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Rail Systems Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Rail Systems Engineering Lead

Sacramento, CA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 • ...

Senior Rail Systems Lead

Boston, MA

$113K - $155K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Sr Rail System Lead will work collaboratively with a team of engineers and specialists across rail systems disciplines (Systems Engineering, Signals, Electrification Systems, Data Communications ...

Senior Rail Systems Lead

Boston, MA

$113K - $155K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Sr Rail System Lead will work collaboratively with a team of engineers and specialists across rail systems disciplines (Systems Engineering, Signals, Electrification Systems, Data Communications ...

Senior Rail Systems Lead

Chelmsford, MA · On-site

$108K - $148K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Sr Rail System Lead will work collaboratively with a team of engineers and specialists across rail systems disciplines (Systems Engineering, Signals, Electrification Systems, Data Communications ...

Systems Engineer - Rail and Transit

New York, NY · On-site

$88K - $154K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Our NYC Transit and Rail team is seeking a Transit & Rail Systems Engineer / Vehicle Integration Lead to support major rolling stock, CBTC, ATS, and related rail systems programs. Based in New York ...

Systems Engineer - Rail and Transit

Newark, NJ · On-site

$88K - $154K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Our NYC Transit and Rail team is seeking a Transit & Rail Systems Engineer / Vehicle Integration Lead to support major rolling stock, CBTC, ATS, and related rail systems programs. Based in New York ...

Rail Systems Integration Lead

Sacramento, CA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

Systems Lead - Rail and Transit

$176K - $332K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We are looking for a professional engineer with specific expertise in rail signaling ... We anticipate this Rail Systems Lead will be based out of our Boston, Massachusetts office. WHAT ...

Systems Lead - Rail and Transit

$176K - $332K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We are looking for a professional engineer with specific expertise in rail signaling ... We anticipate this Rail Systems Lead will be based out of our Boston, Massachusetts office. WHAT ...

Rail Systems / Catenary Engineer

Rocky Hill, CT

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

AECOM is actively seeking a talented Rail Systems / Catenary Engineer for employment within the New England region. Here you will have the opportunity to work side by side with career rail ...

Showing results 21-40

Rail Systems Engineer information

See salary details

$53.5K

$127.2K

$167K

How much do rail systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for rail systems engineer in the United States is $127,215.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $98,000.00 and $157,000.00 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.

More about Rail Systems Engineer jobs

What cities are hiring for Rail Systems Engineer jobs?

Cities with the most Rail Systems Engineer job openings:

What states have the most Rail Systems Engineer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Rail Systems Engineer jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Rail Systems Engineer jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Rail Systems Engineer jobs are:

Infographic showing various Rail Systems Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $127,215 per year, or $61.2 per hour.

Director, Rail Systems Engineering

San Mateo County Transit District

Millbrae, CA • On-site

$191K - $268K/yr

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago


Job description

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 remain open 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.