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Catenary Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Maintenance and Facility Manager

Sacramento, CA ยท On-site

$190K - $220K/yr

Manages, on a matrix basis, various discipline experts (track, catenary, signaling, telecom, and operations), as well as future designers. Qualifications Experience Required * 15+ years in the rail ...

Maintenance and Facility Manager

Sacramento, CA ยท On-site

$190K - $220K/yr

Manages, on a matrix basis, various discipline experts (track, catenary, signaling, telecom, and operations), as well as future designers. Qualifications Experience Required * 15+ years in the rail ...

Civil Engineer I / II

Wasco, CA ยท On-site

$41 - $55/hr

Support oversight of catenary pole foundation and base installation activities. * Assist with oversight of cable trough installation and associated civil construction activities. * Review ...

Support oversight of catenary pole foundation and base installation activities. * Assist with oversight of cable trough installation and associated civil construction activities. * Review ...

Lead the design, analysis, and delivery of traction power distribution systems, including substations, overhead catenary systems (OCS), and third rail systems, ensuring technical excellence and ...

Lead the design, analysis, and delivery of traction power distribution systems, including substations, overhead catenary systems (OCS), and third rail systems, ensuring technical excellence and ...

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Catenary information

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$8

$26

$61

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.

Sr. Electric Traction Delivery Lead

TOMORROW HIRE

Philadelphia, PA โ€ข Hybrid

Contractor

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

Location:ย Philadelphia, PA (Hybrid)

Overview

We are seeking a seasoned Electric Traction Delivery Lead to oversee electric traction workstreams for a large-scale rail Enterprise Asset Management implementation. The ideal candidate combines deep rail infrastructure expertise with proven leadership of complex technology and business transformation programs.

Responsibilities

  • Lead delivery activities for electric traction asset management transformation.
  • Manage teams supporting traction power, catenary, substations, and related infrastructure.
  • Coordinate requirements, design reviews, testing, deployment, and user adoption activities.
  • Ensure alignment between maintenance operations and EAM business processes.
  • Manage risks, issues, schedules, and stakeholder communications.
  • Drive organizational change and adoption of standardized maintenance practices.
  • Support executive reporting and program governance.
  • Collaborate with engineering, maintenance, operations, and technology teams.

Requirements

Required Qualifications

  • 15+ years of electric traction or rail power systems experience.
  • 7+ years managing complex infrastructure or EAM transformation programs.
  • Experience leading multi-disciplinary project teams.
  • Strong understanding of asset management and maintenance operations.
  • Experience working with senior executives and operational leadership.
  • Exceptional communication and leadership skills.

Preferred Qualifications

  • IBM Maximo experience.
  • Passenger rail experience.
  • PMP certification.
  • ISO 55000 familiarity.
  • Electrical Engineering background.

Benefits

Pay Rate: 85$ - 100$ Per Hour