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Rail Systems Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Wabtec

Embedded Software Engineer III

Buffalo Grove, IL · On-site

$134K - $177K/yr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

You'll be joining Wabtec Bus Solutions, a team driving innovation in Transit Bus & Rail systems ... As an experienced engineer within Wabtec Bus Solutions, you will drive design and development ...

Wabtec

Embedded Software Engineer III

Buffalo Grove, IL · On-site

$134K - $177K/yr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

You'll be joining Wabtec Bus Solutions, a team driving innovation in Transit Bus & Rail systems ... As an experienced engineer within Wabtec Bus Solutions, you will drive design and development ...

Wabtec

Manufacturing Engineer III

Buffalo Grove, IL · On-site

  • Medical

  • Retirement

You'll be joining Wabtec Bus Solutions, a team driving innovation in Transit Bus & Rail systems ... As a Manufacturing Engineer III within Wabtec Bus Solutions, you will perform a variety of ...

Wabtec

Embedded Software Engineer III

Buffalo Grove, IL · On-site

$134K - $177K/yr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

You'll be joining Wabtec Bus Solutions, a team driving innovation in Transit Bus & Rail systems ... As an experienced engineer within Wabtec Bus Solutions, you will drive design and development ...

Wabtec

Embedded Software Engineer III

Buffalo Grove, IL · On-site

$134K - $177K/yr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

You'll be joining Wabtec Bus Solutions, a team driving innovation in Transit Bus & Rail systems ... As an experienced engineer within Wabtec Bus Solutions, you will drive design and development ...

WABTEC

Manufacturing Engineer III

Buffalo Grove, IL · On-site

$68K - $98K/yr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

You'll be joining Wabtec Bus Solutions, a team driving innovation in Transit Bus & Rail systems ... As a Manufacturing Engineer III within Wabtec Bus Solutions, you will perform a variety of ...

Wabtec

Manufacturing Engineer III

Buffalo Grove, IL · On-site

$68K - $98K/yr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

You'll be joining Wabtec Bus Solutions, a team driving innovation in Transit Bus & Rail systems ... As a Manufacturing Engineer III within Wabtec Bus Solutions, you will perform a variety of ...

WABTEC

Manufacturing Engineer III

Buffalo Grove, IL

$98K/yr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

You'll be joining Wabtec Bus Solutions, a team driving innovation in Transit Bus & Rail systems ... As a Manufacturing Engineer III within Wabtec Bus Solutions, you will perform a variety of ...

Wabtec

Manufacturing Engineer III

Buffalo Grove, IL · On-site

$68K - $98K/yr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

You'll be joining Wabtec Bus Solutions, a team driving innovation in Transit Bus & Rail systems ... As a Manufacturing Engineer III within Wabtec Bus Solutions, you will perform a variety of ...

Progress Rail Services Corporation

Staff Engineer

La Grange, IL · On-site

$101K - $183K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Job Purpose Progress Rail Locomotive in LaGrange, IL is hiring a Staff Engineer in the Engine Systems Integration Team. In this role, you will be responsible for engine system project management for ...

Wabtec

Mechanical Engineer II

Buffalo Grove, IL

$62K - $85K/yr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

You'll be joining Wabtec Bus Solutions, a team driving innovation in Transit Bus & Rail systems ... As an engineer within Wabtec Bus Solutions, you will support the design and development focused on ...

Wabtec

Mechanical Engineer II

Buffalo Grove, IL · On-site

  • Medical

  • Retirement

You'll be joining Wabtec Bus Solutions, a team driving innovation in Transit Bus & Rail systems ... As an engineer within Wabtec Bus Solutions, you will support the design and development focused on ...

Wabtec

Mechanical Engineer II

Buffalo Grove, IL · On-site

$62K - $85K/yr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

You'll be joining Wabtec Bus Solutions, a team driving innovation in Transit Bus & Rail systems ... As an engineer within Wabtec Bus Solutions, you will support the design and development focused on ...

Wabtec

Mechanical Engineer II

Buffalo Grove, IL · On-site

$62K - $85K/yr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

You'll be joining Wabtec Bus Solutions, a team driving innovation in Transit Bus & Rail systems ... As an engineer within Wabtec Bus Solutions, you will support the design and development focused on ...

Metra

Programmer Analyst 1

Chicago, IL · On-site

$83K/yr

Metra is one of the largest and most complex commuter rail systems in North America, serving Cook ... Reporting to the Manager, Asset Data Systems, the Programmer Analyst 1 will assist various ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsRail Systems Engineer JobsRail Systems Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Rail Systems Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$55.2K

$131.2K

$172.2K

How much do rail systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for rail systems engineer in Chicago, IL is $131,153.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $101,000.00 and $161,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 Chicago, IL?

For Rail Systems Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Rail Systems Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Rail Systems Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Rail Systems Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Rail Systems Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $131,153 per year, or $63.1 per hour.

Designer - Engineering

voestalpine Railway Systems Nortrak LLC

Chicago Heights, IL

$60K - $80K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 28 days ago

Job description




Join Our Team at voestalpine Railway Systems Nortrak!


Embark on a rewarding career journey with voestalpine Railway Systems Nortrak, North America's premier designer and manufacturer of special trackwork. With a legacy spanning 160 years, we lead the industry in shaping the future of rail solutions. As part of the voestalpine Railway Systems global network, we are committed to delivering quality products and services, including rails, turnouts, fastening systems, signaling technologies, and monitoring solutions. Operating with a presence across Canada, the US, and Mexico, we prioritize the well-being of our people, global mobility, and sustainability and innovation.


Our people are the foundation of our success. Skilled, motivated, and results-driven individuals shape our culture demonstrating our core values of Respect, Responsibility, Curiosity, Courage, Passion, and Diversity each day. This commitment is more than shared values; it extends to shared responsibilities for safety and quality, showing genuine care for one another's growth and development, a commitment to our customers, and fostering strong relationships within the Nortrak Team and with our customers.

We are currently looking for a Designer – Engineering to join our team in Chicago Heights, Illinois.

PURPOSE OF POSITION

Reporting Directly to the Engineering Project Lead, the Designer – Engineering is responsible for Performing design work under the supervision of a Sr. Designer, Design Lead and/or Project Lead. Produce manufacturing / customer drawings with accuracy and Bills of Material related to the company’s products as per the latest company design standards/guidelines and industry and customer specifications using the designated CAD/CAM software, currently MicroStation and SolidWorks and NX (CAD/CAM) and SAP (ERP).


TASKS & RESPONSIBILITIES

SAFETY:


  • Abides by all customer and Nortrak safety policies and procedures while on customer & Nortrak sites.
  • Ensures design specifications of drawings meet customer and Nortrak safety standards.


QUALITY:

  • Produce practical designs and other design components (BOMs, ITPs, etc) for tooling and Nortrak product.
  • Work with a high degree of accuracy developed through knowledge of the application, manufacture and service requirements, customer and Nortrak standards and industry state of practice.
  • Stay current with company manufacturing processes and product/industry knowledge. Continues to develop their knowledge of Nortrak products, customer and Nortrak standards and industry state of practice. Responsible for being aware of design standards and assigned customers.
  • Works closely with Manufacturing to address design/manufacturability issues.
  • Assists and/or creates Customer Request for Information (RFI) to clarify information needed for projects, by including relevant information, customer specifications, and/or details required.
  • Assists and/or creates customer submittals for projects.
  • Updating and revising drawings and BOM’s as needed and/or directed.
  • Designer checks their own work for accuracy before submitting their designs to other personnel for official checking and approving.


ON-TIME DELIVERY:

  • Maximizes utilization of time to complete projects accurately and meeting department and company commitment dates.
  • Creating project pre-orders and long lead time items in order to meet project delivery dates, and updating throughout the project as needed.
  • Understands and knows the due date of when the assigned task is to be completed.
  • Contributes to milestones.
  • Works within well-established practices and clearly defined scope of work.

COST:

  • Works as a member of a design team, cooperates with Nortrak Management in an effective manner to produce designs efficiently and on budget with a high degree of manufacturability.
  • Understands and knows the budgeted hours per task assigned to him/her.

PEOPLE:

  • Shares information with and encourages other team members.
  • Develops close working relationships between both internal and external customers and suppliers.
  • Assists production with technical questions, support, guidance, and problem solving.
  • Works closely with more senior staff. Works on projects of minimal complexity.
  • Works under close supervision.

ENVIRONMENTAL:

  • Adhere to Nortrak's Environmental Procedures, Practices and Policies.


QUALITIFCATIONS:

EDUCATION:

  • Post-Secondary education with diploma or degree in an appropriate Engineering discipline.

FIELD OF EXPERIENCE:

  • Three to five years experience in the engineering field.
  • Experience working in a manufacturing environment an asset.
  • Knowledge of materials & casting processes related to the company’s manufactured products.
  • Detailed knowledge in CAD, preferably NX and MicroStation.
  • SAP knowledge would be an asset.
  • Strong interpersonal skills.
  • Demonstrate strong and effective verbal and communication skills.
  • Must be able to work as a project team member.
  • Able to prioritize and execute multiple tasks in an efficient manner.

TECHNICAL SKILLS:

  • The ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
  • Familiar with Siemens Teamcenter and SAP would be an asset.

PHYSCIAL DEMANDS:

  • Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer; occasional standing and walking for your scheduled shift.
  • Must remain stationary for extended periods and move throughout the building to access files.
  • Must work effectively in a noisy environment.
  • Ability to lift and move equipment or objects up to 20-25 pounds occasionally.
  • Visual requirements include close, distance, color, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.
  • Frequent use of hands and arms for dialing phones and using a computer mouse.

SALARY:

  • $60,000/year - $80,000/year


BENEFITS:

  • A supportive, family oriented Nortrak Blue culture.
  • We provide an environment where Health and Safety is our #1 priority.
  • Career development opportunities and competitive pay progression.
  • Competitive medical, dental & vision benefits.
  • Company paid life and disability insurance.
  • Paid holidays and vacation.
  • Retirement plan with matching contributions.
  • Tuition Assistance Program.
  • Wellness Program.
  • Employee Assistance Program.
  • Employee Recognition Programs.


If you think you have the necessary qualifications and drive to excel in our team, we invite you to apply now and join us at voestalpine Railway Systems Nortrak. Apply today!

voestalpine Railway Systems Nortrak (“Nortrak”) is a subsidiary of voestalpine AG (www.voestalpine.com) one of Europe’s premier steel producers with over 50,000 employees worldwide. Nortrak is closely affiliated with voestalpine’s Railway Systems group which operates in 21 countries across the globe to provide cutting edge system-based solutions to railroads and transits. Our website is https://www.voestalpine.com/nortrak/en/

voestalpine Railway Systems Nortrak is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, and any other federal, state, or locally protected classifications.






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Company Description

voestalpine Railway Systems Nortrak, with ten production facilities across Canada, US and Mexico, is North America’s leading designer and manufacturer of special trackwork for the railway industry. As the industry’s technology leader, we take pride in providing superior products, excellent customer service and unbeatable engineering design services to our customers. We are committed to bringing innovative solutions, products, and services to our customers across rail freight and transit segments.