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Rail Systems Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Coordinating rail systems designs for complex rail projects. * Stay well-informed and curious about the industry, in particular the pros and cons of different technologies and products. * Growing ...

We are looking for someone with broad rail systems technical skills, that can engage with people, create a positive environment that encourages new engineers to join the team. The Opportunity โ€ข ...

Parsons is looking for a Rail Systems Lead to lead and grow the Parsons' Systems team in the US West Region. We are looking for a professional engineer with specific expertise in rail signaling ...

Rail Lead - Los Angeles

Los Angeles, CA ยท On-site

$300K - $380K/yr

Coordinate closely with civil, structural, systems, and operations teams to ensure seamless integration of rail infrastructure. * Review and approve design documents, shop drawings, and construction ...

Rail Lead - Los Angeles

Los Angeles, CA ยท On-site

$300K - $380K/yr

Coordinate closely with civil, structural, systems, and operations teams to ensure seamless integration of rail infrastructure. * Review and approve design documents, shop drawings, and construction ...

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Rail Systems information

What is the difference between Rail Systems vs Signal Technicians?

AspectRail SystemsSignal Technicians
CredentialsTypically requires technical certifications, associate degrees, or relevant training in rail technologyRequires certifications in electrical systems, signal systems, and safety standards
Work EnvironmentWork on trains, tracks, and infrastructure; often outdoors and in rail yardsWork on signaling equipment, electrical panels, and control systems; often indoors or in maintenance facilities
Industry UsageUsed broadly across rail transportation, including freight and passenger railSpecialized role within rail industry focusing on signaling and safety systems

Rail Systems professionals focus on the overall rail infrastructure, including trains and tracks, while Signal Technicians specialize in maintaining and repairing signaling systems that ensure safe train operations. Both roles require technical certifications and are essential for rail safety and efficiency, but they differ in scope and daily tasks.

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

To excel in Rail Systems, you need a solid background in engineering principles, systems integration, and safety standards, often supported by a degree in engineering or a related discipline. Familiarity with signaling software, SCADA systems, and industry certifications such as IRSE or CENELEC is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills in this field. These competencies ensure the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of complex rail infrastructure networks.

What are rail systems?

Rail systems refer to the networks and infrastructure used for transporting passengers and goods by train. This includes the tracks, signaling equipment, trains, stations, and supporting technology that ensure safe and efficient railway operations. Rail systems can encompass urban transit like subways and light rail, as well as intercity and freight rail networks. Professionals working in this field may be involved in design, construction, maintenance, or management of these complex systems.

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

Professionals in rail systems often encounter challenges such as coordinating with multiple engineering disciplines, adhering to strict safety and regulatory standards, and managing the integration of new technologies with legacy infrastructure. Effective communication and collaboration with cross-functional teams, including signaling, electrical, and civil engineering experts, are essential for success. Staying current with industry regulations and participating in ongoing training can help address these challenges and ensure smooth project delivery.
What are popular job titles related to Rail Systems jobs in California? For Rail Systems jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Rail Systems jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Rail Systems jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Rail Systems jobs? Cities in California with the most Rail Systems job openings:
Infographic showing various Rail Systems job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution.

Rail Systems Integration Lead

Americas Region

Sacramento, CA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

Joining Arup ย 

Arup's purpose, shared values, and collaborative approach have set us apart for over 80 years, guiding how we shape a better world.

We collaborate with public and private sector clients to unlock the transformative potential of railways. We offer a broad range of services spanning planning, design, delivery, systems integration, assurance, safety and security assessments, and optimization of railway operation and maintenance performance to unlock the financial value for investors, asset owners, operators and maintainers, while navigating the transition to low carbon and resilient rail. You would be joining our multidisciplinary team focusing on technical excellence and innovative solutions that shape a better future for people and the planet.

Given our growing business, Arup is looking for an accomplished Rail Systems Design Coordination Lead based in our San Francisco office and working in Sacramentoย as a key member of Arup's engineering team on the California High Speed Rail, Track and Systems contract. You will be instrumental in developing Arup's business and capability in multidisciplinary rail systems projects in North America.

We are looking for someone with experience in coordinating the rail systems designs for complex railway projects. ย This person needs to be familiar with all the major rail systems; track, electrification, signaling & train control, communications, SCADA, and how they interface with one another as well as other disciplines such as civils and structures. In-depth design experience in one or more of these rail systems is a major advantage. We are looking for someone who has a real passion to learn, a high level of curiosity, and the versatility to understand and apply different technologies. ย Additionally, this person must be able to engage with people, and create a positive environment that encourages new engineers to join the team.

The Opportunity ย 

For our North American Business:

  • Coordinating rail systems designs for complex rail projects.
  • Stay well-informed and curious about the industry, in particular the pros and cons of different technologies and products.
  • Growing capability and developing business.
  • Develop and maintain strong client relationships with owners, project sponsors, operators, maintainers, contractors, and other organizations active in the transport sector.
  • Share knowledge, lessons learned, and best practice to strengthen the capability of Arup's rail systems team across the Americas.

For the California High Speed Rail (CHSR) Project:

  • Work collaboratively with other disciplines and partners within our Track and Systems Construction Contract (TSCC) consortium.
  • Responsible for coordinating the rail systems designs ensuring full compliance with the Quality Management process. ย This includes running Inter Disciplinary Reviews (IDRs).
  • Responsible for reviewing the detailed designs from the rail systems vendors, to ensure that these are coordinated with one another, as well as with other disciplines such as civils and structures.
  • Lead the client engagement in your sub-discipline area(s). ย As such you need strong communication skills, self-awareness and the ability to articulate technical subject matter clearly and succinctly.
  • Work with project controls and commercial management team members to establish, manage, and monitor design scope, budget, schedule, resources, quality, deliverables, risks, and decision-making processes.

At Arup, you belong to an extraordinary collective - in which we encourage individuality to thrive. Our strength comes from how we respect, share and connect our diverse experiences, perspectives and ideas.

You will have the opportunity to do socially useful work that has meaning - to Arup, to your career, to our members and to the clients and communities we serve.

Is this role right for you?

ย  ย Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience in engineering
ย  ย Experience working directly with clients in a leadership role.
ย  ย 12 years of railway design experience in at least one of the rail systems disciplines.
ย  ย At least one previous rail systems project where the individual has performed the Design Coordination role.
ย  ย At least one previous rail project where the individual has performed the Project Management role.
ย  ย Strong preference for candidates who have been involved in a rail systems project from beginning to end and who have direct experience of the practical issues that arise during installation, testing & commissioning and entry into service.
ย  ย Proven understanding of the application System Safety Certification processes and RAMS
ย  ย Knowledgeable in railway standards such as CENELEC, AREMA, MIL-STD, IEEE and EN
ย  ย Engineering Concepts, including Design, Verification & Validation, and System Integration
ย  ย Professional Engineer designation in California or equivalent is an asset
ย  ย Demonstrable understanding of owner/client capital project drivers and priorities
ย  ย Basic understanding of construction project procurement approaches, project schedule and cost estimate documents is preferred
ย  ย Ability to plan, coordinate and lead design/consulting delivery teams
ย  ย Demonstrated experience working directly with clients, including as a prime consultant manager, lead designer, advisor, or delivery partner
ย  ย Contribute to business development by supporting client positioning, pursuit planning, proposal development, bid strategy, and the preparation of compelling technical and commercial submissions for rail systems opportunities.

Please note that all applicants must apply directly via the job portal.If this role is not quite what you are looking for, but you are interested in other opportunities for a future with purpose, please sign up to ourTalent Communitywhere you will be kept up to date with roles suitable for you to shape a better world.

What we offer you

At Arup, we care about each member's success, so we can grow together.

Guided by our values, we provide an attractive total reward package that recognizes the contribution of each of our members to our shared success. As well as competitive, fair and equitable pay, we offer a career in which all of our members can belong, grow and thrive - through benefits that support health and wellbeing, a wide range of learning opportunities and many possibilities to have an impact through the work they do. ย 

We are owned in trust on behalf of our members, giving us the freedom, with personal responsibility, to set our own direction and choose work that aligns with our purpose and adds to Arup's legacy. Our members collaborate on ambitious projects to deliver remarkable outcomes for our clients and communities. Profit Share is a key part of our reward, enabling members to share in the results of our collective efforts. ย 

Benefits at Work - At Arup, we have a comprehensive and valuable benefits program that works for our employees and their families while keeping costs low. These benefits provide health and welfare security for you as well as paid time off for rest and renewal. As a member of Arup, everyone shares in our success through a global profit share scheme (payments are dependent on the firm's financial performance). Our Global Profit Share Plan (paid bi-annually) provides an opportunity for you to share in the success of the Firm. As a valued employee of Arup, you can also choose to participate in our 401(k) plan with up to 10% company match to help you save for your future

Flexible Working - We believe that flexible arrangements create a more inclusive way of working that supports our diversity and the wellbeing of our people. Options for alternative schedules and the ability to work outside of the office for a portion of your workweek are available

San Fransisco Hiring Range - Hiring Range - The good faith base salary hiring range for this job if performed in San Francisco is $190,000 to $230,000 per year. This range is commensurate with experience, educational background, and skill level. Benefits are not included in the base salary. Please note hiring ranges for candidates performing work outside of San Fransisco will differ. ย 

Different People, Shared Values

Arup is an equal opportunity employer that actively promotes and nurtures a diverse and inclusive workforce. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, regardless of age (within legal limits), gender identity or expression, marital status, disability, neurotype or mental health, race or ethnicity, faith or belief, sexual orientation, socioeconomic background, and whether you're pregnant or on family leave. We are an open environment that embraces diverse experiences, perspectives, and ideas - this drives our excellence. ย 

Guided by our values and alignment with the UN Sustainable Development Goals, we create and contribute to equitable spaces and systems, while cultivating a sense of belonging for all. Our internal employee networks support our inclusive culture: from race, ethnicity and cross-cultural working to gender equity and LGBTQ+ and disability inclusion - we aim to create a space for you to express yourself and make a positive difference. Discover more about life at Arup at www.arup.com/careers/your-life-at-arup. ย 

Our Application Process

We will be reviewing our candidates for this position on a rolling basis. Once you have applied you will be evaluated and potentially moved on to the next round, at which point a member of the talent resourcing team will reach out to you directly.

Arup is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, spouse of a protected veteran, or disability.

Stay safe online. Recruitment fraud is on the rise, and Arup's name, logo, and branding have been used in fraudulent job advertisements. Arup will never ask for bank information as part of our recruitment process. ย 

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