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

Dar Group

Senior Rail Track Design Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$107K - $147K/yr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

S. This role is ideal for an experienced rail engineering professional with deep technical ... Coordinate closely with signaling, traction power, overhead catenary systems (OCS), communications ...

Benesch

Railroad Engineering & Field Services

Chicago, IL · On-site

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Railroad Engineering & Field Services Benesch's One National Railroad Division consists of highly ... This firsthand experience designing and maintaining active rail systems enables our team to create ...

Lochner

Resident Engineer Rail and Transit - Lisle, IL

Lisle, IL

$97K - $124K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Proven experience (10+ years) of resident engineering experience managing rail/transit construction projects * Strong understanding of stations, facilities, rail systems, including communications ...

MASTER HW LOCHNER INC

Senior Track Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$167K - $200K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Lead the design and engineering of railroad track systems, including: * Horizontal and vertical alignments * Turnouts and crossovers * Rail, ties, ballast, and subgrade systems * Yard and siding ...

Metra

Sr Electrical Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$110K - $144K/yr

... some railroad specific electrical systems, lighting, and control; and project management experience that includes engineering design or construction. * Experience in the design of railroad ...

Metra

Sr Electrical Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$108K/yr

... some railroad specific electrical systems, lighting, and control; and project management experience that includes engineering design or construction. * Experience in the design of railroad ...

GFT.

Bridge Engineer, Rail

Chicago, IL · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

GFT is seeking a Bridge Engineer - Rail to join our Transportation Team in Chicago, IL ! This role ... with engineering design packages and structural analysis software systems such as LEAP Bridge ...

GFT.

Bridge Engineer, Rail

Chicago, IL · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

GFT is seeking a Bridge Engineer - Rail to join our Transportation Team in Chicago, IL ! This role ... with engineering design packages and structural analysis software systems such as LEAP Bridge ...

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Showing results 1-20

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

Rail Systems Engineering information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$62.3K

$146.4K

$201.9K

How much do rail systems engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for rail systems engineering in Chicago, IL is $146,353.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $117,400.00 and $178,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is rail systems engineering?

Rail Systems Engineering is a multidisciplinary field focused on the design, development, integration, and maintenance of railway systems and infrastructure. It encompasses various components such as signaling, communications, rolling stock, track, power supply, and operations to ensure safe, efficient, and reliable train services. Professionals in this area work collaboratively to solve complex engineering challenges, enhance system performance, and implement cutting-edge technologies in the rail industry.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in rail systems engineering, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Rail Systems Engineering often encounter challenges such as coordinating multidisciplinary teams, ensuring compliance with stringent safety standards, and integrating new technologies with legacy infrastructure. Effective communication and collaboration are crucial when working with civil, electrical, and mechanical engineers, as well as project managers. Staying updated with industry regulations and participating in ongoing professional development can help address these challenges and ensure successful project delivery. Leveraging project management tools and fostering a culture of open dialogue also play key roles in overcoming daily obstacles.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a rail systems engineer, and why are they important?

To excel as a Rail Systems Engineer, you need a solid understanding of rail infrastructure, signaling systems, safety standards, and typically a degree in electrical, mechanical, or systems engineering. Familiarity with industry tools like AutoCAD, rail-specific simulation software, and certifications such as IRSE or PMP are often required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you collaborate across multidisciplinary teams and manage complex projects. These competencies are crucial for ensuring the safety, reliability, and efficiency of modern rail transportation systems.

What is the difference between Rail Systems Engineering vs Rail Signaling Engineering?

AspectRail Systems EngineeringRail Signaling Engineering
Required CredentialsBachelor's or higher in engineering, certifications in systems or transportation engineeringBachelor's or higher in electrical or systems engineering, signaling-specific certifications
Work EnvironmentDesign, integration, and testing of entire rail systemsDesign, installation, and maintenance of signaling systems
Employer & Industry UsageRail operators, transportation agencies, engineering firmsRail operators, signaling contractors, transportation agencies

Rail Systems Engineering focuses on the overall design and integration of rail infrastructure, while Rail Signaling Engineering specializes in the signaling systems that control train movements. Both roles require engineering backgrounds and often collaborate within the rail industry, but they emphasize different technical areas.

What are popular job titles related to Rail Systems Engineering jobs in Chicago, IL?

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

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

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

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Rail Systems Engineering jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Rail Systems Engineering job openings:

Rail Systems Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Rail Systems Engineering job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 79% In-person, 5% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $146,353 per year, or $70.4 per hour.

Senior Rail Track Design Engineer

Dar Group

Chicago, IL • On-site

$107K - $147K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

TYLin is a globally recognized, full-service infrastructure consulting firm committed to providing innovative, cost-effective, constructible designs for the global infrastructure market. With over 3,000 employees throughout the Americas, Asia, and Europe, the firm provides support on projects of varying size and complexity. Together, we enhance conventional designs with smarter, more resilient systems. We provide people with better mobility. We steward precious resources by finding more sustainable solutions.

Job SummaryTYLin is seeking a motivated and skilled Senior Track and Civil Engineer to join our Rail & Transit team. This role is ideal for professionals with 8-12 years of experience who are ready to take the next step in their career. You will support and lead components of complex transportation projects across all phases-from planning and design to procurement and construction-while working closely with senior project managers and multidisciplinary teams.
The Track and Civil Engineer will lead the planning, design, and delivery of rail and transit track infrastructure across the U.S. 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 will play a key role in delivering complex rail projects-including LRT, heavy rail, commuter rail, and yard/maintenance facilities-while supporting the growth of our national Rail + Transit practice. This role can be based in any of our U.S. locations.Responsibilities & Qualifications

What You'll Do

  • Serve as the discipline lead for track design on major rail and transit projects across the U.S.

  • Lead the development of horizontal and vertical alignments, turnouts, crossovers, special trackwork, and yard/maintenance facility layouts.

  • Oversee preparation and review of engineering plans, specifications, design criteria, and technical reports.

  • Conduct and review corridor studies, constructability analyses, phasing/staging plans, and design alternatives.

  • Coordinate closely with signaling, traction power, overhead catenary systems (OCS), communications, civil, structural, and geotechnical teams to ensure integrated solutions.

  • Provide senior-level technical review, quality assurance, and risk management guidance.

  • Lead multidisciplinary teams across project phases, including feasibility studies, preliminary engineering, final design, and construction support.

  • Interface with clients, transit agencies, freight railroads, and regulatory authorities (e.g., FRA, state DOTs) to resolve technical issues and support decision-making.

  • Mentor and develop junior and mid-level engineers, fostering technical excellence and growth within the team.

  • Support business development efforts, including proposal preparation, client engagement, and strategic pursuits.

  • Contribute to advancing TYLin's best practices for track design, rail corridor integration, and constructibility.

What You'll Bring

  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Civil Engineering or a related discipline.

  • Minimum of 8 years of experience in rail track design, including light rail, heavy rail, commuter rail, intercity passenger rail, or freight rail projects.

  • Licensed Professional Engineer (PE) in at least one U.S. state (or ability to obtain licensure through reciprocity).

  • PMP certification is a plus.

  • Proven experience leading complex rail infrastructure projects.

  • Advanced knowledge of track geometry, alignment design, and corridor integration.

  • Proficiency with industry design tools such as Bentley OpenRail, OpenRoads, InRoads, MicroStation, Civil 3D, or similar platforms.

  • Strong understanding of applicable U.S. standards and guidelines, including AREMA, FRA regulations, and relevant state and local agency requirements.

  • Experience coordinating with rail systems disciplines (signaling, OCS, traction power, communications).

  • Solid understanding of constructability, staging, maintenance-of-way requirements, and operational constraints.

  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to effectively present technical concepts to clients, stakeholders, and leadership.

  • Experience working with U.S. transit agencies (e.g., MTA, LA Metro, CTA, MBTA) or Class I/short line freight railroads is highly desirable.


Additional Information

#LI-DNP

#LI-GICentral

#LI-GIMidAtlantic

#LI-GINew York

#LI-GINortheast

#LI-GINorthwest

#LI-GISouthwest

#LI-GISouth

#LI-GIHybrid

TYLin offers a comprehensive total rewards package. Our benefits may include extensive medical, disability and life insurance coverage, continuing education benefits, paid time off, employee assistance program and a retirement savings plan with company matching contributions.

We encourage all candidates to explore our total rewards offering.

Collaboration, mission-driven focus, discipline, and leadership skills developed through military service benefit us all. Whether you are a Veteran, Guardsman or Reservist, a Military Spouse or you are planning to transition to civilian life in the near future, we welcome and value your application.

TYLin is an equal opportunity employer, and we prohibit discrimination and harassment of any type as protected by federal, provincial, state or local laws. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.The company and its employees are required to comply with all local health authority, legal or lawful client requirements.

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