of the Amtrak Northeast Corridor in NYC
  • Familiar with design-build projects
  • Experience maintaining train operations during construction.
  • Familiar with project management and design workflow tools such as Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook) and Procore
  • Proficient in identifying and managing additional work orders
  • Effective communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively within a team
  • Highly organized with strong time management capabilities
  • Physically able to navigate construction sites
    (standing, climbing, stooping, crouching)
  • Willingness to work outdoors and conduct field surveys
  • Comfortable in all weather conditions and high-noise environments
  • Recommended certifications:
    • Amtrak Track Training
    • CSX Track Training
    • MTA Track Training
    • OSHA 30
Physical Requirements and Working Conditions
  • Frequently works outdoors at construction sites and occasionally works indoors.
  • Frequently stands, walks, climbs, balances, stoops, and crouches while negotiating work areas under construction.
  • Sits, reads, writes, and uses a keyboard.
  • May be exposed to harsh weather conditions including very hot and very cold weather
  • May be exposed to loud noise. 
Footer - EEO

RailWorks is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment with RailWorks without regard to an individual's sex, race, religion, creed, color, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, age, disability, veteran status or other legally protected characteristics.

RailWorks is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment with RailWorks without regard to an individual's sex, race, religion, creed, color, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, age, disability, veteran status or other legally protected characteristics.


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