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Rail Design Engineering Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Trilon Group

Regional Lead - Rail Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$140K - $200K/yr

Support the continued development and standardization of rail engineering and coordination practices, design procedures, and project delivery processes across the company. * Travel periodically for ...

Trilon

Regional Lead - Rail Engineer

Chicago, IL

Support the continued development and standardization of rail engineering and coordination practices, design procedures, and project delivery processes across the company. * Travel periodically for ...

Dar Group

Senior Rail Track Design Engineer

Chicago, IL

$107K - $147K/yr

This role is ideal for an experienced rail engineering professional with deep technical expertise in track design, alignment geometry, corridor integration, and multidisciplinary coordination. You ...

Whiting Corporation

Design Engineer

Crete, IL

$90K - $100K/yr

Railroad Maintenance Applications * Nuclear & Power Plant Applications * Whiting Services ... Design Engineer ID: 71420316 Department: Rail Maintenance Equipment Location: Crete, IL Description ...

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Rail Design Engineering information

What is a rail design engineer?

Rail Design Engineers are professionals who specialize in designing and planning railway systems, including tracks, stations, signaling, and related infrastructure. They use engineering principles and advanced software to create safe, efficient, and sustainable rail networks. Rail Design Engineers work closely with other engineers, construction teams, and regulatory bodies to ensure that projects meet technical standards and safety requirements. Their role is critical in improving transportation systems and supporting the growth of urban and regional connectivity.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a rail design engineer?

To thrive as a Rail Design Engineer, you need a strong background in civil or mechanical engineering, experience with rail infrastructure design, and typically a relevant engineering degree. Proficiency with CAD software, BIM tools, and knowledge of railway standards and regulations are essential, and professional certification (such as PE or CEng) is often preferred. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help in collaborating with multidisciplinary teams and managing complex projects. These skills and qualifications are crucial to ensuring safe, efficient, and compliant rail systems that meet rigorous industry requirements.

What are some common challenges faced by rail design engineers when working on large-scale infrastructure projects?

Rail Design Engineers often encounter challenges such as coordinating with multidisciplinary teams, managing tight project timelines, and ensuring compliance with stringent safety and regulatory standards. Successfully integrating new rail systems with existing infrastructure can also be complex, requiring close collaboration with civil, electrical, and signaling engineers. Effective communication, strong project management skills, and adaptability are essential for overcoming these challenges and ensuring the project's success.

What is the difference between Rail Design Engineering vs Civil Engineering?

AspectRail Design EngineeringCivil Engineering
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Mechanical, Civil, or Railway Engineering; often professional engineering licenseBachelor's in Civil Engineering; PE license often preferred
Work EnvironmentDesign offices, railway construction sites, project planningConstruction sites, infrastructure projects, urban development
Industry UsageSpecifically focused on railway systems, track design, signalingBroader infrastructure projects including roads, bridges, buildings

Rail Design Engineering and Civil Engineering share foundational engineering principles and often overlap in infrastructure projects. However, Rail Design Engineering specializes in railway systems, track design, and signaling, while Civil Engineering covers a wider range of infrastructure projects. Both roles require similar credentials and work environments, but their focus areas differ significantly.

Are railroad design engineers in demand?

Railroad design engineers are in demand due to ongoing infrastructure projects and the need for modernized rail systems. Employment opportunities are expected to grow as transportation infrastructure investments increase and as engineers utilize CAD software and other design tools. Certification and specialized knowledge can enhance job prospects in this field.

How much do rail design engineers get paid?

Rail design engineers typically earn a median annual salary of around $70,000 to $100,000, depending on experience, location, and level of education. Senior engineers or those with specialized skills in CAD software and project management can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $120,000 annually.

Is railway design engineering a good career?

Railway design engineering is a specialized field that involves planning and developing railway infrastructure, requiring skills in civil engineering, transportation, and project management. It offers opportunities for stable employment, competitive salaries, and involvement in large-scale infrastructure projects, often requiring relevant certifications and technical expertise.

What are popular job titles related to Rail Design Engineering jobs in Illinois?

For Rail Design Engineering jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Rail Design Engineering jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Rail Design Engineering jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Rail Design Engineering jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Rail Design Engineering job openings:

Rail Design Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Rail Design Engineering job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution.

Regional Lead - Rail Engineer

Trilon Group

Chicago, IL • On-site, Remote

$140K - $200K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

Regional Lead - Rail Engineer
Department: Transportation
Employment Type: Full Time
Location: Chicago, IL
Compensation: $140,000 - $200,000 / year
Description
At Horrocks, we believe the best work comes from companies with values, that our people are our greatest resource, and that we have a responsibility to the communities where we live and work. We are seeking an experienced and strategic Regional Lead - Rail Engineer to help lead and grow our rail practice across multiple regions throughout the United States. This role is responsible for providing technical leadership, supporting business development efforts, managing key client relationships, and overseeing successful delivery of rail projects across a regional portfolio.
The ideal candidate will bring strong technical expertise in railroad engineering and project delivery, along with demonstrated leadership and experience managing teams, mentoring staff, developing business, and supporting regional growth initiatives. This position will play a key role in expanding Horrocks' rail presence, strengthening partnerships, and ensuring consistent project execution and quality across the region.
What are the core responsibilities for the role?
  • Provide regional leadership for railroad projects and support strategic growth initiatives within the assigned region.
  • Lead the planning, design, coordination, and delivery of a variety of rail projects including industry track, terminals, spurs, mainlines, yards, and sidings.
  • Coordinate with railroad companies for the delivery of a variety of DOT and municipal public agency projects involving railroad interface for at-grade crossings, grade-separated structures, and utility crossings.
  • Serve as a senior technical resource and advisor for rail design (geometry, material, etc.), grading, drainage, and related infrastructure.
  • Build and strengthen relationships with clients, railroad operators, public agencies, and industry partners across the region.
  • Support business development activities including client engagement, proposal development, project pursuits, and participation in industry organizations and conferences.
  • Provide mentorship, leadership, and technical guidance to engineers, designers, and junior staff across multiple offices and project teams.
  • Collaborate with Project Managers and regional leadership to support staffing strategies, resource planning, and operational efficiency.
  • Coordinate with federal, state, and local agencies across multiple states to ensure compliance with applicable regulations and railroad standards.
  • Lead implementation and enforcement of quality assurance and quality control (QA/QC) procedures throughout project development and delivery.
  • Support the continued development and standardization of rail engineering and coordination practices, design procedures, and project delivery processes across the company.
  • Travel periodically for client meetings, project site visits, regional coordination, and industry events.
  • Perform other duties as needed.

Qualifications, Skills, and Competencies:
  • Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering or related engineering field.
  • Minimum of 10 years of relevant experience in rail, transit, railroad infrastructure, and transportation / land development engineering projects.
  • Professional Engineer (PE) license required.
  • Demonstrated experience leading multidisciplinary rail engineering projects and managing client relationships.
  • Strong understanding of design standards for track, at-grade railroad crossings, grade-separated structures, and utility crossings.
  • Experience mentoring technical staff and leading engineering teams across multiple projects or offices preferred.
  • Understanding of CAD platforms and standard engineering software applications.
  • Strong business development, communication, leadership, and organizational skills.
  • Ability to effectively collaborate with railroad staff, clients, agencies, contractors, and internal teams.
  • Ability to work independently while contributing to a collaborative and team culture.
  • Willingness to travel regionally as needed to support project delivery and client engagement.

Why would a candidate want this job?
At Horrocks, you can expect a competitive base salary and award-winning benefits. Including, but not limited to:
  • Medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance
  • Generous paid time off
  • 401(k): 50% match of contribution up to 6%
  • Professional development opportunities including in-house training
  • Paid professional organization membership and professional licensure

For more information, visit our website at www.horrocks.com
Equal Opportunity Employer including disability and protected veteran statusEEO - All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected characteristic.
We provide fair and equal treatment to all candidates, including reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals. If you require an accommodation during the application process, please email us at Recruiting@horrock.com and include your name, the job title, and the location of the position you are applying for. Our team will respond as promptly as possible.

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