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Rail Systems Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Arup

Rail Systems Engineering Lead

Sacramento, CA · On-site

We are looking for someone with broad rail systems technical skills, that can engage with people ... • Professional Engineer designation in California or equivalent would be an asset • ...

Arup

Rail Systems Integration Lead

Sacramento, CA · On-site

Is this role right for you? • Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience in engineering • ... of the rail systems disciplines. • At least one previous rail systems project where the ...

Arcadis

Rail Lead - Los Angeles

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$300K - $380K/yr

Arcadis is the world's leading company delivering sustainable design, engineering, and consultancy ... Coordinate closely with civil, structural, systems, and operations teams to ensure seamless ...

Arcadis

Rail Lead - Los Angeles

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$300K - $380K/yr

Arcadis is the world's leading company delivering sustainable design, engineering, and consultancy ... Coordinate closely with civil, structural, systems, and operations teams to ensure seamless ...

Sapsol Technologies Inc

Strong understanding of railway systems and operations: locomotives, EMUs, DMUs, high-speed and ... Experience in system engineering, integration, and interface management involving electrical ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsRail Systems Engineer JobsRail Systems Engineer Jobs in California

Rail Systems Engineer information

See California salary details

$52.8K

$125.5K

$164.8K

How much do rail systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for rail systems engineer in California is $125,549.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $96,700.00 and $154,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the main collaboration points for a Rail Systems Engineer within a project team?

Rail Systems Engineers frequently collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, including civil engineers, signaling specialists, project managers, and operations staff. Their role often involves coordinating technical requirements, ensuring compatibility between different subsystems (such as signaling, communications, power supply, and rolling stock), and participating in design reviews. Effective communication and teamwork are vital, as Rail Systems Engineers must align their work with overall project timelines and safety standards. Collaboration is key during integration testing, troubleshooting, and when implementing system upgrades.

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

To thrive as a Rail Systems Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical, mechanical, or systems engineering, often supported by a relevant engineering degree and professional certification (such as PE or Chartered Engineer status). Familiarity with rail-specific technologies like signaling systems, SCADA, CAD software, and safety standards such as CENELEC is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication skills help engineers collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and manage complex projects. These skills are crucial for ensuring the safety, reliability, and efficiency of rail infrastructure and operations.

What does a Rail Systems Engineer do?

A Rail Systems Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining the complex systems that keep rail networks running safely and efficiently. This includes integrating components such as signaling, communications, power supply, and control systems to ensure smooth train operations. They work closely with other engineers and stakeholders to ensure compliance with safety standards, troubleshoot technical issues, and oversee the implementation of new technologies within rail infrastructure.

What is the difference between Rail Systems Engineer vs Signal Engineer?

AspectRail Systems EngineerSignal Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering, certifications in rail systems or transportationBachelor's in Electrical or Electronics Engineering, certifications in signaling systems
Work EnvironmentDesign, integration, and testing of entire rail systemsDesign, installation, and maintenance of signaling and control systems
Industry UsageUsed across rail infrastructure projects, including rolling stock and track systemsPrimarily focused on signaling and safety systems within rail networks

Rail Systems Engineers and Signal Engineers both work within the rail industry, but Rail Systems Engineers oversee the broader system integration, while Signal Engineers specialize in signaling and safety systems. The roles often overlap, but their focus areas differ significantly.

What are popular job titles related to Rail Systems Engineer jobs in California? For Rail Systems Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Rail Systems Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Rail Systems Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Rail Systems Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Rail Systems Engineer job openings:
Rail Systems Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Rail Systems Engineer job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $125,549 per year, or $60.4 per hour.

Director, Rail Systems Engineering

San Mateo County Transit District

Millbrae, CA • On-site

$191K - $268K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Salary : $191,823.00 - $268,553.00 Annually
Location : Millbrae, CA
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 2026-00076
Division: Rail
Department: Rail Development
Opening Date: 07/27/2026
Closing Date: 8/16/2026 11:59 PM Pacific
General
The Director, Railroad Systems Engineering will report to the Deputy Executive Director, Engineering, Capital and Modernization (ECM) and will be responsible for railroad systems engineering and civil/systems integration for the Peninsula Corridor Joint Powers Board (Caltrain).
Essential Functions & Duties
  • Responsible for all railroad systems engineering and the integration of operational systems including but not limited to communications (date and voice), Rail network, Positive Train Control (PTC), signaling, grade crossings, overhead contact system (OCS), 25kv traction power, Train control, SCADA, Electric Multiple Units (EMU) vehicles, CCTV, Public Address (PA), and Visual Message Signs (VMS).
  • Responsible for managing all aspects of the Caltrain PTC system including back office/wayside/onboard communications systems.
  • Responsible for the continued development, operation, and maintenance of all Caltrain operational systems including SOGR/preventative maintenance including the oversite of contractors responsible for system maintenance.
  • Responsible for providing systems support for the Caltrain modernization including signals, grade crossings, traction power, communications, and vehicle systems; and for integrating these systems with Caltrain.
  • Responsible for managing Operational systems' product vendor services contracts and vendor performance.
  • Oversee the development and maintenance of engineering standards for all railroad systems elements.
  • Liaison with Rail Operations and Maintenance on the development of railroad systems as appropriate to ensure Caltrain service/safety and customer experience goals.
  • Responsible for all Operational systems maintenance engineering to ensure daily electrified service
  • 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:
  • Responsible for Railroad Systems Engineering work program.
  • Oversee the design of railroad systems including design document preparation.
  • Requires regular interface efforts with all functional groups within the organization both infrastructure and operations.
  • Responsible for technical analyses and recommendations regarding design, construction, and operational issues related to system engineering.
  • Manage systems service contracts and vendor performance
  • Responsible for operational systems improvements, updates and upgrades.
  • Manage the oversight of work effort to ensure control of projects scope, schedule, and budget.
  • Responsible for configuration management of all Operational systems
  • Responsible for department budget (operating and capital).
  • Monitor and evaluate the efficiency and effectiveness of program service delivery methods and procedures; and recommend service and staffing levels.
  • Report to Rail Division senior management on systems programs.
  • Advise staff and management on quality concerns and solutions.
  • Work with CalMod to ensure effective transition of the programs from implementation to operations and maintenance from Railroad Systems.
  • Evaluate job performance of staff which also includes the professional development of staff through the identification of on-the-job and other professional development opportunities.
  • 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 engineering, or a closely related field.
  • Seven years' full-time and increasingly responsible management experience in the area system engineering, rail engineering, construction management, and or systems project management.
  • Three years' full-time supervisory experience
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Must be familiar with railroad systems requirements including all rules and regulations.
  • Must have experience with systems projects carried out on the right-of-way of an operating railroad.
  • Registered Professional Engineer in the state of California highly desirable.
  • Possession of a valid California drivers' license with a safe driving record preferred. The ability to obtain a California Drivers License within 6 months of employment.

Additional Information
  • To obtain more information or to submit a resume and cover letter, please contact Gregg Moser, Principal at K&A, at gmoser@kapartners.com
  • Complete an online employment application and supplemental questionnaire. Position to remainopen until filled. A resume will not be accepted in lieu of the application and supplemental questionnaire (If required). Incomplete application will not be considered.
  • 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 accommodation, please contact the Human Resources Department at (650) 508-6308.
  • Caltrain celebrates diversity and is 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.

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.

Below is a summary of the comprehensive benefits provided to District full-time employees:
Health and Welfare Benefits:
  • Healthcare Benefits -District employees are offered a choice of healthcare providers under the CalPERS Health Benefits Program. The District will contribute ninety (90) percent towards monthly premiums for full-time employees. Fifty (50) percent for part-time employees.
  • Free Dental and Vision Benefits provided - Employer Covers Premiums
  • Free Employee Assistance Benefit - Employees are entitled to 5 face-to-face sessions or telephonic or web-video consultations for problem-solving support per incident, per calendar year.
  • Flexible Spending Accounts - Pre-tax dollars to pay for qualified Health or Dependent Care expenses.

Retirement Medical Benefits:
  • Long Term Disability Insurance - After 90 days of total disability, Administrative full-time employees are eligible for 60% of monthly income covered by the District.
  • Health and Wellness - Gyms located at most work locations and discounted Weight Watcher Membership Option.

Holidays and Paid Time Off:
  • Paid Time Off - Newly hired employees accrue 6.5 hours bi-weekly when hired (if Exempt 8.25 hours). As you move up in years of service credit, the rate of the amount of PTO accrued will also increase.
  • Paid Holidays - The District provides seven paid holidays throughout the year - New Years Day, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day (July 4th), Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day
  • Floating Holidays - District employees can earn up to five (5) floating holidays.

Financial Planning Benefits:
  • Pension Benefits through CalPERS -You must have a minimum of 5 years of service to be eligible for this pension.
  • CalPERS PEPRA vs. Classic - All employees hired on, or after January 1, 2013, are considered PEPRA members and will contribute 8% of their salary up to the maximum IRS cut-off. All Classic members will contribute 6%
  • Deferred Compensation Options - Select to contribute to one or both of our Tax Deferred Compensation Options
  • Reliance Standard Life Insurance with 100% premium paid by the District - 1 times annual salary of employee - max $200,000
  • Optional Life Insurance - Employees may purchase additional life insurance for themselves and their eligible family members.

Growth and Education Benefits:
  • Professional Development - Access to LinkedIn Learning and San Mateo County's professional training. District Tuition Reimbursement Program - A maximum of $5,250 per year for courses related to your job or career goals with the District.
  • Computer Loan Program - Interest-free two-year loan with a maximum amount of $2,000.

Other Amazing Benefits:
  • Credit Union - Employees and family members are eligible to join the San Mateo Credit Union and Patelco Credit Union.
  • Employee Clean Commute (ECC) - Car/Van poolers and Public Transit riders receive a monthly reimbursement.
  • Commuter Benefits - Free Employee Parking; Free Bus Pass for employee as well as children/spouse; Clipper Card/Go Pass Program for Central employees.

For union employees, all of the above benefits are subject to the employee's Collective Bargaining Agreement. Benefits listed are also subject to change with or without notice and are subject to contract/provider terms and conditions.

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