Chief Engineer - Rail Systems

We harness the power of innovation so that you can change the world and help our customers solve their most complex challenges

Virginia
R168801
Technical Specialties
Additional posting locations:
In a world of possibilities, pursue one with endless opportunities. Imagine Next!

When it comes to what you want in your career, if you can imagine it, you can do it at Parsons. Imagine a career working with exceptional people sharing a common quest. Imagine a workplace where you can be yourself. Where you can thrive. Where you can find your next, right now. We’ve got what you’re looking for.

Job Description:

Rail Systems- Chief Engineer

 

Parsons is looking for a Chief Engineer for Rail Systems Projects to support our North American operation.

This individual will lead our Rail Systems technical organization to include train control, communications, traction power, Overhead Catenary, and track. This role will focus on technical excellence as well opportunity identification, capture management, proposal/solution development and project delivery.   Major projects will include:  new systems deployments and expansions, Rail/Transit stations/facilities,  Bus Rapid Transit and Automated People Movers. In this role you will be providing input into proposals and providing design coordination and leadership on our major projects, and will be involved in managing technical and commissioning aspects of on-going projects.

 

You will support recruiting and staff allocation among projects,  working with project managers and regional/client-facing colleagues to identify and recruit new staff and to assist in allocating the right technical staff to the right proposals and projects to enhance the quality of our proposals and our project delivery.

We are looking for a technical leader to join and help build our team; one that inspires loyalty and commitment and knows how to deliver leading-edge rail and transit projects.

Responsibilities:

  • Focal point of the systems technical organization

  • Lead the engineering design, development, integration, and implementation of rail infrastructure and systems.

  • Ensure compliance with safety, regulatory, and technical standards, including FRA, FTA, AREMA, and other applicable codes.

  • Oversee project planning, budgeting, and scheduling in collaboration with project managers and stakeholders.

  • Coordinate interdisciplinary engineering teams (civil, mechanical, electrical, systems).

  • Provide technical guidance and decision-making support during construction and commissioning phases.

  • Drive innovation in system performance, reliability, and lifecycle maintenance strategies.

  • Evaluate contractor and consultant performance and ensure adherence to specifications and standards.

  • Serve as the technical liaison with government agencies, contractors, consultants, and internal departments.

  • Lead risk management efforts for engineering-related issues across the project lifecycle.

  • Support environmental assessments and sustainability planning in rail system design and operation.

  • Leads the execution of advanced solution strategies.

  • Provides technical expertise and mentorship to staff

  • Manages technical resources and manpower forecasts

  • Collaborates with company leadership and Project Managers to deliver solutions and technical guidance.

  • Maximizes customer operational performance by providing resources and technical advice.

  • Resolves escalated problems and follows through to closure.

  • Leverages professional relationships with industry experts to deliver technically sound solutions.

Qualifications: 

  • Bachelor's degree in related field.

  • 20+ years of experience in rail, transit work experience, including experience in project management, design management, client management, (Capture management a plus).

  • Rail transit experience and an understanding of rail systems.

  • Design-Build and/or Progressive Design Build project experience.

  • Professional Engineer registration is preferred.

  • Excellent written and oral communications skills.

  • Thorough knowledge of industry practices and standards are required.

  • Must also possess a thorough knowledge of current technology and the capabilities

  • Proven experience managing large-scale rail projects or rail system operations.

  • Deep knowledge of track, Overhead Catenary, traction power, communications, and train control systems.

  • Familiarity with project delivery methods (e.g., Design-Bid-Build, Design-Build, P3).

  • Strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills.

Security Clearance Requirement:

None

This position is part of our Critical Infrastructure team.

For more than 80 years, our experts have designed and delivered the critical infrastructure that connects and protects communities around the world. We work in collaborative teams, both within the company and with our partners and customers, to plan, design, build, and modernize infrastructure. We take special pride in projects and solutions that improve communities as well as people’s quality of life by promoting economic growth, enhancing mobility, and increasing sustainability and resiliency. Powered by our people, we provide the imagination necessary to support our customers’ visions—and to help them see what's next!

Salary Range: $167,400.00 - $314,500.00

We value our employees and want our employees to take care of their overall wellbeing, which is why we offer best-in-class benefits such as medical, dental, vision, paid time off, Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), 401(k), life insurance, flexible work schedules, and holidays to fit your busy lifestyle!

This position will be posted for a minimum of 3 days and will continue to be posted for an average of 30 days until a qualified applicant is selected or the position has been cancelled.

Parsons is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, veteran status or any other protected status.

We truly invest and care about our employee’s wellbeing and provide endless growth opportunities as the sky is the limit, so aim for the stars! Imagine next and join the Parsons quest—APPLY TODAY!

Parsons is aware of fraudulent recruitment practices. To learn more about recruitment fraud and how to report it, please refer to https://www.parsons.com/fraudulent-recruitment/.

COMPETITIVE BENEFIT OFFERINGS

Financial Wellness

We care about your financial wellbeing. Parsons offers competitive pay and retirement plans to help you build wealth for the future while giving you the flexibility to diversify your investments.

Work Life Harmony

Balance in life is important and time away from the office is imperative to allow you to refresh and focus your attention on the things that matter to you. Parsons supports your time away by providing paid time off and paid flexible holidays.

Career Development

We are committed to fostering the personal and professional growth of our employees. Develop and advance yourself though our comprehensive training, educational and mentorship programs.

Veteran Support

We provide Industry leading benefits to support veterans and active-duty members to provide security for you and your family by offering robust leave and benefits; including paid active-duty military leave and paid time off when transitioning back to civilian life.

Mind & Body

At Parsons we inspire healthier habits, heathier minds, and a healthier you through our wellness program. Participate in our weekly Meditation Mondays and Wellness Wednesdays. Wellness, at Parsons, is more than just your annual checkup.

Health

Health is not a one size fits all. At Parsons, we offer a robust Employee Assistance Program as well as comprehensive medical, dental and vision plans through large, national carriers with the choice of regional PPO, HDHP, or HMO networks.

Want to learn more about the benefits eligible for the Parsons’ location you are interested in? Click below to find out more!
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