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Traction Power Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

GFT is seeking a Senior Traction Power Engineer to join our Transit and Rail Team in Los Angeles, CA ! This role follows an onsite requiring regular attendance at our Major Transportation client in ...

GFT is seeking a Senior Traction Power Engineer to join our Transit and Rail Team in Los Angeles, CA ! This role follows an onsite requiring regular attendance at our Major Transportation client in ...

GFT is seeking a Senior Traction Power Engineer to join our Transit and Rail Team in Los Angeles, CA ! This role follows an onsite requiring regular attendance at our Major Transportation client in ...

This Opportunity WSP is currently initiating a search for a Senior Traction Power Engineer for our Boston, MA Office . Be involved in projects with our Transit and Rail Team and be a part of a ...

This Opportunity WSP is currently initiating a search for a Senior Traction Power Engineer for our Boston, MA Office . Be involved in projects with our Transit and Rail Team and be a part of a ...

Job Summary WSP is currently initiating a search for a Senior Traction Power Engineer for our Minneapolis, MN Office . Be involved in projects with our Transit and Rail Team and be a part of a ...

Job Summary WSP is currently initiating a search for a Senior Traction Power Engineer for our Minneapolis, MN Office . Be involved in projects with our Transit and Rail Team and be a part of a ...

This opportunity entails being responsible for the production and modification of AC & DC Traction Power design calculations, technical reports, engineering plans and specifications for assigned ...

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Traction Power Engineer information

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$105K

$125.2K

$144.5K

How much do traction power engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for traction power engineer in the United States is $125,176.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $116,500.00 and $135,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Does a Traction Power Engineer Do?

A traction power engineer typically works in the transit and rail industry and is responsible for developing design/concepts to clients and project team members. Other responsibilities in this career may include performing engineering studies and analyses that assist the project manager in establishing a budget, cost estimates, and overall project schedules. As part of your duties, you may need to design and prepare diagrams, communications, substation layouts, and grounding grids, selection of substation equipment specifications, proposals, metering, construction costs, reports, analysis, and technical studies for the traction power distribution systems.

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

To thrive as a Traction Power Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, experience with high-voltage systems, and typically a bachelor's degree in engineering or a related field. Familiarity with industry-standard design software (such as AutoCAD or ETAP), knowledge of railway power systems, and relevant certifications like Professional Engineer (PE) status are highly valued. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication are standout soft skills in this position. These skills and qualifications are crucial to ensure the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of traction power infrastructure in transportation systems.

What is the difference between Traction Power Engineer vs Electrical Power Engineer?

AspectTraction Power EngineerElectrical Power Engineer
CredentialsEngineering degree, possibly PE license, specialized in transit systemsEngineering degree, PE license, broader electrical systems expertise
Work EnvironmentPublic transit, rail, metro systemsPower plants, industrial facilities, utility companies
Industry UsageTransportation infrastructure projectsEnergy generation and distribution
Common Search IntentDesigning and maintaining transit power systemsElectrical system design and power distribution

While both roles involve electrical systems, a Traction Power Engineer specializes in power systems for transit and rail networks, focusing on electrification and safety. An Electrical Power Engineer has a broader scope, working on power generation, distribution, and industrial applications. The key difference lies in industry focus and specific system expertise.

What are the most common challenges faced by Traction Power Engineers in large-scale rail transit projects?

Traction Power Engineers working on large-scale rail transit projects frequently encounter challenges such as coordinating with multiple engineering disciplines, ensuring system reliability under high passenger loads, and adhering to stringent safety standards. Managing project timelines while integrating new technologies into existing infrastructure can also be demanding. Effective communication and close collaboration with civil, signaling, and operations teams are essential to overcome these hurdles and deliver safe, efficient power systems for rail networks.

What does a Traction Power Engineer do?

A Traction Power Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining the electrical systems that supply power to railway vehicles, such as trains, trams, and subways. They ensure that the power systems are safe, reliable, and efficient, working on components like substations, overhead wires, and third-rail systems. Their role often involves collaborating with civil and signaling engineers, conducting site assessments, and troubleshooting issues to keep transportation networks running smoothly.
What cities are hiring for Traction Power Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Traction Power Engineer job openings:
What states have the most Traction Power Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Traction Power Engineer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Traction Power Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $125,176 per year, or $60.2 per hour.

Principal Engineer, Traction Power

GFT.

Los Angeles, CA

$180K - $210K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 days ago


Job description

GFT is seeking a Senior Traction Power Engineer to join our Transit and Rail Team in Los Angeles, CA! This role follows an onsite requiring regular attendance at our Major Transportation client in downtown LA.

GFT's Transit and Rail Team

Working on the transit and rail team at GFT means contributing to cutting-edge projects that drive the future of sustainable and efficient transportation. Our team is dedicated to delivering innovative solutions for high-profile transit and rail infrastructure across North America, from planning and design to construction and operations. Join us as part of a dynamic group focusing on safety, quality, and technological advancements, significantly impacting urban mobility and community connectivity. Explore some of our signature transit and rail projects.

What you'll be challenged to do:As a Senior Traction Power Engineer you will contribute to the maintenance and repair of traction power systems for rail and transit projects. Prior experience in AC and DC Traction power distribution particularly for 750V DC. You will collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to help deliver efficient and effective transportation solutions. 

In this capacity, the successful candidate will be responsible for the following: 

  • Strong knowledge of design auxiliary power and switchgear systems, support traction power system analysis and simulations, and perform site investigations
  • Perform electrical engineering calculations such as load analysis, power distribution, and energy efficiency evaluations.
  • Create detailed design layouts and technical drawings using engineering software.
  • Coordinate with other engineering disciplines to ensure system compatibility and integration.
  • Lead field surveys, site assessments, and support the preparation of reports, technical documents, and specifications.
What you bring to our firm: 
  • Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering from an ABET-accredited program 
  • Minimum 10 years of experience in transit & rail, or related electrical engineering tasks.
  • Professional Engineering License (P.E.)
  • Experience with AutoCAD, MicroStation or equivalent modeling software.
  • Experience in traction power systems, including concepts in electrical distribution, railway electrification, and power system efficiency.
  • Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
  • Motivated, detail-oriented, and eager to contribute to a collaborative engineering environment.

What we prefer you bring: 

  • Experience with engineering software such as AutoCAD, MicroStation, or Bentley Rail Track. 
Compensation:The salary range for this role is $180,000 - $210,000. Salary is dependent upon experience and geographic location. Featured Benefits:  Hybrid (in-person and remote) work environment. Comprehensive benefits package including wellness programs, parental leave, and pet insurance, in addition to medical, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance. Tax-deferred 401(k) savings plan. Competitive paid-time-off (PTO) accrual. Tuition reimbursement for continued education. Commitment to professional development, access to internal and external training programs, and support of active participation in professional organizations Incentive compensation for eligible positions.

At GFT, a privately held AEC firm, we innovate where transportation, water, power, and buildings converge. We call this the Infrastructure of Life. We measure our success by the strength of our relationships - that's why we're the employer of choice for 5,000+ of the industry's brightest engineers, planners, architects, inspectors, designers, and more.

Our clients choose us for our expertise and prefer us for our nimble approach, creativity, and personal touch. Backed by over a century's experience, together we're building a lasting legacy for future generations: stronger communities, a healthier planet, and better lives.GFT: Ingenuity That Shapes Lives is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veterans' status or other characteristics protected by law.

Unsolicited resumes from third party agencies will be considered the property GFT.

Location: Los Angeles, CACore Business Hours: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PMEmployment Status: Full-Time Salary Range: $180,000-$210,000Salary dependent upon experience and geographic location

GFT does require the successful completion of a criminal background check for all advertised positions.

"California Applicants"Applicants in the County of Los Angeles - Qualified applications with arrest or conviction records will be considered for employment in accordance with the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers and the California Fair Chance Act.Applicants in the City of San Francisco - Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.Applicants in the State of California - Qualified applications with arrest or conviction records will be considered for employment in accordance with the California Fair Chance Act.

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Employment Type: FULL_TIME