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Positive Train Control Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Senior Signal Engineer

Conshohocken, PA · On-site

$102.90K - $141.20K/yr

Automatic Train Control (ATC), Positive Train Control (PTC), Automatic Train Supervision (ATS), Automatic Train Protection (ATP), Automatic Train Operation (ATO), Solid State Interlocking (SSI), Cab ...

Senior Signal Engineer

New York, NY · On-site

$114.30K - $157K/yr

Automatic Train Control (ATC), Positive Train Control (PTC), Automatic Train Supervision (ATS), Automatic Train Protection (ATP), Automatic Train Operation (ATO), Solid State Interlocking (SSI), Cab ...

Senior Signal Engineer

New York, NY

$114.30K - $157K/yr

Automatic Train Control (ATC), Positive Train Control (PTC), Automatic Train Supervision (ATS), Automatic Train Protection (ATP), Automatic Train Operation (ATO), Solid State Interlocking (SSI), Cab ...

Senior Signal Engineer

Conshohocken, PA

$102.90K - $141.20K/yr

Automatic Train Control (ATC), Positive Train Control (PTC), Automatic Train Supervision (ATS), Automatic Train Protection (ATP), Automatic Train Operation (ATO), Solid State Interlocking (SSI), Cab ...

Senior Signal Engineer

New York, NY

$114.30K - $157K/yr

Automatic Train Control (ATC), Positive Train Control (PTC), Automatic Train Supervision (ATS), Automatic Train Protection (ATP), Automatic Train Operation (ATO), Solid State Interlocking (SSI), Cab ...

Senior Signal Engineer

New York, NY

$114.30K - $157K/yr

Automatic Train Control (ATC), Positive Train Control (PTC), Automatic Train Supervision (ATS), Automatic Train Protection (ATP), Automatic Train Operation (ATO), Solid State Interlocking (SSI), Cab ...

Senior Engineer, Hosted PTC Services

Gambrills, MD · On-site

$104.80K - $149.30K/yr

Our products support rail customer operations for positive train control, dispatch systems, SCADA, and customer information management and include both back office and front facing components. Our ...

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Positive Train Control information

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How much do positive train control jobs pay per hour?

As of May 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for positive train control in the United States is $24.44, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.03 and $30.53 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Positive Train Control (PTC) Specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Positive Train Control (PTC) Specialist, you need a background in electrical engineering, computer science, or a related field, combined with strong knowledge of railway signaling systems and safety protocols. Familiarity with PTC software platforms, railroad communication networks, and relevant certifications such as FRA PTC training are typically required. Analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and strong communication are valuable soft skills for diagnosing system issues and coordinating with cross-functional teams. These competencies are crucial to ensure the safety, reliability, and regulatory compliance of train control systems.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a Positive Train Control (PTC) Specialist?

A Positive Train Control (PTC) Specialist is responsible for monitoring, maintaining, and troubleshooting PTC systems to ensure safe and efficient train operations. Daily tasks often include conducting system diagnostics, updating software, coordinating with train operators and dispatchers, and responding to system alerts or failures. PTC Specialists also collaborate with engineering and IT teams to implement upgrades or modifications and provide training to operational staff. This role requires attention to detail and strong communication skills to ensure compliance with safety regulations and minimize disruptions.

What is Positive Train Control (PTC)?

Positive Train Control (PTC) is an advanced system designed to automatically stop or slow down trains to prevent accidents, such as train-to-train collisions, derailments caused by excessive speed, and unauthorized train movements. It uses GPS, wireless radio, and computers to monitor train positions and enforce safety rules. PTC is mandated by federal law for certain rail lines in the United States to enhance rail safety and reduce human error. Implementation of PTC requires significant investment in technology and infrastructure but is considered a major improvement in rail safety. Railroads work closely with government agencies to ensure PTC systems are properly installed and maintained.

What is the difference between Positive Train Control vs Signal Maintainer?

AspectPositive Train ControlSignal Maintainer
Required credentialsRailroad safety certifications, technical trainingElectrical or electronic certifications, technical training
Work environmentRailroads, control centers, on-track systemsRailroad tracks, signal systems, electrical infrastructure
Employer & industry usageRailroads, transit agenciesRailroads, transit agencies
Common search intentUnderstanding safety systems in rail industryMaintaining and repairing signals in rail systems

Positive Train Control (PTC) is a safety system designed to prevent train accidents through automated control, while Signal Maintainers focus on installing, inspecting, and repairing railway signals. Both roles require technical skills and work within the rail industry, but PTC is a safety technology system, whereas Signal Maintainers handle physical signal infrastructure.

More about Positive Train Control jobs
What cities are hiring for Positive Train Control jobs? Cities with the most Positive Train Control job openings:
What states have the most Positive Train Control jobs? States with the most job openings for Positive Train Control jobs include:
Infographic showing various Positive Train Control job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $50,826 per year, or $24.4 per hour.
Manager, Train Control Systems

$143.14K - $200.40K/yr

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago


Job description

General The Manager, Train Control Systems reports to the Deputy Director Rail Systems Engineering and is responsible for oversight and managing of complex train control systems including the installation, modification, maintenance, and upgrade of the District's Rail Operations Control System (ROCS) and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system for the Peninsula Corridor Joint Powers Board (Caltrain). Essential Functions & Duties Responsible for updates, upgrades and maintenance of the following systems: Rail Operations Control System (ROCS); Predictive Arrival and Departure System (PADS), Positive Train Control (PTC) back-office systems, Traction Power Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) System and Rail Scheduling. Perform Quality Assurances and system engineering support of all back off systems including PTC office systems, Back Office Server (BOS), Rail Operations Control System (ROCS), Network Management System (NMS); Interoperable Train Control Message Server (ITCMS); Wayside Status Relay Service (WSRS), and the interfaces to all other operational systems.

Develop, document, and maintain Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), technical standards, and best practices for all train control and related systems to ensure consistency, safety, and regulatory compliance. Develop and implement training programs to upskill staff, mentoring team members at all levels on train control systems, operational procedures, and project management to strengthen technical capacity, foster skill development, and ensure succession planning. Ensure Caltrain systems meet Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) mandated interoperability requirements with all tenant railroads; ensure Caltrain train control systems are compatible with Association of American Railroads (AAR) standards; follow the ITC guidelines that Caltrain must maintain "N-2" backwards compatible software versions.

Manage complex and large-scale train control engineering projects as the Technical Lead for Caltrain. Manage the work of outside contractors and assist higher level Caltrain Directors and Executives in planning and evaluating the quantity and quality of work performed by subordinate staff. Supervise staff.

Hire, mentor, and take appropriate corrective and/or disciplinary action. Ensure EEO policies and procedures are followed. Participate in selection of staff.

Coordinate staff training and professional development. Establish performance objectives. Monitor and evaluate employee performance.

Examples of Essential Duties: Establish and maintain work relationships with internal and external stakeholders to develop consensus on capital project work plans. Establish schedules and methods for providing train control system engineering design services on assigned capital projects; identify resource needs; review needs with appropriate management staff; allocate resources accordingly. Review and approve project schedules; assist in strategic planning; prepare status reports; coordinate project resources; communicate with all project participants on relevant issues; identify and resolve train control engineering issues.

Provide general technical oversight of railroad train control systems. Perform system usage and performance analyses. Support Caltrain Configuration Management (CM) Manager on configuration control, prioritize system defects and corrective actions; participate in Configuration Control Board (CCB) meetings as required.

Direct, review, and approve the preparation of train control engineering designs, drawings, and specifications; identify and resolve technical engineering issues. Manage technical elements of the office systems warranty and long-term maintenance support service agreements. Review and approve operating manuals and procedures developed by various systems providers or vendors.

Manage all technology refresh and software upgrades/updates and associated testing without interrupting regular railroad operations. Establish and lead a knowledge management framework to systematically capture, update, and share institutional knowledge through structured documentation, training programs, and knowledge transfer initiatives. Participate in the preparation and administration of the train control engineering program budget (Operating & Maintenance, and Capital); submit budget recommendations; monitor expenditures.

Review consultant proposals and designs; recommend awards; conduct or participate in the pre-bid conferences prior to system contract awards. Perform all job duties and responsibilities in a safe manner to protect one's self, fellow employees, and the public from injury or harm. Promote safety awareness and follow safety procedures in an effort to reduce or eliminate accidents.

Perform other duties as assigned. Minimum Qualifications Sufficient experience, training and/or education to demonstrate the knowledge and ability to successfully perform the essential functions of the position. In lieu of a degree, work-related experience that demonstrates the skills and experience necessary to perform this role will be accepted.

Development of the required knowledge and abilities is typically obtained through but not limited to: Bachelor's degree in electrical/electronics, computer science, or a related field. Five (5) years of railroad industry experience in Train Control System and SCADA system development and maintenance. Two (2) years supervisory experience PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS: Knowledge and experience with AIMCore Product/Software a plus.

Possesses a broad interdisciplinary knowledge of supervisory train control, wayside signal, highway crossing warning system, predictive and arrival system, traffic signal control, traction power substations and distribution, SCADA, server systems, virtualized server architectures, databases, cloud server systems, networking, etc. Knowledge of operating systems (UNIX, Linux, Microsoft) Knowledge of VHF and UHF radio voice and data communications, information assurance, data security and networking technologies. Experience with Configuration Management and Quality Assurance Systems.

Ability to Interpret and revise engineering plans, drawings, and specifications. Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite. Effective oral and written communication skills.

The selection process may include a panel interview, written and skills test assessments, or supplemental questions. Only those candidates who are the most qualified will continue in the selection process. Meeting the minimum qualifications does not guarantee an invitation to continue in the process.

How to Apply Complete an online employment application by 11:59 p.m. of the listed closing date. Resumes and cover letters will not be accepted in lieu of fully completed applications

It is the applicant's responsibility to ensure that applications are completed with all relevant information (experience, education, certifications, licenses, references and/or other information). The Human Resources Department will make reasonable efforts in the recruitment/examination process to accommodate applicants with disabilities upon request. If you have a need for an accommodation, please contact the Human Resources Department.

We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive and welcoming workplace environment. We are an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer. Minorities, Women, Persons with Disabilities and Veterans are encouraged to apply.