Principal Engineer - Signal Maintenance

Description

• Direct and coordinate the activities of the various sub-groups under the Signal Department’s jurisdiction to progress project design, construction, and maintenance work.  Address all safety defects. 
• Plan, monitor and coordinate all field activities regarding signal construction work to ensure schedules and estimates are met for East Side Access and all capital related projects. Review and document construction plans and procedures in compliance with ISO 9001.  
• Plan cutovers of new equipment and work with Transportation to secure planned outages for all ESA and capital projects.  Coordinate with other disciplines and departments to approve work scopes. 
• Establish standards for design, construction, and maintenance, testing and inspection, construction and management of all wayside electrical facilities.  Manage the investigation and progress improvements in materials.  Direct the development of procedures to be used on equipment. 
• Direct and control the preparation and administration of the Signal Department’s budget (i.e., final approval of expense account, material requisitions, joint venture billing).  Prepare backup to obtain funds for programs. Write or approve all correspondence pertaining to the Signal Department.   
• Prepare and control budgetary expenditures, inventory control and material ordering for signal work on ESA and capital projects. 
• Apply applicable labor agreements consistently and uniformly, create an environment that respects individual differences and enables all employees to develop and contribute to their full potential.  Interpret work rules.  Handle grievances relative to the existing contract.  Provide answers to formal union claims.  Provide input for future labor negotiations.  Provide documentation for Claims and Labor Relations.  Research and respond to complaints from other departments and the public.  
• Investigate new technologies and their application to the LIRR and ensure employees are trained to maintain state-of-the-art technology. 
• Select, develop and motivate personnel. Provide career development for subordinates. Provide prompt and effective coaching and counseling. Responsible for discipline/termination of employees. Review direct reports and approve performance appraisals. Promote safe work practices and provide safe working conditions. Create a professional environment that respects individual differences and enables all employees to develop and contribute to their full potential.  
• All other assignments at the request of senior management 

• Bachelor’s degree in an Engineering discipline or related field, or demonstrated equivalent directly related equivalent experience (approximately 15 years) and education may be considered in lieu of degree, subject to approval,  
• Approximately 10 years of progressively responsible, related experience in signal function including experience managing a unionized work force and managing a department budget.  
• Strong knowledge and practical experience of Signal Construction field operations and signal technology.  
• Extensive knowledge of signal systems and their function in railroad operation on a day-to-day basis as well as during emergencies.  
• Positive Train Control: knowledge of field equipment and effects on system,  
• Extensive knowledge of engineering principles as they apply to signal systems.  
• Knowledge and understanding of signal wayside systems and their controls, including relay and solid-state circuitry for both high and low voltages.  
• A thorough understanding of signal procedures, design and rehabilitation methods as related to a commuter railroad.  
• Proven leadership and management skills with experience developing and motivating a diverse work force of office and field personnel, with the ability to effectively coordinate work among the various department sections.  
• Proven project management skills with experience in the management of signal related projects and budget control.  
• Must possess effective administration and planning skills, proficiency with computers and various software,  
• Related signal estimating and design experience.  
• Ability to ensure corporate/department safety policies are adhered to.  
• Must have working knowledge of union rules specific to the signal industry, particularly the BRS and UTU 645B.  
• Must have strong understanding of company/department operations, policies, and procedures
• Must have strong understanding of company/department procurement and ISO 9001 control procedures.  
• Excellent communication, interpersonal and presentation skills and ability to work effectively with all levels of management.  
• Strong analytical skills, capable of identifying problems and recommending alternative solutions; ability to exercise sound judgment and decision-making skills.  
• Must demonstrate a high level of initiative and be self-motivated.   

• NYS Professional Engineer’s License.  
• Advanced degree in Engineering